Where the hell do you start when it comes to plotting your way around the North Island? Chances are you might have heard of a few things to do here. Travelmates shooting recs around. Whispers through the corridors at Haka House.
Forget all that! No actually don’t. It’s all good. But, we’re going to strictly focus on the highlights we reckon you should hit up if you want to experience the best this island has to offer.
If you’re planning your North Island route and want to hit all the must-see spots, this is your go-to list, guide, call it whatever you want. We’ve crammed it all in—rafting rapids, Māori cultural experiences, sand boarding, pinnacles, geysers, digging your own hot pool, hanging with hobbits…
This island’s got variety yo! You’ll find it all right here. Well, actually a little further down the page. Let’s get it on party people.
1. Bay of Islands: Māori heritage and wildlife encounters
Yes, yes the Bay of Islands is paradise. Picture 144 subtropical islands scattered across turquoise water, dolphins dancing in the surf, and sunsets that stop you in your tracks. Sounds awful, right?
The Bay’s laid-back vibe will have you kicking off your shoes within minutes. It is that good. Especially when you experience it in the ways we’re going to share with you! If you’re looking for the perfect North Island warm-up, Northland may well be your starting point. A visit to the Bay is a must-do up here—boom.
The Bay of Islands is steeped in history. It’s the birthplace of the nation, home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and packed with Māori heritage.
We’ll have you sailing, swimming with dolphins, feeling the power of the haka, and hiking up Flagstaff Hill, or our name’s not Backpackerated. Seriously, we actually wrote this guide in the Bay. True story bro.
🚙 Getting there: Paihia (the main hub) is a 3 hour drive north from Auckland. There’s also daily Intercity services. Plus hop-on hop-off tours like Kiwi Experience.
Fullers “Hole in the Rock” Dolphin Cruise
Hop on a boat from the terminal in Paihia and head straight out into the bay. Fullers are the top choice here. Their Hole in the Rock tour cruises by the many islands towards the famous Hole in the Rock sea arch. This iconic natural wonder has been carved by centuries of waves. If the sea is calm, the skipper will steer right through!
As the name suggests, keep your eyes peeled—dolphins frequently chase the bow, and often swim alongside the boat. You might even have the good fortune to spot whales. Do the early morning cruise if possible—calm waters and better dolphin encounters. This tour is hands down one of the best ways to experience the striking beauty of the Bay of Islands.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Step off the boat and into history. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840 between Māori chiefs and the British Crown—a foundational moment in NZ history. Walk through the museum, see Māori carving and weaving, and catch a cultural performance. Yes, there’s a haka!
It might be tempting to spend the entry fee somewhere else, given that it’s a museum—but we guarantee this is one of the best Māori cultural experiences in Aotearoa. It’s an opportunity to really connect with the country and its indigenous people.
Flagstaff Hill and Russell
From the terminal in Paihia you can board a passenger service to Russell for next to nothing. It’s the best way to get out into the Bay on the cheap. This charming little town is one of the oldest in New Zealand, and a cool place to explore on its own. But, of course there’s more… You should know us by now!
For the crown jewel, head to the top of Flagstaff Hill. This pretty easy loop walk will take you about 30 minutes. The view up here is arguably the best in the Bay of Islands. It is simply stun-ning. That’s not a typo. Like for real—you’re living the good life. 360 degrees of it.
👉🏼 If you’re hungry for more Northland recs check out our guide: 15 best things to do in Northland: Highlights and hidden Gems.
🛌 Where to stay: We’ve stayed pretty much everywhere here! Our personal fave is the Palm Tree Apartments & Backpackers—a sweet spot, and it’s got a Tiki Pool (you’ll see what we mean).
2. Rotorua: Geothermal wonderland
Welcome to Rotorua—where the earth literally breathes. Steam hisses from vents on the roadside, bubbling mud pools gurgle beside the lake, and the smell of sulphur tells you you’ve arrived somewhere completely different.
But this popular destination isn’t just about geothermal wonders—Rotorua is also a cultural heartland, where Māori traditions are proudly shared. You can soak in hot springs, watch haka performances, raft down a waterfall, or hike through otherworldly terrain—all in a single day.
