Nau mai, Haere Mai
Bay of Islands
Where Stories Begin
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.
Tai Kōtuku Waka Ama Regional Event
Experience the excitement of Waka Ama as the Tai Kōtuku Waka Ama Club hosts a regional paddling event in the heart of Paihia on Saturday 12 September 2026.
The event will welcome an estimated 500 paddlers, along with their whānau, supporters, and visitors from across the region, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the Bay of Islands for the weekend.
Spectators can enjoy a full day of exciting racing as teams compete in a variety of events on the waters of Paihia. With races taking place close to shore, the waterfront provides the perfect vantage point to watch the action unfold and cheer on competitors.
Whether you’re a long-time supporter of Waka Ama or experiencing the sport for the first time, this regional event offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the skill, teamwork, and cultural significance of one of Aotearoa’s fastest-growing water sports.
Bring the whānau, explore the beautiful Paihia waterfront, and enjoy an action-packed day celebrating sport, community, and the stunning Bay of Islands.
Where to start?
Our pick of the best
What's on at the bay
Russell’s Matariki Art Exhibition
26 June 2026 - 25 July 2026Russell Matariki Art Exhibition Celebrate Matariki with a vibrant showcase of local creativity at the Russell Matariki A...
He Kohinga Mā Te Katoa – A Collection For Everyone
26 June 2026 - 25 July 2026He Kohinga Mā Te Katoa – A Collection For Everyone Celebrate Matariki through art at He Kohinga Mā Te Katoa – A Co...
Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival
9 August 2026 @ 5:00 pm - 9:00 pmBay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival 2026 Celebrate 40 years of outstanding live music at the Bay of Islands Jazz &a...
Tai Kōtuku Waka Ama Regional Event
12 September 2026Tai Kōtuku Waka Ama Regional Event Experience the excitement of Waka Ama as the Tai Kōtuku Waka Ama Club hosts a regio...
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.