With my time on the island over with, work out of the way and nothing but me and my car, the focus was now on travelling these New Zealand roads and seeing everything this beautiful country has to offer. In the build-up to this, thorough planning and preparation were needed and research was to be done, as well, as mapping out where the trip was going to take me and what made the most logical sense with the coordination of the areas to be covered. And so, with all of that said, the first week of my trip consisted of me being in New Zealand’s Northland, with the first activity being a snorkel tour at Poor Knights Island.
I know, dead in winter the last thing you want to be doing is a tour out in the middle of the sea, but trust me, the guys at Dive! Tutukaka did an amazing job with the whole operation which made for a cool experience.
(Ready for the Snorkel)
Through their extensive knowledge of the caves and storytelling of the cultural significance and tribes that lived in the area in which we did the tour made for an enriching and enjoyable day. This tour saw us venture into 2 locations where we also went into some caves that sounded like a concert hall, it was quite stunning how the rocks out in the sea can naturally form into something like what we witnessed on this trip.
One cave was called Rico Rico, which means dancing like shimmering light, because the reflection of the sunlight gleams of the backside of the cave, making it shimmer, and it’s quite the sight to behold.
The highlight was being able to snorkel around and look at the various exotic fish that reside in these places, where I recommend bringing a GoPro or other waterproof device (I unfortunately didn’t have one) to take pictures. This was a truly beautiful and mesmerising sight to see, with all the different fish’s colours all coming together. To also witness the rock formations underneath the sea, as well as how it has taken shape over the years, adds to the already unique opportunity. I must say it was a nice way to start my journey into the North Island and something I would recommend if you are into diving and sea-related activities.
After the snorkel tour was done, I started to make my way up towards the top of Northland. Stopping over at Rainbow Falls and doing a little walk around there, strolling around Cable Bay where I finally landed at the giant sand dunes
(Made it to the top)
(Te Paki Sand Dunes)
These massive dunes, known as Te Paki dunes, were once a little disconnected island away from the mainland, where years of volcanic activity built up sand in this one area and made this natural wonder that is a sight to behold. You can also sand board at this location, something that is open from 11 am to 4 pm, which also adds to the fun within the dunes. Visit this area if you are ever in the Northland, but it can be quite a tiring trek up to the top. Once you reach it, you will be met with some truly spectacular views, ranging from forest to coastal panoramic sights of the sea.
(Cape Reinga)
Once I was done with the dunes, I made my way up to the top of the north island and saw Cape Reinga, with this being the country’s most iconic landmark. It was said to be a sacred site where Māori people’s souls undertook their final journey to the land of their ancestors, with the area being marked with stories about this spiritual journey heading towards the lighthouse. Built in 1941, the lighthouse stands 165m tall, and the light beam can reach 35km out to sea. This is a truly beautiful area where you can see 2 oceans collide and swirl, epically meeting each other.
On the way back down, I managed to do a Duke Nose hike, stay at a cool campground called Wairere Boulders and venture into West Auckland to see Lion Rock, although most of the area was blocked off due to slips and road works in the area.
(A hike done at Wairere Boulders)
A busy yet exciting start to this road trip, filled with different varieties, which I’m sure is just the beginning of something bigger and more spectacular. Continue following me as I uncover more of New Zealand while on the road.
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