Northland holds a special place in the hearts of New Zealanders. The seaside town of Waitangi, near Russell, is the place where our founding document, 'The Treaty of Waitangi' - or 'Te Tiriti O Waitangi' in Maori - was drafted and signed. For this and many other reasons, Northland is a place of great significance for all New Zealanders; our spiritual birthplace.

When you're travelling in Northland, the sea is your constant companion. The east coast tempts you with white sand, surf and sheltered blue bays. The west coast is wilder, alive with the energy of the Tasman Sea.

All year round the region is extremely popular amongst local and international travellers looking for relaxation, fun, adventure, fishing and water sports. History is Northland's other major attraction - from the coming of the great explorer Kupe to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, the region has many stories to tell.

So, whether you want to be immersed in a cultural wonderland, stretched out on a comfy sun-lounger, or fighting a powerful marlin for hours, you'll find what you're looking for.

Bay of Islands is full of wonderful things to see and do, with something for everyone. If it's not here, you won't have to travel far to find it. As this country is known as the 'Adventure Capital of the World', you can always find thrills of every kind nearby, from bungy jumping and skydiving to jet boating and white-water rafting. Our 14 national parks are perfect for tramping, where spectacular scenery abounds. Our geothermal hotspots provide natural thermal pools, shooting geysers and bubbling mud pools, while our incredible wildlife is a must-see for animal lovers. There are plenty of picturesque beaches for swimming, surfing or relaxing, mountain ranges for skiing and snowboarding, glassy lakes for fishing and water sports, and native forests for exploring. Try delicious gourmet delights, visit an art or craft studio, go shopping, check out a Maori cultural performance or take advantage of our exciting range of events. And that's just the beginning!

The beautiful Bay of Islands is a centre for big-game fishing among the many islands made famous by the American writer Zane Grey who fished here. There is a Maritime park and an Historic Park. Daily boat cruises operate. The Bay of Islands was the first centre of European settlement in New Zealand - it is rich with historical sites, and tourist attractions are plentiful. Maori chief Hone Heke lived and fought here, notably at Ruapekapeka.

This first capital of New Zealand was once known as 'the hell hole of the Pacific', due to an over-abundance of hotels and brothels!

Russell is a major game fishing port - head out to target marlin, tuna, broad bill and shark. Christ Church on Robertson Street is the oldest church in New Zealand. It still bears the cannonball holes of the Maori wars.