Three nights around the very top of the country.
Hokianga – Ahipara - Doubtless Bay – Auckland
Discover the top of the north, encompassing Doubtless Bay, Te Oneroa a Tōhē Ninety Mile Beach, and Te Rerenga Wairua Cape Reinga, a place of spiritual significance for Māori.
The very top of Aotearoa New Zealand offers breathtaking scenery, rich with culture and history. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, inviting visitors to relax, enjoy the wide open spaces, and escape the hustle and bustle of day to day life.
This itinerary is suitable for FITs and is complemented by the Northland Journeys – Te Hiku o te Ika-a-Māui and Headlands and Hidden Harbours.
Hokianga – Ahipara
Day 1
The Twin Coast Discovery Highway leads the way to the northern-most reaches of Aotearoa New Zealand meandering along the winding west coast roads from the Hokianga, arriving into Ahipara. Te Kohanga Shipwreck Bay is a popular stop, aptly named for the visible wrecks at low tide, and world-famous among surfers for its left-hand break. Ahipara also marks the southern end of Te Oneroa a Tōhē Ninety Mile Beach and Ahipara Horse Treks offers a peaceful way to experience the stunning southern stretch of sand.
Accommodation options in this area include motels, lodges, and boutique offerings. For those interested in eco-luxury, The Huts is suitable for couples, while the Ahipara Holiday Park offers cabins and great facilities, perfect for families and groups.
Ahipara Horse Treks
Karikari Estate Winery
Hundertwasser Art Centre
Ahipara – Te Rerenga Wairua Cape Reinga
Day 2
Kaitāia serves as the main centre for the subtropical north, and a great place to stock up for with picnic supplies and fuel for the trip to Te Rerenga Wairua Cape Reinga. The Northland Journey Te Hiku o te Ika-a-Māui is a great resource for places to stop along the way.
Te Rerenga Wairua Cape Reinga holds great spiritual importance to Māori, who believe it is the departure point for the souls of their departed loved ones returning to their mythical homeland of Hawaiki. Out of respect, no food should be consumed here.
Although Te Oneroa a Tōhē Ninety Mile Beach is considered a State Highway, it is important to note that it’s only suitable for 4WD vehicles and confident off-road drivers. Rental vehicles contracts do not generally allow driving on the beach.
Doubtless Bay
Day 3
Doubtless Bay is a haven of golden beaches and tranquil waters, but there’s plenty more to do than just laze the day away in the sun.
Butler Point Whaling Museum is a notable stop - tours of the Whaling Museum, Butler House and Gardens should be booked in advance. The quaint seaside village of Mangonui is the home the famous Mangonui Fish Shop and a fantastic variety of gift shops bursting with local art, homewares and jewellery.
Across the other side of the bay, Karikari Peninsula offers opportunities for exploration, including a round of golf at Carrington Estate, which accommodates golfers of all abilities and features a clubhouse with spectacular ocean views. Wine tasting at Karikari Estate Winery & Restaurant, set in subtropical gardens with ocean views, is another highlight.
Accommodation options in this area include Carrington Estate and Taipa Beach Resort, both decently sized and suitable for groups, while The Old Oak Boutique Hotel is ideal for families and couples. Dining options include The Thai Mangonui and Jesse’s on the Waterfront.
Doubtless Bay – Auckland
Day 4
The return journey south should include a stop in the vibrant city of Whangārei, home to the iconic Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery. This must-visit attraction is an architectural masterpiece designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser who is also known for the world-famous Hundertwasser Toilets in Kawakawa. Inside there are over 80 pieces of original artwork on display, original photos and information about Hundertwasser’s life, as well as the Wairau Māori Art Gallery - the world's first Māori dedicated Public Art Gallery. Visitors will be captivated by the afforested rooftop with over 4000 trees and plants as well as stunning views over the Town Basin Marina. A lift makes this attraction accessible to everyone, and you should allow for a minimum 1-2 hours here to include the guided tour.
Continuing on toward Auckland, The Welcoming Coast journey provides a scenic detour through Bream Bay, Waipū and Mangawhai before reconnecting back to State Highway 1. The Waipu Museum tells the story of the Scottish heritage of Waipū, while McLeods Pizza Barn and Brewery is a much loved stop for award-winning craft beer and delicious food. Waipu Cove is a great safe place for a swim, an ice-cream at the Waipū Cove Store, or a cold beverage at The Cove Cafe while Mangawhai is home to the iconic Bennetts of Mangawhai chocolate shop – a must-stop spot to stock up with gifts and treats.
