The Bay of Islands region is located in Northland, New Zealand. The Bay Of Islands are 1 hours drive north of Whangarei, or around 3 1/2 hours driving time from Auckland.
Captain Cook was the first European to visit the area in 1769 and named it the Bay Of Islands after the 144 different islands. The Bay of Islands was the first area of New Zealand to be settled by Europeans. Some of the earliest New Zealand towns were Kerikeri, Russell and Paihia established in the 1820s.
New Zealands founding document, The Treaty Of Waitangi was signed in Waitangi, just north of Paihia. In 1840, Okiato became New Zealands first capital before being shifted to Auckland in 1841. Nowadays the Bay Of Islands New Zealand is a busy tourist spot.
Bay Of Islands Activities and Things to Do
The Bay Of Islands are world famous for their Big Game Fishing. Huge Marlin and Snapper are caught regularly by the dozens of Fishing Charter boats available for hire. The Bay has dozens of historical sites and there is so much history to this area.
The Bay Of Islands NZ were judged the worlds second bluest sky in a 2006 study. In addition to fishing charters, island day cruises are a popular choice. The Hole in the Rock cruise out to Cape Brett is well known. There are so many bay islands and idyllic coastlines to explore. Most Bay Of Islands cruises also stopover at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. You can be sure there are plenty of things to do on your Bay Of Island holiday! You can find more information about Bay Of Islands Attractions and Activities
Bay Of Islands Accommodation
When it comes to Bay Of Islands Accommodation there are so many options. From numerous backpackers and hostels in Paihia, to New Zealands most expensive hotel in Russell, you really are spoilt for choice. Each town provides the full spectrum of accommodation options. See the Bay Of Islands Accommodation page.