This town doesn’t just show you New Zealand’s natural power, it immerses you in it.
🚙 Getting there: Rotorua is a 3 hour drive southeast from Auckland. There’s also daily Intercity services. Plus hop-on hop-off tours like Kiwi Experience.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Just south of Rotorua, this geothermal park is a wild palette of colors—mud pools, steaming vents, rainbow lakes, and the famous “Champagne Pool”. You’ll walk through craters, feel the heat, and marvel at Mother Earth doing her thing. The Lady Knox Geyser erupts daily around 10:15 am—don’t miss it.
The park is a must-do if you’re into natural wonders. We spent a few solid hours exploring here, and maybe it’s just the science nerd in us but we really enjoyed the experience.
Mitai Māori Village
In the evening, head to Mitai for a Māori cultural encounter. You’ll experience storytelling, carving, performances, and a traditional hāngi feast cooked underground.
The tour includes an authentic and captivating cultural show with warriors paddling down a stream in traditional waka. We highly recommended it for anyone seriously interested in an indigenous experience.
Kaituna Cascades (white-water rafting)
If you’re looking for an adrenaline hit the Kaituna Cascades is an absolute must-do. This river boasts some of the best white-water rafting experiences in the world. It’s home to the famous Tutea Falls—at 7 metres, this is the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. These are next level rapids.
Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a first-timer, the friendly guides ensure safety while you conquer the river. Runs are graded, so choose a trip that matches your comfort.
The setting offers stunning views, and lush jungle-like forest—so you’ll get two for the price of one here. It’s as much about the scenery as the rush itself.
🛌 Where to stay: Haka House Rotorua | Rotorua Downtown Backpackers | Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park.
3. Tongariro National Park: World heritage area
Welcome to Middle-earth, actually. Tongariro National Park is pure cinematic magic. The volcanic peaks here—Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe, and Ruapehu—are sacred to Māori and famous to LOTR fans.
The star attraction is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often called New Zealand’s best day hike (for damn good reason). But, even if you’re not hardcore into hiking, just standing among the smoking craters and emerald lakes will blowwwww your mind. This day hike must be at the top of your list. Full stop.
Start early (pre-dawn) to avoid afternoon clouds and crowds. Always, ALWAYS check the forecast beforehand.
🚙 Getting there: Use a shuttle service from surrounding towns (like Ohakune) to the trailheads. Shuttle pickups usually run from 5 am onwards.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual UNESCO World Heritage site (cultural and natural). This is the day hike you’ve heard about.
At 19.4 kilometres long, you traverse volcanic terrain, cross emerald crater lakes, pass steam vents, ancient lava fields, and dramatic alpine ridgelines. You’ll reach an elevation of close to 2,000 metres. On a clear day, the views are breathtaking, to say the least.
We did it on a sunny day in summer and got rewarded with some of the best views we’ve ever seen in New Zealand. The best time to hike it is November to April. Don’t try to do it outside of this period—the environment is unforgiving.
Ngāuruhoe itself is actually Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings. You’ll pass this iconic volcano shortly after you start the hike. If you look carefully you might see some orcs strutting around.
Get ready for otherworldly landscapes—The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is raw, powerful, and completely unforgettable. It’s like walking on Mars. In fact, just talking about it has made us want to go back and do it all again. Maybe we’ll catch you up there!
🛌 Where to stay: We recommend staying in Ohakune—a cool little alpine town 45 minutes from the trail head, with shuttles available. Check out Snowman Lodge & Spa.
4. Cape Reinga: Te Rerenga Wairua
Few places feel more spiritual or dramatic than Cape Reinga, the very tip of New Zealand. It’s one of the most remote places in the country.
Here, the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean collide in a wild swirl of waves, and Māori legend tells us it’s the place where spirits depart for their final journey.
It’s a truly humbling experience. The kind of place that makes you stop talking and just take it all in.
Aside from the obvious—the iconic Cape Reinga Lighthouse and that signpost everyone wants a picture with—there are a few other highlights worth the experience.
