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A three-hour drive or 35 minute flight north of Auckland, the Bay of Islands encompasses 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula and includes the boutique towns of Opua, Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri.
Mar 3, 2024 · Learn about the history, attractions, and activities of the Bay of Islands, a popular destination in New Zealand's North Island. Find out how to book boat or helicopter tours, see Hole in the Rock, and explore the islands.
The Bay of Islands is an area on the east coast of the Far North District of the North Island of New Zealand. It is one of the most popular fishing, sailing and tourist destinations in the country, and has been renowned internationally for its big-game fishing since American author Zane Grey publicised it in the 1930s.
The 144 islands scattering the vibrant blue waters of the Bay of Islands are a place to get out on the water, whether it’s on a relaxing sailing cruise or under a parasailing canopy.
- Cruise The Islands
- Hike Around Urupukapuka Island
- Explore Historic Russell
- Enjoy The View on Flagstaff Hill
- Relax on Long Beach
- Walk The Tapeka Point Track
- Eat Lunch at Paroa Bay Winery
- Escape The Crowds at Mimiwhangata Coastal Park
- Learn About Māori Culture at Waitangi Treaty Grounds
- Admire Haruru Falls
The absolute best thing to do in Bay of Islands is get out on the water and explore the 144 islands in this natural harbour. On a Bay of Islands boat trip you’ll see dramatic rock formations, lush green islands, sandy beaches, native birds, and, if you are lucky, dolphins, seals, and whales. We sailed ourselves in a small yacht as part of a six-day...
Urupukapuka Island is the largest island in the Bay of Islands, and it’s well worth spending the day there in addition to a boat cruise. We fell in love with its white sand beaches, vibrant green hills, rugged cliffs, and idyllic bays. It’s perfect for hiking, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, or relaxing on some of the best beaches in Bay of Island...
I think Russell is the prettiest town in New Zealand and a must-see on your Bay of Islands itinerary. On the waterfront, historic white buildings, gnarled pohutukawa trees, and an impressive Moreton Bay fig tree overlook the beach and calm bay. It’s a scenic spot for a stroll or sunset drink at one of the cafes. Russell was the first permanent Euro...
One of the best things to do in Russell is visit Flagstaff Hill Historic Reserve.You can drive up, but it’s worth the walk. At the top there are stunning views down to Russell and over to the islands. Information panels explain the historical significance of the flagstaff. The Union Jack that flew here in 1840 was cut down four times by Māori leade...
We were regulars at Long Beach (also called Oneroa Bay) during our stay in Russell. It’s the best beach in the area with a lovely curve of golden sand and usually calm water for swimming. We liked walking here at low tide when the patterns in the sand were exposed. A return walk from one end of the beach to the other took us about 25 minutes. At lo...
Our favourite walk near Russell is the Tapeka Point Trackat the far end of the peninsula. From the top there are spectacular 360º views of the surrounding bays and islands. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon light and at sunset. It’s a steep but short 1km return walk that took us about 20 minutes. The grassy track can be muddy and slip...
For beautiful food in a beautiful location, head to Sage at Paroa Bay Wineryfor a leisurely lunch on their hillside terrace overlooking the bay. A few vegetarian options are marked on the seasonal menu—we shared a beetroot carpaccio and wonderful cheese plate. Their chardonnay and CMC red blend are just as good as the food and setting. It’s well wo...
If you want to get away from it all, drive the Secret Coast Route from Russell to Helena Bay. It’s a beautiful, quiet, but nausea-inducing winding road past lush hills, picturesque bays, and native forest. We’ve visited several beaches and hikes on the route, but our favourite is Mimiwhangata Coastal Parknear Helena Bay. We spent a glorious few hou...
Waitangi Treaty Groundsare one of the top Bay of Islands attractions. It’s an important historical site where the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document, was signed in 1840 by Māori leaders and the British Crown. It’s so much more than just a museum. You need at least three hours and could spend the whole day here learning about the hi...
Haruru Falls are worth a quick stop while you are in Paihia. These horseshoe-shaped falls are short but wide and intensely powerful after rain—Haruru means “big noise”. We drove to Haruru after visiting Waitangi (the falls are a short walk from the car park), but you can also walk there on a 6km trail (each way) through mangroves and along the Wait...
The Top Tours, Activities and Attractions in the Bay of Islands. Beautiful beaches, pristine islands, energetic marine life, waterfalls, forests, history…. The Bay of Islands is as dreamy as its name and then some. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do in the Bay of Islands!
The Bay of Islands is an elegant, vast and stunning district on the beautiful east coast of Northland, New Zealand. The 144 subtropical islands are centred around the main hub of Paihia, Opua and Waitangi, our nation’s birthplace. Where you can find most of the water-based activities of the area.
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