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Far North District

The Far North is the northernmost district of New Zealand`s Northland. With its ocean subtropical climate, amazing community and one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it is the place not to be missed.

The Far North has way more breathtaking coastline than anywhere in New Zealand. Just have a look at the sunset on the Great Exhibition Bay below to understand what we mean.

The Far North District is the largest territorial authority in New Zealand`s Northland Region. It stretches from the very northern tip of Aupouri Peninsula past the Ninety Mile Beach down to the main body of Northland.

Subtropical Far North has an oceanic climate, with 30 C in summer and plenty of rain throughout the year. Some coastal part can be really tropical and occasionally you will experience 4 seasons in one day.

Stats provided by climate-data.org

One of the most-visited places in New Zealand is an Iconic Cape Reinga. The place where you can see how the Pacific Ocean and Tasman sea collide, creating gigantic waves on a stormy day. With its beautiful lighthouse and sacred meaning, this place is should be in your bucket list. Learn more about the Cape Reinga and the Spirits of the Dead in our main article.

Panoramic view of the Cape Reinga Lighthouse

TĀNE MAHUTA – the Lord of the Forest

On the west coast, among the endless native bush in Wapoua Forest, you can witness the majesty of the biggest kauri tree in the world. According to the research, it is around 2,500 years old. Tāne Mahuta is a sacred tree for all Māori people. According to mythology, all living creatures of the forest are regarded as Tāne’s children. Read more about Tāne Mahuta and its story in our main article.

Waitangi Grounds

New Zealand is a relatively young country and it “was born” at the place called Waitangi. “Waitangi” is a Māori-language name meaning “weeping waters”. 

Waitangi Treaty Grounds is the place to learn the story of how two peoples after winning the challenges can thrive together under the Treaty of Waitangi.

Places not to miss in Far North District – Outdoors and Nature

  • Cape Reinga – the most iconic place in the Far North. Breathtaking views of the lighthouse, endless ocean and the Three Kings Islands in the distance. Absolutely MUST!
  • Ninety Mile Beach – official New Zealand highway. Feel absolute freedom driving on the beach. Dig your hands into the sand to catch yourself a dinner – TuaTua shellfish.
  • Tane Mahuta – the biggest Kauri tree in New Zealand and the whole world. Just 5 minutes walk from the highway, but you will be stunned by the majesty of this giant.
  • Giant  Sand Dunes – grab your bodyboard or rent at only 10$ and you will be able to slide down the Giant Sand Dunes at the Te Paki stream. It is a long way up, but it is 100% worth it!
  • Matauri Bay – one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Crystal clear water, white sand and Cavalli Islands make this place unforgettable. Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior was given a final resting place near Matauri Bay.
  • Bay of Islands – encompassing more than 140 subtropical islands, this place has a lot to offer. From Arts, Crafts and History to ultimate fishing and diving. Everyone can find things of their interest in  the Majestic Bay of Islands.
Ninety Mile Beach adventures-8
90 Mile Beach Activities 2

Art, Craft & Heritage

  • Waitangi Grounds – the place where was signed document of central importance to the history, to the political constitution of the state, and has played a big role in forming the political relations between Europeans and the Māori population
  • Te Ahu Heritage Museum – The Te Ahu Heritage Museum located Kaitaia holds a big and remarkable collection. Its purpose is to illuminate the stories and histories of the very Far North district of New Zealand.
  • Gumdiggers Park is an authentic Kauri Gum digging site over 100 years old. Maori, European & Dalmatian people formed this now forgotten gum digging culture and provided the basis for one of the biggest industrial booms in New Zealand’s history.

Local Markets

  • Kaitaia Farmers Market – Kaitaia Farmers Market, is one of the most popular and biggest market in the Far North region. Running every Saturday, it offers a huge range of local & organic goods.
  • Kerikeri’s Old Packhouse Market is the Bay of Islands largest market, open every Saturday & Sunday and also has a monthly Night Food Market.
  • The Doubtless Bay Market is open every Saturday morning, with various stalls and car boot sales. There is a small café with a range of hot and cold food and drinks available. In addition, a well-stocked Op Shop is open next door under the same roof.

Useful Links

  • Places to go in Kerikeri – Kerikeri is in the Bay of Islands, on Northland’s East Coast, approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Paihia, and at the head of the navigable, cork-screw Kerikeri Inlet.
  • Walking in the Far North – learn important tips and information on how you can enjoy outdoors in this part of New Zealand
  • Far North Ferries – Both the east and the west coasts of the Far North have vehicle and passengers ferries that form part of the District’s transportation network
  • Guide to 90 Mile Beach and Te Paki Stream – learn where to enter and exit the beach safely.