While you can be forgiven for only sticking to the coast on your trip to Northland, there are a few places inland that are worth checking out, even if its just on your way to your next paradise beach. This is my very brief blog post on a couple of places to visit. First off is the famous Tane Mahuta – New Zealand’s largest living kauri tree. It is located in the Waipoua Forest just south of Omapere. There is a short and very easy stroll to take through the forest and is definitely worth a brief stop.

About 45 minutes south of Tane Mahuta is the lovely Kai Iwi Lakes. There are two campgrounds at either sides of the Lake and are both great to stay at. This is a pretty popular place for families so try avoid the school holidays and you will be grateful! The lakes are really clear and beautiful for swimming. There is also an awesome walkway around the lakes to help you to explore the area, and to burn off those many calories you gain from all that red wine and s’mores over the campfire.

The campgrounds at Kai Iwi Lakes are only NZ$15 per person per night which makes it a really cheap trip. Plus some food and petrol costs, you’re looking at around NZ$50 per day.