🚙 Getting there: Cape Reinga is a 1 hour 15 minute drive north from Kaitaia. If you don’t have a ride, Fullers Bay of Islands offer tours to the cape, departing from Paihia. Plus you’ll get to drive on Ninety Mile Beach!
Te Paki Sand Dunes
About 5 minutes before you reach the Cape, head down a short section of gravel road to the Te Paki Sand Dunes. These massive dunes are the ultimate spot for sandboarding. You can rent a board at the capark (during summer), or bring your own (pick one up for cheap at the Warehouse in Kaitaia).
While sliding down these giant dunes is an easy highlight (it’s actually quite an addictive thrill), the view from the top of the dunes is equally epic. Plus, you’ll get sweeping views of Ninety Mile Beach. This spot is solid backpacking fun!
Spirits Bay (Kapowairua)
Kapowairua and its surrounding areas are steeped in indigenous history—making this place is a bit of a hidden gem on your cape adventure, and a spiritually significant destination. The beach itself is really quite special, stunning, and worth exploring.
Spirits Bay is a place of deep spiritual significance to Māori. Especially to the local iwi (tribe) Ngāti Kuri, who are the tangata whenua (people of the land) in this area.
The Bay is seen as a sacred place where the souls of those who’ve passed depart on their journey to the afterlife, heading towards the horizon to their ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. “Kapowairua” translates to “the waters of the spirits”, reflecting this connection to the spiritual world.
There’s a DOC campsite right next to the beach—offering peaceful and scenic surrounds.
Spirits Bay is a truly unique place that reminds you of the importance of connection to culture on your backpacking journey.
Rarawa Beach
The snow white beach. We could just stop right there. It’s so freaking white it’s confusing. Especially if you come from a place where it actually snows.
Rarawa is famous for its ultra fine, white silica sand, which gives the beach its striking, almost snow-like appearance. In fact, it’s considered to have some of the purest and whitest silica sand in the world—rivalling even Australia (sorry not sorry Aussies).
This silica-rich sand is made up of tiny finely ground, pure quartz crystals, giving it a soft, powdery texture that makes it visually stunning, and contributes to its sparkling appearance when it catches the light.
While being oh so photogenic, the purity of Rarawa’s silica is also a testament to the pristine nature of this coastal environment. The silica sand here is one of the many natural wonders that make Rarawa Beach worth visiting. Plus, you’ll get some epic shots!
🛌 Where to stay: DOC campsites: Taputaputa, Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) and Rarawa Beach. The campsite at Taputaputa is the closest to Cape Reinga.
5. Wellington: The cool capital
Welcome to “Windy Welly”, New Zealand’s creative capital. Wedged between some serious looking hills and a sparkling harbour, this city’s got loads of personality. It’s full of vibrant buzzing energy and friendly locals.
You’ll discover niche cafés, indie bars, vintage stores, street art, and of course plenty of film geek magic. This be one cool capital city bro. And it’s like, not even trying to be cool.
Wellington is definitely not a destination for good weather. This place howls like a wolf at the best of times. Don’t expect to go sunbathing. But when the famous Wellington wind hits, it just adds to the chaos in the best way. Actually it doesn’t, we just threw that in there coz it sounded cool. That’s what Wellington does to you!!
Fortunate for you, there’s plenty of things to do. Here are our top picks. Excited? You should be!
🚙 Getting there: Wellington sits at the bottom of the North Island (an 8 hour drive south from Auckland). There are daily Intercity services. Plus hop-on hop-off tours like Kiwi Experience.
Wētā Workshop
Calling all Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans! If you’re one of them, don’t even bother reading this.
Go behind the scenes to see props, costumes, and how the movie magic comes to life. We chose to do the Wētā Cave Workshop Tour and Miniature Effects Tour (transfers included). This was so much fun!! It makes us want to stop writing this guide and go back there right now!
Back to business—to be honest, we like LOTR as much as the next person. But, the behind the scenes experience of seeing how everything is created and comes together is what we really enjoyed. There’s so much precise detail that goes into building these film worlds—from weapon design to prosthetics.
