The best New Zealand spots to add to your itinerary if you're visiting the north island
New Zealand is overflowing with stunning places to visit.
But while a lot of love is (justifiably) directed toward the South Island, there's a lot going on up north that makes for a wonderful holiday.
From the streets of the charming capital, Wellington, to alpine hikes, bubbling hot springs, and world heritage sites, New Zealand's North Island is full of hidden gems.
Here are the top spots to add to your must-see list.
Bay of Islands
This northern region features 144 islands and is a haven for dolphin watching, sailing, and big-game fishing.
It's also home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the country's most significant historic site.
Located 3 hours north of Auckland, there are some great towns - like Russell and Paihia - where you can base yourself for a wonderful coastal holiday.
Tongariro National Park
This World Heritage site and NZ's oldest national park has snowy peaks, three active volcanic mountains, emerald lakes, and is home to the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
It's also where you'll find the imposing Mount Ngauruhoe, famously cast as "Mount Doom" in The Lord of the Rings.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Take a silent boat ride through dark caverns illuminated by thousands of tiny, bioluminescent glowworms that mimic a starry night sky.
For thrill-seekers, the "Black Water Rafting" option lets you float through the caves on an inner tube.
Hobbiton, New Zealand
Even if you aren't a die-hard LOTR fan, the Hobbiton set is a special place to visit.
The tour concludes with a themed drink at the Green Dragon Inn, giving you the full Middle-earth experience.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland (Rotorua)
Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers, and 18 lakes.
Visit Wai-O-Tapu to see its neon-orange Champagne Pool, fluoro green Devil's Bath, and the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser.
Napier
The city was rebuilt in the 1930s after a devastating earthquake, making it one of the world's best-preserved Art Deco cities.
It's also the heart of an excellent wine region, famous for its Syrah and Chardonnay.
Mount Maunganui
A climb to the summit of this extinct volcanic cone gives panoramic views of the Bay of Plenty's white-sand coastline.
Afterwards, you can relax in the salty hot pools located right at the base of the mountain.
Cape Reinga
The northernmost point in New Zealand, here you can visit the lighthouse and see the turbulent waters where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean.
Huka Falls, Taupō
This spot is famous for its powerful, turquoise-blue water, where 220,000 litres per second roar through a narrow 15-meter volcanic gorge.
The easy walking tracks and accessibility make it the most visited natural attraction in New Zealand.
