Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is an elegant, vast and stunning district on the beautiful east coast of Northland, New Zealand. The 144 subtropical islands are centred around the main hub of Paihia, Opua and Waitangi, our nation’s birthplace. Where you can find most of the water-based activities of the area. Go out on a cruise to check out the wildlife or the breathtaking scenery. Go swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and sailing. Across the water from Paihia is Russell, the first capital of New Zealand which is surrounded by history. Inland are the towns of Kawakawa and Kaikohe where there are heaps of natural features, historical sites and great food to experience, not to mention the array of award-winning wineries to indulge in.
Where to start?
Our pick of the best
What's on at the bay
Paihia Christmas Parade
6 December 2024 @ 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmGet ready for the most magical event of the year! The 2025 Paihia Christmas Parade, themed “Movies,” is set ...
Christmas Variety Show & Tree Lighting!
7 December 2024 @ 6:00 pm - 10:00 pmJoin our free community event, Christmas Variety Show & Tree Lighting! Grab your picnic baskets and cozy blankets fo...
Russell Christmas Parade
8 December 2024The Russell Annual Christmas Parade returns with festive cheer and vibrant floats, bringing the heart of the community t...
Sizzle & Groove Summer Dock Party
8 December 2024 @ 12:00 pm - 5:00 pmLet’s get this summer started right! Come join us on The Dock for an afternoon full of bangin’ tunes with Ce...
Where will you start your journey?
Here on a corporate occasion or for work?
Looking for inspiration?
4 day adventure itinerary
Looking for a long weekend to leave you sandy, breathless, excited and wide-eyed? Check out this action filled programme and start packing!
Cultural itinerary
The Bay of Islands has some of New Zealand’s earliest historic sites. The first capital city of New Zealand was Russell, also known at one point as the Hellhole of the Pacific!
3 day relaxation itinerary
If you need a little R&R in beautiful surroundings with top notch food and wine, you’ve come to the right place. Book yourself a long, luxurious weekend in some of the Bay of Islands’ premier destinations and forget the world for a while.