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The Bay of Islands in New Zealand is a popular tourist destination in the country that is famous for fishing and sailing. The Bay of Islands is a beautiful place that has more than 144 islands that are easily accessible with various activities. This area is also rich in its history and culture about various stories. There are places in this country that are the oldest licensed premises. With a wide range of unique experiences and natural beauty, along with marine wildlife and beautiful landscapes, it is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand.
Location
Photo: W. Bulach / Wikimedia Commons
Bay of Islands is located on the east coast of the Far North District of North Island in New Zealand. This place is 60 km northwest of Whangarei City, which is at the northern tip of the country. It is an irregularly shaped bay that has 3 largest inlets. Waikare Inlet in the south, Kerikeri and Te Puna Inlet separating the bay from the Pacific Ocean in the northwest, and Cape Brett Peninsula extending to the east into the ocean.
How To Reach
Photo: Biponacci / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport to reach the Bay of Islands is at Kerikeri, which is 23 km northwest of Paihia. It takes nearly 40 minutes to reach the islands from this place.
By Road: There are many intercity buses that run to Paihia from various parts of the country. The buses leave from the SkyCity bus terminal.
Places To Visit In And Around Bay Of Islands
Here are a few places to visit in and around the Bay of Islands to explore more in this place:
1. Rainbow Falls
Photo: Kaiwhakahaere / Wikimedia Commons
Rainbow Falls, popularly known as Waianiwaniwa in Maori, is a single-drop waterfall situated on the Kerikeri River. This waterfall is created by the erosion of a soft rock that is sighted on a hard basalt layer of rock. This waterfall is 27 m high, is famous among the tourists and is regularly photographed. This waterfall is located along the track that connects to the Kerikeri River, about 3.5 km long. This track leads to the north banks of the river that passes through the kiwi habitat and beautiful native trees.
Distance From Bay of Islands: 47 km
Best Time To Visit: June to September
2. Flagstaff Hill
Photo: Blnguyen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Flagstaff Hill is an amazing place to visit, situated on the Maiki Hills that overlook the Bay of Islands. It is located in the north of the small and well-known historical village of Russell. The construction of this hill has a very long history that is connected to this place. This hill is a historic reserve where the northern wars began.This hill is another popular tourist attraction near Russell with walking tracks leading up the hill that overlooks the Bay. The lush green surroundings of the kiwi territory are amazing to look at with many birds around it.
Distance From Bay of Islands: 1.3 km
Best Time To Visit: March to November
3. Urupukapuka Island
Photo: Tom Hilton / Wikimedia Commons
Urupukapuka Island, located in New Zealand, is the largest island in the Bay of Islands. This island is a famous stopover point for many boats. There are also ferries available for day trips from Paihia and Russell. This island is situated in an area of 208 hectares with many sandy beaches and clear waters surrounding it, an ideal place for diving and various other water sports. This place is also famous for camping because of its beautiful diversity of nature and its archaeological range.
Distance From Bay of Islands: 34.8 km
Best Time To Visit: October to April
4. Christ Church
Photo: Sids1 / Wikimedia Commons
Christ Church, located in Russell, New Zealand, is the oldest surviving church in the country. This is an Anglican church that was built in 1835 by Gilbert Mair. It was sometimes used as the local courthouse. This church was restored in 2000 and continues to be a famous tourist destination because of its historical and spiritual atmosphere. It was originally built in a very simple design but then got renovated into a beautiful church. There are many events going on in this church, from weddings to funerals and other special services.
Distance From Bay of Islands: 2.5 km
Best Time To Visit: November to April
5. Haruru Falls
Photo: Andy king50 / Wikimedia Commons
Haruru Falls, located in the Far North District, New Zealand, is situated 3 km west of Paihia. This is a 5 metre high waterfall. Haruru originally means continuous noise in the Maori language. The lagoon was the first river port in New Zealand, situated on the downstream side of the falls. This waterfall is easily accessible from the Waitangi River. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations because of its beautiful scenery, ideal for picnics. There is also an option on various activities like picnic tables and kayaking.
Distance From Bay of Islands: 22.6 km
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Where To Stay
Photo: Ralph Bestic / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are many hotels and resorts available near the Bay of Islands. It provides necessary facilities to the visitors, like a sauna to relax, kitchen, swimming pool, BBQ, airport transfers, parking, luggage storage, spa and many more facilities that are available with hygiene premises, beautiful natural surroundings, safety and security, and high-quality dining options. Some of these hotels and resorts are Avalon Resort, Centabay Lodge, Stone Store Lodge, Paihia Beach Resort and Spa, Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands, Tree House Craicor Boutique Apartments and many more.
Where To Eat
Photo: Tanya Hart / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
With beautiful surroundings near the Bay of Islands, there are many restaurants, cafes and bars. These offer fine dining experiences with various farm markets and fresh markets available nearby to enjoy a variety of food items. There are many restaurants that are located near the beach areas that offer a beautiful view. There are a variety of cuisines available at restaurants nearby. Some of these are Zane Grey’s Restaurant and Bar, Terrace Restaurant, Jimmy Cook’s Kiwi Kitchen, Otehei Bay Restaurant, Tipsy Oyster, Charlotte’s Kitchen and many more.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: W. Bulach / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit the Bay of Islands is between the months of December to February, which is the summer season. During these months the weather is warm with lots of sunshine, ideal for water sports and exploring the islands and beaches. The autumn season in the Bay of Islands between March to May is also an ideal time to visit this place. This is especially to avoid peak season, which is beautiful to view because of the changing colours of nature.
Average Cost Of The Trip:
Taking into consideration the accommodation, food expenses and travel expenses to visit around the Bay of Islands may cost up to $714 / ₹60,000 per person.
Tips For Travellers:
- Explore the Bay of Islands by public transport for an enjoyable experience.
- Visit the top tourist attractions.
- Get some adventurous water activities.
- Plan a trip for up to a week to enjoy to the fullest.
The Bay of Islands in New Zealand, known for its beautiful and natural attractions, is along with more than 100 islands. This is an amazing place to visit with family and friends to explore various activities. You can learn about the history and culture and visit many popular tourist attractions. From beaches to waterfalls, there are many places to explore. To know more about this place and for further information to plan your trip, visit TripXL.
Cover Photo: W. Bulach / Wikimedia Commons
