It is believed that the first Polynesian voyagers arrived in this region during the 11th century, but it wasn`t until after the landing of the British sea voyager Captain Cook in 1769 that missionaries, whalers and traders arrived. The Treaty of Waitangi, the document that founded bicultural New Zealand, was signed in the Bay of Islands in 1840. The legacy of Northland`s earliest European settlers can be seen in the form of historical buildings and museums that provide a unique insight into colonial New Zealand.
Much of Northlands` extensive coastline remains unspoilt—an aquatic playground for adventure activities and escapist relaxation. Whangarei and Opua are renowned throughout the Pacific as attractive havens for yachts.
You`ll find that Maori culture is still very much alive in this region (32 percent of the population are Maori), and you`ll also enjoy the shopping, dining and entertainment possibilities that stem from the distinctive local culture—which embraces art, creativity, organic farming and alternative thinking.

Diving at Cavalli Islands
Northland Photographer: Legend Photography (www.andybelcher.com)
• Kaitaia - the most northern major town in New Zealand
• Kerikeri - producers of art and fruit
• Paihia - gateway to the Bay of Islands
• Whangarei - New Zealand`s northernmost city
• Dargaville - heart of the Kauri Coast
• Bay of Islands - tourism hub including Kerikeri, Paihia, Waitangi

Ahipara New Zealand
If you want to see a dramatic sunset, enjoy an evening walk along the beach at Ahipara NZ. This town has a rich history and a big choice of activities.

Cape Reinga New Zealand
Cape Reinga NZ is as far north as you can drive. See two oceans collide and discover ‘the place of leaping’, where Maori spirits begin their final journey.

Dargaville New Zealand
Established by Yugoslavian immigrants in the 1870s, Dargaville NZ is a river town with an interesting history. Pause here to enjoy cafes and galleries.

Kaikohe New Zealand
The town of Kaikohe NZ is a good place to buy supplies and catch a quick meal. If you have time to spare, investigate local history at the pioneer village.

Kaitaia New Zealand
From Kaitaia NZ you can plan your expedition to Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach. This town has an interesting mix of Maori and Dalmatian ancestry.

Kohukohu New Zealand
The harbour’s edge town of Kohukohu NZ is quietly charming. It has several significant heritage buildings left over from the kauri milling days.

Mangawhai New Zealand
Mangawhai NZ offers a choice of beach experiences. Frolic in the waves on the surf side of town or enjoy a peaceful swim in the sheltered harbour.

Mangonui-Coopers Beach New Zealand
This historic fishing village of Mangonui-Coopers Beach NZ, with friendly cafés and a wide range of water-based activities, is next to several popular beach resorts.

Okaihau New Zealand
On the main highway between Kaitaia NZ and Whangarei NZ, Okaihau NZ is a friendly country town with a classic Northland pub and an interesting fire service museum.

Omapere/Opononi New Zealand
Easy-going Opononi NZ and nearby Omapere NZ are places to live the beach life, catch a few fish and zoom down the giant dunes of the Hokianga.

Rawene New Zealand
The Hokianga town of Rawene NZ is full of historic charm. Walk around the heritage buildings, then relax in a café before catching the ferry to Kohukohu.

Russell New Zealand
Historic buildings and a seaside setting give Russell NZ a romantic personality. It’s hard to believe this town was once called the ‘hell hole of the Pacific’.

Tutukaka New Zealand
Tutukaka NZ sheltered harbour is the gateway to the Poor Knights Marine Reserve and the white-sand beaches of the Tutukaka Coast.

Waitangi New Zealand
If you know something about New Zealand’s history, you’ll want to visit Waitangi NZ. Here the treaty was signed between Maori and the British.

Whangarei New Zealand
Situated next to a big harbour and two stunning coastlines, with many great walks, dozens of gorgeous beaches and of course the beautiful Whangarei Falls.