Subtropical Northland is a place of long white beaches, giant sand dunes and mighty kauri trees.

While your family is visiting Northland take a bus ride along Ninety Mile Beach. If your children are old enough then you may just be able to give them an experience of a lifetime, swimming with dolphins. What about surfing, not on the water but sand surfing the sand dunes at Opononi with the kids. Lastly learn about New Zealand history with a visit to Waitangi, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.

The Far North 

At the top of the North Island is Cape Reinga. It is here that the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea meet. 

Bay of Islands

This area is rich in both Maori and early European history and it was at Waitangi that the treaty was signed. Take time out in Russell and visit Pompallier House to see how books were made by the first Roman Catholic missionaries.

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Hokianga 

Hokianga is not as popular as the Bay of Islands which is a good thing for those who visit here. On your way through the Waipoua Kauri Forest stop and show your children Te Matua Ngahere, the father of the forest. This kauri tree is believed to be around 2000 years old and has a girth of 16 metres.

Whangarei 

Whangarei is often overlooked as a holiday destination. This city is the gateway to Northland and the Bay of Islands, so many people simply drive through on their way north. However, if you are visiting Whangarei, you will find that there are many family-friendly things to do here.

Dargaville 

The two jewels of the Dargaville area are the Kai Iwi Lakes and Trounson Kauri Park, both great family destinations. If visiting during summer then enjoy the lakes or try a night tour to see the wild kiwis in the bush at Trounson Kauri Park.

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