The Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a stunning part of New Zealand, and has 144 islands in total just waiting to be explored.

Located in the 'winterless' north it has a warm climate and many water based activities, making it a popular destination for New Zealand holiday makers and international tourists.  Activities on the water include scenic cruises, sea kayaking, world class fishing and diving, and swimming with dolphins.

The Bay of Islands can also claim to be the birth place of New Zealand. The Treaty of Waitangi - a treaty between the European settlers and the Maori people - was formally signed at Waitangi in 1840.

The historic township of Russell, in the Bay of Islands was the first capital of New Zealand.  You can wile away the hours fossicking along the beach-front, wandering through little streets of some of New Zealand's oldest buildings, enjoy a drink at the waterfront Duke of Marlborough Hotel or dine at The Gables Restaurant, which was built in 1847.   

View Bay of Islands Map. Read our Bay of Islands cruise itinerary.

Read about more places to go in New Zealand.