North Island or South Island: which is our favourite New Zealand island?

New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque countries in the world. The landscapes are varied and each more incredible than the last. Here, you will find lush green subtropical forests, waterfalls, dreamy beaches, lagoons, mountains, volcanoes, fjords, and even more. Just like its landscapes, its 2 main islands are also very different from one another, each with its own specific characteristics. So, in New Zealand, there’s something for everyone, and although you don’t have to choose, sometimes one island will capture your heart more than the other.

In this article, Aiyana and Pamela share things they love about New Zealand and its main islands.

The North Island, Aiyana’s favourite

How long were you in New Zealand for?

I came to New Zealand on a 12-month Working Holiday Visa (WHV).

How long did you spend on the North Island and on the South Island?

I started my WHV on the South Island. I spent nearly five months there before moving to the North Island, where I stayed for the remainder of my WHV.

What do you like and dislike about the North Island?

There is more Māori culture on the North Island; something that was important to me, as a motivation of mine when travelling is to learn more about local history and cultures that I wouldn’t have previously been exposed to.

The people were more on my level—Wellington and Auckland attract international crowds and a mix of generations, so the attitudes are more diverse and modern.

I also liked that this island felt more unique, which I’ll talk about in more detail below.

I honestly didn’t have any dislikes about the island itself. My dislikes were more for the country as a whole—I started to feel claustrophobic by the end of my WHV. The country is small enough that you can see it in its entirety within a few months. I began to feel shut in and closed off from the rest of the world as my WHV went on.

What do you like and dislike about the South Island?

Of course, the best thing about the South Island is the scenery. My favourite part of the South Island was the Catlins, probably because not as many backpackers make it down there. I’m always drawn to non-touristy areas that retain natural, untouched beauty.

I’m not big enough into hiking to have tried the great walks of NZ but I enjoyed the way the South Island pushed me out of my comfort zone; the island revolves around an outdoorsy lifestyle and most of the best things to do involve hiking.

The month I spent travelling the South Island was amazing but I didn’t enjoy the time I spent living and working there. I was based in Christchurch, already one of the biggest cities on the island, and I found it quiet and boring. I couldn’t bear the isolation, the lack of things to do, the absence of other like-minded young people. I fell into the camp of people who hate the tourist trap Queenstown, otherwise perhaps I’d have enjoyed the liveliness of that city.

I feel like the South Island is a place you can go to connect with nature, to retire or raise a family, but it’s not ideal for a single person in their 20s wanting to lead a busy and exciting life.

Why do you prefer the North Island?

This might be a hot take but even though the South Island is pretty, you can have similar experiences in other places. I’d been travelling before moving to NZ and had seen picturesque lakes in Switzerland, mountains in Canada, rainforest and beaches in Hawaii, etc. I’m fortunate to have had so many amazing experiences but, as a result, I want to travel to witness something unique; something you can only see in that country.

That’s why I preferred the North Island. It has access to things specific to NZ, such as visiting a volcano from The Lord of the Rings (or Hobbiton!), or a living Māori village. It still has everything people love about the South Island—waterfalls, lakes, mountains, wineries, wildlife, etc. But it can offer so much more than that.

Ultimately, I think the North Island is more well-rounded, where anyone can find something to love. It’s also got the option of busier cities for WHV-makers trying to find the balance between enjoying the peace and quiet of NZ, while also maintaining an active social life.

Any final thoughts on New Zealand’s islands?

I think everyone should try and see both islands, regardless of if you’re on a WHV or just coming for a holiday. Both offer different perspectives on life, different things to do, and the combination of both together are what make NZ a great country to visit.

But I especially hope people make the effort to include the North Island in their travel plans. Many tourists prioritise the South and choose to skip the North if timings are tight. I’d love to see more travellers giving the North Island a chance. Like me, you might be surprised just how much you love it!

The South Island, Pamela’s favourite

How long were you in New Zealand for?

Almost 5 years.

How long did you spend on the North Island and on the South Island?

About 6 months on the North Island and 4 years on the South Island.

What do you like and dislike about the North Island?

Culturally, I appreciate how much more prominent Māori culture is on the North Island. I enjoyed hearing Te Reo on the bus, seeing signs in both languages, and meeting people from various cultural backgrounds.

Unfortunately, I feel like the North Island is both fuller and emptier at the same time. When you drive between places, you never feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, but you’re also never surrounded by astonishing nature. Instead, you’re often driving in a straight line between cow fields making the roads quite boring (in my opinion). Although the distances are usually shorter, they feel longer because there are fewer stops / viewpoints / short walks or hikes along the way. The North Island doesn’t give me a wow effect the same way the South Island does.

That said, some points of interest on the North Island are absolutely breathtaking and out of this world. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the world for good reason, and Blue Springs in Putāruru is also one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen.

What do you like and dislike about the South Island?

What I absolutely love about the South Island is that there are wonders everywhere you look. You’re always surrounded by nature, and as you drive around, there’s always something to marvel at, leading to plenty of “wow” moments. I also love the diversity of the South Island: the beaches, mountains, cliffs, fjords, and waterfalls. It feels like it has it all. Another thing I enjoy is how much less crowded it is, allowing you to easily find yourself in the middle of nowhere. Lastly, the South Island offers so many diverse hiking opportunities. Whether you’re new to hiking or have been climbing mountains your entire life, you’ll find the perfect trail for you.

If I had to name a few downsides of the South Island, I’d say beach accessibility and sandflies. Some of the South Island’s beaches are stunning, and it’s easy to see why Abel Tasman National Park is said to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. However, these stunning beaches are sometimes harder to access than those on the North Island. Many are tucked at the bottom of cliffs or reached only after a hike. Plus, the water is way too cold for my liking. As for the sandflies, there’s really no need for an explanation—they’re just little devils.

Why do you prefer the South Island?

The South Island always made me feel like I was in another world. Even when I was settled in one place, it still felt like I was on a journey, constantly discovering something new. There’s a unique energy to the South Island that I find more stimulating. In a single day, you can go from snow-capped mountains to rugged coastline. There’s always a new hike to explore, a new adventure around the corner. And even when you return to familiar spots, they always feel different, always changing thanks to time and nature.

Any final thoughts on New Zealand’s islands?

Although my heart leans toward the South Island, I’d love to rediscover the North Island. The first time I was there, I wasn’t much of a hiker and didn’t get the chance to do many hikes. Then, on the other two occasions, I was nearing the end of my road trips, which meant we had less money and couldn’t afford to do as much or travel as far. I feel like I’ve explored the South Island fairly thoroughly (even though there’s always more to see), and now I’d love to uncover the little wonders of the North Island. Maybe someday!

Conclusion

Although Aiyana and Pamela gave you their thoughts on New Zealand’s islands, the good news is… you don’t have to choose! Both islands are beautiful and well worth the visit.

Here is a little recap of what both islands have to offer!