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Cape Reinga's Lighthouse, at the top of Te Ika a Maui, New Zealand's North Island

TIPTOE TO THE TOP: Top Things to Do in Northland's Far North

 
 
Where Rugged Coasts, Wild Horizons & Ancient Culture Meet
 
Northland’s Far North is a place where the land stretches to meet the sea, ancient stories linger in windswept sands, and quiet roads invite slow exploration. From the iconic Cape Reinga lighthouse at the northern tip to the harbour towns of Kaitaia and the sheltered bays of Doubtless Bay, every corner of the region offers a mix of coastal drama, cultural richness, and untouched natural beauty.
 
If you’re wondering about the things to do in Northland’s Far North, you’ll find a landscape that blends adventure, history, and serene coastal moments. Walk along high dunes and hidden beaches, watch native wildlife like penguins and seals in their natural habitats, or explore the stories of Māori heritage that echo through local marae and historic sites. Taste the flavours of locally caught seafood, wander quiet towns filled with artisan shops, or simply pause to take in the endless horizons and glacially carved bays.
 
Whether you’re following the trails of Cape Reinga, kayaking in calm bays, or wandering forests and farmland roads, the Far North offers a gentle, yet unforgettable journey. This guide highlights the best things to do across the region – from dramatic headlands and historic towns to wildlife encounters and quiet, coastal escapes – all showing why Northland’s Far North feels both remote and surprisingly intimate.

  • Top Experiences You Can’t Miss in the Far North

    These highlights capture the spirit of Northland’s Far North – a region of rugged capes, endless golden beaches, tranquil bays, and deep Māori heritage. From the tip of Aotearoa to serene harbours, this is a place where nature, history, and small-town charm invite exploration at every turn.

     

    Explore Cape Reinga & Te Rerenga Wairua

    Stand at the very top of New Zealand at Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean and the lighthouse watches over windswept cliffs. Walk short coastal trails, spot native flora, and feel the spiritual significance of this sacred site where Māori believe spirits begin their journey to the afterlife.

     

    Adventure on Ninety Mile Beach & Te Paki Dunes

    Stretch your legs on Ninety Mile Beach, a sweeping coastline ideal for long walks or scenic drives. Then head to the Te Paki Sand Dunes for sandboarding, climbing, and panoramic views of the coast – a playful, windswept experience unlike anywhere else in New Zealand.

     

    Soothe in Doubtless Bay & Karikari Peninsula

    Find calm in Doubtless Bay and along the Karikari Peninsula, where turquoise waters, soft sands, and sheltered bays create perfect swimming, paddling, and snorkeling conditions. Don’t miss Coopers Beach, Taipa, and Cable Bay for quiet coastal charm and relaxed seaside cafés.

     

    Discover Whangaroa Harbour & Scenic Lookouts

    Explore the still waters of Whangaroa Harbour, framed by rugged headlands. Follow short tracks to lookout points, watch fishing boats drift by, or simply pause to breathe in the calm and take in the wide coastal vistas.

     

    Step Back in Time at Mangōnui

    Wander the historic waterfront village of Mangōnui, home to colonial-era buildings, artisan shops, and cafés. Taste freshly caught seafood, explore local art and craft, and soak up the gentle rhythm of a small town that feels both timeless and welcoming.

  • Areas to Explore in Northland’s Far North

    The Far North isn’t just one destination – it’s a collection of headlands, harbours, beaches, and small towns, each offering its own mix of natural beauty, Māori heritage, and laid-back coastal life.

     

    Kaitaia – The largest town in the Far North, serving as a practical hub for fuel, accommodation, and shopping. Kaitaia anchors the region, with easy access to 90 Mile Beach, Ahipara, and the Karikari Peninsula, making it a natural base for exploring the northern reaches of Northland.

     

    Awanui – A small settlement north of Kaitaia, where the road to Cape Reinga begins in earnest. Awanui offers a glimpse of rural Northland life and is a handy last stop before heading into the more remote northern coast.

     

    Te Kao – The final service town before Cape Reinga, essential for fuel, food, and last-minute supplies. This quiet settlement is a practical pause on the journey to the region’s northernmost highlights.

