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Ariel shot of colourful pools of geothermal activity, vivid greens and oranges bubble together to create steam, Rotorua, New Zealand

New Zealand's North Island Holidays


new zealand & the pacific
New Zealand’s North Island holidays offer diverse landscapes, Maori culture, cosmopolitan cities, volcanic scenery and some of the country’s most picturesque coastlines.

Marvel at geothermal Rotorua or Waitomo’s magical glow worm caves, explore the cultural hub of Wellington and take to the water in Auckland, the 'City of Sails'. The North Island also makes the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation in the popular holiday spots of the Bay of Islands and Coromandel Peninsula. Or if wine is your thing, Hawke's Bay is not to be missed!

Whether you’re planning an in-depth exploration of the North Island’s vibrant cities and spectacular scenery or combining your journey with the highlights of the South Island, this remarkable region promises unforgettable experiences and a warm Kiwi welcome.

Trailfinders is the UK's No.1 Leisure Tour Operator for New Zealand holidays*

and our expert travel consultants are mine of information about what to do in the North Island, often with first-hand travel experience. Whether you want to explore New Zealand on a fly drive holiday, a sociable guided group tour, or are looking for advice on how to combine New Zealand with Australia or the Pacific – they are the perfect people to ask.

*by volume of clients to New Zealand as confirmed by the national tourist board, Tourism New Zealand, in August 2026.
Speak to a New Zealand Holidays Expert
01 881 4986
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OUR HOLIDAYS TO NEW ZEALAND'S NORTH ISLAND

Nobody offers more ways to explore New Zealand than Trailfinders.

Here's a snapshot of some of our most popular New Zealand’s North Island holidays. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, click on the link below them to see our complete range of holidays and tours in the destination.
North Island Less Travelled
Fly Drive Holiday
8 days / 7 nights

Ideal for second time visitors and intrepid explorers, the scenic north west coast is a haven for nature lovers and rewards those who travel here with stunning rural scenery.

Guide Price: €1,899 pp

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Best of New Zealand
Fly Drive Holiday
24 days / 23 nights

Covering both North and South Island highlights, this journey showcases the best of what this magnificent country has to offer.

Guide Price: €5,179 pp

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North Island Highlights
Fly Drive Holiday
18 days / 17 nights

This varied journey encompasses the main highlights of the beautiful North Island: from exciting Auckland, via beautiful coastal towns and fabulous vineyards, to the cultured capital of Wellington, accompanied by stunning scenery along the way.

Guide Price: €5,149 pp

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Absolute Luxury New Zealand
Fly Drive Holiday
20 days / 19 nights

This exceptional holiday brings together a collection of New Zealand’s finest lodges and hotels.

Guide Price: €10,879 pp

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New Zealand Getaway
Guided Group Journey
15 days / 14 nights

See all the highlights of the North and South islands.

Guide Price: €5,655 pp

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Ultimate New Zealand - Intrepid
Guided Small Group Adventure Tour
24 days / 23 nights

Between old forest landscapes, mountainscapes and glacial hikes, you’ll journey through New Zealand’s diverse natural beauty on this 24-day adventure.

Guide Price: €7,088 pp

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WHERE TO GO IN THE NORTH ISLAND

Each region of New Zealand’s North Island boasts its own attractions and each merits a visit in its own right. Whether it’s a spot of culture in Wellington, exploring the geothermal geysers of Rotorua, wine tasting in Hawke’s Bay or pure relaxation further north in the Bay of Islands or the Coromandel Peninsula, there truly is something for everyone.

Click on the tiles below the North Island map for more details on each region. Alternatively, if you are looking for some inspiration, give us a call and speak to one of our expert travel consultants.
Auckland & Waiheke Island
Find amazing history, scenery, and a melting pot of cultures in New Zealand’s largest city. Then, a short ferry away, discover an entirely different world in Waiheke with delicious wines and sprawling sandy beaches.
Bay of Islands & Northland
Discover Northland’s untouched wildernesses across a variety of terrains. Sand dunes, rugged island coves and towering forests await visitors to this lesser visited region.
The Coromandel Peninsula
What used to be a well kept local secret is now one of the most popular destinations in New Zealand and it is easy to see why.
Rotorua, Waitomo & New Plymouth
The New Zealand of your imagination is present in these popular regions with volcanic scenery, Hobbiton, unforgettable day walks and shimmering glow worm caves.
Taupo, Tongariro & Hawke's Bay
See the best of New Zealand, whether you are on the water, enjoying a Great Walk or sampling the wine!
Wellington, Martinborough & The Kapiti Coast
The southern part of New Zealand’s North Island is replete with hidden gems. Wellington’s world class museums and Kapiti’s endemic birdlife await you.

