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 most Northern part of New Zealand, with the iconic Cape Reinga on top. Experience the untamed beauty of the most northern point, see where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean!
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.
The region is famous for its breathtaking coastline and endless water activities.
Quick Links
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
Must-See Places in Far North – 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.
- TripAdvisor Top-1o paces to see in the Far North – click to see current Top Attractions in Northland Regio
- Catch and cook Tuatua yummy seashells on the ’90 mile beach’, located on the wild west coast Tasman sea.
- World-class diving experience – the Poor Knights Exploration Tour with sight-seeing, kayaking, cave explorations, snorkeling, swimming, snippets of fascinating history and Island facts and great food
- World-famous Fish & Chips shop in Mangonui, cooked from local fresh caught Pacific ocean fish and seafood! Must tries are fish of the day + fries + raw fish salad + take some smoked fish with you for later 😉 Sit and enjoy with a harbour view in a trancill township of Mangonui (the oldest settlement in the Far North!)
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.
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.
- Pottery Shops and Art Studios – The Fern Flat Pottery is the most adventurous one and we recommend contacting it to make sure they are open on the day. The drive to their place will be unforgettable! Through a native NZ bush, via winding roads with scenic endless views, birds and farmlands… Almost too good to be truth!
- View info, reviews and contacts of local arts studios by regions: Bay of Islands Art and Craft / Kerikeri art and craft / Far North art and craft – the last one has a township called Mangonui with lots of history, heritage and arts galleries and studios too! A must-visit to see inspiration from local artists.
Local Markets
- Kerikeri’s Old Packhouse Market is the Bay of Islands largest market, open every Saturday & Sunday and also has a monthly Night Food Market.
- Paihia Farmers Market – every Thursday Afternoon 12.30-3.30pm
- Taipa Market at the Barn – every Thursday Afternoon after 4pm
- 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.
- 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.
