Is Bay of Islands worth visiting?

The Bay of Islands has more to offer than just pretty sunsets, and here you’ll find ancient culture, untouched beaches, and even skydiving. … But The Bay Of Islands, near the northern-most tip of the country, is simply one of the most stunning destinations in New Zealand due to its beaches.

How many days do you need in Bay of Islands?

Re: Bay of Islands – how long? Allow 1/2 day to and from the BOI plus the extra two days will IMO give you plenty of time to see the important bits of the Far North.

Why do people visit the Bay of Islands?

The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular destinations to visit year round. Its sheltered waters make it the perfect place to view a variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales and seals. … The Bay of Islands has a long, fascinating and often wild history.

What can tourists do at the Bay of Islands?

Is Paihia worth visiting?

Paihia is a beautiful seaside town with most of the restaurants, bars and activity providers found on the main road which runs adjacent to the beach, Marsden Road. There are also some great accommodation options on the seafront with some set further back offering a good range catering for all budgets.

Is Cape Reinga worth visiting?

Re: Cape Reinga by car – is it still worth it? Most definitely still worth going by car – yes you miss out on actually driving on 90 mile beach, but the rest of the trip is spectacular, so definitely do it…its worth having a couple of days up your sleeve if possible so that you can choose the day with best weather.

Where can I base myself in Bay of Islands?

Who owns Stewart Island?

Almost all the island is owned by the New Zealand government and over 80 per cent of the island is set aside as the Rakiura National Park, New Zealand’s newest national park. Many of the small offshore islands, including the Snares, are also protected.

Why is it called Bay of Islands?

He named the islands Aotearoa, Land of the Long White Cloud. … When his mistake was discovered the country was renamed Nieuw Zeeland. In 1769 James Cook came to New Zealand, extensively charted both North and South Island and gave the Bay of Islands its present name.

How big is the Bay of Islands?

Geography. The bay itself is an irregularly-shaped 16 km (10 mi)-wide, 260 km² (100 sq mi) drowned valley system and a natural harbour. It contains 144 islands, of which the largest is Urupukapuka, and numerous peninsulas and inlets.

What is there to do in the Bay of Islands in the winter?

What can a tourist see and do at Rotorua’s geothermal area?

Is it better to stay in Russell or Paihia?

Russell is a much smaller town, with a lot of history and character. It has a nice beach, and a couple of bars and a few restaurants. Paihia is a more modern town, much more accommodation, more bars and restaurants, and lots more people.

Can you drive 90 Mile Beach?

90 Mile Beach is designated a state highway so you can drive on the beach. There are helpful signs at the Waipapakauri Ramp (one of the entrances near Awanui) telling drivers about the dangers.

Can you swim at Cape Reinga?

Check Out The Best Beaches in Cape Reinga

Kaimaumau Beach: This is a lovely little “secret” spot that seems to be only known by a few locals. It’s a stunning white sand beach that is ideal for fishing and swimming.

How long is Ninety Mile Beach in Northland?

Ninety Mile Beach History

Ninety Mile Beach is actually around 55 miles (88 kilometres) long.

Can you stay in Bay of Islands?

Boasting subtropical islands and vast ocean views, the Bay of Islands is not only the perfect holiday for history buffs, it is also the ideal location for Kiwi travellers looking for a scenic staycation.

How do I get to Poor Knights Island?

Getting there

The Poor Knights Islands can be easily reached by boat from almost any port in Hauraki Gulf and Northland. Charter boats from Auckland, Leigh, Whangārei, Tutukaka, and Bay of Islands visit the islands.

What is the population of the Bay of Islands?

The 2018 population for Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward is 30,009, with a population density of 14.55 persons per square km.

Can you see penguins on Stewart Island?

Stewart Island is a haven for brown kiwi or Tokoeka, which outnumber humans on the island and are active day and night. Blue penguins and the rare yellow-eyed penguins waddle among the rocks. Offshore on Ulva Island, you’ll find a predator-free bird sanctuary with dozens of native species.

Can you swim at Stewart Island?

Bathing Beach is a popular and sheltered swimming area within Halfmoon Bay at Stewart Island. Only a short walk from the township of Oban, this stunning sandy beach is the perfect place to relax and listen to birdsong while taking in the spectacular views – and to take a dip in the pristine water!

Why is Stewart Island called Oban?

Photograph the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights), walk the Rakiura Track (one of New Zealand’s Great Walks), or visit Ulva Island (one of the few pest-free sanctuaries in New Zealand) – Oban is the gateway to a range of unforgettable experiences.

How many islands are in Bay of Islands?

Photograph the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights), walk the Rakiura Track (one of New Zealand’s Great Walks), or visit Ulva Island (one of the few pest-free sanctuaries in New Zealand) – Oban is the gateway to a range of unforgettable experiences.

What makes up Bay of Islands?