If you’re into fantasy or film, you have to visit Wētā Workshop. It’s one cool capital experience. See what we did there?
Zealandia
First things first—Zealandia is one of the best places to see New Zealand’s iconic kiwi. They’re nocturnal, so if you want to see one, you’ll need to join a guided night tour. These tours give you the best chance to spot this elusive bird in its natural habitat, along with other nocturnal species like the Tuatara (a prehistoric reptile).
Seeing a kiwi in the wild, especially in such a natural setting, is a rare and unforgettable experience for any backpacker visiting Wellington.
Zealandia is a 225 hectare wildlife sanctuary located just 10 minutes from central Wellington. Their conservation efforts are focused on protecting and reintroducing endangered species, and preserving New Zealand’s unique native flora and fauna.
The sanctuary is home to many other rare species like the takahē and the kākā, with over 40 native birds thriving in a predator-free environment.
There are stunning bush walks on offer here, where you can immerse yourself in native forest, explore wetlands, and spot wildlife. Popular trails include the 2 hour “Sanctuary Walk”, plus other short, easy options.
There’s also an interactive visitor center with exhibits on New Zealand’s biodiversity. A visit to Zealandia is an awesome opportunity to witness these unique creatures up close and learn about the native environment.
🦎 Pro tip: Your entry fee goes towards supporting conservation efforts—a sustainable way to give back to New Zealand.
Putangirua Pinnacles
Though not technically in Wellington (it’s a bit of an indirect 2 hour drive)—the Putangirua Pinnacles are totally worth it. These bizarre eroded spires are one of the most unusual natural wonders in New Zealand.
LOTR fans will recognise them from The Return of the King. They’re eerie, otherworldly, and one epic sight to behold. The track itself will take you about 45 minutes one way.
There’s also a DOC campsite located at the start of the track. So no excuses—you can get a good sleep before or after!
🛌 Where to stay: Haka House Wellington | Nomads Wellington Hostel.
6. Coromandel Peninsula: Golden beaches and hidden adventures
The Coromandel is a go-to for so many backpackers. With plenty of natural attractions, it’s easy to see why. The peninsula is a scenic wilderness, and just driving through it is magic. There’s so much to explore here, and we’ve included all the highlights, plus a hidden gem.
Whether you’re hiking to the summit of the Pinnacles at sunrise, soaking in your own DIY spa at Hot Water Beach, or exploring the sea caves around Cathedral Cove, every corner of the Coromandel feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. This place has it all. It’s the ultimate “find your freedom” destination in the North Island.
🚙 Getting there: The Coromandel Peninsula is roughly 3 hours drive east from Auckland, depending on the destination. There are daily Intercity services to Thames. Plus hop-on hop-off tours like Kiwi Experience.
Pinnacles Walk
The Pinnacles Walk is one of the best and most rewarding hikes in the Coromandel Peninsula. This 7 to 8 hour return trek takes you through native forest, past streams, along ridgelines, and up ladders and steep, challenging terrain to the top of the Pinnacles.
From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning 360° panoramic views of the Coromandel Range and the surrounding coastline. Tongariro Crossing aside, this is one of the best hikes in the North Island.
The Pinnacles themselves are a series of jagged rock formations, towering above the landscape, offering spectacular photo opportunities. Historically, the Pinnacles were once used by gold miners in the 1800s, and remnants of their huts can still be seen along the trail.
The walk starts from the Harpers Lookout car park and is recommended for experienced hikers, with some fairly steep sections. Stay overnight at the DOC hut (book ahead), which allows you to enjoy the sunrise from the summit, and split the hike up.
New Chums Beach
This stunning beach has limited access, contributing to its status as a hidden gem. Meaning you can only reach it by foot. New Chums is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Drive to the northern end of Whangapoua Beach until you hit the carpark. The New Chum’s Beach Walkway starts here. It’s an easy 20 minutes through rocky coastline and native bush.
Do climb up the rock face that looks over the beach (you’ll know it when you see it). The view from here is epic—and it’s the best way to take in the views (other than actually standing on the beach itself).
