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Explore the Bay of Islands .. find accommodation, activities and information on the region.
Plan your vacation with the Bay of Islands Travel Guide.
The purpose of these pages is to inform you about news and events, provide you with some historic background information of the area, and help you find accommodation and activities for your Bay of Islands holiday.
Local Activities
Experience Stonegrill Dining which is an exciting interactive dining experience that presents your meal cooking on a heated stone. With a wide selection of menu choices to select from you will be able to try something different every night.
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, overlooking the Bay of Islands, is New Zealand's pre-eminent historic site. It is a place of belonging and enjoyment that is central to the life of the nation and special to all New Zealanders.
Let our friendly staff introduce you to the scenic wonders, history, culture and legends of Northland.
Come sailing on Northland's own iconic tall ship the R. Tucker Thompson!
Often voted the best day of any holiday it is always an experience not
to be missed.
You'll be able to get involved with sailing the ship, help set the
sails, ride on the bowsprit, climb the rigging, or alternatively you can
simply relax while our crew does the work. The ship is spacious and
comfortable and the friendly crew makes it a memorable and personal
experience. Morning cream tea and a delicious BBQ lunch are included.
With the wind behind her, the Tucker is one of Bay's most eco-friendly
vessels so you ll know that your carbon footprint has been kept to a
minimum. The ship is operated as a not-for profit charitable trust with
profits from day sail activities being used to support youth sail
training programmes over the New Zealand winter.
List of amenities
Trip includes ferry transfer to Russell from Paihia if required, morning
cream tea, island stopover and lunch. Cash bar available.
We are a small, owner operated, fishing charter business in the Bay of
Islands. Our flexible, low key approach enables everyone to relax and/or
participate as much as they want. No pressure, fun and a personal
service are all elements that bring clients back to us again and again.
Our Skipper has more than 45 years experience in charter boats and knows
the Bay of Islands like the back of his hand. It is because of this
that we have a solid reputation for good results.
We cater for families, work groups, clubs, schools and individuals of all skill levels.
We enjoy what we do and want to share the pleasures of fishing with
everyone. Our prices are kept as low as possible to keep fishing within
everyone's reach.
So join us and we'll try to make it a day to remember.
Come sailing on Carino NZ. Help hoist the sails or sit back and relax as your 50ft sailing catamaran skims across the waves. We are the only yacht licensed by the Dept of Conservation from which you can swim and view wild dolphins in the Bay of Islands. An island stopover is included to enjoy snorkelling, scenic walks, beach games and swimming. A barbecue lunch is held aboard with a licensed bar.
Kawiti Glow Worm Cave
Historic glowworm and limestone caves. Discovered in the early 17th century, Kawiti cave is 200m in length, 20m at the highest point and 12m at its widest. Guided tours available (30-40 minutes duration). Handrails and wooden walkways through the cave and most of the bushwalk track over the hill, returning to the carpark. Limestone formations throughout the cave from entrance to exit. The return 10min bushwalk is approximately 350m through a natural corridor of ferns, shrubs, fungi, trees and karst limestone and sandstone formations. Glowworms throughout the cave. Good vehicle access. Location: 50km north of Whangarei, 5km south of Kawakawa, 1km off the main highway. Open 7 days, 8.30am to 4.30pm.
Let our drivers immerse you in the culture and history of the area, while taking in the amazing scenery. The best day adventure to the Far North.
Dune Rider vehicle features:
*Purpose-built off-road vehicle
*Air conditioned with lots of leg room and reclining seats
*A sloping floor giving the best views
Your tour includes:
* Early morning pick up at your accommodation
* Fascinating commentary by our local drivers
* Coastal cafe morning tea stop
* Gumdigger’s Park guided tour (entry fee included)
* Freshly prepared lunch box (included in price)
* Drive along 90 Mile Beach with a stop to wet your feet
* Climb huge sand dunes and boogie board down
* Walk to Cape Reinga lighthouse and view the meeting of the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea
* Stop at the Ancient Kauri Kingdom
* Visit ‘world famous’ Mangonui Fish Shop
(fresh fish and chips optional extra)
Tandem Skydiving at the Bay of Islands is a exciting and thrilling experience....No one jumps higher in New Zealand! Skydive Zone is the only Qualmarked tandem skydive operation to jump at 16,000ft - that's over a minute of freefall! Choose between a variety of camera options to guarantee that your one-minute of 110% pure adrenalin lasts a whole lifetime.
