Camping and Nature in the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands offers some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural surroundings, making it a perfect camping destination for lovers of the great outdoors. With a robust array of holiday parks spread out across the region, there’s no shortage of excellent spots to pitch your tent and engross yourself in the natural wonder around you. Entering the Bay, you’ll get an unrivalled taste of New Zealand’s distinct native atmosphere and aroma. Whether you’re eager to go for a swim or trek through the bush, the Bay of Islands offers a relaxing way to explore the country’s natural beauty. You’ll also get the benefit of being close to all of the best activities, whether you’re keen to hit the beach, go game fishing, or even just hop between the many amazing restaurants and cafes.  If you’re the kind of person to make trying all of the local cuisine a big part of your holiday, then there’s no shortage of incredible culinary options conveniently dotted around the Bay for you to …

Bay of Islands Best Beaches

Like anywhere in Northland, there are countless beautiful beaches along the Bay of Islands. Some inviting to swim, snorkel and relax with golden sand, others providing hours of fun for old and young finding rock pebbles, shells and other curious items. Here are our top picks that you won’t want to miss when in the area. The Bay of Islands is known as a coastal paradise. When it comes to beaches you are really spoilt for choice. Whether you have a car, campervan, boat or kayak, you are bound to find the perfect spot that suits your needs. You can drive along the coast or head out to one of more than 140 islands that make up the Bay of Islands and experience pristine crystal clear water, white sandy beaches, swim with dolphins or go snorkelling, fishing and explore hidden caves and inlets. Paihia Town Beach Paihia, also known as the “Jewel of the Bay of Islands” is bound to have a beach to go with its busy vibe. Indeed, the town’s main beach stretches all along the water…

Bay of Islands Jet Ski Hire

We’re constantly shocked by the sheer amount of people who come to the Bay of Islands hoping for a memorable holiday and then miss some of the most beautiful and unique parts of this region simply because they stay on land. Don’t take just another holiday. Plan a high octane adventure! If you’re looking for a unique way to see the Bay of Islands, a jet ski tour is exactly the thrilling experience you are looking for! Guided Jet ski tours Jet skis are a wonderful way to get close up to the area’s hidden gems while also providing heart-stopping thrills. Feel the sun on your back and the wind in your hair as you zoom out into sheltered bays past caves, rocky cliffs and local wildlife. Your knowledgeable guide will lead the way as you navigate your own jet ski and take in parts of this majestic country that few visitors ever experience. Glide past pristine white beaches and if you’re feeling brave, zoom through the Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett! TRIP HIGHLIGHTS …

Help Prevent Kauri Dieback

The Bay of Islands is known for it’s lush greenery and towering forests. But kauri dieback is threatening our giant kauris with imminent extinction. Without your prompt action, our Northland regional parklands may vanish completely. For 30 years, this disease has existed for some time on Great Barrier island off the coast of Auckland. However, its recent spread to the mainland is directly threatening areas as far east as the Coromandel. In fact, a recent study from the Auckland Council shows that of the distinct areas of kauri forest within the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park alone (which are above 5ha in size) 58.3% are exhibiting symptoms of kauri dieback infection within them to some degree. Sadly, there is no known treatment or cure for Kauri dieback disease. But there are steps you can take while exploring our region to stop the spread of this infection. Let’s take a look. What is Kauri dieback? Before we jump into prevention measures, let’s take a look at…

Directions from Auckland to Paihia

Short distances and scenic routes make New Zealand the perfect destination for self-drive travel and there is no better place to start than in our beautiful Bay of Islands. Only 3 hours from Auckland, golden sand and azure waters await. If you’re driving from Auckland and you missed our guide to driving from Auckland to the Bay of Islands, check it out before continuing on to Paihia below. If you’re following on from the Auckland guide, let’s pick up from where we left off. Kawakawa to Paihia You’ve spent some time wandering around the funky town of Kawakawa, seen the Hundertwasser toilets and maybe even spied the old steam train rolling through town. So now what? As you leave Kawakawa, Highway 1 splits to become Highway 11. Though you are only 20 minutes drive from Paihia, resist the urge to rush. Opua is the most popular port for those who choose to reach the Bay of Islands by sea. In fact, it is commonly the first port for those who have sailed across the Pacif…

