If you want to do some sightseeing around the Northland region but you don’t want to break the bank, then we’ve got the list for you! We’ve put together the best activities to do in and around Northland and Whangarei that won’t cost you a cent.
Plus, if you hire one of our cost-effective rental cars for your travels, you’ll get a lot of bang for your buck! With our unbeatable pricing and reliable rental vehicles, you’ll get where you want to go, for less. The best part is, if you want to extend your hire to check out more of what Northland has to offer, that’s absolutely fine – after all, we’re Flexi!
1. Cape Reinga Lighthouse
One of the most iconic New Zealand landmarks, the Cape Reinga Lighthouse is a must-see when travelling around Northland. Right at the tip of the North Island, this spot will provide you with some stunningly scenic views. From the carpark, you’ll take a short 10 minute walk to the lighthouse itself to witness the powerful merging of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. If the weather is just right, you might even be able to see the Three Kings Islands on the horizon.
2. Tāne Mahuta Walk
Visit New Zealand’s largest known living kauri tree, Tāne Mahuta, on this short walk in the Waipoua Forest. One of the most majestic sights in the country, Tāne Mahuta (also called God of the Forest) is estimated to be between 1,250 and 2,500 years old. Standing staggeringly tall at nearly 18 metres to its first branch, and 4.4 metres in diameter, this living legend is definitely a sight to behold.
3. Otuihau Whangārei Falls
A magical 26.3 metre-high waterfall, Otuihau Whangārei Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New Zealand. Easily accessible from the carpark, this waterfall offers the perfect photo opportunity. If you want to stretch your legs, the 30 minute loop walk around the falls will also give you the best view of the waterfall from above, before leading you down to the base of the waterfall where you can stop for a scenic picnic lunch.
4. Abbey Caves
Not to be missed from your itinerary of free things to do in Northland, the Abbey Caves Reserve is the perfect spot for adventure-seekers and meanderers alike. Featuring limestone outcrops, sinkholes, and three dramatic caves, visiting this reserve is like stepping into another world. There’s also a lush native forest to wander through along the path to the caves, named Organ, Middle, and Ivy.
5. Botanica Whangarei
For a bright and beautiful collection of exotic palm trees, stunning orchids, prickly cacti, subtropical plants, and native ferns, you can’t go past Botanica in Whangarei. This popular horticultural complex has many different areas to explore. Wander through the Marge Madden Fernery, where one of New Zealand’s largest collections of native ferns is housed, or for some peace and quiet, take a seat in the tranquil Japanese Garden.
6. Mount Manaia
For unparalleled views, be sure to add climbing Mount Manaia to your itinerary. It’s a 2 hour return trip which can get a bit steep, but the scenic views from the top are well-worth it and will definitely take your breath away – once you get it back from all that climbing, that is! Aside from the view, the best part about this climb is that you’ll also get to walk through a stunning native kauri forest.
7. Farmers Markets
With so many fantastic Farmers Markets available around Northland, it’s hard to pick just one! If you’re doing a bit of exploring, you could check out a few as you travel around – even if you don’t spend much, these markets provide a wonderful sense of community and are a great showcase of New Zealand’s local growers. Be sure to add the Bay of Islands Farmers Market and the Whangarei Growers Market to your list!
