Northland on Budget

Accommodation in Northland ranges from budget-friendly camping and holiday parks to mid-range motels and apartments. For a family of four, you can expect to pay around $120-200 per night for a self-contained unit or apartment. Camping and holiday parks are a more affordable option, with prices starting from around $30-50 per night for a powered site.

Some popular options include the Top 10 Holiday Parks in Paihia and Whangarei, which offer a range of accommodation options and facilities. You can also consider renting a bach or holiday home through websites like Bookabach or Airbnb, which can be a more cost-effective option for larger families.

Northland is full of free activities and attractions that are perfect for families. The Cape Reinga walkway is a must-do, with stunning views of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean. You can also drive along Ninety Mile Beach, which is free to visit, although you'll need a 4WD vehicle to access most of the beach.

Other free activities include the Mangawhai Heads beach walk and estuary, and the Hokianga Harbour dunes. These are all great options for families with kids aged 4 and above, and are a great way to experience the natural beauty of Northland without breaking the bank.

To help you plan your trip, we've put together a rough 3-day budget breakdown for a family of four. This includes accommodation, food, activities, and transportation, and should give you a good idea of what to expect.

While Northland has plenty of free activities and attractions, there are some things that are worth splashing out on. The Cape Reinga Lighthouse tour is a must-do, and costs around $50 per person. The Kauri Museum in Matakohe is also worth visiting, and costs around $25 per person.

On the other hand, you can save money by self-catering and cooking your own meals, rather than eating out. You can also consider visiting during the off-season, when prices for accommodation and activities are generally lower.