Directions from Auckland to Russell

Say kia ora to romance in charming Russell, a favourite for those that want to get away from the crowds and haste of Auckland and enjoy secluded, natural beaches. If you are driving from our largest city and you missed our guide to driving from Auckland to the Bay of Islands, check it out before continuing on to Russell below. If you’re following on from the Auckland guide, let’s pick up from where we left off. Kawakawa to Russell Russell is a small peninsula accessible by via vehicle ferry at Opua or by driving through Russell State Forest. Let’s look at these options in more detail below. Russell State Forest You’ve had your rest stop in kitschy Kawakawa and you are quite keen to continue driving. After all, the views seem to grow more and more beautiful as you head further north and it’s nice to cruise through the changing scenery. If you would like to drive to Russell rather than take the vehicle ferry, you will need to follow State Highway 1 to Old Russell Roa…

Directions from Auckland to Kerikeri

If sun-drenched white sand and crystal waters are just what you’ve been dreaming about, it might be time to take a trip to Kerikeri, the golden horseshoe bay in New Zealand’s north. If you’re planning to drive up from Auckland and you missed our travel guide from Auckland to the Bay of Islands, check it out before continuing on to Kerikeri below. If you’re following on from the Auckland guide, let’s pick up from where we left off. Kawakawa to Kerikeri (Direct) There are two main ways to get to Kerikeri. If you’d prefer to arrive directly, simply follow State Highway 1 from Kawakawa to Pakaraka. Here, Highway 1 will become State Highway 10 which you can follow directly to Kerikeri. However, if you would prefer to take in some other sites on your way, consider taking your journey through Paihia. Kawakawa to Kerikeri (via Paihia) Here you can follow our guide from Kawakawa to Paihia which includes the onward journey to Kerikeri while taking you via the incredible …

Directions from Auckland to the Bay of Islands

With such a variety of areas to explore in this beautiful country, you may be thinking, how can I possible choose just one? My not try the Bay of Islands? With so many different options for towns to visit and explore, there are many hidden treasures waiting to be explored. Venture through old mining villages, dense forest to pristine beaches, all within 4 hours of one of New Zealand’s most bustling cities. This post will explore the best route to take to the Bay of Islands from central Auckland with links to different itineraries based on your chosen destination. Let’s hit the road. Note: For our overseas visitors, be sure to take your time when driving in NZ. Our roads are often narrow and windy so it can be more tiring for the driver to drive three hours in NZ than it would be to drive three hours somewhere where the highways are long and wide. Auckland to Kawakawa This inland route from Auckland reveals some of New Zealand’s most beautiful hidden attraction…

Bay of Islands Sailing Charters

Enjoy an unforgettable sailing charter in the Bay of Islands. A sailing and boating paradise, the region offers calm waters, sheltered ports and breathtaking vistas. While you’re in the region, take advantage of New Zealand’s world-class fishing, diving and snorkelling and cruise between the 150 undeveloped islands that dot the surrounding seas. If you’re looking to enjoy the best of what New Zealand has to offer, sail the Bay of Islands on board a charter yacht. Find Sailing Charters Whatever type of boating you prefer, the Bay of Islands guarantees you a sailing holiday to remember. Learn to sail Whether you are an experienced mariner or it’s your first time tackling the high seas, the Bay of Islands has you covered. Many schools in the region offer lessons to first time sailors with intensive courses and professional instructors. Choose from anywhere between one-day courses close to shore and six-day adventure courses that take you out through some of the 150 isl…

Backpacking in the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands turquoise waters have long been a drawcard for those travelling to New Zealand. Sailing trips, game fishing, watersports and island-hopping are among many of the ways to enjoy this colourful region. Find Backpacker Accommodation The Bay of Islands is also steeped in history too. The first Europeans settled here with Russell being the first capital of New Zealand in the 19th century. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here between the British and the Maori, forging the guidelines for the New Zealand that exists today. Russell Russell, formerly known as Kororāreka, maintains an important place in New Zealand's history, being the first sea port, first European settlement and New Zealand's first capital. The streets of Russell retain their original layout and names from 1843, and many of its historic buildings can still be visited today. It’s a lovely place to stop for a bite to eat on your way to Flagstaff Hill. The 30min loop walk takes you from Wate…

