The North Island’s Bay of Islands is a subtropical playground that offers a quiescently kiwi mix of beaches, beauty and history.
Located in Northland, the Bay of Islands area includes over 140 islands, and was settled by the Māori over 700 years ago. Captain Cook was the first European to visit, in 1769, and the Bay of Islands was the first area of European settlement in New Zealand.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Given its rich history, it should come as no surprise that one of the top tourist attractions in the area is the Waitangi Treaty Ground. This is where the modern New Zealand nation was born, with the Treaty of Waitangi or Te Tiriti o Waitangi being signed between the British crown and the Māori nation. Hāngi (a traditional Māori cooking method) and evening concerts are featured during the summer. Guided tours, cultural performances and museums round out an experience that epitomizes New Zealand’s history and culture.
Beaches
Arguably some of New Zealand’s best beaches are located in Bay of Islands. From Paihia Beach, (located in the area’s main tourist centre, Paihia) to Matai Bay (On the KariKari Penisula), to the beaches of Urupukapuka Island, sunbathers and water lovers will not be disappointed.
Urupukapuka Island
Speaking of Urupukapuka, a day on the largest of the 140 (or so) islands in the Bay of Plenty is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy sand, sun, water and scenic hikes. The island is part of the Bay of Islands Maritime Park (which also features the iconic Hole in the Rock formation). Dolphins and whales make their home in the waters of the park.
Dolphin Cruises
Visitors looking to spend a few hours in the company of dolphins can book a cruise in the Bay of Islands, where they may glimpse (and if they are lucky, swim with) bottlenose dolphins and common dolphins.
Russell
Historic Russell was founded in 1843 as the town of Kororāreka, and contains some of New Zealand’s oldest structures. Built in 1835 (even before the town came into being), Christ Church is the oldest surviving church in the country. It was New Zealand’s first capital, albeit for a short time; Auckland was named the new capital a short time later (with the title eventually ending up in Wellington).
Paihia
The main town in the Bay of Islands, Paihia offers a mix of shops, restaurants, cafes and tour operators offering excursions throughout the area.
Haruru Falls
Haruru means ‘big noise’ in Te Reo Māori, and visitors realize why this waterfalls is given its name as they approach. Walking trails make for a memorable day of exercise and wonderful scenery. Haruru Falls is located approximately 5 km from Paihia.
