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Destination Bay of Islands | Bay of Islands Travel Guide
About The Bay of Islands:
Visitors to New Zealand will hear the Bay of Islands mentioned roughly every 5 minutes. The reason behind this is that it is one of New Zealand's most stunning areas and all visitors to the Bay of Islands come back raving about it. The Bay of Islands are are often described using the same phrases of idyllic, pretty and naturally beautiful thanks to the combination of rainforest, remote and pristine beaches, relaxed atmosphere, wildlife, adventure activities and fresh, sea air. The Bay of Islands really is one of those places you dream of living one day.
The Bay of Islands consists of a number of cultural and historical towns:
- Kawakawa - Gateway to the Bay of Islands - from here you can visit the glow worms at Waiomio as well as the super cool public toilets designed by Frederick Hundertwasser before he died.
- KeriKeri - For arts, crafts, fruit, wine, chocolate and all things pretty KeriKeri is the place to visit. For your historical fix check out the KeriKeri Mission House, the oldest house in New Zealand and then take the hour's walk to the impressive Rainbow Falls.
- Russell - Jump on the ferry from Paihia to visit Russell and visit the churches and museums to find out more about the history of New Zealand. Russell's Long Beach is the perfect place to relax for the day.
- Waitangi - Home of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 it is here that you can really learn about Maori culture before jumping in a kayak to explore the mangroves and Haruru Falls.
- Paihia - The most popular spot for visitors with its pristine beaches, adventure sports, bohemian vibe and relaxed atmosphere.
Paihia makes a great place to base yourself whilst exploring New Zealand's Northland.
Bay of Islands History
The town of Russell became known as the 'hell hole of the North' due to the influx of sealers and whalers. In 1840 life in the North finally settled when the Treaty of Waitangi was agreed and signed allowing Europeans and Maori to live together in New Zealand peacefully and harmoniously. The Bay of Islands is still home to many historical buildings and is one of the optimum places to visit in order to learn about the history of New Zealand.
Bay of Islands Attractions & Activities
Waitangi Treaty grounds jdegenhardt Flickr
Free things to do:
- Hit the beaches. There are plenty to choose from especially if you are staying in Paihia.
- Try out one of the many walks & treks around the area. From 45 minute walks, 3 hour returns to 8 hour day treks, there is plenty of rainforest, beach and coast for you to walk along and explore.
- Spend an hour in one of the area's quaint museums and historic houses.
Things to do under $20
- Coffee & people watching in Paihia.
- Hire a Bike for the day and explore the area.
- Wine tasting in KeriKeri.
- Learn about the history and culture of New Zealand at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
- Snorkeling - some of New Zealand's most impressive marine life can be seen in the Bay of Islands.
Things to do over $20
- Hire a sea kayak and set off to explore the Bay of Islands.
- Skydive the Bay of Islands.
- Parasail over the crystal blue waters of the North.
- Learn to dive.
- Swim with dolphins.
- Try a sailing adventure and visit Cape Brett and the hole in the rock.
- Learn to fish and catch your dinner.
More Bay of Islands Attractions & Activities
Bay of Islands Restaurants & Bars:
Good Places to Eat:
- 35 degrees South Aquarium - Paihia
- Alfresco's Bar and Cafe - Paihia
- Only Seafood - Paihia
- KeriKeri Bakehouse - KeriKeri
- The Italians - KeriKeri
Good Places to Drink
- The Duke - Russell
- Mako Beach Bar - Paihia
- Marsden Estate Winery - KeriKeri
Do More New Zealand
- Book a bed or Check Availability Nomads Hostels
- Find a Nomads Hostel in New Zealand
- Read the New Zealand Destination Guide & Travel Advice
- Read some Travel Articles
- Find a Job - it's free to join