     

    Cape Reinga / Te Rerenga Wairua – Iconic for its lighthouse, meeting of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean, and spiritual significance to Māori. The drive to the cape offers panoramic landscapes, windswept dunes, and a sense of being at the very top of New Zealand.

     

    Houhora & Houhora Harbour – A peaceful harbour offering boating, birdlife, and scenic coastal vistas. Houhora is quiet and unspoiled, ideal for visitors seeking nature and calm.

     

    Ninety Mile Beach – Vast, golden, and windswept, this is both a working beach and an iconic destination. Drive along its length (with caution) or explore on foot to appreciate the scale, tides, and surf.

     

    Ahipara – A coastal village famed for surf culture, sandboarding on the Te Paki dunes, and golden stretches of beach. The village has cafés, local markets, and a relaxed, laid-back pace.

     

    Te Paki Sand Dunes – Near Cape Reinga, these massive, rolling dunes are perfect for adventure seekers looking to sandboard or explore desert-like landscapes at the northern tip of New Zealand.

     

    Spirits Bay (Kapowairua) – A remote and sacred beach, steeped in Māori mythology. Its quiet, open shoreline is ideal for reflection, photography, and experiencing one of the Far North’s most spiritual locations.

     

    Mangonui – A historic coastal village on Doubtless Bay, known for its wharf, boutique cafés, artisan food producers, and a quintessential fishing-village atmosphere.

     

    Coopers Beach, Cable Bay & Taipa – Coastal communities along Doubtless Bay offering safe swimming, golden sands, boutique shops, cafés, and excellent local seafood. Ideal for families and those wanting a mix of relaxation and water activities.

     

    Karikari Peninsula – A mix of farmland, secluded beaches, and rugged coastal views. The peninsula rewards those seeking off-the-beaten-track swimming spots, walks, and quiet contemplation.

     

    Whangaroa – A sheltered harbour town with boating, fishing, and small-scale local history. Whangaroa’s calm waters and surrounding hills provide a scenic backdrop for exploration.

     

    Hihi, Tauranga Bay, Matauri Bay & Taupo Bay – A string of serene coastal spots along the eastern Far North, each offering wild beaches, crystal-clear water, and gentle walking tracks. Perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply enjoying the untouched scenery. These bays capture the relaxed, sun-drenched charm of Northland’s northeastern coastline.

     

    Matai Bay – A remote bay on the Karikari Peninsula, known for its wild surf, secluded beaches, and opportunities for coastal hikes and nature observation.

  • Pair this Trip with:

    This trip is best enjoyed when combined with:

     

    🚗 A scenic self-drive adventure through Northland, or Auckland

     

    ✈️ A direct flight to Auckland

     

    🚌 A bus journey to the Bay of Islands

  • Insider Tips for Kaitaia & the Far North

    Local suggestions to help you explore with the true Far North rhythm.

     

    Cape Reinga Timing – The northernmost tip of Aotearoa is awe-inspiring, but remote: roughly 90 minutes each way from Kaitaia and 30 minutes from Waitiki Landing, the last fuel and food stop before the lighthouse. Plan a full day, arrive early for softer light and smaller crowds, and don’t underestimate the return journey – the landscape deserves a slow pace.

     

    Ninety Mile Beach Dunes & Sandboarding Essentials – Sandboarding on the dunes is a classic Far North thrill. Early mornings or late afternoons give the sand a cooler, firmer surface and a golden glow. The best boards feature a hard, smooth plastic (HDPE) bottom for maximum speed, while inexpensive EPS core boards from The Warehouse (Kaitaia, Kaikohe, or Kerikeri) or Rebel Sport (Kerikeri) are durable against sand. Specialised sandboards can also be rented for $10–$15/day. Wear lightweight, quick-dry activewear like leggings or long shorts with a rash vest to protect against sand and sun. Sunglasses or goggles, a hat, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential, and while many go barefoot, socks or light, closed-toe shoes make climbing hot, steep dunes easier. Best for adventurous kids (8+) and adults with basic fitness; beginners should start on smaller slopes before tackling the big dunes.

