{"id":43904,"date":"2021-09-28T10:07:42","date_gmt":"2021-09-28T00:07:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/?p=43904"},"modified":"2025-01-11T07:59:45","modified_gmt":"2025-01-10T20:59:45","slug":"south-island-vs-north-island","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/south-island-vs-north-island\/","title":{"rendered":"South Island vs. North Island: which part of New Zealand should you travel to?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>When traveling to New Zealand it\u2019s understandable to want to see it all. From the sweeping landscapes of the South to the magical glow of the Waitomo caves in the North, there is lots to see and do on both islands, but which one is <em>actually<\/em> better?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"\/new-zealand\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Zealand<\/a> is full of stunning locations and naturally breathtaking landmarks, both found in the South and North islands, so it can be tough trying to figure out which one you should visit first. While you could flip a coin, we thought we\u2019d put together a guide on the differences between the two islands (and who comes out on top) so you can decide which destination is the right one for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"product_wrapper ipf-no-title\"><div class=\"product\" style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\" data-code=\"PHSQ\"><div class=\"product-inner\"><div class=\"product-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/ipf\/PHSQ.jpg\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phsq\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-name\">Queenstown Southern Loop<\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-footer\"><div class=\"product-footer-left\"><span class=\"product-days\">6 days<\/span><\/div><div class=\"product-footer-right\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phsq\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-btn\">View trip<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"product\" style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\" data-code=\"PHSQC\"><div class=\"product-inner\"><div class=\"product-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/ipf\/PHSQC.jpg\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phsqc\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-name\">New Zealand South Island Adventure<\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-footer\"><div class=\"product-footer-left\"><span class=\"product-days\">12 days<\/span><\/div><div class=\"product-footer-right\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phsqc\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-btn\">View trip<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"product\" style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\" data-code=\"PHXC\"><div class=\"product-inner\"><div class=\"product-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/ipf\/PHXC.jpg\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phxc\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-name\">Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail<\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-footer\"><div class=\"product-footer-left\"><span class=\"product-days\">4 days<\/span><\/div><div class=\"product-footer-right\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phxc\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-btn\">View trip<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best for landscapes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_doubtful-sound_south-island.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_doubtful-sound_south-island.jpg\" alt=\"Doubtful Sound on the South Island of New Zealand. \" class=\"wp-image-43909\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_doubtful-sound_south-island.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_doubtful-sound_south-island-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_doubtful-sound_south-island-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_doubtful-sound_south-island-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Doubtful Sound on the South Island <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you love a dramatic landscape (that\u2019ll also look good on your Instagram feed) then the <a href=\"\/new-zealand\/south-island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Island<\/a> is the way to go. The South Island is full of all types of natural beauties, from glittering lakes to lush forests, promising breathtaking landmarks around every corner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, what sets this island apart from its upstairs neighbour is the remarkable snow-capped mountains that stretch all the way from Wanaka to Arthur\u2019s Pass. These snow-capped mountain ranges instantly draw the eye no matter the city you\u2019re in and allow for the exploration of sparkling lakes and captivating glaciers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/new-zealand\/queenstown-southern-loop-145084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CHECK OUT THE SOUTH ISLAND SCENERY ON OUR QUEENSTOWN SOUTHERN LOOP TOUR<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_piha-beach_north-island.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_piha-beach_north-island.jpg\" alt=\"Piha Beach on the North Islandof New Zealand. \" class=\"wp-image-43913\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_piha-beach_north-island.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_piha-beach_north-island-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_piha-beach_north-island-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-new-zealand_piha-beach_north-island-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Piha Beach on the North Island<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"\/new-zealand\/north-island\">North Island\u2019s<\/a> landscape is quite different from that of the South with a range of different destinations that won\u2019t disappoint when it comes to natural beauty. From the beautiful sandy beaches of the Hawke\u2019s Bay region to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo, the North Island delivers on breathtaking landmarks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Colours such as sparkling blues and lush greens are the norm when you look outside, and as if that wasn\u2019t impressive enough, there are also a large number of volcanoes that add steamy hot springs, gurgling mud baths, and spewing geysers to the list of natural North Island wonders.