What to do in New Zealand

There's plenty to do in New Zealand's vast North Island. Consider these six incredible places when planning your next trip.

NEW ZEALAND - The two-island nation of New Zealand (also called by its native name, Aotearoa) is known for its rich Polynesian Maori culture, cosmopolitan cities, active geothermal activity, and Lord of the Rings references. And while the South Island may steal the limelight, the more populous North Island (Te Ika-a-Maui) is a biodiverse land of black sand beaches, bohemian artisan enclaves, and underground caves. With 600 nearly uninhabited sister islets, options for exploring the region are endless. Here are six jumping-off points for an epic trip.

Rotorua

What’s to Love: Abundant with geysers, hot springs, volcanoes, and lakes, steamy Rotorua is New Zealand’s geothermal hotspot. Visit the bubbling mud pools of Te Puia, grab a photo opportunity at the brightly colored Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland – try Champagne Pool or Devil’s Bath – or test the healing properties of the thermal springs at Te Rata Bay.

Good to Know: Rotoroa is also home to Mount Tarawera, the volcano responsible for the destruction of once-famous geological phenomena known as the Pink and White Terraces. Referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World, the land of Mount Tarawera belongs to the local Maori tribe, and can only be walked with a guide. Check out Kaitiaki Adventures.

Kingsland

What’s to Love: Quirky, cool Kingsland is an up-and-coming cosmopolitan village rife with bang-on food trends and bohemian artisans. As with any hipster neighborhood, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating, but top of your list should be Montreal-style Al’s Deli and Harlan Pepper Food Co. for one of the best bagel menus outside New York. Ballast Pointe Trading Company has some seriously good vintage interior decor.

Good to Know: Sports fans should check out New Zealand's Eden Park national stadium for a game of rugby and a performance of the haka, an ancestral Maori war dance.

Karekare

What’s to Love: Sun, surf, and black sand are abundant in New Zealand's north, but skip the overcrowded, popular Piha and head down the road to feel the hot, black sand of Karekare Beach under your feet instead. An hour drive from Auckland through the Waitakere Ranges, make it a day trip and check out nearby Karekare Falls – a 30-minute wander will get you to the top, where you can take a dip.

Good to Know: For movie buffs, Karekare Beach was used as a location for the 1993 Jane Campion movie, The Piano.

Hamilton

What’s to Love: The buzzy Hamilton/Waikato region is a tourism hotspot, but that shouldn’t put you off visiting for a look at the underground Waitomo River and Caves. A boat ride will take you through the vast Aranui and Ruakuri cave systems, as well as the Glowworm Grotto. Hit up city center Victoria Street for all your dining needs and pay a visit to the Gouda Cheese Shop for the nation’s best artisan cheeses.

Good to Know: Waitomo is a Maori word: "wai" meaning water and "tomo" meaning entrance or hole. Waitomo, therefore, is the "stream which flows into the hole in the ground."

Parnell

What’s to Love: The oldest neighborhood in Auckland is now a historic foodie hub, an upscale area with vibing architecture, abundant culture, and French-style farmers market La Cigale, an aromatically tempting mix of fresh New Zealand produce and imported French goodies. If you haven’t filled up on French delicacies, Winona Forever serves an unmissable menu.

Good to Know: When you’ve eaten your fill, swim it off at historic Parnell Baths, the largest saltwater pool in New Zealand.

Waiheke Island

What’s to Love: A quick ferry ride but a world away from mainland New Zealand, Waiheke Island is a sunny, oenophile's paradise. The twelve mile-long island is home to more than 25 wineries, including Obsidian Vineyard (which produces syrahs) and Stonyridge Vineyard (which specializes in world-class cabernet blends and has a cafe and yoga deck).

Good to Know: Although vineyard production only started on the island in the 1980s, Waiheke is producing some of New Zealand’s most acclaimed drops.

Keep Exploring New Zealand

Adventures in Te Anau
In Between Bungee Jumps in Queenstown
Stargazing in New Zealand