Top of the North

In Maori tradition, Cape Reinga is regarded as the departure place for the spirits of the recently deceased; they climb down the twisted pohutukawa tree on the cliff to reach the ocean and swim north to the ancestral land of Hawaiki.

The historic Cape Reinga lighthouse marks the extreme north-western point of New Zealand. Out to sea lies the Columbia Bank maelstrom where the Tasman and the Pacific meet - sometimes producing waves more than 10 metres high.

The Aupouori Peninsula takes you from Awanui up to the top of the north, with great fishing from the east and west coastlines. To the east lies the famous 90 Mile Beach, while further to the north you can explore the beautiful Parengarenga Harbour. You can find out more about the story of the far far north here.

There are a number of tours available to take you up to the Cape and for a drive along 90 Mile Beach, such as the Dune Rider and Fullers Great Sights tour.