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The verdict<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Both landscapes on each island are quite different, albeit just as beautiful as the other. However, the island that comes out on top largely depends on what kind of holiday you\u2019re after. The South Island takes out the award for \u2018most dramatic landscape\u2019 thanks to the Southern Alps and its various national parks, but the North Island is a bit more diverse as you can spend time relaxing on its beaches as well as hiking up its many natural volcanoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best for hiking<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-New-Zealand-NZ_bay-islands_cruise_1B2A9745.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-New-Zealand-NZ_bay-islands_cruise_1B2A9745.jpg\" alt=\"Hiking on the South Island of New Zealand. \" class=\"wp-image-43918\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-New-Zealand-NZ_bay-islands_cruise_1B2A9745.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-New-Zealand-NZ_bay-islands_cruise_1B2A9745-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-New-Zealand-NZ_bay-islands_cruise_1B2A9745-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-New-Zealand-NZ_bay-islands_cruise_1B2A9745-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hiking on the South Island<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019re truly spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring the natural landscape of the South Island. Featuring six of New Zealand\u2019s \u2018Great Walks\u2019, the South Island allows you to wander different types of scenery from lush forests to impressive coastlines. One of the more stunning landscapes to take in by foot is the Milford Track, arguably New Zealand\u2019s most famous walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With incredible views of mountains, lakes, valleys, and waterfalls, it\u2019s impossible not to fall in love with the popular walking track. Other notable and <a href=\"\/new-zealand\/walking\">worthwhile hikes<\/a> include Roy\u2019s Peak, Diamond Lake Track, Heaphy Track, and the Abel Tasman Coastal Track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/au\/new-zealand\/south-island-ultimate-traverse-134242\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HIKE THE ABEL TASMAN &amp; WEST COAST RAINFORESTS ON A TOUR<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Tongariro-Alpline-Crossing_800x450.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Tongariro-Alpline-Crossing_800x450.jpg\" alt=\"Tongariro Alpine Crossing on the North Island of New Zealand. \" class=\"wp-image-43920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Tongariro-Alpline-Crossing_800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Tongariro-Alpline-Crossing_800x450-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Tongariro-Alpline-Crossing_800x450-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Tongariro-Alpline-Crossing_800x450-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tongariro Alpine Crossing on the North Island<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The South Island isn\u2019t the only landscape that offers beautiful walking trails with the North Island also promising literal breath-taking hikes with stunning views to match. Because of the North Island\u2019s diverse scenery, you can hike up the side of volcanoes and along coastlines with the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the Cape Brett Walkway popular among both avid hikers and beginners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The verdict<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Both islands have impressive walking trails that offer diverse scenery but if we had to pick an island worth visiting for the hikes alone, the top prize would go to the South. It\u2019s hard to go past the South Island\u2019s natural, dramatic beauty with walks that are appropriate for every hiking level. Having said that, Mother Nature\u2019s work is on display in the North as well, making it a well-deserved second place win.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best for weather<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Remarkables-Mountains-Queenstown_800x450.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Remarkables-Mountains-Queenstown_800x450.jpg\" alt=\"Snow-capped Remarkables Mountain Range in Queenstown\" class=\"wp-image-43931\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Remarkables-Mountains-Queenstown_800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Remarkables-Mountains-Queenstown_800x450-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Remarkables-Mountains-Queenstown_800x450-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Remarkables-Mountains-Queenstown_800x450-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Snow-capped Remarkables Mountain Range in Queenstown<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The South Island experiences more of a colder climate with the mountain regions capped with snow all year round. The temperatures seen on the South Island can get a bit more extreme, especially in Winter, with temperatures often in the negatives overnight. However, average temperatures sit at around 1-12\u00b0C in Winter and roughly 16-22\u00b0C in Summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/new-zealand\/premium-new-zealand-south-island-154002\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">EXPLORE THE SOUTH ISLAND ON OUR PREMIUM NEW ZEALAND SOUTH ISLAND TOUR<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Wellington-Cable-Car_800x450.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Wellington-Cable-Car_800x450.jpg\" alt=\"The cable car on a sunny day in Wellington.