The North Island offers some iconic experiences, especially on a slow weekend where you fancy an escape from the city. Taking advantage of one of these adventures could be the pick-me-up you need, and from bathing in natural hot pools to indulging in the finest New Zealand cuisine – we’ve found something for everyone. Here are a handful of North Island experiences to make your weekend away unbeatable.
1. Poor Knights Island
Embark on perhaps the greatest underwater adventure in New Zealand. Just 23km off the Tutukaka Coast, lies this surreal Nature and Marine Reserve. With spectacular underwater life, from arches and caves, to ancient volcanoes and fish, it’s no wonder it’s amongst the top diving spots on the planet. Go with Dive Tutukaka for the ultimate adventure.
📍 Northland, New Zealand
2. Rotorua Mud Pools
Rotorua is one of the most unforgettable places in New Zealand. It’s an epic geothermal utopia with mud pools, natural hot springs, majestic forests and volcanic lakes. You can’t go to this place without experiencing one of nature’s greatest creations – the bubbling mud pools at Hells Gate. Feel all your anxieties melt away as you cover yourself in mud and indulge in this therapeutic mud bath.
📍 Hells Gate, Rotorua, New Zealand
3. Knoll Ridge Café
Normally a ski destination in the winter, this café is New Zealand’s highest dining experience. Take the Sky Waka gondola to 2020m above sea level which offers majestic views all year around. Indulge on a variety of snacks and coffees in the award-winning sky-high café, snuggled behind large glass windows.
📍 Whakapapa Ski Area, 4691, New Zealand
4. The Lost Spring Hot Pools
We couldn’t not mention these glorious hot pools on the North Island. Unwind after a long week at The Lost Spring in the Coromandel region. Alternatively, there’s a fantastic one called Polynesian Spa in Lake Rotorua. One dip in a hot pool and you’ll feel all your troubles melt away.
5. Hawke’s Bay
Hawke’s Bay offers wine adventures, delicious grub from farmers markets, and plenty to explore. The picturesque town of Napier has carefully preserved world-class 1930s architecture and is a must-see in this region. You’ll get all the Great Gatsby vibes through its art deco facades, vintage cars and streetscapes. Handily, a stay here doesn’t need to break the bank as there are an array of budget-friendly places to stay.
6. Taupo
Drive three hours to discover the natural wonders and take in the stunning views of Lake Taupo. This tranquil haven is the best place to sooth your tensions in rare hot pools, embark on various cycling routes and partake in terrific adrenaline activities. Photographers and adventure-seekers will adore this picturesque place.
7. Waitomo
This spot is the perfect North Island weekend adventure for adrenaline junkies. From taking a guided boat tour through the epic underground glow worm caves and limestone caverns, to black water rafting on underground rivers and abseiling 100m into Lost World to explore the Mangapu Streamway – well, let’s just say you won’t be bored. For further excursion information, visit the Waitomo website.
8. Cape Reinga
See the Tasman Sea collide with the Pacific Ocean at one of the most breath-taking coasts in New Zealand. Blessed with a rich history, the Māori believe an ancient Pohutukawa tree (Te Aroha) marks the spot where, after death, spirits travel for their final journey. Be sure to visit the lighthouse and Twilight Beach, or opt to stay the night with an array of Airbnbs on offer in the area.
9. Wellington
The capital is a remarkable place to immerse yourself in a relaxing weekend adventure. From mouth-watering food markets, events, culture and more. Opt to stay in the city or escape to the coast, and of course, check out our friends Secret Wellington for more.