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN THE NORTH ISLAND

We feature a great range of accommodation in New Zealand’s North Island, with something to suit all budgets. Maybe you’re looking for a quaint guesthouse by the coast, or perhaps a boutique hotel in the centre of town?

What you won’t find here are thousands of New Zealand hotels to wade through. We have done the hard work for you and selected the best places to stay and our travel consultants are on hand to help, often with first-hand experience.
QT Wellington
4 plus star

Wellington, Martinborough & The Kapiti Coast

Boasting an enviable waterfront location opposite the Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, this unique property captures the heart of New Zealand’s creative capital, featuring a varied collection of bold and distinctive local art.
970 Lonely Bay Lodge, Whitianga
4 plus star

The Coromandel Peninsula

This delightful, boutique property offers a unique and luxurious stay on the Coromandel Peninsula, only a five minute walk from the stunning whitesands of Cooks Beach and just a short drive from Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach.
River Birches, Turangi
5 star

Taupo, Tongariro & Hawke's Bay

Poised on the banks of the mighty Tongariro River and close to the Tongariro Crossing, this intimate lodge offers understated elegance, tranquility and standout architectural design.
Sudima Lake Rotorua
3 plus star

Rotorua, Waitomo & New Plymouth

Beautifully set on the shores of Lake Rotorua, comfortable Sudima offers fantastic vistas over the lake and is adjacent to the Polynesian Spa, renowned for its healing waters.
Blue Pacific Apartments
3 plus star

Bay Of Islands & Northland

Only a stone’s throw from the beach, experience the breathtaking scenery that makes the Bay of Islands so desirable.
Rydges Auckland
4 star

Auckland & Waiheke Island

Enjoying a prime location next to Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower, this contemporary hotel offers a convenient and comfortable base in the vibrant CBD.

WHAT TO DO IN THE NORTH ISLAND

As well as some awe-inspiring sights, New Zealand’s North Island is also home to unforgettable experiences. These provide a way to experience the area’s natural splendour that sightseeing alone simply can’t replace.

One day you might be soaring over Auckland & Rangitoto on a scenic flight or having your first kiwi encounter, the next exploring Hobbiton on the iconic movie tour set. Our collection of unmissable experiences will really help bring your New Zealand holiday to life.
Coromandel Peninsula Tour
12 hours
Departs: Auckland

Aucklanders flock to the Coromandel for their own holidays, it’s not hard to see why! Ride a ...

Kiwi Encounter
Attraction Ticket
Departs: Rotorua

As most chicks in the wild don’t reach maturity, Rotorua’s National Kiwi Hatchery plays an ...

Hobbiton Movie Signature Set Tour from Shire's Rest
3 hours
Departs: Matamata

Experience the real Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato ...

Taste of Waiheke
7 hours
Departs: Auckland

Known for golden beaches and award winning wines, Waiheke Island is a little slice of paradise just ...

Maori Cultural Experience & Dinner
3.5 hours
Departs: Rotorua

Journey back to a time of proud warriors and ancient traditions at this immersive Maori cultural ...

Bay of Islands Catamaran Cruise
6 hours
Departs: Paihia

Hop aboard the only yacht licensed to view the resident dolphins of this subtropical island ...

North Island Top Tips From Our Travel Experts

Ben Reddiough -  expert
Ben Reddiough

Waiheke Island is now a must for any New Zealand itinerary. The secluded nature of the island makes it a perfect getaway if coming from major cities. A great way to start or end your New Zealand experience.

Edd Kealy -  expert
Edd Kealy

Wellington is my favourite city that I've visited in New Zealand. It has a lot more going on in terms of dining, nightlife and culture than anywhere else. The Te Papa museum is a must do, some brilliant exhibits of which the Gallipoli one featuring some incredible work from Weta Workshop was a particularly moving highlight.

Siobhan Blest -  expert
Siobhan Blest

Auckland is definitely not just a gateway to head south in New Zealand, just a few hours drive north gets you to the Bay of Islands which is one of NZ many gems and should not be missed. My suggestion is to drive up the west coast (Kauri coast), cross over to Paihia and then drive down the east coast (Hibiscus coast), the two are complete contrasts.


Tales from the Trail

Top tips and travel inspiration from the Trailfinders team

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