     

    Respect the Rules – Rental cars aren’t permitted on 90 Mile Beach, so plan to explore by foot or join a local guided 4WD tour. The soft sand and shifting tides make it unsafe for standard vehicles, but walking or guided trips let you enjoy the vast dunes, wild surf, and sweeping coastal views safely.

     

    Ahipara & Shipwreck Bay Surf Flow – Catch the swell at Ahipara’s renowned surf breaks or wander Shipwreck Bay for dramatic waves and quiet coves. Locals know the best tide times: early morning or late afternoon avoids crowds, and the light is perfect for photos of surf colliding with the coastline.

     

    Beach Hopping Around Doubtless Bay – Taipa, Coopers Beach, Cable Bay, and Mangonui are all close but feel worlds apart. Locals hit two or three beaches in a morning, pausing for coffee at boutique cafés in Mangonui or a casual fish-and-chip stop along the coast. Timing matters: check tides before walking sandbars or estuary edges.

     

    Whangaroa Harbour Walks & Water – A short hike along the Whangaroa Harbour edges reveals quiet bays, wading birds, and sweeping views. For the adventurous, small-scale fishing trips with local skippers give anglers access to deep-water channels famous for Marlin without having to navigate tricky tides or hidden reefs. Early mornings are prime for calmer waters and feeding birds.

     

    Marlin & Game Fish – The Whangaroa Harbour is famous among locals for game fishing, particularly Marlin, thanks to deep-water channels close to the coast. Small charter boats and guided trips operate from Whangaroa, giving anglers access to the best spots without navigating tricky reefs or tides. Early mornings are prime for calmer waters and higher chances of spotting birds feeding on bait schools. Ideal for intermediate to experienced anglers; beginners can join guided trips for gear, tips, and local know-how.

     

    Whangaroa Coastal Track & St Paul’s Rock – This moderate loop delivers forest, beaches, and sweeping harbour views, finishing at the dramatic St Paul’s Rock lookout. From the carpark near the harbour, follow shaded forest tracks, cross small streams, and emerge onto cliff-top paths where the Pacific and Whangaroa Harbour meet. St Paul’s Rock offers iconic photography opportunities, with headlands stretching either side and boats drifting through the channel below. The loop takes 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace, making it ideal for families, keen walkers, or anyone wanting a mix of bush, coast, and legendary viewpoints in one outing. Bring binoculars for spotting seabirds or dolphins in the channel.

     

    Northland’s Knowledge Hub – Beyond galleries, the library, and visitor info, Te Ahu in Kaitaia is a quiet place to learn about local history, culture, and current events. Locals often drop in mid-morning or late afternoon to escape the sun, pick up maps, or get context before heading north or west.

     

    Ancient Forest Stories – See enormous kauri logs from the buried forests that once dominated the Far North at Gumdiggers Park. Visiting midweek or early in the day gives a contemplative, nearly private experience without the weekend crowds.

     

    Parengarenga Harbour & Silica Sands – The northern edges of this huge shallow harbour glint with pure quartz sand. Locals recommend exploring by kayak or on foot at low tide when the vast flats reveal patterns in the sand. Rarawa Beach nearby offers brilliant white silica sand for walking, photography, and quiet contemplation.

     

    Golf in the Far North – Kauri Cliffs and Carrington offer championship golf in spectacular settings. Locals often play early to avoid windier afternoons, and both clubs reward slow appreciation: ocean views, native bush, and rolling fairways.

     

    Go Slow, Look Around – The Far North isn’t built for ticking off attractions. One beach, one harbour walk, one lighthouse visit often feels like enough in a day. Pay attention to light, tide, and wind – and leave plenty of time for the journey north to Cape Reinga.

  • Suggested Adventures in the Far North (Pick & Mix)

    A curated mix of experiences that capture the Far North’s wild coastlines, ancient forests, and serene harbours. Combine, linger, or simply pick one for the day – the region rewards curiosity at its own pace.

     

    Cape Reinga & Te Paki Sand Dunes
    Stand where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, watch the waves collide, and feel the wind off the northern tip of Aotearoa. Pair the lighthouse visit with a walk across the rolling Te Paki dunes; the scale and quiet of the sand hills make it feel otherworldly.