Zane Grey

Despite the global threat of overfishing, the subtropical waters of northern New Zealand are, still to this day, home to some of the most abundant fisheries on the planet. Keen anglers flock in their hoards from around the world each year to enjoy a piece of the big game action, providing a welcome boost to our booming tourist industry here in paradise. Our modern international reputation for game fishing can be traced back to one man. Zane Grey (January 31st 1872 – October 23rd 1939) was an American bestselling author, most notable for his extensive collection of Western novels. During and after his life he published more than 90 books which sold in excess of 40 million copies, and has since had well over 100 films based upon his works. Grey was not only a renowned author, but, like many in the world in that exciting era of globalisation, also an intrepid explorer. Famous for his passion about fishing, Zane Grey used his wealth to travel all over the world in pursuit…

Waewaetorea Island

Whether it’s history, culture, hiking, water sports or sunbathing that most captures your imagination, there is something on Waewaetorea Island for everybody. It is difficult to believe that a location as captivating as this simple, unspoilt little island could be quite so peaceful, and not heaving with other tourists all clamouring to enjoy their own day in Heaven at the same time. Such is the charm of New Zealand. There is every chance that you will indeed find yourselves standing on the island alone, enveloped in the scents and sounds and spellbinding views of nature. It is a truly magical feeling when you realise you are miles away from civilisation, and technology, smog, traffic, bills and work. The pressures of modern life will exist only on a different planet to the one you’re standing on – or at least that’s how you will feel – once you first sink your toes into the perfect, white sand of Waewaetorea Island’s beaches. The gentle birdsong and the rhythmic waves…

Game Fishing

Welcome to the Bay of Islands, or, as you might come to know it, the Angler’s Eldorado. Within as little as half an hour of our idyllic shores lie some of the best fishing grounds on the planet, and our very own Russell – New Zealand’s first capital city (as difficult as it may be to imagine of this quaint little town today) – is home to the second oldest game fishing club in the world. Find Charter Boats We have the American author Zane Grey to thank for putting us on the world game fishing map in the 1920s, and in his aforementioned book he predicted, "The New Zealand coast is destined to become the most famous of all fishing waters. It will bring the best anglers from all over the world." His prophecy has proven to be accurate. Almost a century on, anglers are still flocking to our waters in droves during our big game fishing season (December until end of April), in pursuit of the world class experience the Bay of Islands promises. They do not leave disappointed…

Ruapekapeka Pa

The battle of Ruapekapeka took place in January 1846 and it was the last battle of the "Northern War".  A force of around 400 Ngāpuhi and Ngāti Hine had built large earthern fortifications called a pā, which they had designed to defend against the British strategy and armaments of the day. The Māori warriors were fighting for rights guaranteed to them under Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi). The British forces where there to put down the "native rebellion" that they viewed as a threat to the authority of the Crown. The Māori forces entrenched at Ruapekapeka were continually bombarded by British cannon fire for over a week and the Ngati Hine chief, Te Ruki Kawiti, planned to withdraw from the pa from 8th January. What happens next and why is somewhat in debate. What we do know is that reinforcements arrived in the form of Ngāpuhi tribal chief, Hone Heke and his men. On 10th January, the British officer in charge, Colonel Despard had all his guns in positio…

Urupukapuka Island

If you were asked to sum up Urupukapuka Island in only one word, it would have to be – quite simply – “Wow”.  As the largest of all the 140 beautiful islands in the Bay, you are so spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do on this island recreation reserve that you will find it difficult to only spend one day there. Luckily, you don’t have to! With three camp sites on the island to choose between, all of which charge extremely affordable rates, you are able to take your time and explore the island at your leisure. You can also use Urupukapuka as a base from which you can explore the other smaller islands dotted around the Bay. When you first arrive in this breathtaking haven of tranquillity, there is a good chance you will feel compelled to leave all traces of technology switched off at the bottom of your rucksack, and indulge in the simplicity of nature. However, for those of you who need to stay in contact with the outside world, or who simply cannot wait to u…

