Bay of Island
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As the name suggests the Bay of Islands is situated on the North Island of New Zealand, is a water lover’s playground. The beautiful white sandy beaches sit under some of the bluest skies in the world - as voted in 2006. The Poor Knights Islands offer excellent diving and fishing at a huge selection of reefs. The diversity of the marine life has been marvelled at by many including Jacques Cousteau who put this area among the best in the world. Fishing options include trips to the reef or game fishing for Marlin and other pelagic species. Sailing the Bay of Islands is a rewarding experience and there is a wide choice of charters to choose from. One of the most popular cruises to take is the Cream Trip which takes you on the original route of the old 1920’s sailboat Undine. Dolphins frequent the Bay of Islands waters and some of the tours on offer also combine a swim with the dolphins in their package. Another unique sailing experience is aboard the 18th century R. Tucker Thompson Tall ship. If sailing is too sedate climb aboard Excitor, a fast boat experience that takes you to Cape Brett light house, the hole in the wall and cathedral cave. The dining scene in the Bay of Islands is naturally based around the ocean and the best example is at Russell where restaurants and cafes line the waterfront. The Duke of Marlborough is a charming historic venue with superb food and views of the Bay of Islands. Accommodation is also available here from a standard room to a bungalow.
Accommodation elsewhere in the Bay of Islands is a mixture of Hotels and bed and breakfast. The Backpacker hostels are funky and friendly and there are many to choose from. During the second weekend in August The Bay of Islands Jazz and Blues Festival is held and the place is a buzz with music. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a cultural experience or The Puketi Kauri Forest just a short drive north where the native birdlife has flourished. Keri Keri is one of the quaint towns in the area. It is small enough to walk about and visit The old Stone Store, Kemp house and Rewa’s village, a replica pa. Paihia is the main town in The Bay of Islands and its waterfront is lined with beautiful Pohutakawa trees which turn flame red during the summer months. Accommodation is easy to find here, the main type being motels. There are great swimming beaches and a bridge that crosses to Waitangi. Kelly Tarlton’s Shipwreck Museum holds a collection of trinkets from the sea which is well worth a look. The Bay of Islands also has a picturesque18 hole golf course at Waitangi.