Title: 10 TOP Things to Do in Northland February 2026 | Expedia.ca # What to do in Northland ## Activities, attractions and tours ## Visit Northland Types of activities Where to stay [Northland travel guide](https://expedia.ca/Northland.dx181328) ![Bay of Islands showing a lake or waterhole and a bay or harbor](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6024124/f4304e96-b063-4670-bfda-a1d66bca18e0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Bay of Islands showing a lake or waterhole and a bay or harbor](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6024124/f4304e96-b063-4670-bfda-a1d66bca18e0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell showing interior views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/9659/9c292aae-c816-4534-9ec1-8b2240625d55.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Botanica & Cafler Park showing forest scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621526967277/a959fcbb-67ec-47a6-a98e-4a263334ba30.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Northland featuring landscape views and tranquil scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/181328/66fa5d67-226b-4241-9ed5-9d3b107626ef.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) --- - ![find price illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__find_price.svg) ### Explore activities Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer. - ![calendar shield illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__calendar_shield.svg) ### Book with ease Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. - ![trophy illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__trophy.svg) ### Treat yourself Members save % or more when you book activities. --- ## Top places to visit ### 1\. Bay of Islands Visit the stunning Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island and enjoy the many water-based tours, from discovering uninhabited islands dotted around the cold, blue waters to watching dolphins leap around the boat. Enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere in the bay’s towns or retreat to the ancient native forests to be at one with nature. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.ca/Bay-Of-Islands-Northland.d6024124.Vacation-Attraction) ![Russell showing tranquil scenes and a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6024124/27bb6ef8-e4b3-4b52-9a73-efd5eee06810.jpg) ### 2\. Paihia Beach Enjoy fishing, swimming, picnicking and many other outdoor activities at Paihia Town Beach. The main beach is lined with several cafés and restaurants serving international cuisine and fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. Book a sea kayaking adventure or a big game fishing charter and set out into the sea. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.ca/Paihia-Beach-Northland.d6111722.Vacation-Attraction) ![Paihia Beach showing a pebble beach and a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111722/7f8d51b5-9d88-4e9c-ac88-946201003358.jpg) ### 3\. Karikari Peninsula Swim or snorkel in the pristine waters, fish for snapper and other big game or be the first to leave footprints in a perfect stretch of white sand at the Karikari Peninsula. Visit the vineyards and sample the superb local wines or enjoy a round of golf in the peninsula’s stunning interior. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.ca/Karikari-Peninsula-Northland.d6048484.Vacation-Attraction) ![I took my partner up Puheke to be able to catch the sunset. I've never been at this time of the evening, and I'm so glad we went! Magnificent cloud formations that just so happen to brighten up Mt Camel in the background. Beautiful! #sunset](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248627761185097/eb2b6b36-b6f7-4c72-ba2a-ca8dc592fd78.jpg) ### 4\. Paihia Wharf Paihia Wharf is the departure point for some of the best fishing charters and boat trips in the Bay of Islands. Take a scenic cruise up Waitangi River or go on a dolphin-watching tour. A passenger ferry to Russell, one of the first European settlements in New Zealand, also leaves from the wharf. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.ca/Paihia-Wharf-Paihia.d6291934.Vacation-Attraction) ![Paihia Wharf featuring a coastal town and a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6291934/0e8b7e76-5fa3-458f-abdf-13940bf16d6d.jpg) ### 5\. Kai Iwi Lakes Formed approximately 1.8 million years ago, the three pristine lakes that make up Kai Iwi Lakes are an attractive natural wonderland today, ideal for watersports, swimming and hiking. The adjoining campgrounds also make a great base for exploring the nearby beaches or forests of the remote Northland region. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.ca/Kai-Iwi-Lakes-Omamari.d6111802.Vacation-Attraction) ![Kai Iwi Lakes featuring tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111802/e6a6709b-23f3-4b34-9265-c0bf784a7d14.jpg) ### 6\. Russell Beach Russell Beach is the hub of the town and a popular place to swim, relax and fish. Stroll along the main beach, which is also known as Kororareka, and survey the restaurants, cafés and lodges that line the adjoining walkway. