Northland and the Bay of Islands Feature

The remnant of the once-giant Kauri Forest that covered much of Northland includes New Zealand's biggest kauri, called Tane Mahuta. Get there early to avoid crowds and ponder what the region was like before large-scale forestry took place.

We also recommend the coastal drive to Russell. The roads are narrow and windy, but your effort will pay off when you enjoy a picnic on a solitary beach.

If you have ventured to Kaitaia—the last big and slightly scruffy town before you hit the road to Cape Reinga—take an extra hour or so and go south of 90 Mile Beach to Ahipara and Shipwrecks Bay for lovely beach views. In summer the swimming here is magnificent and surfers rejoice at the waves all year round.