Northland - Cultural Capital of New Zealand
We have previously looked at the deep south region of the South Island. This time we’re looking at the other extreme. The far north of the North Island.
Northland is a stunningly beautiful part of New Zealand and a culturally significant place for the native Maori people. Home to the gorgeous Bay of Islands, golf courses, luxury resorts and epic coastlines, everybody will find something they love about our northernmost region.
The first thing one should know about Northland(Te Tai Tokerau) is its cultural importance to Maori. It is believed to be the landing place of Kupe, the great discoverer, who named the land Aotearoa. He then set off from Hokianga to return to his homeland and inform them of his discovery. Thus it is of great importance to Maori culture, history and identity. Many iwi today trace their history back to Kupe and the region, with some of the oldest settlements(kainga) being found there.
Perhaps the most spiritually significant part of the region is Cape Reinga(Te Rerenga Wairua). On the cliffs stands a lonely Pohutukawa tree. It is from this tree that spirits begin their journey back to their homeland of Hawaiiki-A-Nui by diving off the cliff and sliding down a root to the underworld. They then travel under the sea to Three Kings Islands, bid their last farewell to this world, and return to the land of their ancestors.
While it is important to the Maori people and their culture, Northland is also a central part of the founding of modern New Zealand. It is here that the first accord of the Treaty of Waitangi was signed on 6 February 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and Maori chiefs. The Waitangi Treaty grounds can be visited with day passes, guided tours as well as cultural performances available.
The largest city in the region is Whangarei. The city and surrounding areas offer a lot to do, whether you want to relax or get the adrenaline pumping. Just outside of the city is the exhilarating Adventure Forest, where you can traverse ropes courses with swings, nets and flying foxes. There are courses for beginners and the more daring so everyone can enjoy themselves.
For something a bit more laid back you can travel a little further out to the Tutukaka Coast. Here you can take part in horse treks, ranging from 1 hour to half day treks. They offer rides for children and beginners right up to experienced riders.
The city of Whangarei is also a very creative place and home to many artists. You can visit the Whangarei Art Museum, the Quarry Arts Centre, a master jeweller’s gallery and a botanical garden all for free. For something more in depth there is the Kiwi North museum which has its own resident Kiwi birds, native gecko and tuatara, as well as a museum full of Maori treasure, exhibitions and early history displays.
If you wish to see the beauty of the far north, it’s hard to ignore the world famous Bay of Islands. The bay is a gorgeous site and a veritable adventure playground for the maritime wildlife, such as penguins, dolphins, seals, whales, marlin, gannets and more. The area is particularly renowned for its big game fishing with marlin, swordfish, tuna, kingfish and sharks all found in the waters here. Many of which grow to immense sizes.
So, if you’re looking for a warm, culture-rich, creative, spiritual and beautiful place where you can relax, discover, and learn, then you can not look past the Northland region.
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