Official Language:
English
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Currency:
New Zealand Dollar
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Population:
Approximately 140,000 people call the Bay Of Islands home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Bay Of Islands New Zealand: The Northland enjoys a subtropical climate. Summers are from November through April and have plenty of sunshine during the day and warm balmy evenings. January and February are the hottest months. Winters are generally mild. locals call June, July and August "winter", although many plants are in flower, the vegetation is lush green and afternoon temperatures often reach 68°F/20°C. The warm climate is ideal for growing tropical plants and fruit, and coupled with the rich volcanic soil provides the basis for the regional extensive citrus fruit industry - come to see our own little orchard! The summer months December, January, February are appropriately hot during the day (but not too hot), without the sticky humidity of the tropics, and comfortably cool at night. Afternoon temperatures in spring and autumn are around 73°F/23°C , a perfect condition for lots of outdoor activities.
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Rich in legend and history, the Bay of Islands has lured explorers for many centuries. Captain Cook anchored here in 1769, bestowing the simple name that captures its unpretentious charm. As the ship cruises into the Bay of Islands, experience spectacular scenery with volcanic black rocks and rugged cliffs. You have arrived at one of the finest maritime parks in New Zealand; over 100 islands and numerous bays teem with birds and marine life.The Bay of Islands is New Zealand's cradle of European civilization, with many points of interest relating to both early European and Maori settlement. Before the arrival of European explorers and settlers, the Maori lived in this area for hundreds of years, their culture adding an underlying Polynesian graciousness to the country. There are many "firsts" associated with the Bay of Islands, such as the first European community, the oldest home and church in the country and the first capital of New Zealand, among others.A long, irregular coastline shelters the numerous islands, many of which are part of the Bay of Islands Maritime and Historic Park. Within its boundaries lie historically significant sites as well as scenic and recreational lands. In addition, there are reserves that have been established to protect what is left of the once vast native kauri forests. These magnificent trees rival California's redwoods in age, height and girth. The Maori could carve a canoe for one hundred warriors from the trunk of one kauri tree. The valuable timber became the country's first major export, but the supply depleted fast as pioneer settlers cut trees down at a rapid rate.Major sites around the Bay of Islands include Waitangi, one of the country's most historical sites, and Paihia, a subtropical marine resort popular as a starting point for cruises around the bay and fishing excursions. Visitors will not want to miss Russell, one of the oldest towns in New Zealand. Once a village of swashbuckling sailors, whalers and traders, it was known as the "Hell Hole of the Pacific." In the 1920s, Zane Grey immortalized the area with his famous big game fishing exploits. Today, anglers still regard the Bay of Islands as a top fishing area, while residents cherish its unhurried pace, balmy climate and serenity.
Cruise ship passengers will find activities galor, including fresh water and deep sea fishing, nature and beach walks, water sports as well as some great golf courses. Be sure to experience the spectacular scenery, volcanic black rocks and rugged cliffs. The Bay of Islands is New Zealand's cradle of European civilization, with many points of interest relating to both early European and Maori settlement. Prior to the arrival of the European settlers, the Maoris lived in this area for hundreds of years. Their culture added a Polynesian graciousness to the country. The Bay of Islands is an exquisite tropical getaway offering some of the best beaches in the world. Weather here is near perfect. The Bay of Islands has plenty of museums, parks, and historical sites to visit. The Bay of Islands, most noteworthy sector of Northland, is also the home of the Waitangi National Reserve, where the Treaty of Waitangi was drafted and signed.
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Opua in the Bay of Islands. Road connections and several transportation options at the port link you to all the destinations surrounding the bay. Local transportation in Bay Of Islands. If time is precious during your stay here, you may want to take an organized one-day tour of the Bay of Islands, courtesy of Kiwi Experience (tel. 09/366-9839). Friendly and knowledgeable guides will educate you about the culture and geography of this fascinating area. Rental car service is available nearby if you would like to travel around the Bay on your own. Contact Budget Rent-a-Car (tel. 09/402-8568) located in Pahia, for more information.
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Attractions |
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Paihia is the main visitor centre for the Bay of Islands and is the starting point for many sightseeing cruises including the Cape Brett Hole-in-the-Rock cruise, boat hires, diving and swimming with the dolphins excursions. A popular day excursion is the Cape Reinga trip to the northernmost point of New Zealand and features an exhilarating drive along Ninety Mile Beach.Waitangi is within walking distance of Paihia, and it is here that the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, joining the Maori and British peoples together as a nation. The Treaty House is now a museum and is part of the Waitangi Reserve, along with a Maori meeting house and an impressive 120 feet (37 meter) 150-man canoe launched each Waitangi Day (February 6) - New Zealand's national day.Russell is a town of very colourful history and was nicknamed the 'hell-hole of the Pacific' due to the antics of the early whalers and traders. Many of the buildings from this area have been retained and are worth visiting. Russell is only a 20 minute ferry ride from Paihia.Kerikeri is a picturesque inlet on the northern extremity of the Bay, set amidst citrus and kiwifruit orchards. The district also bears some important historical buildings and has several craft galleries.
