At the very top of New Zealand’s North Island lies a place steeped in beauty, legend, and spirituality – Cape Reinga. Known in Māori as Te Rerenga Wairua, “the leaping place of the spirits,” this windswept headland is one of the country’s most iconic destinations. In this video, we take you on a journey to Cape Reinga, exploring its breathtaking landscapes, cultural significance, and the unforgettable feeling of standing where two oceans meet.
🌅 New Plymouth Will Surprise You | The Hidden Gem of New Zealand
The cyclone was now over and had cost me three days of my tight time budget. So I had to spend three days in New Plymouth without the possibility to go on Mount Taranaki. In the end I was not completely locked in and could do some sightseeing a bit outside. But the roads were already empty and partly not passable. The worst problems were falling branches on roads.
🌋 Hiking Mount Taranaki | New Zealand’s Perfect Volcano
The cyclone was approaching and the effects were already clearly felt. The sky was overcast and at times it rained a little. The weather forecast did not predict completely catastrophic weather for the day, but at altitude it is a bit completely different. Wind speeds of over 150 km/h were predicted for the summit and that should be taken seriously. But of necessity I drove to the mountain and wanted to look around at least a little until it got worse. The cyclone should come only from night and the next day fully to the effect. In addition, no one knew where he now really pulls.
🚗 Driving the Forgotten World Highway | New Zealand’s Most Mysterious Road
After learning about the arrival of the cyclone, I still wanted to go in the direction of Mount Teranaki, actually with the plan of an ascent. That this would become nothing more was actually completely clear. So I drove again in the direction of Lake Taupo, until I learned during my lunch break of the Forgotten World Highway, which would lead directly to Mount Teranaki. For me, of course, it was clear to drive this road.
🌊 Driving Across New Zealand | Pacific Sunrise to Tasman Sunset
After the excellent tour from Rotorua to Gisborne I had a quite cozy and relatively cheap accommodation at a campsite in a hut in Gisborne. Due to my still existing jetlag I could get up quite early again and continue my trip. The choice this time was to drive further south, or rather to drive west. I decided for the direction west, because in the end not so many choices existed regarding the roads and drove in the direction of Himatangi Beach to the west coast. In between I made a stop in Napier on the east coast.
🏝️ Driving Route 35 | New Zealand’s Wild East Cape Adventure
I was now able to go on a bit more of an excursion and left Rotorua for a round trip on the North Island. My first goal was to drive east to the sea and then follow the road south along the sea. My final stop for the day was then Gisborne.
🚤 Discover Lake Taupō | NZ’s Largest Lake & Hidden Wonders
This time the round trip went to the southwest of Rotorua. There lies a completely different looking landscape than on the eastern coast, with high mountains of volcanoes and centrally Lake Taupo, which ultimately also forms the caldera of a supervolcano. So I drove from Rotorua towards Taupo, around it and finally also around Mt Ruapehu, the highest mountain of the North Island and back to Rotorua.
🌋🏝️ Rotorua, The Mount & Okere Falls | Adventure in New Zealand’s North Island
Another day in Rotorua in New Zealand. This time I had a little more time and decided to drive a little further towards the Bay of Plenty in addition to the local free hot springs. At the large northern Bay of Plenty is the not to be overlooked Mount Maunganui, which first looks quite high from below, but ultimately can be climbed quite quickly. From the top, the view was extremely good and also the weather played along this time. On the way back I passed the Okere Falls. These can also be visited free of charge, so I paid them a visit shortly before sunset.
Few places capture the essence of New Zealand’s North Island quite like the trio of Rotorua, Mount Maunganui, and Okere Falls. Together they weave geothermal wonders, Māori culture, coastal beauty, and adrenaline-fueled adventures into one unforgettable journey. In this video, we explore these three unique destinations, discovering why they remain among the country’s most loved and visited highlights.
Our journey begins in Rotorua, one of the geothermal capitals of the world and a place deeply connected to Māori heritage. The very earth here breathes – geysers erupt, hot springs bubble, and mud pools simmer in surreal landscapes. Walking through Te Puia or Wai-O-Tapu, you’re reminded that Rotorua sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the planet’s raw power reveals itself at every turn. Yet alongside this natural drama lies deep cultural resonance. Traditional pōwhiri welcomes, haka performances, and hāngī feasts offer a chance to connect with Māori culture, language, and traditions. Few places combine natural wonder and cultural depth as seamlessly as Rotorua.
From steaming vents to refreshing lakes, Rotorua also provides endless outdoor activities. Lake Rotorua itself invites boat rides and fishing, while nearby lakes like Lake Tarawera and Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) provide tranquil swimming spots. The region also boasts thrilling adventures – from mountain biking the famed Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest trails to rolling down hills inside a giant Zorb ball. Rotorua is, in every sense, a playground shaped by earth, water, and people.
A short drive east takes us to the Bay of Plenty and the vibrant seaside town of Mount Maunganui. Known affectionately as “The Mount,” this iconic destination blends surf culture with natural beauty. The centerpiece is Mauao, the mountain that rises at the tip of the peninsula. Climbing to its summit rewards you with panoramic views over Tauranga Harbour, sandy beaches stretching for miles, and the endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the North Island’s most rewarding short hikes, loved by both locals and visitors.
At the base of Mauao, the golden sands of Main Beach and Pilot Bay create a perfect seaside escape. Surfers ride rolling waves, families picnic in the sun, and beach cafés serve up fresh coffee and seafood. Mount Maunganui is not just about the scenery – it’s about the lifestyle: laid-back, coastal, and full of energy. Whether you climb, surf, swim, or simply watch the sunset from the beach, “The Mount” captures the carefree spirit of New Zealand’s coast.
North of Rotorua lies another gem – Okere Falls. Set along the Kaituna River, this area is famous for its rushing whitewater and lush forest surroundings. The falls themselves are a series of cascades, with lookouts and tracks offering easy access for walkers. But Okere Falls is also one of the most thrilling rafting spots in the world – the Kaituna includes Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall on the planet. For adrenaline seekers, plunging down these rapids is a bucket-list experience. For those who prefer a gentler pace, the riverside walks and picnic areas reveal the natural beauty and tranquility of the forest.
Together, Rotorua, Mount Maunganui, and Okere Falls form a perfect triangle of experiences. Rotorua offers geothermal landscapes and Māori culture, Mount Maunganui brings coastal charm and iconic climbs, and Okere Falls delivers both adventure and serenity. Each destination shines on its own, but together they showcase the diversity of New Zealand’s North Island in just a few days of travel.
Practical tips: Rotorua is about a three-hour drive from Auckland and serves as a great base to explore the wider Bay of Plenty. Mount Maunganui is about an hour from Rotorua, making it an easy day trip or overnight stay. Okere Falls is just 20 minutes north of Rotorua, perfect for a half-day adventure. Allow at least three to four days to truly enjoy this itinerary, but be prepared – you may find yourself wanting to stay much longer.
👉 If you enjoyed this adventure through Rotorua, Mount Maunganui, and Okere Falls, don’t forget to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and hit the bell icon for more New Zealand travel experiences. Have you visited any of these places? Share your favorite memories or dream experiences in the comments – we’d love to hear from you!