Bay of Islands

Where beauty knows no bounds

The Bay of Islands is an aquatic playground with 144 islands to explore. Its biscuit-coloured shores offer plenty of opportunity for fun, adventure or downright laziness.

A novice begins their exploration with a ferry crossing from Paihia to Russell, sitting on the open deck listening to the rhythmic humming of the engine, as dolphins surf the bow wave and gannets swoop overhead.

Then on the arrival upon Russell's pebbled shores, enjoy a Waitangi sunset and fish and chips on the wharf.

To really appreciate the Bay of Islands, you must find your sea-legs and hop aboard a boat. Try a cream boat cruise, whiz out to the Hole in the Rock, take a Tall Ship cruise, explore in a tinny, or be daring and learn to sail.

The adventure of sailing through open expanses of glistening blue water is only matched in pleasure by the sheer joy of finding your own private cockle-filled bay.

Plump beds of scallops await divers in crystal clear depths. Fishing is good - the snapper is plentiful here.