A three-hour drive or 35 minute flight north of Auckland, the Bay of Islands encompasses 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula and includes the boutique towns of Opua, Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri.

What is the capital of New Zealand?

The country comprises two main islands—the North and the South Island—and a number of small islands, some of them hundreds of miles from the main group. The capital city is Wellington and the largest urban area Auckland, both are located on the North Island.

Is the Bay on TV on demand?

Watch The Bay | Full Season | TVNZ OnDemand.

Where is the hottest part of New Zealand?

Summer. Daily maximum temperatures are normally in the mid to low 20s (°C) over most of the country. They are higher in northern, eastern and interior part of the country, Hastings is the warmest city on average with 25.5 °C followed by Gisborne with 24.9 °C and Napier with 24.5 °C.

Is Whangarei worth visiting?

Whangarei is largely underestimated and worth a visit. When one considers the beauty of the location and the beautiful walks, it seems inconceivable that Whangarei can be overlooked by most of foreign tourists. … Whangarei is like a pearl close to a diamond (the Bay of Islands).

What is there to do in Russell on a rainy day?

• Pompallier Mission and Printery. 613. …
• Paroa Bay Winery- Villa Accommodation. Wineries &amp, Vineyards • Beaches. …
• Christ Church. 371. …
• Omata Estate. Wineries &amp, Vineyards. …
• Russell Museum. 307. …
• Just Imagine Gallery. Art Galleries.
• Rogue Pony Experiences and Private Tours. Multi-day Tours • Sightseeing Tours. …
• Russell Mini Tours – Day Tours.

Why are tourist attracted to Rotorua?

There is a reason Rotorua is known as ‘Nature’s Spa of the South Pacific’. It offers visitors the opportunity to rejuvenate their spirit. Overlooking native forest scenery and Lake Rotorua, you can relax at Polynesian Spa in mineral hot pools (26 of them).

Why is Rotorua popular?

Rotorua is a major destination for both domestic and international tourists, the tourism industry is by far the largest industry in the district. It is known for its geothermal activity, and features geysers – notably the Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa – and hot mud pools.

Can you swim in Kuirau Park?

One footpool is located between the children’s playground and an ornamental thermal pond. The other two are on the other side of the pond. The one by the playground is in a lovely spot. Despite being thermal, ducks and other bird types swim in it.

Which is the cleanest beach in the world?

Is 90 Mile Beach Black sand?

The long and narrow beach is lined with high sand dunes and bordered by the dense, green Aupouri Forest. Gentle waves crash against the sand and the dune grasses gently sway. It’s easy to see why visiting this beautiful beach is a must on your Bay of Islands itinerary.

How long is the 100 Mile beach?

Ninety-Mile Beach is the fabled strip of sand that stretches from Ahipara to Scott Point, five kilometres south of Cape Maria van Diemen. Truth be told, it is actually 88 kilometres long.

How long is 90 Mile Beach?

Ninety-Mile Beach is the fabled strip of sand that stretches from Ahipara to Scott Point, five kilometres south of Cape Maria van Diemen. Truth be told, it is actually 88 kilometres long.

What is the nearest town to Cape Reinga?

One is at Tapotupotu Bay (only 5 minutes’ drive away, or a three-hour hike). The other is further to the east at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay). Otherwise, the nearest towns to Cape Reinga include Te Kao, Houhora, Kaitaia, and Ahipara.

What two oceans meet in NZ?

Northland &amp, Bay of Islands

See two oceans collide and discover the place of leaping, where Maori spirits begin their final journey. At the Cape, the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular swirl of currents.

Can you walk 90 Mile Beach?

Coastal walking on the northern-most tip of the North Island, visiting Cape Reinga and the entire length of Ninety Mile Beach. You can enter the 132km track at Te Paki for a 3 day alternative.

Who owns 90 Mile Beach?

Far North iwi Te Aupouri will celebrate a major milestone tomorrow when it signs a two-part deal which gives it a hand in governing 90 Mile Beach.

What is the longest beach in NZ?

Baylys Beach, 14km west of Dargaville, is part of New Zealand’s longest beach. The Maori name is Ripiro and the beach is 100km of golden sand, sand dunes and remote (and sometimes wild) coastline. At its southern tip it enters New Zealand’s largest harbour, the Kaipara.

Can you anchor at Poor Knights?

No fishing – this anchorage is in a no-take marine reserve. Sandagers Reef, Poor Knights Islands. Anchor in 12-20 metres on rocky ground. … This is a deep anchorage for sheltering in north and northwest winds.

Why is it called Poor Knights of Windsor?

The reason they were also called the poor knights is that they used to consist of knights who had lost their estates during fightinh (or other reasons). … The knights have always lived at Windsor castle. There, their main job is to pray to God and pray for the King/Queen and his armies.

How big is the Poor Knights marine reserve?

The Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve is a protected area off the coast of the North Island of New Zealand. The reserve, established in 1981 and covering an area of 1,890 ha (4,700 acres), is administered by the Department of Conservation.

