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Things to Do – The Far North
Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach

Explore the Best Attractions, Tours & Hidden Gems in New Zealand’s Far North

Cape Reinga – Where Spiritual Heritage, Natural Wonder & Adventure Meet

Nestled at the northernmost tip of New Zealand’s North Island, Cape Reinga awaits you with its breathtaking beauty and profound cultural significance. Prepare to be mesmerized as the mighty Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide in a dance of currents, creating a whirlpool of natural wonder that will leave you in awe.

Embrace the unspoiled wilderness as you venture into a land adorned with rolling sand dunes that stretch infinitely. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you sandboard down the pristine slopes, or let the tranquillity of the landscape wash over you, a moment of serenity amidst the grandeur of nature.

The iconic Cape Reinga Lighthouse stands atop the rugged cliffs, a beacon of spirituality and history. According to M?ori legend, this is where the spirits of the departed begin their final journey to the ancestral homeland. Let the ancient stories and cultural heritage come alive as you bask in the presence of this symbolic site.

Photographers and nature enthusiasts! Cape Reinga offers a visual feast like no other. Bask in the kaleidoscope of colours during the awe-inspiring sunsets or seize the opportunity to capture unique wildlife encounters in their natural habitat. Each frame is a testament to the wonders of Mother Earth.

Venture into the endless adventures that await you. Hike along scenic coastal trails, uncover hidden coves and pristine beaches, and feel the thrill of exploration embracing you at every turn. Cape Reinga caters to thrill seekers and nature lovers, a perfect harmony of adventure and tranquillity.

Stand at the world’s edge and witness the meeting point of two mighty oceans. Feel a profound sense of wonder and humility as you gaze out into the vast expanse of the ocean, a moment of connection with nature that words cannot adequately describe.

Embrace the magic that only Cape Reinga can offer. Whether you seek a spiritual retreat, a thrilling escapade, or a moment of serenity, this enchanting destination is ready to reveal its secrets and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey to Cape Reinga, where natural beauty and cultural significance intertwine? Join us as we explore this hidden gem at the world’s edge!

Things to Do in the Far North, Ninety Mile Beach & Cape Reinga

The best way to experience this unforgettable region is through a guided tour or scenic flight. Join Fullers for a Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach coach tour departing daily from the Bay of Islands, or take to the skies with Salt Air, offering breathtaking aerial views of Northland’s wild coastline and dramatic landscapes.

Both options showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Far North — from the vast stretch of Ninety Mile Beach to the spiritual headland of Cape Reinga. On the ground, enjoy a thrilling stop at the Te Paki Sand Dunes for sandboarding, and soak up expert commentary throughout the journey. In the air, Salt Air’s scenic flights provide a unique bird’s-eye perspective of this remote and rugged region.

At Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean collide, the views are simply spectacular. Beneath the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, Māori legend comes to life — this is the sacred place where spirits of the departed begin their final journey to Hawaiki, the ancestral homeland.

Look out for nearby highlights like Cape Maria van Diemen and Tapotupotu Bay, or explore one of the many walking tracks that weave through this stunning corner of Aotearoa. From sandboarding thrills to spiritual stories and panoramic flights, Cape Reinga delivers an unforgettable blend of culture, adventure, and scenery.

Free Things to See & Do in the Far North – Cape Reinga, Ninety Mile Beach & Beyond

The Far North of New Zealand offers more than just paid tours — it’s a land of wild beauty, cultural depth, and remote natural landscapes that you can enjoy without spending a cent. From sacred headlands to endless beaches and charming coastal villages, here are the top free activities in Cape Reinga, Ninety Mile Beach, and the wider Te Hiku region.

1. Visit Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Cape Reinga, or Te Rerenga Wairua, is one of New Zealand’s most sacred and significant sites. A short, fully sealed walking path leads to the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, perched above the dramatic meeting point of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The panoramic views are extraordinary — on clear days, you can see the ocean swirl as the two currents collide. Along the path, interpretive signs provide insights into the cultural importance of this site in Māori tradition, where it is believed the spirits of the dead begin their journey to Hawaiki. This is a peaceful, powerful, and photogenic place — one of Aotearoa’s must-visit landmarks.

2. Walk Along Ninety Mile Beach

Despite its name, Ninety Mile Beach is closer to 88 kilometres long — and every bit of it is spectacular. Stretching from Ahipara to near Cape Reinga, this vast expanse of hard-packed sand is a registered highway, used by permitted 4WD tours. But you don’t need a vehicle to enjoy it: walking the beach at sunrise or sunset is a deeply peaceful experience, and shell collecting is popular. During low tide, the reflections of the sky on the wet sand create endless photo opportunities. Swimming is possible, though caution is advised due to strong currents.

3. Explore the Te Paki Sand Dunes

Located near the northern end of Ninety Mile Beach, the Te Paki Sand Dunes are enormous and dramatic, rising like golden mountains from the coastal landscape. Accessible directly from the car park off State Highway 1, the dunes are free to explore. Climb the soft, steep slopes for panoramic views, or bring a bodyboard to enjoy sandboarding down the slopes. Many tour groups stop here, but individual visitors can explore at their own pace. It’s one of the most surreal and exhilarating places in the Far North.

4. Swim or Picnic at Tapotupotu Bay

Nestled just east of Cape Reinga, Tapotupotu Bay is a sheltered, scenic cove with calm waters ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply wading in the shallows. There are grassy areas for picnics, basic toilet facilities, and plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings. A Department of Conservation campground sits nearby, making it a great base for exploring the area. Surrounded by native bush and often visited by native birds, it’s one of the best free beach experiences in the region.

5. Hike to Cape Maria van Diemen Lookout

Cape Maria van Diemen is one of the most isolated and untouched capes in New Zealand. You can access the lookout via a well-marked walking track from the Te Werahi car park, located just south of Cape Reinga. The track offers sweeping views over the western coastline, dramatic cliffs, and the sand dunes of Te Werahi Beach. It’s part of the larger Te Paki Coastal Track network — one of Northland’s great multi-day hiking routes. Even short walks here offer incredible photographic opportunities and a sense of wild remoteness.

6. Discover the Historic Village of Awanui and KĀ URI

Located just north of Kaitaia, Awanui is a historic village known as the gateway to the Aupōuri Peninsula. Here you’ll find KĀ URI, a beautiful space showcasing ancient swamp kauri carvings, sustainable timber furniture, Māori art, and a café. Visitors can explore the on-site workshop and gallery for free, making it both a cultural and educational stop. Awanui itself also features historic buildings, a vintage dairy factory, and charming roadside stops worth exploring before continuing north.

7. Stroll the Waterfront at Mangonui

A picturesque harbourside village on Doubtless Bay, Mangonui is known for its colonial-era buildings, art galleries, boardwalk, and laid-back charm. Take a leisurely walk along the historic waterfront, browse boutique stores, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Mangonui is also renowned for its fresh fish and chips, often served right over the water. The local fish shop is a favourite with travellers and locals alike, offering seafood delicacies straight from the ocean — including snapper, gurnard, and scallops when in season. It’s a scenic and flavourful detour on the drive north.

8. Visit Cable Bay’s Coastal Lookout and Beach

Just east of Mangonui lies Cable Bay, a small coastal community with stunning views over Doubtless Bay. The beach here features a mix of pink-toned sand and smooth stones, making it a popular spot for families and photographers alike. Pull into one of the scenic lookouts along the road to take in panoramic views of the bay, or enjoy a quiet walk along the beach. It’s an ideal free stop on your journey north toward the Cape.

Start crafting your unforgettable Far North escape today!

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