10 Things to Do in Northland in Summer

1. Hike the Cape Brett Peninsula and Overnight at Cape Brett Hut

A true Kiwi classic, this 16 km (10 mi) trek through rugged terrain, native bush and regenerating forest rewards your efforts with spectacular coastal views of the Bay of Islands.

At the end of the trail, rest your weary legs at Cape Brett Hut, a popular spot that fills up quickly, so be sure to book your place well in advance.

If the thought of walking back out sounds too daunting after your adventure, consider arranging a water taxi to pick you up the following morning.

It’s a brilliant way to end the hike while soaking in more of those stunning coastal vistas from the water.

For more adventures around the Bay of Islands, take a look at our guide to the 40 Best Things to Do in the Bay of Islands.

Location: Oke Bay, Rawhiti, Bay of Islands. Approximately 45 minutes from Russell.

© Henryk Welle

2. Hike the Wild West Hauturu Highpoint Track and Overnight at Frampton’s Hut

This one’s not for the faint-hearted, the Hauturu Highpoint Track is designed for trail runners and trampers who thrive on pushing through challenging terrain.

The track ascends steeply along a razor-back ridge through the Waimā Ranges, rewarding your efforts with sensational views across pristine native bush.

The climb is intense but absolutely worth it for those who love a proper leg-burner in spectacular surroundings.

You can either make it a day mission, turning around at the summit to head back to your vehicle, or extend the adventure by staying overnight at Frampton’s Hut, nestled in the wilderness.

If you’re exploring further west, you’ll find more rugged walks and outdoor experiences in our 15 Best Things to Do in Dargaville.

Location: End of Waiotemarama Road, Waimā Valley. Approximately 30 km (19 mi) west of Dargaville.

© Tasha Oxford

3. Hike or Bike Pirau Ridge Track in Puketi Forest

Fancy a summer adventure through native forest? The Pirau Ridge Track in Puketī Recreation Area delivers exactly that, whether you’re on foot or two wheels.

This easy 11 km (7 mi) route follows an old logging road through beautiful bush, making it perfect for a relaxed hike or a fun mountain bike ride.

Bikers can tackle both Pirau Ridge Road and Mokau Ridge Road, but remember these are shared-use tracks, so stick to the mountain biker’s code: respect others, respect the rules and respect the track.

It’s a brilliant way to experience Puketi Forest without breaking a sweat (well, not too much anyway!).

To round out your visit, check out our recommendations for the 15 Best Things to Do in Kerikeri.

Location: Puketī Recreation Area, State Highway 10, Waipapa. Approximately 600 m (0.4 mi) north of the Waipapa Township.

© Department of Conservation

4. Paddle Out Into a Marine Mammal Sanctuary and Spot Dolphins

There’s something truly magical about watching dolphins frolic in the water from the intimate vantage point of a sea kayak. You can rent a kayak or book a guided sea kayaking trip in Pewhairangi to experience these playful creatures up close.

As you paddle through the marine mammal sanctuary, you might be lucky enough to have dolphins approach your kayak. If they do, stop paddling and wait quietly until they swim away.

It’s important to follow the guidelines and maintain a distance of at least 300 m (984 ft) from dolphins to protect these beautiful marine mammals.

The calm waters of the bay make it an ideal spot for kayakers of all experience levels, and the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat is an unforgettable summer highlight.

For other water-based activities and cruises, explore our 40 Best Things to Do in the Bay of Islands.

Location: Bay of Islands launch points (Paihia, Russell and surrounding areas).

© Department of Conservation

5. Go Snorkelling

Northland’s warm summer waters offer some of the best snorkelling in New Zealand. The Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, famously ranked in Jacques Cousteau’s top ten diving locations worldwide, features crystal-clear waters, incredible marine life and fascinating underwater rock formations.

If you’re after something closer to shore, grab your mask and fins and head to Motuarohia Island Recreation Reserve in the Bay of Islands. The sheltered bays and vibrant underwater scenery make it perfect for a summer snorkelling session.

From our experience, the marine life in these spots is absolutely mind-blowing, you’ll spot colourful fish, kelp forests and unique underwater structures that’ll have you coming back for more.

If you’re keen to explore more underwater or coastal highlights, see our 10 Best Things to Do in Tutukaka guide.

Location: Poor Knights Islands (off Tutukaka Coast) and Motuarohia Island (Bay of Islands).

