The Ultimate North Island NZ Itinerary: Where to Stay & What to Do
New Zealand has been on my bucket list forever, and after finally experiencing the stunning landscapes, world-class wineries, and unforgettable adventures, I can confidently say it did not disappoint. This guide covers everything we did in the North Island, including where we stayed, must-do activities, and, of course, where to grab a great beer.
Where We Stayed in Auckland: The Cordis
If you’re heading to Auckland, staying at Cordis is a must. Thanks to my Amex Platinum card, we got insane perks like complimentary breakfast at their lavish international buffet, 4 PM late checkout, and an upgraded room. (Seriously, this card rocks — I highly recommend it if you travel frequently!) The hotel itself is stunning, with a rooftop pool, incredible spa, and one of the best breakfast spreads I’ve ever had.
Waiheke Island Wine Tour (With a Bonus Beer Stop!)
Waiheke Island is just a short ferry ride from Auckland and is home to some of the best wineries in NZ. We booked a guided tour to hit a few top spots, and our two favorites were:
Tantalus Estate – A beautiful winery with an elegant atmosphere and top-tier rosé
Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant – Stunning views and even better wine. This was a great stop for lunch post-winery tours
Before heading back, we made a stop at Alibi Brewing, a small craft brewery attached to Tantalus Estate. Their hazy pale ale was the perfect way palate cleanser in between wineries.
Travel Tip: If you’re doing a wine tour, book early! Waiheke is a popular spot, and reservations fill up fast.
Hobbiton: A Must-Visit for Any LOTR Fan
Even if you’re not the biggest Lord of the Rings fan, Hobbiton is pure magic. The guided tour takes you through the famous Shire, where you’ll see the iconic Hobbit Holes, the Party Tree, and even grab a beer at the Green Dragon Inn (highly recommend the Oatbarton™ Brew!).
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves: A Surreal Experience
One of the most unique things we did in NZ was the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves. Drifting through a pitch-black cave while tiny bioluminescent worms glow overhead feels like something out of a sci-fi movie. This was a part of our Hobbiton guided tour, it included the relaxing boat tour under the glow worms. This was truly a magical experience — definitely recommend checking it out!
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket — it gets chilly inside the caves.
Between sipping wine on Waiheke, geeking out at Hobbiton, and floating through glow worm-lit caves, our time in New Zealand’s North Island was unforgettable. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, beer lover, or just someone who appreciates stunning scenery, there’s something here for you.
Stay tuned for the South Island itinerary — featuring alpacas, stargazing, and an adrenaline-pumping canyon swing!