Northland
Golden beaches, secluded coves, tranquil harbours, warm waters, dramatic coastline, wild beaches, spectacular forest. Northland is filled with stunning beauty – an aquatic playground and a land of unspoilt natural beauty.
With numerous islands and a myriad of secluded beaches and deep forests, every bay, shore and cove has a story to tell. It has to be seen to be believed.
The East Coast
Along the East Coast, Northland greets its visitors with golden beaches fringed by pohutukawa trees, secluded coves and tranquil harbours. Forest and coastal walks, and sought-after dive spots abound. Just offshore, predator-free islands are home to all kinds of rare species, whilst offering great diving as well! In the Bay of Islands you can find thrilling adventure or perfect peace. For travellers with time to spend, it’s the ultimate outdoor playground. The Poor Knights islands marine reserve along the Tutukaka Coast is a dive mecca, regarded by the late Jacques Cousteau as one of the world’s top dive locations.
Northland’s east coast is where visitors and locals alike enjoy their favourite pastimes of boating, surfing, fishing or just lazing around in the warm northern sunshine. With trails through native forest and outstanding views, it’s little wonder it is New Zealand ‘s subtropical playground.
Top of the North
In the Top of the North, the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean surround the land with warm, subtropical waters. At the furthest point of New Zealand, Cape Reinga plays host to the historic lighthouse guarding the northwestern approaches. Out at sea the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet, sometimes producing waves more then 10 metres high. Along Ninety Mile Beach, surfers take to the waves where giant sand dunes line the shore. It’s a place to keep one’s eyes peeled for the wild horses of the Aupouri Forest.
The West Coast
Further south a sprawling array of inlets and tributaries form the Hokianga region, leading on to the Kauri Coast. It’s a place of wild beaches, spectacular coastline and peaceful forests.
Climate
Northland is a sub-tropical climate zone, with warm humid summers and mild winters. Typical summer temperatures range from 22°C to 26°C (maximum daytime) but seldom exceed 30°C. In winter, high temperatures are between 14°C to 17°C. Annual sunshine hours average about 2000 in many areas.
New Zealand’s warmest region, Northland enjoys warm weather throughout most of the year. The sub tropical climate is unique to Northland. The hottest months are January and February. SW winds prevail for much of the year. Sea breezes often occur on warm summer days.
Winter usually has more rain and is the most unsettled time of year. In summer and autumn, storms of tropical origin may bring winds and rain from the east or northeast. Typical annual rainfall for the region is 1500 – 2000mm per annum.
Key Facts
New Zealand’s warmest region
Average 2000 sunshine hours per annum
Hottest months January and February
Sub tropical climate is unique to Northland
Average rainfall 1700mm per annum
Winters are mild