Fullers Bay of Islands provides cruises and tour that are an ideal way to explore the Northland region. From a base in Paihia, Fullers Bay of Islands offer the Cape Brett 'Hole in the Rock' cruise, Dolphin Adventures featuring swimming with the dolphins, The Supercruise (which is a combination Cream Trip and Hole in the Rock trip), Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson and the Excitor 'Hole in the Rock' Fast Boat Adventure. Don't miss traveling to the very top of New Zealand via 90 Mile Beach on the Cape Reinga Wanderer or Heritage Tour. Fullers Bay of Islands is based at the Paihia Wharf, Bay of Islands.
Kelly Tarlton's Museum of Shipwrecks:
This entertaining site is both a memorial and a museum. The waters off New Zealand's shores have claimed many lives and dozens of ships. Hundreds of fascinating remains and artifacts from these sunken sea vessels are on display here at the museum. In his day, Kelly Tarlton made it his life's passion to treasure hunt for all the deep-sea relics he could excavate from the bottom of the ocean. Along with all these interesting finds are the corresponding photographs that picture the actual discoveries.Kelly Tarlton's is located on Auckland's waterfront, 5 minutes drive from the central business district, with views across to Auckland Harbour Bridge and Rangitoto Island. 23 Tamaki Drive Auckland www.kellytarltons.co.nz
Waitangi National Reserve:
Offering the finest examples of Maori culture and traditions.
The Treaty House at Waitangi:
This is the site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and a number of Maori tribes. This was the founding document of New Zealand. although there remain a number of disputes concerning it. The Treaty House is located inside the Waitangi National Trust Estate (09/402-7437), and it is here that the area's history comes alive. The area surrounding with parks, swamps, and boardwalk are exquisite. There are many reasons for coming here, and the aesthetic beauty of the area is certainly one. This is also the place where the Confederation of Chiefs and the British government signed their first official treaty. Great artifacts from New Zealand's history can be seen here, and light and sound shows are held as well. The architecture is magnificent; be sure to go to the Visitor Centre to learn about the circumstances surrounding the signing of the treaty, presented in audio-visual form.
Beaches and Outdoor Activities:
The white-sand beaches of the Bay of Islands are truly spectacular. Both picturesque and enjoyable, they are the perfect destination for water sports, swimming, or just relaxing. There are tons of great locations, but some of the best are found on the Karikari Peninsula. Here the water is a sparkling turquoise-blue, and the amenities are plentiful. The conditions are ideal for the whole family, and the scenery is splendid.To meet all your golf expectations, visit the Waitangi Golf Course (09/402-8105) where you can rent clubs and play on the spectacular 18-hole course. It is located on the waterfront, and it is so pretty that even if you don't have your best game you will still leave relaxed. The scuba diving in the Bay of Islands is awesome, and Dive North (025/273-1655) is the best company to contact to make arrangements. The Rainbow Warrior wreck is one of the premier dives in New Zealand, and is as eerie as it is extraordinary.
The Bay of Islands Visitor Information Centre Paihia is a pleasant spot where you can take a break from the outdoors and do a little shopping. The Information Centre is located at the Maritime Reserve in Paihia (09/402-7426) and can provide you with everything you will need to track down the store to suit your particular needs. There are a number of shops in the area that specialize in souvenirs, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Fullers Bay of Islands:
With Fullers you'll have access to explore the bays and marine life with a range of half day and full day excursions. In 1886 'Fullers' began service in the area and now days Fullers Bay of Islands provides cruises and tours that are an ideal way to explore the Northland region. From a base in Paihia, Fullers' offer the Cape Brett 'Hole-in-the-Rock' cruise, Dolphin Adventures featuring swimming with the dolphins, and the Excitor 'Hole-in-the-Rock fast boat adventure. Don't miss travelling to the very top of New Zealand via Ninety Mile Beach on the Cape Reinga Wanderer or Heritage Tour.Just a few kilometres from Paihia is the historic Waitangi - birthplace of New Zealand (Aotearoa), the signing place of the Treat of Waitangi.Scuba diving, kayaking, big game fishing, swimming with dolphins or taking a scenic cruise are just a few of the ways to enjoy the warm tranquillity of one of New Zealand's most beautiful areas.Kerikeri is also famous for its arts and crafts and historic buildings. Paihia is the main resort and fishing centre, with convenient access to the historic village of Russell across the Harbour.
Fullers Bay of Islands - Cruises & Tour:
Fullers Bay of Islands provide a range of cruises and tours that are an ideal way to explore the Northland region. The Bay of Islands is 3 ½ hours drive north of Auckland, follow state Highway 1 north.Maritime Building (next to the wharf)Paihia Bay of Islands. For more information visit http://www.fullers-bay-of-islands.co.nz/
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More Information |
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Useful Links About Bay of Islands Guide:
Bay of Islands Travel Information
http://www.northland.org.nz
http://www.opuamarina.co.nz/
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