North Island

New Zealand’s North Island – known by its Maori name Te Ika-a-Maui – is the world’s 14th largest island. Wellington, the capital, connects to the tip of Cape Reinga via an extensive network of highways lined with picture-perfect farmland and native forest. En route, take in everything from Northland's stunning beaches, the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty and the East Coast to snow-capped mountains like Taranaki, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe.

Since about 77% of New Zealanders live here, half a dozen cities and numerous large towns function as entertainment and tourist hubs. They’re the ideal places to sample great local cuisine, drink exquisite wine and craft beer, soak in thermal hot pools or simply experience life in Hobbiton.