Overview

Packed with stunning natural attractions as well as vibrant cities and quaint villages, New Zealand’s North Island is a versatile holiday destination. From caving adventures and thermal safaris to iconic city breaks, you’ll find lots of amazing sights waiting for you on a luxury holiday to North Island.

The North Island is a lush and inviting place, where you'll discover breathtaking natural and manmade wonders. Pay a visit to the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park in the northeast to explore waterfalls, dramatic black sand beaches and scenic spots at every turn. Head along to Takatu Peninsula in the northeast, home to a thriving coastal wine industry, for a fun day out and be sure to try a few of the locally-made specialities.

For shopping, great places to eat and plenty of luxurious spas, head along to the North Island’s central city and New Zealand’s former capital Auckland. This welcoming harbour town is surrounded by stunning volcanic cones, which provide a beautiful backdrop to the city as well as many opportunities for hiking and exploring. Head south to unwind in a natural setting with the hot mud spa treatments of Rotorua. While you’re here, find out more about New Zealand’s Maori culture by checking out cultural performances like the haka war dance or tuck into a traditional hangi (feast) when dinner time rolls around.

When To Visit

The North Island’s summer season, from December to March, offers bright, sunny weather with temperatures in the mid to high 20s. Book a summer trip, if you’re looking forward to basking on beautiful beaches and relaxing poolside.

If you’re hoping to catch some snow in North Island’s more mountainous areas, plan your trip for New Zealand’s winter, between June and September. If it’s outdoor activities you’re after on your holidays, spring and autumn are typically sunny, fresh and ideal for hiking and biking.

Food & Drink

There’s a lot of love for artisanal, organic dining in North Island. Be sure to try fresh and fabulous local delicacies like bluff oysters, crayfish and lamb with a variety of regional and international influences.

Sit down to a traditional Maori hangi, where meat and vegetables are wrapped and cooked in a pit oven, for an authentic taste of New Zealand or sample some of the island’s French, Italian and Asian inspired restaurants for a global experience.

Passport & Visas

When you’re planning a North Island holiday for six months or less, you won’t need a visa, but you will need a valid passport to enter New Zealand. Find out more at GOV.UK.