     

    Ninety Mile Beach
    A walk along this vast stretch of golden sand is unforgettable. Early mornings or late afternoons are when the horizon seems endless and the light softest. Combine with a short dune climb or a barefoot wander along the shoreline for a sense of the Far North’s wild openness.

     

    Ahipara & Shipwreck Bay
    Surf the famed breaks at Ahipara or explore the rugged coves of Shipwreck Bay. The beach feels endless, the waves dramatic, and the coastline uncluttered. A morning surf followed by a coastal stroll captures the northern surf-town rhythm perfectly.

     

    Doubtless Bay Beach Hop
    From Taipa to Mangonui via Cable Bay and Coopers Beach, each shoreline has its own personality. Stop to dip in turquoise waters, photograph quiet estuaries, or enjoy a fish-and-chip lunch at Mangonui. Moving slowly along this stretch gives you a real sense of the region’s gentle seaside flow.

     

    Whangaroa Harbour & St Paul’s Rock
    Follow the moderate loop around the harbour, crossing shaded bush tracks and emerging onto cliff-top paths. St Paul’s Rock offers iconic views of the harbour and Pacific headlands, while hidden beaches and tidal flats invite pauses for photos, quiet reflection, or simply watching boats drift through the channel.

    Optional Extensions: Combine a small fishing trip on Whangaroa Harbour to see the tidal rhythms and local seabirds, or pair a harbour walk with a visit to nearby cultural and historical highlights like Mangonui’s old wharf.

     

    Rest and Relax at Matai Bay & Taupo Bay
    A pair of quiet, sun-drenched beaches perfect for a peaceful morning or afternoon swim. Matai Bay’s long stretch of sand is often empty, with soft waves and native bush framing the coast. Taupo Bay, is slightly more sheltered option – ideal for snorkeling or wandering the shoreline. Locals recommend arriving early to enjoy calm waters, capture photos of dunes and headlands, or have a picnic while watching seabirds and the occasional dolphin offshore.

  • Getting Around Kaitaia & the Far North

    Exploring the top of Aotearoa is about pace, perspective, and planning. Distances aren’t huge, but the roads wind, services thin out, and the coastline stretches far – so give yourself time, fuel up, and enjoy the journey.

     

    Car / Rental – A car is almost mandatory for visiting beaches, harbours, and remote points like Cape Reinga or Te Kao. Roads are mostly sealed but can narrow and twist; allow extra time for hills, bends, and photo stops. Fuel and supplies are scarce north of Kaitaia, so top up early.

     

    Walking – Small towns like Kaitaia, Ahipara, and Mangonui are easy to explore on foot. Enjoy quiet beach walks at Taupo Bay or Matai Bay, or wander Mangonui’s waterfront for shops, cafés, and the quintessential fish-and-chip experience. Early mornings and late afternoons offer soft light and cooler conditions.

     

    Ferries & Water Taxis – Only a few run in the Far North, mainly around small islands or protected bays. Book ahead if you want to explore quiet inlets or get close to wildlife.

     

    Bikes & E-bikes – Cycling works for quiet town streets or flat beachside paths (Mangonui to Coopers Beach, for example), but distances between settlements and narrow roads make regional rides challenging.

     

    Shuttles & Guided Experiences – Some operators provide tours north of Kaitaia to Cape Reinga, or fishing, kayaking, and sandboarding adventures. Perfect if you prefer to focus on the experience without worrying about logistics.

     

    Car-Free? – It’s technically possible in Mangonui, Ahipara, or Kaitaia townships if you stick to walks and guided trips, but for Cape Reinga, Whangaroa, or Doubtless Bay beaches, having a vehicle adds flexibility and safety.

    Tip: Treat travel as part of the adventure. Stop at roadside lookouts, pick up a local snack, and pause where the light or tide calls you. In the Far North, the journey north is as much a highlight as the destination itself.

  • Kaitaia & the Far North Through the Seasons

    A quick guide to what to expect throughout the year in the Far North – from Kaitaia and 90 Mile Beach to Cape Reinga and Doubtless Bay – and the best times to visit depending on your preferred pace and activities.

