10 Reasons to visit the Bay of Islands

One of the perks of interning for an adventure travel company is the opportunity to get out there and do really cool tours around this gorgeous country of ours. In November, we sent our lovely graphic design intern, Maartje, who hails from the Netherlands, up north to check out Paihia and the Bay of Islands.

After a long rainy spring, the sun finally came out just in time for my tour north of Auckland to the Bay of Islands. I couldn’t wait to check out the beaches and water activities I’d heard so much about from my friends and co-workers. From my base in Paihia, I headed out to explore some of the wonderful things Northland has to offer. The highlights of my trip were an eco-cruise around the Bay of Islands and a day trip to Cape Reinga, the northern tip of New Zealand.

Rather than a wordy essay I thought I would share 10 photos from my tour to show you why the Bay of Islands is worth a visit during summer (although I hear it’s pretty nice all year round).

1. Picnic lunches in the sunshine with breathtaking seaside views

2. Take a day trip from Paihia to Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga is the northernmost point of New Zealand, go there to watch two oceans collide.

3. Eco-cruise around the Bay of Islands and see dolphins

4. …and sail by the infamous ‘Hole in the Rock’

This is a must-see for visitors and locals alike.

5. Surf the MASSIVE sand dunes near 90 Mile Beach

6. Drive by bus on 90 Mile Beach at 100km/h

New Zealanders consider 90 Mile Beach a road!

7. Explore a few of the hundreds of islands by kayak

8. Discover secluded beaches while you’re doing it!

9. Experience small-town New Zealand in Paihia

And maybe play a tune in the park!

10. Find some eye candy at secluded beaches

…and for the guys too!

The Bay of Islands trip isn't featured in our current tours of North Island, but we've got some amazing destinations, accommodation and activities lined up. Check out all our current NZ tours.