Because it’s pretty unknown compared to other tourist attractions in the area, it’s usually quiet, making it ideal if you’re looking to escape the more popular spots.
Cathedral Cove
This place needs no intro. Cathedral Cove is one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural landmarks. The dramatic limestone arch that spans the entrance to the cove is a must-see for anyone backpacking the area.
Fun fact, the cove is famous for its cinematic appearance, having been featured in the film The Chronicles of Narnia (as if you weren’t already sold), as well as other productions.
To get there, you can either walk along the well-maintained Cathedral Cove Track (about 45 minutes from the car park) or take a boat ride from nearby Hahei. Go early or late to avoid busloads of tourists. It’s arguably one of New Zealand’s most famous photo spots.
The area is also part of the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, which offers incredible marine life and underwater landscapes for those with snorkeling gear.
Hot Water Beach
Te Puia (Hot Water Beach) is another popular spot on many backpacking routes. Here’s where nature gives you your own spa—you can dig your own hot pool right on the beach! Hot Water Beach is a unique natural phenomenon where warm geothermal water bubbles up through the sand, creating natural hot springs along the shore.
The best time to visit is two hours either side of low tide, when the beach’s hot springs are most accessible. The temperature can vary depending on where you dig, so you might need to experiment to find the perfect spot.
🛌 Where to stay: Campgrounds are usually the best option in the Coromandel Peninsula, you’ll find them near all the above highlights. Whitianga is a good base and has a wider range of accommodation options.
7. Hobbiton Movie Set: Step into Middle-earth
Middle-earth commands its own section here. In part because Hobbiton is kind of in the middle of nowhere. Funny that. The closest town is Matamata, and you’ll know you’re in the right place because even the isite is designed like a hobbit hole. If you grew up on Tolkien, this one’s a must. Second breakfast is calling (we really couldn’t help ourselves).
Before you even arrive at Hobbiton you’ll feel you’re somehow in a familiar place. The rolling hills of Matamata are like literally stepping into Middle-earth. Even if you’re not a massive Lord of the Rings fan we still recommend you put this on your list. Much of the identity of New Zealand backpacking has emerged from the world of Tolkien.
🚙 Getting there: Hobbiton Movie Set is a 2 hour drive south from Auckland. There are daily Intercity services to Matamata where you can connect to a number of tours. Plus hop-on hop-off tours like Kiwi Experience.
Bag End and hobbit holes
The actual movie set feels like you’ve stepped straight into a storybook. You sort of wonder if this place is actually real and not a movie set at all. It’s so lifelike you’ll think hobbits actually live here.
The attention to detail is unreal—from the perfectly round doors of the hobbit holes to the smoke curling from chimneys. It’s one of those experiences that makes you grin with wonderment the entire time.
In total there are 44 hobbit holes, lush garden settings, and of course Bilbo’s iconic Bag End home. Tours are guided and include transfers from Matamata.
The Green Dragon Inn
If you listen carefully you can hear mugs clinking inside the Green Dragon Inn. Yes, you can grab a pint. In fact, you’ll get a complimentary ale, cider, or ginger beer brewed just for Hobbiton (everything is on point here).
All Hobbiton tours include time at the inn, and behind-the-scenes stories about how the set was built and maintained. This is one trip to the pub you won’t forget (depending on how much of the Southfarthing range you partake in).
Quite frankly, this entire section has made us want to rewatch LOTR. Maybe it’s time to go to Hobbiton.
🎥 Pro tip: Book your Hobbiton tour in advance—they fill up fast, especially during summer. We recommend a “first tour” slot for softer light and fewer crowds.
8. Auckland: City of Sails
There’s no shortage of people talking crap about Auckland—telling you to ignore it, as though there’s nothing there to see. They’re wrong. In fact, we’ve had some of our best backpacking experiences here. That’s why it’s on this list!
You can bungy jump off the Harbour Bridge in the morning, take a ferry to Waiheke Island in the afternoon, and catch the sunset at Bethells Beach before dinner. All in one day—but don’t actually do that, stay a few.
