Going to Bay of Islands

What to do in Bay of Islands

by Matt Link

About a three-hour drive north of Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most stunning (and warmest) regions: the Bay of Islands. The name is a misnomer, since it’s actually a number of bays and inlets dotted with over 140 islands—meaning, a lot of beaches. The subtropical weather here is some of the sunniest in the country, making for a great destination during the Kiwi summer (December through February), when the local population swells with thousands of sun-seeking travelers.

The Bay of Islands is known for its aquatic recreation—great fishing, excellent diving, sublime sailing, and some of the best kiteboarding in New Zealand. The area features four little townships: the tourist center of Paihia/Waitangi, the old whaling port of Russell, the tiny anchorage of Opua, and the lush town of Kerikeri, all...

• Be the first to Review