Near the remote Northern most tip of New Zealand, 60km northwest of Whangarei , lies 16kms of sheltered coastline fondly known as The Bay of Islands. A protected group of over 144 seemingly endless islands, each with their own tranquil appeal provide an aquatic playground for all. Grassy hills give way to the rocky outcrops protecting the pristine white sand beaches below them. The Bay of Islands has a subtropical climate and an average of 24 degrees in summer. A range of accommodation is found at the townships of Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri. There’s plenty of activities to do here in and out of the water.

With over 100 dive sites, The Bay of Islands area is teaming with marine life, above and below the water including Manta rays , whales & dolphins. There are plenty of craggy outcrops, coral and wrecks to explore, including the infamous Rainbow Warrior.

Game fishing is well renowned with a wide variety of marine species on offer including Marlin, kingfish & snapper. If you would rather cruise away the day enjoying the scenery take a sailing trip, charter a yacht or rent a canoe.

Don’t miss the popular historical “Cream trip” which follows a cream, produce, mail & supplies route originally sailed in the 1920’s by the Undine, a beautiful small gaff rigged sailboat which still sails today. Visit these same islands on a day trip of your choice.

What would a trip to the Bay of Islands be without a dolphin cruise? Bottlenose dolphins call this part of the world home, frolicking in the azure waters and riding the bow waves of the charter boats. View from the deck or take equal delight in diving beneath the waves to interact with these intelligent, highly social creatures. Bird enthusiasts will be treated to a show of blue penguins, grey warblers, tui, pukeko and the endangered NZ dotterall, just to name a few.

Head to Keri keri , for the the day following the trail of roadside stalls full of fresh fruit. Use the honesty box, a kiwi tradition to pay for your fare. Taste handmade chocolates at Makana Chocolates, visit one of the many wineries or discover the artists that frequent this area. See The Stone Store, New Zealand’s oldest Stone building (circa 1832) and Mission house, fondly known as “Kemp house”, the oldest wooden structure still standing in NZ (circa 1821-1822). Walk along the 4km river track to the roaring cascade of Rainbow Falls.

Take the ferry ride from Paihia to the small, quaint tree lined township of Russell. Once an industrial Whaling community dating back to 19th century, Russell is now famous for it’s Waterfront dining experience. Visit one of the friendly bars or seek out a gourmet meal at a fine Bay of Island Restaurants as you meander through the myriad of choices. Pull up a chair at the regal Duke of Marlborough, an original Whaling pub. Some of New Zealand’s biggest music acts still perform here. If it’s history you’re after, follow a bushwalk up to flagstaff hill, the site where Hone Heke’s warrior’s felled the British flag.

Enjoy a superb round of golf at Waitangi on the 18 hole course in the national reserve. Created in 1945 this course remains a firm favourite for golfers who like to finish a game on a spectacular sunset.

Marvel at the ancient Kauri trees of the Waipou forest, trek out to Cape Brett lighthouse, powerboat through the majestic hole in the wall. Cruise on a Tall ship, skydive, boogie board on the sand dunes, visit glow worm caves or go on a mountain biking adventure. It’s all here. Take one of the many well maintained walking tracks and take in the fantastic views across the Bay.

All that’s left is to take a scenic flight to delight in the whole experience which is The Bay of Islands. Voted as having the 2nd bluest sky in the world in 2006, this collection of small islands rich in culture and history, sits within Northland, regarded as the birthplace of New Zealand.

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