BAY OF ISLANDS

From world-class food and drink to adrenaline-pumping thrills, the Bay has something for everyone.

New Zealand may be best known internationally for its snow-covered alps, but North Islanders know the landscape that makes up the Bay of Islands is quintessentially Kiwi. As we start thinking about farewelling winter, there’s no better location in Aotearoa to soak up the sun. And as with most places worth visiting, there’s something for everyone: here you can appreciate world-class food and drink, take the time to unwind or embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure. We guarantee you’ll never want to leave this stunning piece of paradise.

STAY UNIQUE Donkey Bay Inn

With its quirky décor and exotic art, Donkey Bay Inn is a distinctive accommodation experience. Comprising just four rooms, each with beautiful sea views, Donkey Bay offers intimacy with a side of sensory overload (in the very best way). 38 Long Beach Road, Russell donkeybayinn.co.nz

HISTORIC The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

Immerse yourself in the historic surrounds of Russell at the iconic Duke of Marlborough. Built in 1827 and the holder of New Zealand’s first liquor licence, the iconic Duke underwent extensive refurbishments a few years ago. 35 The Strand, Russell theduke.co.nz

FAMILY FRIENDLY Russell Cottages

These pretty, self-contained cottages are perfect for a family holiday. Just 300m from Russell Beach, there is also a communal heated swimming pool, BBQ area and children’s playground for younger family members. 16/2 Chapel Street, Russell russellcottagescollection.business.site

LUXURIOUS Eagles Nest

The Bay is home to some stunning luxury lodges including Eagles Nest, a peaceful retreat with panoramic ocean views. Here your every need can be catered to, with top chefs, personal butlers and spa therapists at your disposal.

60 Tapeka Road, Russell eaglesnest.co.nz

EAT COOL & CASUAL Hone’s Garden

You’ll truly feel like you’re on holiday when you pay a visit to the relaxed beer garden at Hone’s. Enjoy fantastic pizza while surrounded by palm trees. 10 York Street, Russell hones.co.nz

ON THE WATER Charlotte’s Kitchen

Perched on Paihia Wharf is Charlotte’s Kitchen, from the crew behind The Duke of Marlborough. Where The Duke is all about history, Charlotte’s is its trendy, contemporary cousin – both perfect for a relaxed, boozy afternoon! 69 Marsden Road, Paihia charlotteskitchen.co.nz

HISTORY LESSON The Gables

In a charming heritage building on the foreshore is NZ’s oldest operating restaurant, built in 1847. Come learn The Gables’ fascinating history.

19 The Strand, Russell thegablesrestaurant.co.nz

BREAKFAST & BRUNCH Zane Grey’s

For a leisurely breakfast while taking in stunning sea views, try The Dock at Zane Grey’s on the Paihia waterfront. For something more casual and quick, visit bagel and coffee shop, Hell Hole. 69 Marsden Road, Paihia zanegreys.co.nz

SWEET TREATS Makana Confections

To taste beautiful handmade chocolates, pop in to Makana Confections in Kerikeri. Like a cellar door – but for chocolate – you can watch how the confectionery is made. 504 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri makana.co.nz

FINE DINING Sage @ Paroa Bay Winery

The menu at Sage is inspired by the surrounding land and sea. Stick around to sample the wines or stay a while in the luxury accommodation. 31 Otamarua Road, Russell thelindisgroup.com/paroabaywinerysage

TO MARKET Old Packhouse Market

A visit to this farmers’ market is the best way to sample local goodies including produce, beer, wine, baked goods and live entertainment.

505 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri theoldpackhousemarket.co.nz

DO WORK UP A SWEAT Twin Coast Cycle Trail

Traverse the top of the country on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, which runs between the Bay of Islands and Hokianga Harbour. It’s a great way to soak up beautiful scenery and visit some significant heritage sites. twincoastcycletrail.kiwi.nz

SEE THE SIGHTS The Cream Trip

Follow the original ‘Cream Trip’ delivery route around the Bay of Islands acquired by Albert Ernest Fuller in 1927. Highlights of the cruise include dolphin viewing, checking out the Hole in the Rock and boom netting (riding in a large net attached to the back of the boat).

The Maritime Building, Waterfront, Paihia The Strand, Waterfront, Russell dolphincruises.co.nz

CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS Waitangi Treaty Grounds

No trip far north would be complete without a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Aotearoa’s most significant historic site and the location where New Zealand’s founding document Te Tiriti o Waitangi was signed in 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and Māori chiefs.

1 Tau Henare Drive, Waitangi waitangi.org.nz

TAKE A HIKE Bay of Islands Coastal Walkway

This full-day walk will take you through Paihia, Opua, Okiato and Russell using ferry links. On this track you’ll encounter beautiful coastal beaches, lush native flora, rare native fauna and historic sites. newzealand.com/nz/feature/bay-ofislands-coastal-walkway

CATCH SOME KAI Fishing

The Bay of Islands is a fisherman’s paradise, offering the ideal conditions for a great catch. During Big Game Season, there’s no shortage of operators willing to take you out to sea to help you haul in a whopper. visitboi.co.nz/blog/guide-fishing-bayislands

TAKE A BREAK Ngawha Springs

Take a moment to unwind in the geothermal pools of mineral-rich hot water at the newly revamped Ngawha Springs. There’s the choice to bathe in the main public springs or you can book a private experience.

303 Ngawha Springs Road, Ngawha ngawha.nz

TEE OFF Kauri Cliffs

The Bay of Islands is home to fantastic golf courses, including one of NZ’s marquee courses: Kauri Cliffs. You might consider staying onsite at the luxury lodge too, guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.

139 Tepene Tablelands Rd, Matauri Bay robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/ kauri-cliffs

ADRENALINE RUSH Skydiving

If you’re looking for a skydiving experience that will take your breath away, it’s hard to beat the view in the Bay of Islands. You can experience one of NZ’s highest skydives here, allowing you to take in all 144 islands at once at 20,000ft.

Bay of Islands Airport, 182 Wiroa Road, Kerikeri skydivebayofislands.com

WET YOUR WHISTLE Wine tasting

A Bay of Islands winery tour is highly recommended. Take in the spectacular views at Omata Estate; pair wine with a fabulous meal at Ake Ake Vineyard; or book a unique experience at The Landing Winery, recently opened to the public.

The glorious climate and charming coves and inlets – not to mention the chance to spot dolphins – make the Bay of Islands one of our favourite places in the country for paddleboarding.

Clockwise from top left: Dining at the Duke of Marlborough Hotel; The Marlborough shines at night; Helicopter into the Eagles Nest; Savour incredible views at Donkey Bay Inn.

Clockwise from top left: Charlotte’s Kitchen; The heritage charm of The Gables; Breakfast on the water at Zane Grey’s; Sourdough at the Old Packhouse Market; Greenery and grapes at Paroa Bay Winery.

Clockwise from top: Twin Coast Cycle Trail; The mangroves on the Paihia to Opua Coastal Walkway; Waitangi Treaty Grounds; Tee off at Kauri Cliffs; The Hole in the Rock on The Cream Trip.

Clockwise from above: Take a seat and admire the incredible view of the Bay; See the islands at 20,000ft while skydiving; The grapes await you at The Landing Winery.