Blog
Paihia, New Zealand, the hub of the Bay of Islands
Paihia, famous for its beaches, dolphins and nightlife, Paihia is the social and sporting centre of the Bay of Islands; the ideal place for a family holiday in New Zealand’s Northland. Year round sun setting on stunning scenery – Paihia is the place to be.
Russell, New Zealand, a secret retreat in the Bay of Islands
Russell, New Zealand’s favourite hidden retreat. Where sun, sea and secrecy thrive together. Taking accommodation in Russell, New Zealand provides the perfect escape, with the best of the Bay of Islands right on your doorstep.
The Bay of Islands, New Zealand – the perfect escape
Known as the highlight of Northland, New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is an outdoor lovers’ paradise. Beautiful coastline, forgotten beaches, and endless wildlife – the Bay of Islands is a family holiday treasure, where spot, culture and scenery combine in a heady mix.
Waitangi, New Zealand; Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Famous for its unique place in the history of New Zealand, Waitangi Treaty Grounds make an essential stop of any New Zealand tour, whether domestic or international. Beauty and history, ensure you don’t miss the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Holidays in Whangaroa – A slice of heaven by the sea
The small town of Whangaroa, New Zealand is a forgotten haven, whose long history, magnificent sailing, fishing and diving conditions have made it a hotly protected secret. The best of holidays sport fishing; Whangaroa.
Maori History
Maori occupied the Bay of Islands from as early as the 10th century. The first tribes stayed for only relatively short periods. Garden sites documented by archaeologists at Urimatao, on Moturua Island, are evidence of their occupation.
Kerikeri History
According to Maori Historians, Ngati-Miru, the people who first lived in the Kerikeri district, were attacked and driven away by a war party of Ngapuhi. Terraces are the visual evidence of the pa (fortified settlement) the Ngapuhi built, this area is now known as Kororipo (swirling waters).
Opua History
Opua’s basin and wharf, situated at the junction of the Veronica Channel, Waikare Inlet and Kawakawa River afford the last deep-water anchorage in the inner Bay of Islands. A railway to Kawakawa and a road connecting with the car ferry to the Russell peninsular make Opua a natural crossroads for travellers.
Paihia History
With its three sandy beaches sheltered by rocky islets, Paihia has been a popular holiday destination for over a hundred years.
Russell History
Long before Captain Cook’s visit in 1769, Russell was an established settlement of various Maori tribes. Its name at that time, Kororareka, reflected a legend that a wounded chief asked for penguin and on tasting the broth said ” Ka reka to korora.” (How sweet is the penguin.)
Ipipiri – a historic map of the Bay of Islands
Place names come and go, but the land remains. An enquiry from a cousin about the name of one particular headland near his home in Manawaora Bay, Bay of Islands, started Murphy Shortland on a five year quest to record the pre-European names of the eastern Bay of Islands. The result is a map which he has called Ipipiri, a name used by the Maori to refer to what Captain Cook named the Bay of Islands.