Is Bay of Islands a good place to live?

WHERE CAN I LIVE? Paihia has officially been recognised as a great place to live – it was named Community of the Year in 2015. The median home value is $416,000, according to QV, but you’ll want to get in quick.

How old is Paihia?

Paihia’s European history began in 1769 when Captain James Cook sailed into this harbour and named it Bay of Islands. He found it heavily populated by Māori and was impressed at their industry and intelligence.

Who discovered the Bay of Islands?

The first European to enter the inlet was Captain James Cook in 1769. Three years later the French explorer Marion du Fresne founded a short-lived settlement on Moturoa Island.

Can you see the Southern Lights from Stewart Island?

Stewart island is a great place to see the Southern Lights. Stewart Island is a great place to see the Aurora Australis, the best months being March to September. With clear skies and no light pollution the chances of getting some amazing shots are good!

Can you take a car to Stewart Island?

Can I take my car to Stewart Island? No, we only carry passengers and light freight on the ferry services between Bluff and Stewart Island. Rental cars and motor scooters are available for hire from our Oban Visitor Centre.

Are dogs allowed on Stewart Island?

A dog may be walked and exercised on public conservation land only in permitted areas and when on a lead. These permitted areas have not yet been established within the Stewart Island/Rakiura CMS area. … Dogs may only be taken into national parks for a specific purpose.

Who owns Stewart Island?

Almost all the island is owned by the New Zealand government and over 80 per cent of the island is set aside as the Rakiura National Park, New Zealand’s newest national park. Many of the small offshore islands, including the Snares, are also protected.

How do you get around on Stewart Island?

A shuttle/minibus operates around the island like a taxi service, and you can rent cars (NZ$65 for a half-day), mountain bikes (NZ$36 a day), and scooters (NZ$45 per 2 hr.), from both the Stewart Island Visitor Terminal, on the wharf (tel.

Is there a hospital on Stewart Island?

Stewart Island Health Centre is a Nurse Led Clinic. Clinic hours are 10am – 12.30pm daily. The Rural Nurse Specialist Nurses are on call 24 hours, 7 days a week to respond to 111 emergencies. … FOR ALL EMERGENCIES CALL 111.

Is it worth going to Stewart Island?

You must visit Stewart Island. Flanked by wild waves and even wilder weather, Stewart Island is wild, beautiful and offers a rare glimpse of a truly untouched NZ. With its rugged peaks, dense bush, vast beaches and fascinating history, you’ll leave here with your eyes wide open and your heart full.

Is there cell phone coverage on Stewart Island?

Coverage for Spark and Vodafone phones is good around the township but limited elsewhere. Internet services are available at the Stewart Island Community Library (during open hours).

Is Stewart Island Volcanic?

The geological structure of Rakiura National Park is primarily of very ancient volcanic origin with granite rocks underlying much of the Island. The Island is split roughly into two sections, northern and southern, separated by Paterson Inlet/Whaka a Te Wera and the Rakeahua Valley.

Why do people go to the Bay of Islands?

The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular destinations to visit year round. Its sheltered waters make it the perfect place to view a variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales and seals. … The Bay of Islands has a long, fascinating and often wild history.

What is the biggest island in the Bay of Islands?

Urupukapuka Island

The largest island in the Bay of Islands, Urupukapuka is possibly the easiest to reach and has the most to offer.

How big is the Bay of Islands?

Geography. The bay itself is an irregularly-shaped 16 km (10 mi)-wide, 260 km² (100 sq mi) drowned valley system and a natural harbour. It contains 144 islands, of which the largest is Urupukapuka, and numerous peninsulas and inlets.

Who owns New Zealand now?

Newton’s investigation reveals that in total 56 percent of New Zealand is privately owned land. Within that 3.3 percent is in foreign hands and 6.7 percent is Maori-owned. At least 28 percent of the entire country is in public ownership, compared with say the UK where only eight percent is public land.

What languages do New Zealand speak?

In the 2018 Census, the five most common languages in New Zealand were English, te reo Māori, Samoan, Northern Chinese (including Mandarin), and Hindi.

Does it snow in New Zealand?

Most snow in New Zealand falls in the mountain areas. Snow rarely falls in the coastal areas of the North Island and west of the South Island, although the east and south of the South Island may experience some snow in winter.

Is The Bay on catch up?

Catch up with new drama The Bay NOW on ITV Hub! …

Where is Bay filmed?

According to a report by Radio Times, The Bay is filmed on the UK coast. The series is set and filmed in the coastal town of Morecambe in the UK. The show features many shots of the beautiful sandy beaches, promenades and choppy seas. The show has brought the focus to a small town like Morecambe.

What side is The Bay on?

When is The Bay on ITV? The Bay began airing on Wednesday 20 March on ITV and concluded on Wednesday 24 April. If you missed an episode you can catch up via ITV Hub.