Known as The Birthplace of a Nation, Northland's natural beauty is equaled by its fascinating history and culture. Northland is home to Hokianga Harbour, where Kupe, the legendary Maori explorer first arrived in his waka or war canoe. In 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi, an historic agreement between Maori and the British Crown, was drafted and signed at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Inland, Tane Mahuta (the largest living kauri tree in New Zealand) and other towering kauri trees grow tall and proud and the waterways, seashores and islands of Northland all demand attention. A subtropical region, Northland is often referred to as the Winterless North and regularly enjoys the warmest temperatures in the country. A long, narrow peninsula, Northland is a big region with over 1,700 km (1,054 miles) of coastline. Exploring Northland can take days, weeks or months - give it as much time as you have. The Kauri Coast isn't about big money, fancy lodges and snobby wine bars. This coast is about having an unspoiled, un-commercialized experience in the midst of some real Kiwi characters while surrounded by history and magical bush. Spend some time poking around and chatting to the folks and you'll understand that, for most of them, life is more about lifestyle than money. Including Kerikeri, Russell, Paihia, Opua, and 50 Islands, the Bay of Islands is a bit of a playground and gets the lion's share of Northland attention no doubt because of its incredible natural beauty and historical significance. It's also replete with farm stands. You can fill your entire car with fresh fruit and vegetables! Be sure to buy plenty of Kerikeri oranges. All the details are explored in the full-color guide: where to stay and eat, the activities, from diving to hiking, the history, how to meet the people, where to shop and much more
