Sights & Activities
Unforgettable Sights
Bay of Islands – gaze at this marine wonderland of over one hundred islands dotted with secluded bays.
Cape Reinga and the Columbia Maelstrom – watch in wonder as the meeting of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean produces waves up to 10 metres high.
Adrenaline-rush
High-speed boat trips – hold on to your hat as you zip across the water’s surface to see the famous Hole in the Rock (
www.excitor.com) or (
www.mackattack.co.nz).
Relax & Indulge
Eagles Nest – unwind at this private estate featuring private chef and spa treatment (
www.eaglesnest.co.nz).
Cruising on Missionhills – board this elegant 72 ft motor yacht for a luxurious Bay of Islands cruise (
www.paihiabeach.co.nz).
Top Picks
Culture
Waitangi Treaty Grounds – visit one of New Zealand’s most famous historical sites as you stand in the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 (
www.waitangi.net.nz).
Road Trip
Twin Coast Discovery Highway – drive this stunning route through beaches, rainforest and settlements as you tour through the Bay of Islands up to the sub-tropical far north, before heading back down the enchanting east coast.
Luxury
Paihia Beach Resort & Spa – treat yourself to a spa after checking-in to the luxurious and well-appointed suites that overlook the Bay of Islands (
www.paihiabeach.co.nz).
Inexpensive or Free
The Kauri Museum, Matakohe – visit one of the country’s most amazing theme museums (
www.kaurimuseum.com).
Culinary Experience
Pure Tastes, Paihia – renowned for its cooking school and cutting-edge dining (
www.puretastes.co.nz).
Exclusive Dining
Carrington Resort, Karikari Peninsula – experience gourmet cuisine by a Michelen Star trained chef, with a focus on food grown on the Carrington Estate (
www.carrington.co.nz).
Casual Dining
Smashed Pipi, Mangawhai – enjoy excellent food and art near the beach (
www.smashedpipi.com).
Café
Sahara, Paparoa
– sample local produce in tasty eclectic combinations (
www.eatdrinkchill.co.nz).
Swishy Bar
Toast Wine & Cocktail Bar, Paihia – peruse the a fabulous wine list and divine cocktails at this stylish bar (
www.toastbar.co.nz).
Cosy Pub
Gumstore Bar & Grill, Whangaroa – relax and chat over a meal in a beautiful historic building (1890) set among the mangroves (t. +64 9 405 1703).
Shops or gallery
Just Imagine Gallery, Russell – browse this retail gallery for artworks, jewellery and books (
www.justimagine.co.nz).