\" class=\"wp-image-43933\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Wellington-Cable-Car_800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Wellington-Cable-Car_800x450-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Wellington-Cable-Car_800x450-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Wellington-Cable-Car_800x450-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> The cable car on a sunny day in Wellington<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The weather in the North Island is a bit warmer as it\u2019s closer to the equator however this doesn\u2019t mean it ever gets extremely hot, but it does get a bit humid. A great way to describe the weather in the North Island is \u2018not too hot, not too cold\u2019, with mild temperatures throughout the year. You can expect temperatures of 20-30\u00b0C in Summer and 14-22\u00b0C in Winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The verdict<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The weather can be quite different on each island so again, whether to visit the South or the North depends on what holiday you want to have. The North Island experiences more of a warmer climate so you can enjoy warmer weather activities such as sunbaking on the beach, whereas the South Island is a bit colder, perfect for snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best for activities<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-IntrepidTravel-NZ-SouthIsland-Otago-Shotover-river-Jet-boat-ride-ss_1015239970-1.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-IntrepidTravel-NZ-SouthIsland-Otago-Shotover-river-Jet-boat-ride-ss_1015239970-1.jpg\" alt=\"A jet boat ride on the Shotover River in Queenstown.\" class=\"wp-image-43938\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-IntrepidTravel-NZ-SouthIsland-Otago-Shotover-river-Jet-boat-ride-ss_1015239970-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-IntrepidTravel-NZ-SouthIsland-Otago-Shotover-river-Jet-boat-ride-ss_1015239970-1-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-IntrepidTravel-NZ-SouthIsland-Otago-Shotover-river-Jet-boat-ride-ss_1015239970-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel-IntrepidTravel-NZ-SouthIsland-Otago-Shotover-river-Jet-boat-ride-ss_1015239970-1-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> A jet boat ride on the Shotover River in Queenstown <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The South Island, and more specifically <a href=\"\/new-zealand\/queenstown\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Queenstown<\/a>, is known as being \u2018the adventure capital of the world\u2019 so it\u2019s no surprise that you can participate in a whole heap of adrenaline-inducing activities while you\u2019re there including taking a jet-boat ride on the Shotover River. However, if you\u2019re not a thrill-seeker, there\u2019s still so much to see and do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From gently cruising on Milford sound to wandering through the Cathedral Caves, the South Island offers a little something for everyone with its natural beauty on full display wherever you look. Whether you want to visit <a href=\"\/new-zealand\/christchurch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Christchurch<\/a> with its community spirit and <a href=\"\/adventures\/the-8-best-bars-in-christchurch\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">bubbling nightlife scene<\/a> or take a day trip to the <a href=\"\/adventures\/what-to-do-in-arrowtown\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">historical village of Arrowtown<\/a> (Queenstown\u2019s hidden gem), you\u2019ll never run out of fun-filled things to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Waitomo-Glowworm-Caves_800x450.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Waitomo-Glowworm-Caves_800x450.jpg\" alt=\"Waitomo Glow Worms Cave. \" class=\"wp-image-43948\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Waitomo-Glowworm-Caves_800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Waitomo-Glowworm-Caves_800x450-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Waitomo-Glowworm-Caves_800x450-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Waitomo-Glowworm-Caves_800x450-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> Waitomo Glow Worms Cave <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The North Island offers a lot of breathtaking activities for you to see and do with a visit to the Waitomo Caves being at the top of the list. The most famous cave system in New Zealand, the Waitomo Caves are not only home to several million glow worms, but they are also full of dazzling stalactites and stalagmites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the Waitomo Caves are arguably the biggest drawcard to the North Island, destinations such as Rotorua, Auckland and <a href=\"\/new-zealand\/wellington\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wellington<\/a> also offer a heap of things to do. These things include taking in the beautiful geothermal activity from various valleys and geysers, dining at world-class restaurants, and jumping on and off cable cars for a stunning view of Wellington Harbour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The verdict<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Coming to a verdict on this one is pretty much impossible as both islands have plenty of fun activities to offer. Because of this, you really can\u2019t go wrong with either of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best for M\u0101ori Culture<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Endangered-Takahe_800x450.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Endangered-Takahe_800x450.jpg\" alt=\"Endangered Takahe bird at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch.