Northland has so much to offer, you'll need to allow plenty of time for an unforgettable visit. Here are some of our ten favourite things to do.
Whangarei Art Museum
Houses the city art collection which embraces both heritage and contemporary art work.
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel
The Duke of Marlborough has been refreshing rascals and reprobates since 1827 and holds New Zealand's first liquor licence. The Duke, as it is affectionately known, is located on the waterfront in the picturesque village of Russell in the Bay of Islands.
Explore the Poor Knight Islands
The Islands, 25km off shore, have been rated by the famous Jacques Cousteau as one of the top-ten dive sites in the world, featuring the world's largest sea cave at 7,900,000 cubic feet.
Hundertwasser Toilets
An amazing work of art, the only building in the Southern Hemisphere designed by Austrian born artist, Hundertwasser; it's the last building he designed before he died in 1999 and now sits proudly on the main street of Kawakawa.
Cape Reinga
The historic Cape Reinga lighthouse marks the extreme north-western point of New Zealand. The Tasman and the Pacific meet - sometimes producing waves more than 10 metres high.
Swim with Dolphins
Swimming with the dolphins in their natural environment is only enhanced by swimming in New Zealand's warmest waters. Some describe this activity as a life changing experience.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Cultural performances and tours - Introducing the Birthplace of the Nation. Visit the ceremonial waka, the flagstaff, the carved Whare Runanga and Treaty House.
90 Mile Beach:
Sand tobogganing & Quad Biking
A raw and rugged energy best describes Ahipara, at the southern end of Ninety Mile Beach. Hoon along the beach on a quad bike, or go sand surfing down the highest dunes in NZ.
Fishing
A fisherman's paradise, with countless charters catering to a diverse range of fishing skills - whether you're looking to hook the big one game-fishing adventure or catch some small fry.
Waipoua Forest
Visit some of the largest remaining kauri trees in the world. Stand in awe at the base of Tane Mahuta, pictured, who is the 2000-year-old 'Lord of the Forest'. Guided night tours are highly recommended.
Bocky Boo Gelato stores have popped up in Rangiora and Blenheim since the first store opened in Whangārei over five years ago. Video / Brodie Stone