Cape Palliser Lighthouse sits on the southernmost point of the North Island. You reach it by driving along a stunning coastal road where the ocean crashes right next to you. The road is narrow in places, so take your time.

To get to the lighthouse, you have to climb a long staircase with more than 250 steps, but the view from the top is worth every one of them. From up there you can see the ocean, the cliffs and sometimes even the South Island on a clear day. Just make sure you bring a jacket because it can get really windy out there.

This area is also home to one of the largest fur seal colonies in New Zealand. You can often spot seals resting on the rocks or even right on the road.