Bay of Islands Travel Guide

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With a subtropical climate, idyllic beaches, forests, islands, waterfalls, sites associated with New Zealand’s early colonial history (Russell and Waitangi), and dolphin-watching cruises, there’s nothing overrated about the popular Bay of Islands.

The two-day Cape Brett Walkway offers a moderate trek, ending at a point overlooking the Hole in the Rock. Outside Paihia and Russell, it’s relatively easy to find secluded places to camp. Drive the Old Russell Road all the way to the Rawhiti or Waikare Inlets for peaceful bays and island-studded views.

Bay of Islands travel guides

Guide

Active Adventures In New Zealand

Nicole Canning

New Zealand must be in contention for title of adventure travel capital of the world. The list of white-knuckle thrills you can seek out here knows no bounds.

Guide

New Zealand's Best Road Trips

Elen Turner

With just four million people spread over two main islands, nature and dramatic scenery rules in New Zealand.From the high Southern Alps that run the length of the South Island to the volcanic peaks of the North Island, the watery passages of the Marlborough Sounds and Fiordland to the geothermal activity of the central North Island, the golden sands of Northland beaches to the black sands of the west coast of both islands – there’s a lot to see on a self-drive route through New Zealand.

Bay of Islands itineraries

New Zealand

Northern Auckland Circular Road Trip

Road trip to the Northern tip of New Zealand

9 days

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Bay of Islands