North Island guide

Auckland

New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, is a city surrounded by water. More than one million New Zealanders live here, enjoying the mix of city life with great cafes, shopping and, of course, the beach.

Many of New Zealand’s larger companies have their head offices in Auckland. Traditionally known as the City of Sails, and now officially called the Big Little City, Auckland is a melting pot of different cultures. The city was ranked by Mercer the 4th best city to live in the world in 2009 and the best city to live in the Asia Pacific region.

Wellington

New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, is a city of power and passion. The country’s Parliament buildings are housed here. Te Papa, the national museum, takes pride of its place on the harbour, and the cafe culture here is brimming with life.

Home to the award-winning Weta Studios, famous mostly for the ‘Lord of the Rings’ epic trilogy, Wellington is a place where culture and art are cherished. Wellington is surrounded by lush bush and plenty of hills to discover.

Bay of Plenty/Coromandel

A preferred holiday region for North Islanders, this area abounds with the New Zealand holiday home – called a bach – as well as a plethora of yachts and boats.

On a clear day you may be able to spot New Zealand’s only active volcano, White Island, shooting plumes of steam into the air. The natural thermal activity has given the region unique hot springs, which coupled with the beautiful beaches make this place a water lover’s paradise.

Waikato

Hamilton, the fourth largest city in New Zealand, is the largest city in this region. Many vibrant small towns can be found in this area too, supported by a flourishing farming community. The Waikato region is the dairy farm centre of New Zealand.

Plenty of scenic attractions make this a popular area for newcomers to New Zealand. Experience the excellent surf beach, Raglan, or the wonders of Waitomo Caves. The region offers world-class education from its primary schools to its popular university.

Hawke’s Bay

This region features the two small cities of Napier and Hastings, which are only 20km apart. Napier is famous for its Art Deco buildings, which came about as the city was rebuilt in 1931 after an earthquake and fire destroyed much of the original city.

Export-quality apples and pears are grown in this region, which is home to more than 30 vineyards. This region offers an abundance of local farmers markets, and rural activities such as hunting and horse trekking.

Taranaki

Mt Taranaki dominates the background in this region and, with its similarity to Mt Fuji in Japan, is a popular region for movie making (The Last Samurai was filmed here). New Plymouth, Taranaki’s main city is home to the acclaimed modern art gallery Govett-Brewster. This area is bordered with tiny seaside towns next to pristine beaches and abounds with public gardens ready for exploration.

Taupo

Home to New Zealand’s largest lake, aptly named Lake Taupo, the town welcomes year-round visitors from around the globe. World-famous trout fishing, natural hot pools, mountain biking, horse trekking, and visits to the incredible Huka Falls are some main attractions. With close proximity to Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tauhara and the Tongariro Crossing, Taupo serves as a central location for hikers and snow skiers.

Taupo has a thriving tourist industry, and is centrally located on the main arterial highway linking the north and south areas of the North Island. A prime living area for families with small children to retirees, Taupo’s residents are proud of the town’s stellar reputation.

Whangarei

In the midst of fertile farmland and some of New Zealand’s most spectacular beaches lies the town of Whangarei, 160km north of Auckland. Over 100 beaches can be reached within 30 minutes from Whangarei, and the lush bush makes for excellent hiking and trekking. Trades people are in high demand in Whangarei, as well as engineers, agricultural workers, marine professionals, health professionals and teachers.

The Whangarei District Council offers free settlement support to migrants and newcomers, including workshops, information seminars, networking meetings, a referral service, and more.