A local's guide to the winterless north of New Zealand. Explore white sand beaches, hidden waterfalls and surf down huge sand dunes. TWO LOCAL SECRET SPOTS INCLUDED!

Kerikeri, New Zealand

Cape Reinga, New Zealand

Giant Sand Dunes Te Paki Stream Road, Cape Reinga, New Zealand

Northland, New Zealand

Explore Northland: 10 Things to Do + 2 Secret Spots

Rainbow Falls is one of Kerikeri's best places to visit. It's warm enough to swim in summer (or winter if you're brave), and has a huge chasm behind that you are able to access from the left hand side. 

Built in 1832, this little slice of history is one of the original buildings in Northland. There is a beautiful little tea house just around the corner and is only a minute from the town centre.

Matauri Bay (pronounced Mah-tow-ree) is the local's go-to beach for swimming, surfing, fishing and diving. The Rainbow Warrior boat is located not far off the point, and there is a memorial at the top of the hill. There is an awesome beachfront campground here with good facilities, however there is no cell coverage. 

Cooper's beach is on the way North, and is worth the stop to stretch your legs. There is an awesome little spot for ice cream as well! 

90 Mile Beach is a cool place to stop, or to see some wild horses. You can take vehicles down onto the beach, so if you have some fishing gear, go hard! The Aupouri Wild Horses live here, and are often found behind the dunes about a kilometre to the right of the entrance at Hukatere.

There is a cute camping ground there too - called Hukatere Lodge. They have cheap rates and are almost always surrounded by at least one herd of wild horses. It's right on the beachfront and is worth the stay. 

Lodge and Camping | Houhora | - Hukatere Lodgeamping

Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes are no hidden secret. Hire a board at the dunes or bring your own and have some fun. The bigger dunes are a bit of a walk over the hill but they are well worth the walk!

Cape Reinga is the northern most tip of New Zealand. It is also where the Tasman and Pacific sea meet - creating a spectacular line shooting out of the northern rocks. There is plenty of history on the storyboards along the walk to get down there. Pack a jacket, it is often windy up there. 

Charlie's Rock is a hidden waterfall with a bit of a trek to get to. It's an awesome spot for swimming with different levels of height to jump off. It's a locally known spot - and not as well known as Rainbow Falls. 

Opito Bay is situated in Kerikeri Inlet, and is a nice spot for a picnic or to watch the boats. You can rock hop around the edge of the bay or bask in the sun under the Pohutukawa trees. 

Situated in Paihia, seaside tourist town of Northland, Waitangi Treaty Grounds is worth the visit. There is a museum there and lots of history about the settlement of New Zealand. It is the site where The Treaty of Waitangi was signed - which brought peace between the Maori and Pakeha (white) people. 

This little spot next to the Stone Store is the BEST spot in town for a good pizza and some local craft beer. On the edge of the Kerikeri Inlet and light by fairy lights under the trees, this place is the best to unwind after a day of travelling.

This is another secret spot! A drive through the farmland of Northland will take you to this cute little place that is great for fishing with a handline or sitting to watch the sunset. Follow Kerikeri Inlet road all the way to the end - where the tarmac turns to gravel road. Follow this down to a dirt turn around area. Park and walk a short walk to the end of the point. 

Explore Northland: 10 Things to Do + 2 Secret Spots

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