The north island's Whangarei offers a sub-tropical climate and proximity to the sea with an abundance of citrus fruit and many kinds of fresh seafood.

 

British explorer Captain James Cook landed in New Zealand in 1769 in the Northland region, from this whalers, traders and missionaries began to arrive further enriching the history and culture of Northland.

 

The thick native forests and extensive coastline provides the perfect environment for experiencing New Zealand’s nature and wildlife. The Northland nature experience offers experiences full of contrasts; from diving in clear waters, to dark forest treks, to bird watching on the beach.

The areas subtropical climate combined with the warm ocean means much of the regions activity revolves around water.

 

The Tutukaka Coast is the gateway to Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, a reserve which classifies the entire area above and below the water as protected allowing marine life to thrive giving snorkellers and divers the opportunity to observe unique marine species at close quarters.

Further north the Rainbow Warrior wreck lies 21m under water in Matauri Bay, the wreck acts as an artificial reef and sanctuary to the local marine life. This sight is now considered one of the worlds premier wreck dives.

 

Swimming with dolphins or ocean cruises are other ways visitors can enjoy Northland’s unspoilt marine life.

 

For leisure, the regions internationally acclaimed golf courses are a major attraction offering tournament standard 18-hole courses with panoramic ocean views, towering cliffs and vineyards.

The region is also famed for tailor-made luxury experiences. Here you can enjoy no expense spared excursions; visitors can charter a helicopter to Waipoua Forest, try heli-fishing and experience private traditional Māori welcomes.

 

 

 

"allowing marine life to thrive giving snorkellers and divers the opportunity to observe unique marine species"