EXPLORING THE SUNNY BAY OF ISLANDS
On the east coast of Northland a length of coastline circles a sea bejewelled with 150 islands. These are the clear blue-green waters of the Bay of Islands. Where history and present merge, golden sand meets frothy waves, where your sun-umbrella is a Pohutakawa tree.
With hundreds of activities to do and places to explore, set against a stunning backdrop and tempting subtropical temperatures, all at an easy distance to Auckland, it's not surprising it attracts visitors - who before long become residents - from around the world.
To read more about the many things to see and do in Northland, visit the Destination Northland website.
Beaches
Paddle a sea kayak in and out of the islands' nooks and crannies, swim with the dolphins or just relax on the golden sand beaches. You can still find your own deserted stretch of beach in the Bay of Islands, and enjoy the pristine beauty of ocean from the shore, or explore it with a snorkel and mask.
Ask a local or the closest Information Centre to recommend the best beaches for the activities you have in mind. If you'd like to hire a kayak or boat, or learn to dive, you can ask the Information Centre about that too.
Golf
The Bay of Islands is a golfer's dream. It's home to many stunning, world-class golf courses ideal for amateurs and professionals. And some, like the Waitangi Golf Club, one of New Zealand's premier courses, even have sea views! Uncrowded and picturesque, the numerous local clubs welcome visitors of all levels.
The Waitangi Golf Club, Bay of Islands Golf Club and Kauri Cliffs are just a few of the many in the area.
Fishing
Internationally renowned for its big gamefishing grounds, the Bay of Islands is one of the best fishing spots in the country. There are 144 islands and bays to discover, so charter a yacht or a launch, catch your own fresh seafood, and taste for yourself what is so special about this part of the world.
There are numerous beaches to surf cast from, and wharves to fish from. Tapeka Point is a favourite for catching record-sized snapper. Click here for a handy list of fishing charters. Or, if you want to go all out, try heli-fishing to access some truly magical spots.
Festivals
Celebrating sports, arts, culture, music or just good food and wine, an array of festivals attract visitors year-round. With fresh caught seafood, local wines and jazz in the street, Bay of Islanders have a full calendar of entertainment to look forward to.
To see a calendar of upcoming festivals, click here.
Walks
From day-long tramps to short scenic walks, one of the best ways to discover the Bay of Islands is on foot. There are coastlines and majestic forests to explore, with thundering waterfalls, private coves to stop at for a refreshing dip or picnic, native birds and sea creatures close enough to touch, wild fig trees offering snacks, and wharves to meander along.
Read more about the scenic walks in Paihia, or popular walks throughout the Bay of Islands.
Contact Us
Keith Day contact@bayofislandsproperty.com phone +64 27 475 5566