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Bay Of Islands North Island New Zealand

Bay of Islands

Visit Bay of Islands

Introduction

The sun-filled Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand's top tourist draws, an area of beautiful sandy beaches and calm waters ideal for sailing and swimming.

Many base themselves in or close to Paihia, the main town, or in the nearby township of Russell, where whalers, merchants and escaped convicts once gathered.

Today, it's far more genteel, a place to wander around historic buildings or take a dolphin-watching cruise out at sea. Nearby are the orange, kiwi fruit and avocado orchards of Kerikeri, as well as wineries, craft shops and plenty of outdoor cafes.

Another local highlight is the Treaty House at Waitangi, near Paihia. This marks the site at which representatives of the Crown and a number of Maori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi on 02 February 1840. The fact that not all Maori tribes signed the treaty ensures that it remains a contentious topic even now.

A Maori war canoe and a carved meeting house can both be seen on the estate, and Maori performances take place several times each day.

 

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Top itineraries in Bay of Islands

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel, New Zealand.

Best of New Zealand's North Island

17-day tailor-made self-drive from £4,070 pp

Between stunning volcanic landscapes, sub-tropical beaches and world-class wineries, this fly-drive holiday showcases the best of New Zealand's North Island.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Wilderness Highlights of New Zealand

23-day tailor-made self-drive from £6,780 pp incl. flights

Discover the spectacular landscapes of New Zealand's north and south islands on this fly-drive holiday, which includes a journey across the Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine Express.

Self Drive, Mt Cook, New Zealand

New Zealand Wonderland with APT

20-day escorted tour from £7,355 pp incl. flights

Explore in the company of likeminded travellers as you discover the best of New Zealand's north and south islands on this comprehensive and popular and fully-guided tour.

Aoraki Mount Cook, South Island, New Zealand

New Zealand Getaway

19-day escorted tour from £5,295 pp

This superb-value escorted tour is ideal for those looking to see all the highlights of New Zealand in the company of others, with expert guides on hand, and a comfortable hotel room at the end of each action-packed day.

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Top places to stay in Bay of Islands

Spa at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, New Zealand

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, Matauri Bay

Designer lodge

Set amid 6,000 acres of pristine coastal landscape near Matauri Bay in New Zealand's beautiful Bay of Islands around 160 miles north of Auckland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs enjoys a location unlike any other.

Tiki Tiki Ora balcony view, New Zealand

Tiki Tiki Ora, Bay of Islands

Small & intimate b&b

This family owned hideaway features stunning views out towards the Bay of Islands and plenty of individual touches throughout.

The Sanctuary @ Bay of Islands

The Sanctuary @ Bay of Islands

Traditional lodge

Whether it’s the innovative design, picturesque nature reserve setting or indulgent dining options, this is eco-friendly style at its best.

Eagles Nest exterior, New Zealand

Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands

Contemporary hotel

‘World’s Leading Boutique Villa Resort’ three years running in the World Travel Awards and winner of the ‘World’s Best Luxury Coastal Hotel’ in the 2012 World Luxury Hotel Awards, this is the Bay of Islands at its most luxurious.

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Meet our Bay of Islands experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7981 9996

Meet the team

Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7981 9996 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

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Let our travel specialists curate the perfect holiday:

  • Inspirational ideas based on experience
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Every step of the way

Every step of the way

Our services are with you from start to finish:

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