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bay of islands
 The Bay of
Islands, New Zealand’s finest maritime park and the
birthplace of our nation, owes its existence to the great melt
that ended the last Ice Age. The rising sea drowned many river
valleys leaving 144 ridge tops exposed as islands in a harbour of
breathtaking beauty.
Today you can enjoy this aquatic playground with the help of
commercial operators or on your own. Most popular are the large
catamaran cruises that do the Cream Trip, the Hole in the Rock
and Swimming with Dolphins. Thrill seekers can choose the fast
offshore powerboats that zoom out to the Hole, but others prefer
sea kayaks to explore the rock gardens and quiet coves, or yachts
that glide silently before the breeze.
Once out on the water the first island you see is Motuarohia,
distinguished by its two glorious lagoons - the most photographed
scene in the Bay. Next is Moturua, a wildlife sanctuary with a
network of walking tracks. Then comes Urupukapuka, the only
island where you can stay overnight in Otehei Bay, famed as
author Zane Grey’s deep sea fishing camp. Cape Brett is a
barren headland near Piercy Island with its natural tunnel known
as The Hole in the Rock.
Most visitors to the Bay stay in Paihia for the cafés,
restaurants, and craft shops and museums. It is the base for
cruises, bus tours and visits to the Waitangi Treaty House and
grounds - New Zealand’s most historic site.
Russell with its colonial architecture and Old World atmosphere
is a 15 minute ferry ride from Paihia. The information centre is
on the wharf and nearby is the excellent Captain Cook Museum,
Pompallier House and Christ Church.
A visit to Kerikeri inlet gives a good appreciation of Maori and
European history. A reconstruction of a Maori pa can be seen at
Rewa’s Village. The Stone Store was the first European
building in New Zealand and nearby Kemp House was an early
mission station.
The Bay of Islands is a true holiday destination where you can
relax and enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings. It is
also an exciting playground with a host of activities on offer -
simple pleasures where a dramatic landscape meets a sparkling
sea.
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