Large detailed map of the North Island of New Zealand

Description:
This map shows cities, towns, villages, highways, main roads, secondary roads, railroads, mountains and landforms on North Island. (New Zealand)

About North Island

The North Island, also known as Te Ika-a-Māui in Māori, is one of the two main islands of New Zealand. With an area of 113,729 square kilometers (43,911 square miles), it is the smaller of the two major islands but has a larger population, hosting approximately 77% of New Zealand's total population.

The island is characterized by diverse geographical features, including active volcanoes, geothermal areas, and extensive coastlines. The Taupo Volcanic Zone, stretching from White Island to Mount Ruapehu, contains most of the island's volcanic activity. Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake by surface area, occupies a caldera created by a supervolcanic eruption approximately 26,500 years ago.

Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and major economic hub, is located in the northern part of the island. Wellington, the nation's capital, sits at the southern tip. The island's climate is generally mild and temperate, with subtropical conditions in the far north and alpine conditions around the central volcanic plateau.

The North Island is home to significant indigenous Māori cultural sites and history. The Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document, was first signed here in 1840. The island's economy is diverse, encompassing agriculture, forestry, tourism, and technology sectors. The Waikato region is particularly known for its dairy farming, while the Bay of Plenty is famous for its horticulture and kiwifruit production.