The best of the north

Discover the best of northern New Zealand

Discover one of the most mysterious and fascinating countries aboard your motorhome departing from Auckland. CampingCar-Online/Ramble Campervans suggests some of the best places in northern New Zealand to ensure that you make the most fo you holiday.

The North Island is the smallest, but also the most populated, of the two main islands that make up New Zealand. It houses the three largest cities: Hamilton, Auckland and Wellington, the capital. Between the modernity of the largest Polynesian city in the world and the ever-present heritage, the North Island will not cease to surprise you.

Bay of Islands

The bay has about 150 islands to explore. During the crossing between islands you can see dolphins swimming alongside the boat. On Paihia and Russell you can admire the Maori heritage that is ever-present in the New Zealand culture.

Rotura

In Rotorua you will find a real geothermal spectacle. In the middle of a desolate landscape, almost devoid of vegetation, are geysers of boiling water and hot mud pools that give off the smell of sulfur in the air. This region is known as the "land of the thermal wonders."

Waikato

Waikato River is the longest river in New Zealand. Due to a mild and humid climate the valleys have very fertile pastures that feed herds of dairy cows, horses and bulls. Along the banks of the Waikato River you will find towns that seem very British, like Cambridge, with hot springs and horse shows.

Waitomo Caves

These caves are home to fireflies that produce a blue-green light and the true, natural sculptures that are the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Unusual excursions in the caves are available for the more adventurous, such as rafting, abseiling, climbing, walking or swimming in the subterranean depths.

Coromandel

Initially useful for its mineral resources, the Coromandel region is now an area for recreational activities such as diving, fishing, sailing, camping and hiking. In recognition of its previous activity, you can visit Thames, which flourished during the gold rush in the nineteenth century.

Lake Taupo

This is the largest lake in New Zealand and is located at the heart of the North Island. It is the result of a volcanic explosion thousands of years ago. The site still experiences some volcanic activity and, as in Rotorua, it is rich in thermal springs. It produces 500 tonnes of rainbow trout a year much to the delight of fishermen. The area has many water and extreme sports, such as boating, kayaking, bungee jumping and skydiving.

Tongariro National Park

This was the first national park in New Zealand. It has three active volcanoes: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. The volcanic activity has resulted in a unique landscape in the country's oldest park.

Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach

Located in the extreme north of the country, this site provides an endless panorama stretching towards the horizon and suggesting that you have reached the end of the world. This whole area is steeped in Maori culture. Ninety Mile Beach stretches for 96 km south of the Cape and is a landscape of dunes and sea shells which is very striking at sunset.