Bay of Islands
UPPER NORTH ISLAND
Northland
The Bay of Islands and the region north of Auckland is a world of sea and sand, beaches and bush-clad bays, a perfect place to relax after or before a long flight, or simply to get away to for a precious long weekend.
Take a boat cruise, sail, watch wild dolphins, kayak, picnic on the beach, paddle board, dive, fish or just retreat and recover.
The region is also one of New Zealand's most historically significant, both in terms of Maori and European history and settlement and has a fascinating mix of natural, cultural and historical sites to explore.
Weather is subtropical and mild.
Northland hold remnants of the great New Zealand Kauri forests.These magnificent native New Zealand trees grow to be 1000 years old.
Visit New Zealand's largest known living kauri tree, Tane Mahuta at Waipoua Forest
The Treaty of Waitangi is today the basis of Maori-European partnership in New Zealand.Visit the Treaty Grounds and museum, in the Bay of Islands
From Paihia or Russell join a boat cruise out to the scenic historical islands, in the Bay of Islands maritime park.
Cape Reinga and the northernmost tip of New Zealand where the seas of the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea collide.
Highlights
Beautiful Beaches
Boat Cruises & Sailing with dolphins
New Zealand Maori history & Waitangi Treaty grounds,
Cape Reinga
Kauri Forests
Golf at Kauri Cliffs
Local Area
Driving Times
Auckland-Kerikeri: 3 hours
The Bay of Islands is a good three hours north of Auckland by car.
Often a better option is to fly to the main town, Kerikeri, and explore from there. The plane is a small one so be aware of luggage restrictions. Car rental is available from Kerikeri's airport.