Cape Reinga is the place where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular swirl of currents.

At the northernmost tip of the Cape is a gnarled pohutukawa tree, believed to be over 800 years old. According to Maori oral history, the spirits of deceased Maori leap from this tree into the ocean to return to their ancestral homeland of Hawaiki.

It’s not quite the most northern point of New Zealand. (North Cape is further north, but it’s a scientific reserve and not open to the public.) But Cape Reinga is definitely the end of the road.

As well as visiting the Cape, you can also travel along the popular 90 Mile Beach, which is nearby. You’ll see much to bring Maori and early European history to life on the way.

Being a sacred site, eating is not permitted at Cape Reinga. However if you’re looking for a good picnic spot, take the turn off to beautiful Tapotupotu Bay, 5km before the Cape.