What’s more, you are jumping over one of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand – enjoy awesome views during your scenic ascent of the 144 islands in this patch of paradise. A truly breathtaking experience on the way up and on the way down.
Enjoy excellent facilities at our dropzone, including WiFi, wide-screen TV, lounge and vending machines and plenty of space to chill out before and after your skydive.
The Bay of Islands is the perfect location for your skydive as it offers amazing views. Don't miss out!
Local Accommodation
Located in central Paihia, the Qualmark 3 Star Plus ASURE Casa Bella Motel is an ideal base for exploring the beautiful Bay of Islands and all that Northland has to offer.
ASURE Casa Bella Motel owners Les and Irene offer you a friendly welcome to your comfortable Bay of Islands accommodation in a quiet location only moments from everything you need in Paihia.
Leave your car behind and walk to the multitude of attractions and activities available and we are just a short walk to the beach, restaurants and bars.
The Paihia Pacific Resort Hotel is just a short stroll from the sun drenched shores of the ocean beaches of Paihia and the many activities available in the Bay Of Islands.
The Autolodge Paihia is located in the stunningly beautiful Bay of Islands. This natural wonderland boasts fantastic beaches, nationally important historic sites, lush native vegetation and the best big game fishing the world has to offer. The hotel is just 100 metres from Paihia wharf and township.
Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands, is next to the historic Treaty House, where New Zealands founding document was signed in 1840. Adjacent to an scenic golf course, native bush walks and some of the best big game fishing in the world!
Welcome to the Bay Adventurer, Paihia's ONLY backpackers resort and apartments in one complex. The Bay Adventurer was purpose designed & built for the needs of travellers, we specialise in providing great value accommodation for travellers that is modern, clean and safe in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Welcome to your own holiday cabin set amongst a sub-tropical hillside landscape in the heart of Paihia.
Our quiet motel accommodation is in central Paihia, is close to shops, cafes, beaches, dolphins, sailing, fishing, water activities and walks.
Quiet, relaxing motel accommodation with magic views. Nestled in 2 hectares of landscaped gardens and native bush away from the noise of Pahia but close enough to enjoy the many beaches, unique activities, shops and cafes Paihia has to offer.
Peppertree Lodge, purpose built for backpacker comfort, is located in the heart of Paihia, gateway to the numerous Bay of Islands adventure activities and tours.
Come and stay at the special place where travellers can relax and enjoy the natural playground of the Bay of Islands. We are a small hostel, away from the crowd and we enjoy getting to know you and giving personal friendly service. Famous for the free continuous continental breakfast.
Soak up the cosy atmosphere of this character house, with tropical gardens in front of Paihia's native bush reserve, listening to the Tuis and other native birds. The hostel accommodates 34 guests and is only 70 metres from the beach, 5 minutes walk to the town centre and bus stops, even closer to local restaurants and bars.
Overlooking the picturesque Port of Opua, Waterview Lodge is a quality accommodation establishment. Our suites have expansive sea views of Opua and the upper harbour. Waterview Lodge is conveniently located to ensure our guests enjoy all that the Bay of Islands has to offer.
Russell, in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand is only 3 hours drive from Auckland. Russell is the first choice for discerning travellers. This historic village and sheltered anchorage is a convenient departure point for all cruises and activities on the Bay. Accommodation at 'A Place in the Sun' is peaceful and private, yet close to all amenities.
Beachside Holiday Park. The Bay of Islands and Far North is a magnificent playground for every one to enjoy, with lots to do, no matter what your interests might be.
"...romantic Russell, luxury accommodation, fabulous bay views... what more could you want?"
