New Zealand’s South Island gets all the glory on Instagram — the snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, winding roads straight out of a car commercial. And yes, it’s beautiful. But after spending time on both islands, we found ourselves genuinely preferring the North Island — slower, warmer and just… better for being, not just seeing.
We stayed for a while in Hawke’s Bay, on the east coast. It’s not where most tourists go, which is exactly why we liked it. There’s something about waking up on a farm surrounded by sheep and hills, then driving 20 minutes to have coffee. We stayed both inland and right on the coast, and that mix of rural calm and coastal air reminded us about Mediterranean — but with better wine and fewer people.
The main town, Napier, is charming and totally underrated. It’s got a low-key art deco vibe, beautiful old facades, and a surprisingly good café scene. Try Georgia on Tennyson for coffee or Mister D for breakfast. We got friendly with the barista who remembered our order by day three. The farmer’s markets are excellent (especially the Sunday one in Hastings), and the local produce is top-tier — we basically lived on stone fruit, cheese, and Pinot Gris.
Besides, Hawke’s Bay offers golden, swimmable coastlines, warm weather, and laid-back local vibes. Waimārama Beach and Ocean Beach feel almost untouched—huge stretches of sand, no crowds, and perfect waves.
Now, the South Island — yes, we did it. Queenstown, Wanaka, Lake Tekapo, Mt. Cook. It’s undeniably stunning and photogenic. But honestly? A little too IG. You drive for hours to see something jaw-dropping, hike with dozens of other hikers, snap a photo, then… get back in the car. It’s more of a road trip destination than a place to stay awhile.
And it’s colder. And pricier. And way more full of tourists like us.
Back on the North Island, we had time. We read on porches. We watched sheep filling the road near our place. That kind of slowness is rare, and for us — priceless.
If you want to see New Zealand, go South. But if you want to live in it for a while, the North might be where your heart lands.
