Northland has sandy beaches, kauri forests and warm waters. This 4–6 day campervan itinerary runs from Auckland to the Bay of Islands and on to Cape Reinga.
Quick Overview
| Route | Distance | Recommended Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auckland → Bay of Islands → Cape Reinga | ~900 km | 4–6 days | Beaches, history and kauri forests |
Northland Route Map
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Route Overview
Head north via Whangarei and Paihia, then continue to Kerikeri, Ninety Mile Beach and Cape Reinga.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Stop at Matakana Farmers Market and Whangarei Falls.
Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and take a Hole in the Rock cruise.
Visit the lighthouse and Ninety Mile Beach.
See Tāne Mahuta, the giant kauri tree.
Return via the west coast.
Best Time to Go
Summer is warm and busy. Winter is mild but wet.
Cost Overview
Campervan Tips
Avoid the beach
Hire contracts forbid it.
Book Paihia early
Summer sites fill fast.
Allow time
Northland roads are winding.
Where to Stay in Northland
Holiday parks are plentiful in Paihia, Russell, Kerikeri and Whangarei, and many have swimming pools, camp kitchens and powered sites. DOC campgrounds and council-run sites are available along the coast, but rules vary by location. Freedom camping requires a certified self-contained vehicle.
- Book Paihia and Kerikeri early in January.
- Check Northland council signs on freedom camping.
- Allow extra time for narrow, winding roads.
Experiences Worth Booking
Bay of Islands cruises
Dolphin watching, Hole in the Rock trips and island hopping are popular options.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
This historic site is where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840.
Cape Reinga
Walk to the lighthouse and look out where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean.
Kauri forests
Visit Tāne Mahuta in Waipoua Forest and follow the boardwalks. Clean your shoes at cleaning stations to protect the trees.
Driving Notes
Northland roads are scenic but slow, and distances take longer than they look. Fuel is available in major towns, but plan ahead north of Kaitaia. Do not drive onto Ninety Mile Beach in a hire vehicle. Download offline maps first. Our best campervan travel apps guide helps.
Seasonal Guide
- Summer (Dec–Feb): warm and busy
- Autumn (Mar–May): warm water and settled weather
- Winter (Jun–Aug): mild but wet
- Spring (Sep–Nov): wildflowers and quieter roads
Budget
Holiday parks cost around NZ$40–$70 per night. See how much campervan hire costs and campervan rental bond for planning.
Extending Your Trip
Continue south to Rotorua and Taupo with our North Island guide.
Campsites in Northland
Northland has beachside holiday parks, DOC campsites and quiet bays. Summer holidays and long weekends are busy, so book ahead for the Bay of Islands and Cape Reinga.
- Whangarei and Matakana: holiday parks and farm stays close to the city and coastal villages.
- Paihia and Waitangi: holiday parks near the Treaty Grounds and cruise terminals.
- Russell and Kerikeri: quieter parks with easy access to historic sites and cafés.
- Karikari Peninsula: beachside parks and bays for a slower pace.
- Cape Reinga: Tapotupotu Bay, a DOC campsite with a beach and basic facilities.
- Ninety Mile Beach: holiday parks close to the sand and Te Paki dunes. Do not drive hire vehicles on the beach.
More Ideas for Your Northland Itinerary
Auckland to Whangarei
- Matakana farmers' market and wine trail
- Goat Island marine reserve near Leigh for snorkelling
- Whangarei Falls and the Hatea Loop walkway
- Waipu Caves and the Waipu Museum
Bay of Islands
- The Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the historic village of Russell
- A Hole in the Rock cruise, with dolphin-watching options
- Haruru Falls and the Kerikeri Stone Store
- Rainbow Falls and coastal walks around Paihia
Far North
- Cape Reinga lighthouse and the meeting of two seas
- Te Paki Sand Dunes for sandboarding
- Ninety Mile Beach scenic drive by tour coach
- Waipoua Forest and Tāne Mahuta, the giant kauri, if you extend your trip on the west coast
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you need for the Bay of Islands?
Two to three days.
Is Cape Reinga worth it?
Yes, for the views.
Can I freedom camp?
In self-contained vans only.
Is Northland good in winter?
Mild but wet.
Can I combine with Rotorua?
Yes. See our North Island guide.
How far is Auckland from the Bay of Islands?
About 230 km, or roughly three hours by road.
Is it worth driving to Cape Reinga?
Yes, for the coastline and cultural significance, though it adds a long day.
Can I see dolphins in the Bay of Islands?
Yes. Dolphin-watching cruises operate year-round, and sightings are common.
Is Northland good in winter?
Yes, with mild temperatures, but expect rain.
Where can you camp near the Bay of Islands?
Holiday parks at Paihia, Waitangi, Russell and Kerikeri offer powered sites. Book early in summer.
Can I camp at Cape Reinga?
Yes. Tapotupotu Bay is a DOC campsite near the cape, with basic facilities and a beach. Check current rules and fees.
How many days do you need for Northland?
Allow four to six days to enjoy the Bay of Islands and Cape Reinga without rushing.
Is it safe to drive on Ninety Mile Beach?
Hire vehicles are generally not allowed on the beach. Visit by guided bus tour instead.
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