The point is that you don’t need to leave Auckland as fast as possible. There’s plenty of cool things to do here, and you can easily spend a few days in the region.
If you want to save money on accommodation staying at a campground just outside of the city is a good option. We suggest Muriwai Beach Campground. You’ll camp right beside the ocean, with easy access to the west coast beaches.
Don’t just wander down Queen Street, there’s so much more to explore!
🚙 Getting there: There are daily Intercity services to and from all the major destinations in the North Island. Plus hop-on hop-off tours like Kiwi Experience.
Te Henga / Bethells Beach
All the beaches along this stretch of Auckland’s west coast are stunning—but what sets Te Henga apart as our top pick is the diversity of things to do here. You’ll find sea caves, giant black sand dunes, a peaceful lake, and a secret surf beach. It’s only a short walk of up to 30 minutes to reach any of them.
The main beach itself is a great example of the rugged coastline, and is extra special at sunset. We recommend you allow at least half a day to explore Bethells Beach. Aside from the gas, you won’t pay a cent.
Auckland Bridge Bungy (AJ Hackett Bungy)
Led by AJ Hackett Bungy, the company behind the world’s first commercial bungy operation, this site provides a safe and exciting way to tick off one of New Zealand’s most iconic extreme sports.
From the Auckland Harbour Bridge it’s a 40 metre drop over the Waitematā Harbour, with epic skyline views. If you want more, you can even dip your head in the sea! They also offer combo packages, including the bungy and a harbour bridge climb.
If you find yourself craving that adrenaline fix during your visit to the city, Auckland Bridge Bungy is a must-do. It’s pure Kiwi adrenaline at its finest.
Waiheke Island
Just a 40 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke is still part of the region—but it runs at a totally different pace. In fact, many Aucklanders head over there to escape the city.
The cruise is a highlight on its own. It’s a great way to get out on the water and experience the Hauraki Gulf and its many islands. Waiheke offers a refreshing contrast to the bustle of Auckland. The vibe here is beachy and laid-back—making it an ideal spot to unwind while backpacking.
On the island itself you’ll find a number of vineyards, olive groves, gorgeous beaches, and local galleries to explore. Many of the vineyards have spectacular views of the Auckland region and the Gulf.
There’s several walking and cycling trails around the island, or you can just simply relax on one of its secluded beaches like Onetangi or Oneroa.
Waiheke makes an epic day trip, or even an overnighter. Who knows—you might end up beached there. It’s an easy place to fall in love with.
👉🏼 Discover all our Auckland faves in our dedicated guide: 8 best things to do in Auckland for free.
🛌 Where to stay: Our personal rec is LyLo Auckland—the next generation stay for backpackers.
9. Waitomo: Glowworms, caves, and underground thrills
This is another one of those highlights you may well have heard of. Waitomo is a place that looks quiet on the surface, but below ground, it’s a whole nother world.
Beneath the green hills lies a maze of ancient limestone caves that glow with thousands of bioluminescent worms, creating a magical, starry ceiling that’ll leave you speechless.
You can explore the caves on a peaceful boat tour or go full adrenaline with black-water rafting. It’s one of those rare adventures that feels completely ethereal and totally out of this world.
🚙 Getting there: Waitomo is a 2 hour 15 minute drive south from Auckland. There are daily Intercity services to Waitomo Township where you can connect to a number of tours. Plus hop-on hop-off tours like Kiwi Experience.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
This is one of the North Island’s most magical natural wonders, known for its stunning glowworms and underground beauty. Located in the Waikato region, this iconic cave system draws thousands of visitors each year.
You can take guided tours through the cave, with options ranging from easy walks to boat rides. As you float through the darkness, the glowworms above create a surreal, starry sky effect.
For a deeper cultural experience, local Māori guides share fascinating stories about the caves’ significance to the area. The name “Waitomo” comes from the Māori words wai (water) and tomo (hole), referring to the underground streams that flow through the caves.
Black-water rafting
If you’re looking for something that’ll get the adrenaline flowing, go black-water rafting (or tubing) through the cave system.