     

    Season Average Temperature Approx. Sunrise / Sunset*
    Summer (Dec–Feb) 20–26 °C / 68–79 °F ~6:00 am / ~8:45 pm
    Autumn (Mar–May) 16–22 °C / 61–72 °F ~6:40 am / ~7:00 pm
    Winter (Jun–Aug) 11–16 °C / 52–61 °F ~7:20 am / ~5:25 pm
    Spring (Sep–Nov) 14–20 °C / 57–68 °F ~6:20 am / ~7:50 pm

    *Sunrise and sunset times approximate mid-season.

     

    Rainy Days – Expect around 120–140 days of rain annually, often light and passing. Coastal winds, sudden squalls, or soft drizzles bring a dramatic, ever-changing quality to beaches, harbours, and forest edges. Even wet weather highlights the Far North’s rugged charm.

     

    Typical Vibes by Season

    Summer – Long, sun-drenched days, warm water, and calm seas. Ideal for beach hopping around Doubtless Bay, early-morning surf at Ahipara or Shipwreck Bay, and kayaking or snorkeling in sheltered coves. Sunsets over the dunes and harbours are spectacular.

    Autumn – Cooler mornings and gentler light make coastal walks, dune adventures, and harbour fishing particularly enjoyable. Less crowded beaches and quiet roads let you experience the region’s tranquillity and wildlife at its best.

    Winter – Mild days and crisp light make for reflective walks along Matai Bay or Whangaroa Harbour, heritage stops in Mangonui, or cozy cafés in Kaitaia. Early mornings often reveal mist over estuaries, and the low sun adds drama to Cape Reinga and northern headlands.

    Spring – Fresh greenery, returning warmth, and active birdlife. Perfect for snorkelling at Taupo Bay, discovering secluded coves, or walking coastal tracks like the Whangaroa Coastal Track & St Paul’s Rock. Weather can change quickly, so flexibility and a willingness to pause enhance the experience.

     

    Tip: In the Far North, the rhythm is set by light, tide, and wind rather than strict dates. Early mornings and late afternoons consistently offer calmer water, softer light, and quieter towns and beaches – whatever season you visit.

  • Northland's Far North – At A Glance

    A quick snapshot of what the Far North offers – from Kaitaia and 90 Mile Beach to Doubtless Bay, Cape Reinga and Mangonui..

     

    CATEGORY IS...

    		  
    Scenery: ★★★★★ Food & Drink: ★★★★☆
    Vast golden dunes, wild surf beaches, sheltered bays and dramatic headlands. From Ninety Mile Beach to Cape Reinga and the glittering waters of Doubtless Bay, the landscape is raw, sun-drenched, and endlessly shifting with light, tide, and wind. Local cafés and boutique eateries in Kaitaia, Mangonui and Coopers Beach focus on fresh seafood, casual meals, and Northland produce. Fish-and-chips, orchard fruit, and cafés overlooking harbours make for memorable, unhurried lunches.
    Nightlife: ★★☆☆☆ Culture: ★★★★★
    Quiet evenings are the norm. Sunset drinks by the beach or a relaxed meal in Mangonui capture the Far North vibe better than bars or nightclubs. Deep Māori history, stories of the lands and seas, Te Ahu museum experiences in Kaitaia, and the lived culture of local communities. Knowledge, tradition, and connection to place are woven into every stop.
    Beaches: ★★★★★ Getting Around: ★★★★☆
    Wide golden sands, dune-backed coves, and turquoise bays. Early mornings reward calm water, quiet sandbars, and even the occasional dolphin. Some beaches are best explored on foot or by guided tours rather than vehicles. A car is the easiest way to access remote beaches, Cape Reinga, and inland sights. Roads are mostly good but can be narrow or windy. Walking works for short stretches, and guided tours or local shuttles offer access to dunes, coves, and surf breaks.
    Relaxation: ★★★★★ Family-Friendly: ★★★★½
    Space, quiet, and a slower pace are everywhere – from Matai Bay and Taupo Bay to forested tracks and harbour edges. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, reading, or simply soaking in the light and wind. Beaches, short walks, fishing trips, gentle surf spots, and calm harbours suit kids well. Beginners can try sandboarding on smaller dunes under supervision, while older kids enjoy snorkelling or boating.
    Shops/Essentials: ★★★☆☆ Hotspot: ★★★★☆
    Kaitaia and Mangonui cover groceries, fuel, and basic supplies. Smaller towns offer cafés, boutique stores, and local markets, but planning ahead is recommended when venturing to remote beaches or Cape Reinga. Iconic destinations like Ninety Mile Beach, Cape Reinga, Ahipara surf breaks, and Doubtless Bay are world-famous, but the region still rewards quiet exploration and off-the-beaten-path detours.
    Avocado Smash: ★★★★★ Coffee Culture: ★★★★☆

