10 Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss on a North Island New Zealand Road Trip

When it comes to road tripping, few places in the world can rival New Zealand’s North Island.

Despite spanning a relatively modest 113,729 km, it’s packed with so many iconic destinations, including the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, and Wellington, that you’ll need to set aside a good couple of weeks to do them justice.

However, if you have a bit more time at your disposal, and you are looking for something a little more off the beaten track, you’re in for a treat. The North Island (or Te Ika-a-Māui, as it is referred to by its Māori name) is full of secret beaches, quiet walks, and charming towns that are just waiting to be discovered by the more adventurous of travellers.

This guide will showcase 10 hidden gems you should absolutely add to your North Island itinerary. If you love untouched nature, small-town charm, or unique local experiences, you’ll find something on this list that will contribute to an unforgettable adventure.

North Island Hidden Gem Destinations

While road tripping around the area is something you can do all year round, if you're thinking of travelling around Te Ika-a-Māui, you should consider doing it during the months of June to August.

A North Island winter road trip is the perfect way to experience quieter roads, cosy towns, and dramatic landscapes. You’ll need to pack plenty of warm layers, of course, and might need to break out the snow chains, depending on where you are headed.

However, once you hit the open road, the world is your oyster. Or at least the North Island is, anyway.

With that in mind, here are ten places you should go to.

1. Whangamūru Harbour

Tucked between the popular Bay of Islands and Whangarei, Whangamūru Harbour is a peaceful spot most tourists overlook.

It's a brilliant place to unwind, kayak through calm waters, or take a gentle coastal walk. Moreover, the old whaling station ruins add a compelling touch of history, which makes this destination more than just a scenic stop.

2. Mangawhai Heads

If you’re craving golden sand and panoramic views without the crowds, Mangawhai Heads is the answer.

Located just 90 minutes north of Auckland, it’s perfect for a refreshing hike on the Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway.

If you can, time your visit for low tide, as this will enable you to explore the rock pools.

3. Putangirua Pinnacles

Fans of "The Lord of the Rings" will instantly recognise these eerie stone formations. But despite its appearance in the blockbuster trilogy, the Putangirua Pinnacles remain a relatively well-kept secret.

Situated near Cape Palliser, at the southern tip of the North Island, the walk to the pinnacles is relatively easy and rewards you with an otherworldly landscape that will break you out in goosebumps!

It feels a world away from the lush forests typically associated with New Zealand, so be sure to take your camera with you. You’ll want to take plenty of snaps!

4. Te Pūia Springs

Nestled in the small East Cape town of Te Araroa, Te Pūia Springs are a collection of natural hot pools cherished by locals.

The pools aren’t commercialised like Rotorua's offerings, so they give you a genuine experience of geothermal bathing in a laid-back, authentic setting.

Be sure to ask around, as local knowledge is key to finding the best pools.

5. Tawharanui Regional Park

A slice of paradise just an hour north of Auckland, Tawharanui Regional Park is a blend of lush farmland, native bush, and perfect beaches. It's also a predator-free sanctuary, which means that native birds like the rare takahe and kiwi thrive here.

Undoubtedly, one of the best off-road trips you can take on the North Island, make sure you pack a picnic, spend a day hiking, and if you stay until nightfall, take in a wonderful view of the stars.

6. Forgotten World Highway

For a road trip within your road trip, the Forgotten World Highway (State Highway 43) is a must-do adventure.

This remote stretch winds from Stratford to Taumarunui. It takes you through a landscape of tunnels, rugged hills, and eerie ghost towns that will send shivers down your spine.

As you go through the area, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Be sure to stop at Whangamōmona, a self-declared ‘Republic’, where you can treat yourself to a quirky lunch or even an overnight stay.

7. The Bridge to Nowhere

Image credit: Tourism New Zealand

Located in Whanganui National Park, the Bridge to Nowhere is exactly as intriguing as it sounds. It was originally built to serve a now-abandoned settlement, but now it stands alone deep in a forest.

Accessible via jet boat and a short walk, traversing the bridge to nowhere is an adventure that combines history, nature, and a real sense of mystery. You can find out more about visiting it here.

8. Rārangi Beach and Monkey Bay

Drive just a little out of Blenheim and you’ll find Rārangi Beach, a wild and rocky stretch with a beautiful hidden gem tucked away at its northern end.

If you follow the short track through a tunnel of trees, you’ll emerge at Monkey Bay, a secret cove that is perfect for quiet moments of reflection or a scenic picnic.

9. Mahia Peninsula

Often overshadowed by its better-known neighbour Gisborne, the Mahia Peninsula is a beach lover’s dream.

Located around Hawke’s Bay, this hilly promontory protrudes southwards into the sea and consists of surf beaches on one side and calm waters on the other.

It also includes Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 1, near Ahuriri Point, which is well-known as a launching point for its Electron rockets.

10. Taranaki’s Secret Gardens

Mount Taranaki - Image credit: @browser - Pixabay

Taranaki is famous for the mountain’s outstanding symmetrical beauty, but its gardens are another secret that you should take the time to discover.

Places like Tupare, Hollard Gardens, and Pukeiti are absolutely stunning, especially in spring. Best of all, they are free to visit and provide a colourful and serene contrast to the region’s dramatic volcanic landscape.