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.ca/Russell-Beach-Russell.d6111726.Vacation-Attraction) ![Russell Beach which includes a bay or harbour and a sunset](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111726/777c6990-7253-49f9-a6f5-9c563524daa4.jpg) ### 7\. Cape Reinga Lighthouse Stand at the top of the cliffs by Cape Reinga Lighthouse and watch the swirling currents of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy sweeping views across the beaches and visit the 800-year-old tree that is one of the most sacred Maori sites in New Zealand. Extend your stay and camp a night or two at one of the excellent campsites nearby. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.ca/Cape-Reinga-Lighthouse-Cape-Reinga.d6111778.Vacation-Attraction) ![Cape Reinga Lighthouse showing a lighthouse, views and general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111778/f4e424ee-9bbb-4174-90f9-0b17135f3c48.jpg) ### 8\. Haruru Falls Haruru Falls is steeped in Māori history and famous for its striking waterfall. Find great views of the falls and embark on a nature walk that leads through the nearby mangrove forest. Alternatively, approach the falls by kayak. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.ca/Haruru-Falls-Haruru.d6272438.Vacation-Attraction) ![Haruru Falls showing a river or creek](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6272438/4ec5da2d-2307-4374-be6d-176a2a616855.jpg) ## What to do in Northland --- ### Discover the most popular places to visit in Northland ![Russell showing tranquil scenes and a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6024124/27bb6ef8-e4b3-4b52-9a73-efd5eee06810.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Bay of Islands Swim with dolphins, learn to sail or discover New Zealand’s fascinating history in one of the most beautiful areas in the country. [](https://expedia.ca/Bay-Of-Islands-Northland.d6024124.Vacation-Attraction) ![Paihia Beach which includes a bay or harbour, a coastal town and a beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111722/c3ecd718-b79f-4af4-98e3-95d00dd39ca7.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Paihia Beach 4.5/5(27 reviews) Go on fishing charters, swim in the sea and browse shops and restaurants near Paihia’s main beach, the site of an annual swimming event that attracts competitors from around the country. [](https://expedia.ca/Paihia-Beach-Northland.d6111722.Vacation-Attraction) ![Karikari Peninsula showing a house and a park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6048484/3e1ef1bc-52c9-40fe-ba89-de32a1215931.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Karikari Peninsula 4.5/5(2 reviews) Discover your own white-sand paradise when you explore this magical peninsula, a scenic vacation destination that offers gorgeous coastlines and wineries. [](https://expedia.ca/Karikari-Peninsula-Northland.d6048484.Vacation-Attraction) ![Paihia Wharf featuring a coastal town and a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6291934/0e8b7e76-5fa3-458f-abdf-13940bf16d6d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Paihia Wharf 4.5/5(29 reviews) Dine on fresh seafood in local restaurants, admire stunning oceanfront views and embark on cruises and fishing excursions from this pretty wharf. [](https://expedia.ca/Paihia-Wharf-Paihia.d6291934.Vacation-Attraction) ![Kai Iwi Lakes featuring tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111802/e6a6709b-23f3-4b34-9265-c0bf784a7d14.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Kai Iwi Lakes Hike through the forest, go kayaking, set up camp on the lakeshore or dip into the clear waters for a swim in this scenic triple-lake nature reserve. [](https://expedia.ca/Kai-Iwi-Lakes-Omamari.d6111802.Vacation-Attraction) ![Russell Beach showing a sandy beach, a coastal town and a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111726/203eb34f-6b5d-4386-b889-ab5552b0ab8a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Russell Beach 4.5/5(21 reviews) Wander along the jetty for wonderful views of Kororareka Bay, get out on the water in a boat and enjoy alfresco dining along the beachfront. [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Beach-Russell.d6111726.Vacation-Attraction) ![Cape Reinga Lighthouse showing a lighthouse, views and general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111778/f4e424ee-9bbb-4174-90f9-0b17135f3c48.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Cape Reinga Lighthouse Visit this stunning lighthouse at New Zealand’s northern tip and watch the churning currents where two oceans merge. [](https://expedia.ca/Cape-Reinga-Lighthouse-Cape-Reinga.d6111778.Vacation-Attraction) ![Haruru Falls showing a river or creek and a cascade](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6272438/6550fbfe-be8c-4d1f-84d2-290ae95c6dc6.