Planning a trip to the North Island of New Zealand? We got you covered! After spending so many months exploring this amazing part of the country, we’ve written extensive guides about all our favorite places. This is where you can find all the best New Zealand North Island travel tips, guides, and more before your own journey.
Brigitte has fond memories of New Zealand as she lived there for a short period with her family when she was younger. For this reason, it was one place we couldn’t wait to travel together!
We spent 9 magical months in New Zealand, living in both long term rentals and out of a campervan. Of course we hit the big city of Auckland, and explored the capital of Wellington. Yet, our most memorable experiences were getting out into nature.
One of our favorite towns from this New Zealand North Island trip was Mount Maunganui. This is such a lovely place to relax on the beach, hike up the mount, and even dig for tua tua clams!
Another great long term place we had was in beautiful Lake Taupo. This is New Zealand’s 3rd largest lake, and somewhere we truly enjoyed. From here, it was easy to get to Huka Falls, Rotorua, New Plymouth, and other great attractions on the North Island of New Zealand.
While having monthly rentals was such a dream, the real fun started for us when we got our Jucy Campervan! We used this to see both South and New Zealand North Island, freedom camping our way around the country.
Some highlights for us were hiking the Tongariro Crossing, hitting the Bay of Islands, and soaking in the natural springs of Hot Water Beach. We even made a visit to Waiheke island to go wine tasting!
Check out all our New Zealand North Island guides for tips, and to learn all about our own experiences. We’re overdue for a trip back to NZ, so stay tuned!
Money: The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is used throughout the country.
Location: North Island New Zealand is located in the South Pacific Ocean in southern Polynesia. The South Island can be reached with a quick flight, or a ferry ride across the Cook Strait.
Language: English is the official language of New Zealand. However, the native Maori language is still spoken in some parts.
Seasons: If you’re coming from the United States or Europe, know that New Zealand North Island seasons are in reverse! Summer stretches from December to March, while winter goes from June to August. The shoulder season can be a great time to go before the peak summer months of tourism.
What to Eat & Drink: The food in New Zealand is so delicious! It features a great mix of seafood, hearty meat dishes, and bakery treats. You’ll find the classic British staples like fish n’ chips, but there’s so much more to this unique cuisine. Be sure to try the famous New Zealand lamb on your visit!