    Northland avocados are famously creamy and fresh, often served smashed on artisan breads, in markets, cafés, or beachside breakfasts. A taste that’s local, relaxed, and distinctly Far North.

    		 Small cafés serve strong local brews, often with harbour or dune views. Not trendy, just reliable, welcoming, and a great pause before heading out to the coast or onto the dunes.

  • Perfect Pairings: For Your New Zealand Trip

    Northland’s Far North offers sun-soaked beaches, sweeping harbours, ancient forests, and quiet towns. These destinations extend the journey naturally, either complementing the coast and culture or providing dramatic contrasts to the calm rhythm of the Far North.

     

    Whangārei
    Travel time: ~2 hour by car
    A lively regional centre with waterfalls, art trails, harbour views and cafés. Stop here to stretch your legs, enjoy local bites, and experience a different Northland energy before heading further north.

     

    Tutukākā Coast & Poor Knights Islands
    Travel time: ~2½–3 hours by car
    Golden beaches, sheltered coves, and world-class snorkelling or diving. Ideal for a day of water-based adventure or a relaxed beach stop, this coast pairs beautifully with the Far North’s sweeping dunes and surf.

     

    Hokianga Harbour
    Travel time: ~1 hour 45 minutes by car
    A soulful and quieter side of Northland. Towering sand dunes, serene waters and strong Māori heritage offer a reflective, off-the-beaten-track experience. Perfect if you’re looking to balance coastlines with stillness and history.

     

    Waipoua Forest
    Travel time: ~3 hours by car
    Home to the mighty Tāne Mahuta and other kauri giants. Pair coastal energy with the awe-inspiring forest atmosphere for a true sense of Northland’s natural depth.

     

    Auckland City
    Travel time: ~4 hours by car or 1 hour by flight
    Urban energy, harbourside dining, and excellent flight connections. A natural start or finish to a Far North road trip, or a handy pivot for onward travel.

     

    Unexpected Detour: Mangawhai & East Coast Beaches
    Travel time: ~3½ hours by car
    Surf beaches, cliffside walks, artisan bakeries and boutique weekend vibes. A scenic stop en route between Auckland and the Far North, ideal for a relaxed coastal interlude.

  • Think of the Northland's Far North Like…

    A blend of Baja California’s sun-soaked coastlines and Tasmania’s wild, windswept headlands – endless beaches, dramatic dunes, sheltered bays, and small, unhurried towns where the pace slows naturally and the landscape dominates the experience.

  • Northland's Far North Coffee Order

    Northland's Far North (Beachside) Coffee Order is a takeaway flat white with sand still on your shoes: practical, sun-warmed, and ready for surf, dunes, or a quiet walk along the endless coast.

  • Why the Far North Belongs On Your Bucket List

    Northland’s Far North is a place for moving slowly, leaving footprints in soft sand rather than checking boxes. Sun-soaked dunes, sweeping harbours, and quiet beaches invite long walks where each step feels deliberate, and every glance reveals something new.

     

    Tiptoe along Matai Bay at dawn, wander the endless stretch of Ninety Mile Beach, or follow the Whangaroa Coastal Track to St Paul’s Rock. Pause at secluded bays, watch dolphins play offshore, and let the light shift across headlands and forests. Every step is part of the rhythm here –soft, unhurried, and entirely your own.

     

    The Far North isn’t about what you conquer, but how you move through it. It’s a region where the coast leads, the forest whispers, and the pace encourages presence. Leave your footprints, watch them fade with the tide, and discover a place that lingers in memory long after you’ve walked away.

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