\" class=\"wp-image-44020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Endangered-Takahe_800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Endangered-Takahe_800x450-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Endangered-Takahe_800x450-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_South-Island_Endangered-Takahe_800x450-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Endangered Takahe bird at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, the South Island doesn\u2019t offer a lot when it comes to traditional M\u0101ori experiences. That doesn\u2019t mean that there are no experiences to be had though. In Hokitika you can wander around the sacred M\u0101ori Reserve of Arahura Pa, searching for pounamu (greenstone) while learning about the ancient tradition of carving it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is hard to access the area of Arahura Pa without a guide though so if you want to opt for more of a self-led cultural experience then the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch offers exactly that. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.willowbank.co.nz\/ko-tane\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ko T\u0101ne<\/a> is a wonderfully immersive M\u0101ori experience, giving you the chance to learn about New Zealand\u2019s history and participate in activities including a traditional M\u0101ori p\u014dwhiri (welcome) and the hongi (pressing of noses). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Maori-Marae_800x450.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Maori-Marae_800x450.jpg\" alt=\"M\u0101ori monument on the North Island.\" class=\"wp-image-43952\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Maori-Marae_800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Maori-Marae_800x450-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Maori-Marae_800x450-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Intrepid-Travel_New-Zealand_North-Island_Maori-Marae_800x450-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> M\u0101ori monument on the North Island<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to experience as much M\u0101ori culture as possible then a visit to the North Island is a must. The town of Rotorua is perhaps the most well-known (and most visited) \u2018M\u0101ori town\u2019 in the North Island with 34% of the population being M\u0101ori. While you\u2019re there you can learn about the history of the M\u0101ori people, how they lived and learned to carve wood and cook food, as well as take in a traditional performance featuring the haka.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other notable M\u0101ori towns in the area include Tamaki, Te Puia, Mitai, as well as the cultural site in the Bay of Islands where M\u0101ori chiefs and representatives of the British Crown signed the Waitangi Treaty in 1840. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The verdict<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This one is a no-brainer with the North Island offering way more cultural and traditional M\u0101ori experiences than the South Island. This is due to the bigger populations found in the North, stemming from large cities such as Auckland and Wellington.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regardless of which island you choose to visit, you simply can\u2019t go wrong with both destinations offering enough natural beauty, excitement, and adventure to make your holiday an unforgettable one.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/new-zealand\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SEE BOTH ISLANDS FOR YOURSELF ON OUR NEW ZEALAND TOURS<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"product_wrapper ipf-no-title\"><div class=\"product\" style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\" data-code=\"PHXQ\"><div class=\"product-inner\"><div class=\"product-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/ipf\/PHXQ.jpg\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phxq\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-name\">Walk New Zealand's Abel Tasman & Queen Charlotte<\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-footer\"><div class=\"product-footer-left\"><span class=\"product-days\">5 days<\/span><\/div><div class=\"product-footer-right\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phxq\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-btn\">View trip<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"product\" style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\" data-code=\"PHPS\"><div class=\"product-inner\"><div class=\"product-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/ipf\/PHPS.jpg\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phps\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-name\">Premium New Zealand South Island<\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-footer\"><div class=\"product-footer-left\"><span class=\"product-days\">10 days<\/span><\/div><div class=\"product-footer-right\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phps\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-btn\">View trip<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"product\" style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\" data-code=\"PHSW\"><div class=\"product-inner\"><div class=\"product-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/ipf\/PHSW.jpg\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phsw\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-name\">New Zealand West Coast Adventure<\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-footer\"><div class=\"product-footer-left\"><span class=\"product-days\">7 days<\/span><\/div><div class=\"product-footer-right\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/phsw\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"product-btn\">View trip<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>New Zealand is full of bustling cities and beautiful scenery but which island does it better? <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16234,"featured_media":43907,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[455,1313,14],"tags":[59,2141,2775],"class_list":["post-43904","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-feature","category-guides","category-news","tag-new-zealand","tag-north-island","tag-south-island"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.3.1 - 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