Moturua Island

Moturua Island: If you were to create your idea of paradise into a mere 136 hectares, what might you put there? Would there be a variety of beaches, perhaps, all completely different and yet each as glorious as the last? Crystal clear, turquoise waters; calm, safe and warm enough to jump right into? Stunning panoramic views, accessed by invigorating walks through an exotic wilderness? Rich, green forests, abundant with luscious, native vegetation? Would a healthy population of beautiful, rare wildlife, that you may never have laid eyes upon before, be thriving in your vision? Perhaps there would even be a plethora of fascinating archaeological secrets hidden in the landscape, telling stories of war, colonialism and prehistoric culture? The good news is: all the hard work has been done for you. This vision already exists in real life, and it is called Moturua Island, a very special haven tucked away in the magical Bay of Islands. This Pacific treasure is accessible by …

Roberton Island

Once you catch a commercial boat charter from Paihia or Russell, the first of many picturesque islands you will arrive at is Roberton Island, a rugged Pacific gem off our eastern shores. Also known as Motuarohia Island, as it was called before being purchased from Ngāpuhi chiefs in 1839 by a whaling ship captain named John Roberton, this tranquil little island is steeped in fascinating Māori and colonial history. Roberton Island History The earliest settlement history of the island can be dated back to the prehistoric beginnings of Polynesian settlement in Aotearoa. It is believed that the descendants of the first Māori settlers continued to live and flourish in the island’s habitat over the following centuries. This is evidenced in the large scattering of ancient Māori archaeological sites – such as pa, terraces, pits and gardening lines – that can be found throughout the central lagoon area. Motuarohia was first discovered by Captain Cook in 1769, who anchored the En…

Kawakawa: The Bay of Islands steam train town

Kawakawa is a truly unique place! The town, which lies to the southwest of Paihia in the Bay of Islands, brims with charm, though its latest claim to fame is somewhat unorthodox. Fans of the famous Austrian designer, Friedensreich Hundertwasser (or public toilets for that matter) may already know the small town of Kawakawa, having been awarded the much coveted Golden Plunger award. The award, given in honour of the Austrian’s only building in the Southern hemisphere, denotes the world’s best public toilets, as voted for by a globe-trotting public! What more could a visitor require? Aside from its decidedly quirky claim to fame, Kawakawa is a quirky little town. The famous steam train which runs through the centre of town every weekend, affectionately known as ‘Gabriel’, is a huge attraction, bringing visitors from around Northland, and further afield, for the most relaxing way to see both Kawakawa and the most beautiful local scenery. Again, this has heralded a claim to …

Kerikeri: New Zealand’s hidden haven

Kerikeri is an ideal spot from which to enjoy the best of the Bay of Islands for those that prefer fine food to fast sport, prefer quality cafes to vibrant nightlife. Here is a location to relax in comfort and peace, surrounded by exceptional scenery; a place to truly relax and indulge in the finest food and wine. Filled with intriguing galleries, surrounded by the most beautiful landscapes of Northland and alive with culture, Kerikeri has remained off the tourist map, somehow, but it must not be missed. Tucked into the Northern Shore of the Bay of Islands is Kerikeri, one of the most charming historic sites in all of New Zealand. An idyllic getaway, where time seems to stand still, Kerikeri is steeped in history, but it is the setting that makes the township the ideal place to stop the clock for a few days. Just four hours north of Auckland, Kerikeri seems to have slipped under the radar, and remains, despite the popularity of Northland, a hidden gem, tucked into the No…

Opua

Opua is where the car ferry can be caught to drive over to Russell. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Bay of Islands’, Opua is a beautiful seaside home, well known as a sailing haven, and the first spot tired sailors make land after a gruelling crossing of the South Pacific. And there can be nowhere more comfortable, peaceful and beautiful to recuperate. Sitting on the southern edge of the beautiful Bay of Islands, where the Waikeri and Kawakawa Rivers merge, Opua is the best place in Northland for exploring the water. However, if crossing the South Pacific is a little strenuous for your annual break, Opua should not be overlooked as a spot to dip your toes, lie back in the sun and let life float past on the sea breeze. Opua Marina, New Zealand’s first port of call Anyone visiting Opua will spend time down at the marina. Opua Marina is a beautiful place to sit and forget about life, the marina is also the hub for departing cruises, day trips and sailing excursions through the 144 …