Hidden North Island Adventures by Car
New Zealand’s North Island has no shortage of incredible scenery, some of which is famous worldwide. But dig a little deeper and you’ll find even more to see and love. With this handy guide, and low-cost Ace rental car, you can keep it simple and affordable while tracking down those places that most visitors miss. Here are some to add to your list.
Whangamōmona
Take a drive down Forgotten World Highway, and stop by Whangamōmona, a small town with plenty of character. In 1989, when a local council boundary change left the town unimpressed, the residents declared themselves the ‘Republic of Whangamōmona’. Ever since, they’ve embraced their self-styled nationhood with mock presidential elections, novelty passport stamps, and an annual Republic Day festival that draws thousands of attendees. The drive itself is unforgettable: narrow tunnels cut through hillsides, farmland rolling into forest, and winding stretches that feel endless. Pull up at the Whangamōmona Hotel for a hearty pub lunch and a slice of the town’s offbeat humour.
East Cape Lighthouse
If you want to be among the first people in the world to see the sun rise, get up and go to East Cape. On your way, you’ll take a long, mostly gravel road that skirts remote Māori settlements and rugged coastline. At the end of the road, 800 steps climb through farmland and scrub to the East Cape Lighthouse, perched on the most easterly point of the North Island, giving you views that stretch right across the Pacific.
Pureora Forest
Pureora Forest Park is a glimpse of ancient New Zealand. This is one of the last great tracts of native podocarp forest, with towering rimu, totara, and kahikatea trees forming a fascinating display above. Take the walking track that winds beneath the canopy, passing native birdlife like kōkako, tui, and kererū. Take the adventure further and head to the Timber Trail cycle route, which runs for 85 kilometres through suspension bridges and old bush tramways.
Kai Iwi Lakes
Northland’s Kai Iwi Lakes aren’t as well-known as the nearby stretch of coast, but it’s well worth your time. These three lakes are formed in ancient sand dunes and filled with turquoise water. The lakes are shallow enough for all ages, and perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. It’s a great spot for a picnic, and even has affordable campgrounds right on the water’s edge.
Cape Palliser
Cape Palliser feels like the edge of the world. A steep staircase of 250 steps will lead you to the lighthouse, where you'll get sweeping views of the Cook Strait, the Kaikōura Ranges, and (if you’re lucky) some fur seals. While you’re in the area, don’t miss the Putangirua Pinnacles: a rock formation that's so otherworldly, it was featured in The Lord of the Rings. While you’re nearby, check out the fishing village of Ngāwi, where you’ll see an unexpected fleet of old tractors parked along the beach, which are used to haul boats in and out of the surf.
Finding the North Island’s Other Side
The North Island is no secret, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have a few more secrets tucked away. With a little curiosity, and an Ace rental car, you can get to know this beautiful part of the world a little better, keeping your rental car costs down and your adventurous spirit up.
