Take a boat tour to the Hole in the Rock on Piercy Island and sail through its 16 metre-high hole
Visit the historic town of Russell and enjoy seaside restaurants, calm waters and spectacular sunsets
Head to a secluded beach – with 144 islands to choose from, it’s easy to find one whether you’re travelling by land or sea
Go bodyboarding down the sand dunes on Ninety Mile Beach and dig for native shellfish
Destination Highlights
Take a boat tour to the Hole in the Rock on Piercy Island and sail through its 16 metre-high hole
Visit the historic town of Russell and enjoy seaside restaurants, calm waters and spectacular sunsets
Head to a secluded beach – with 144 islands to choose from, it’s easy to find one whether you’re travelling by land or sea
Go bodyboarding down the sand dunes on Ninety Mile Beach and dig for native shellfish
Our Bay of Islands holidays can take you to the unspoilt coves and beaches of this beautiful area. This natural harbour is around 10 miles wide and is located on the temperate north-east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. With its clear waters and beautiful blue skies, it’s hard not to think of it as paradise.
Water activities are aplenty during your Bay of Islands holidays, including diving, fishing or swimming with dolphins. If you’re looking to explore, there are boat cruises around the islands, including taking a trip to Motukokako Island, also known as Piercy Island and Hole in the Rock. There’s also a plethora of sandy beaches and secluded coves calling out to those who simply wish to relax in the sunshine.
Bay of Islands holidays offer natural and multicultural treasures
New Zealand’s founding document was signed at Waitangi Treaty Grounds by the British Crown and Maori Chiefs in 1840. These grounds are a must if you’re looking to discover and understand more about Maori culture. With traditional Maori performances in a meeting house containing exquisite carvings, this award-winning venue should be on the ‘to do’ list for all travellers to the Bay of Islands. You can also explore the native forest and gardens surrounding the grounds, which pleasantly add to the stunning views over the Bay of Islands.
Experience the majesty of the Kauri trees as you visit the Bay of Islands. Some of the trees reach up to 600 metres tall and several metres wide. For a more relaxed day, enjoy the splendour of the Ninety Mile Beach, with its glorious sands and laid-back approach to life. The subtropical climate is known for producing delightful wines and there are lots of artisan food producers to entice your taste buds – perfect for a picnic on the beach. If you prefer to explore further afield, take a trip to Cape Regina and experience the ocean views where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet.
Pair your Bay of Islands holiday with a trip to Auckland. Located just a three and a half hour drive away, which is short for New Zealand standards, this thriving city is home to a cosmopolitan atmosphere and plenty of attractions.
Expert Tips
Chris
Senior Travel Consultant
Jas
Travel Consulting and Partnership Manager
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