Equipped with a wetsuit, helmet, and a rubber tube, you’ll navigate the pitch-black caverns, as the soft glow from the ceiling above lights your way. You’ll float, climb, and crawl through underground rivers and glowworm-lit tunnels.
The experience combines gentle drifting with moments of excitement, like squeezing through tight passages and riding small waterfalls.
Rafting the Waitomo Caves is one of the most epic things to do in New Zealand. It’s a unique way to explore the stunning limestone formations and subterranean landscape that’s a must-do.
10. Taupō: Cascades, hot springs, and lake adventures
Situated on the shores of Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake, this area is a hotspot for outdoor activities. For thrill-seekers, Taupō delivers world-class bungy jumping, white-water rafting on the Tongariro River, and one of the best skydiving spots in the country. It’s also a popular base for hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
But it’s not all about bucket list thrills—Taupō has a pretty laid-back vibe with hot springs to relax in, scenic walks, and natural attractions.
🚙 Getting there: Taupō is a 3 hour 15 minute drive south from Auckland. There’s also daily Intercity services. Plus hop-on hop-off tours like Kiwi Experience.
Huka Falls
Huka Falls, less than 10 minutes drive from Taupō, is one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions. Witness 220,000 litres of water per second roar through a narrow canyon—the colour alone will blow you away. You’ll find various platforms to view the falls, and the surrounding area is also great for short walks.
For a more immersive experience, we recommend a jet boat ride, where you’ll get right up close to the falls. Jet boating is one of the best ways to feel the power and beauty of this force of nature. You’ll hop aboard a high-speed boat that can navigate through the swift currents and narrow river channels with incredible precision.
The ride takes you to the base of Huka Falls, where you’ll feel the full force of the water as it crashes below. As you zoom along the river, expect sharp turns, exciting spins, and plenty of in-your-face splash!
🏞️ Pro tip: Visit Huka Falls early morning or evening for dramatic light and fewer tour buses.
Craters of the Moon
Craters of the Moon is a solid way to experience New Zealand’s geothermal wonders up close and on the cheap. It’s only 5 minutes west of Huka Falls, so you can easily combine these two in one day.
This fascinating geothermal park features boardwalks that weave their way around several active craters. You’ll pass bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and unique flora, giving you a glimpse into the heart of New Zealand’s volcanic activity. The main walkway itself will take you up to an hour to complete, with the whole experience costing just $10.
Craters of the Moon is a short and sweet, budget-friendly adventure for your Taupō trip. If you’re curious about the country’s volcanic landscape, this site offers you a surreal otherworldly encounter.
🛌 Where to stay: Finlay Jack’s Backpackers | Haka House Taupō.
The land that keeps on giving
Exploring our North Island highlights took us back to some epic travel memories. We may have even shed a tear or two.
There are so many things to do when you’re backpacking this island—before you even start thinking about the South. For us, it’s the people you share them with that makes these experiences truly special.
The landscapes are diverse, from breathtaking beaches in Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula to natural wonders like Waitomo Caves and Huka Falls in the Waikato.
There’s always something wonderful to see nearby, a hike to be discovered, a hidden gem to uncover. The North Island just keeps on giving. This place really is pure magic. ✌🏼
⭐ Heading to the South Island? Discover all our faves in our dedicated guide: 25 best things to do in New Zealand: South Island highlights.
Backpacking New Zealand tips
- 🎒 Pack smart: The weather can turn fast here in any season. Layers, waterproof jacket, quality hiking boots, headlamp, reusable water bottle.
- 🚙 Transport: A campervan or rental car gives flexibility, especially in remote areas.
- 🛌 Accommodation: Book ahead in high season. Use DOC campsites to stretch the budget.
- 🙌 Respect Māori culture: Many places are culturally significant (especially in the North). Be mindful, follow signs, and always ask before photographing local people or marae.
- 📅 Backup days: Weather (especially in volcano zones or capes) can force delays—leave room in your schedule.
👉🏼 Check out our Beginner’s guide to backpacking New Zealand for everything you need to know, or visit our FAQ.