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Haruru Falls 4.5/5(15 reviews) Walk along the banks of the scenic Waitangi River and admire this beautiful horseshoe-shaped waterfall. Continue on the trail to the famous Waitangi Treaty Grounds. [](https://expedia.ca/Haruru-Falls-Haruru.d6272438.Vacation-Attraction) ![Waitangi Treaty Grounds which includes indigenous culture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111724/5c87be0a-7c3a-466c-9998-4d2705af6042.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Waitangi Treaty Grounds 4.5/5(15 reviews) Find out about the history of Waitangi when you spend time at Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours. [](https://expedia.ca/Waitangi-Treaty-Grounds-Waitangi.d6111724.Vacation-Attraction) ### Explore areas of Northland ![Mangawhai Heads featuring a small town or village and a river or creek](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6344037/2ec8eead-78a6-49dc-804c-25e7651e710c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Mangawhai Heads The sun-kissed delights of New Zealand’s Northland come together around this vibrant natural harbor, whether you swim or surf at the Heads or browse the Village. [](https://expedia.ca/Mangawhai-Mangawhai-Heads.dx6344037) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Ahipara Travelers like the beaches in Ahipara, and Ninety Mile Beach is a top attraction you might want to visit. [](https://expedia.ca/Kaitaia-Ahipara.dx6342386) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### One Tree Point While One Tree Point might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Mcleod Bay and Mount Manaia. [](https://expedia.ca/Whangarei-One-Tree-Point.dx553248635926198155) ![When everything is green and the sheep are having their lambs. This is the kind of view you can get just about anywhere in Whangerei, New Zealand. We climbed 1/2 way up and a nice farmer allowed us to walk the rest of the road on his property to this beautiful property. The warmer the weather the warmer the people! #springfun ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6136961/0ab9ddf6-956a-439e-a214-6a658db2a555.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Whangarei Central If you're spending some time in Whangarei Central, Whangarei Art Museum and Town Basin Marina are top sights worth seeing. [](https://expedia.ca/Whangarei-Whangarei-Central.dx961361278056730624) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Te Wahapu While Te Wahapu might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Paihia Beach and Russell Beach. [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Te-Wahapu.dx553248635976384219) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Glinks Gully Plan a visit to nearby attractions like Zizania Hand Made Papers while you're exploring Glinks Gully and the larger area. [](https://expedia.ca/Te-Kopuru-Glinks-Gully.dx553248635976398420) --- Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check [things to do near me](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do-near-me) to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be. --- ## Day trip destinations from Northland ![Okiato featuring a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6052669/618b09cb-ca2b-4d15-ac44-29d3e6525ee9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Okiato ![Tane Mahuta which includes forests and a bridge](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621526967255/e56f55a6-f7c3-44eb-93c2-062b266710fd.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Waipoua Forest ![Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Panoramic view of yachts moored off the coast at Opua](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6131736/65cc6f2e-caa4-4262-b8f4-ef28847f5c73.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Opua ![Cable Bay showing a beach and general coastal views as well as an individual male](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6134454/247d5846-8ed5-4d4c-837a-191ca35f28da.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Cable Bay ![Town Basin Marina showing a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621563223482/a9c485e1-dc1f-4d30-83ba-01a62effe5b8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Whangarei ![Kai Iwi Lakes showing a bay or harbour and a beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6111802/8c706d3e-7075-4329-8f54-6ebd9b6fe9eb.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Omamari ![Cape Reinga featuring landscape views and general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6352989/712d16c7-7d6c-4036-b10b-4955d6c9d2a5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Cape Reinga ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels and earn double points when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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