© Department of Conservation

6. Bird Watching at Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve

The Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting some of the most diverse birdlife in Northland.

With around 10,000 migratory waders making their seasonal visits, alongside rare native species, this wetland sanctuary offers incredible opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Grab your binoculars and a native bird guidebook, then set out to identify species like the endangered dotterel, graceful reef heron, elusive fern bird and secretive marsh crake.

The reserve’s varied habitats support both common and incredibly rare birds, making every visit a potential treasure hunt for birdwatchers.

Summer brings plenty of activity, with wading birds feeding in the tidal flats and native species nesting in the surrounding vegetation.

To discover more easy outings near the city, browse our 25 Best Things to Do in Whangārei.

Location: Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve, Reotahi Road, Whangārei Heads. Near Onerahi and Parua Bay.

© Janice McKenna

7. Hike Out to Lane Cove Hut and Stay the Night

For experienced hikers seeking a rewarding summer adventure, the track to Lane Cove Hut delivers stunning coastal views and a proper sense of achievement.

This challenging route takes you over a saddle before descending through regenerating native forest, eventually leading you to the popular backcountry hut.

Drop off your pack at the hut, then stride out to take in the impressive Duke’s Nose (Kaiaraara Rocks), a dramatic coastal formation that’s well worth the extra effort.

After a day’s tramping, you’ll have earned a hearty meal and a well-deserved night’s sleep at the hut, surrounded by the sounds of native bush and crashing waves.

If you’re spending time in the Far North, don’t miss our 15 Best Things to Do in Mangonui.

Location: Campbell Road, Totara North. Approximately 20 km (12 mi) east of Mangonui.

© Tasha Oxford

8. Walk or Roll the Historic and Accessible Ruapekapeka Pa Track

Step back in time at Ruapekapeka Pa, the location where dissatisfaction over the treaty ignited conflict.

This accessible 30-minute track welcomes wheelchair users and strollers, making it easy for everyone to explore the site of the final battle of the Northern Wars between British colonial forces and northern Māori in 1845-1846.

The well-maintained trail allows visitors to connect with this significant piece of New Zealand’s history while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Interpretive panels along the way share stories of the battle and the pā‘s strategic importance, giving you insight into this pivotal moment in Aotearoa’s past.

For more heritage sites and short walks nearby, check out our 10 Best Things to Do in Kawakawa.

Location: Ruapekapeka Road, Towai. Park at the car park 300 m (984 ft) beyond the intersection where Ruapekapeka Road meets Kawakawa Road.

© Department of Conservation

9. Take in Mighty Kauri on the Trounson Kauri Walk Loop Track

These ancient giants, sacred to Māori, are towering ancestors you can experience on the wheelchair and stroller-friendly Trounson Kauri Walk Loop Track.

The kauri tree is the third largest species of conifer, but these remarkable trees face a serious threat from a microscopic fungi that attacks their root systems and prevents the uptake of nutrients.

You can help protect these treasured natives by cleaning your shoes at the kauri hygiene stations before and after your walk, a small action that makes a big difference in stopping the spread.

The gentle loop track offers a beautiful way to connect with these sacred giants in their natural forest setting, perfect for summer strolls beneath the canopy.

To build a full itinerary in this area, see our 10 Best Things to Do in Dargaville.

Location: 38 km (24 mi) north of Dargaville. The park is accessible via Trounson Park Road from the south off State Highway 12.

© Department of Conservation

10. Relax at the Uretiti Beach Campsite

If adventure’s not your thing, or you simply need a break from it, sometimes the best plan is to do absolutely nothing, and Uretiti Beach is perfect for just that.

This Department of Conservation campsite is one of the most popular spots in Northland, and it’s easy to see why. Epic sea views stretch for days, the waves are perfect for catching if you fancy a surf, and the beach itself is practically endless.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about claiming your spot on the sand and watching the world go by (or better yet, watching the waves roll in).

The campsite’s been growing in popularity lately, with visitor numbers jumping by nine per cent in the last year alone. But don’t let that put you off, there’s still plenty of room to spread out and soak up that summer sun.

For more coastal escapes and beach time, explore our 10 Best Things to Do in Waipu and Bream Bay.

Location: Uretiti Beach Campsite, State Highway 1, Uretiti. Between Whangārei and Waipu.

© NZPocketGuide.com