Northland Regional Information

Northland | Regional Information | Activity Highlights | Scenic Highlights | History

Northland is a gold, green and blue world of beaches, bays and subtropical pleasures. Relax and unwind while you discover the stories of New Zealand's early history.

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Northland Overview

Northland, New Zealand

The region of Northland and the Bay of Islands stretches north from Auckland, towards the warm waters of Polynesia, the ancestral home of New Zealand's first inhabitants.

The relaxed, sunny lifestyle of Northland springs from its subtropical climate and the myriad of beautiful islands, bays and beaches around the coastline.

The people of the North have a passion for water sport—surfing, boating, game fishing, sailing and diving. They also have a deep appreciation of the region's fascinating Māori and European history.

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Northland Highlights

It is believed that the first Polynesian voyagers arrived in this region during the 11^th 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 Māori culture is still very much alive in this region (32 percent of the population are Māori), 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.