5 Reasons the Northland Journey Te Hiku o te Ika-a-Māui is Perfect for Soul-Searching Travellers.

The Northland Journey Te Hiku o te Ika-a-Māui (which translates to the tail of the fish of Maui) meanders from Te Kōhanga Shipwreck Bay at the southern end of Te Oneroa a Tōhē Ninety Mile Beach, all the way to the northern-most point of the country. It’s the Tail with plenty of tales to tell. It’s in the salt and the sand, the feelings of space, freedom and endlessness - an underlying spiritual hum. Here's five reasons why this journey is perfect for soul searching travellers:

1. The spirituality of Te Rerenga Wairua.

The leaping place of the spirits is a departing place and also a meeting place of great oceans. You can’t help but feel something incredibly special here. You’ll get an understanding of how big the universe really is as you stand at the cliff edge and look out to blue ocean as far as the eye can see. A trip to the most Northern point of Aotearoa New Zealand is a must do for every visitor to the region.

2. The enormity of the sand dunes at Te Paki.

These giant sand dunes will blow your mind and will have you thinking you are in the Sahara Desert. You’ll feel tiny looking up to these magnificent sandy peaks. Hire a boogie board on site and feel like a kid at an amusement park as you jet down these silky-smooth slopes.

3. The endlessness of Te Oneroa-a-Tōhē Ninety Mile Beach

This special and iconic place is treasured by many. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the sand, a refreshing swim in the salty swell, or pack a rod and try your luck at hooking a catch at one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most well-known top fishing spots. The beach is of extreme importance to local people and needs to be respected at all times. We wouldn’t recommend driving on the beach if you’re not familiar with the terrain as many a car has been caught in the waves but there are local bus tour operators who can give you this experience safely and tell you about the fascinating history of the area at the same time.

4. The beauty of Kapowairua

Kapowairua means ‘catch my spirit’ and it’s hard not to be moved by the beauty of the beach, the island, the overlooking hill - Maungapiko, at Spirits Bay. Here you’ll find great swimming, Department of Conservation camping and beach walks.

5. The allure of Rarawa Beach

A beautiful white sandy beach with a little stream making for a great swimming, kayaking, surfing, bird watching, fishing and picnicking destination. Stay overnight at the nearby Department of Conservation campsite and treat yourself to a spectacular beach sunrise