BAY OF ISLANDS
Local History
Just 3-4 hours drive North of Auckland the sub-tropical Bay of Islands is one of the most historic areas of New Zealand. From the remains of local Maori Pa sites to the bay where Captain Cook first dropped anchor the Bay of Islands is a historian's delight.
With over 140 stunning islands to explore it is truly a kayakers delight:
- Kayaking through caves & archways
- Snorkelling the reefs and lagoons
- Explore the islands
- Spectacular scenic views
- Visiting local historic areas
- View marine and bird life
- Swimming
- Bush Walks
- Seafood collecting
- Fishing
- Relaxing
Flora and Fauna / Bird and Sea Life
A large area of the Bay of Islands is considered a maritime and scenic reserve. As a result there is considerable bird and sea life to view and some spectacular native environments that include:
- Mangrove forest eco-system
- The Haruru Falls
- Pohutakawa, Kowhai & Kauri Trees
- Dolphins, Orca
- Little Blue Penguins
- Gannets
- Cormorant Colonies
Seafood
The Bay of Islands has an abundance of seafood that can be collected by snorkeling - ie Mussels, Pipis, Kina (Sea Eggs) etc. Fresh Rock Oysters can also be easily collected and the chance of catching fresh fish is fairly high. This could include Snapper, Kahawai, Piper, John Dory etc.
Further Information
Visit other relevant sites:
Adventure HQ - We operate Coastal Kayakers, Alma G, GT's Pal, Darryl's Dinner Cruise, Darryl's Lunch to Russell, Vigilant and Rent A Boat.
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New Zealand Tourism Online - A travel directory
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NZS.com - A directory of New Zealand sites
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New Zealand Entry Network - A selection of New Zealand Web sites
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PureNZ - Travel information
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The Cottage - A beachfront property located in Paihia
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Bay of Islands - Travel Guide for the region
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Pacific Promotions - Marlin Fishing and Sport Fishing Adventures
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Destination Northland - Information for Northland
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NZ Weather Map - The latest New Zealand weather
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Mayfair Lodge - Backpacker lodge in Waitangi
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Mighty GPS - Navigation solutions, maps and gear
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TheVancouverGuide.com - Vancouver Canada travel, tourism, and accommodation.
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California River Rafting - Whitewater river rafting trips on the American, Merced, and Truckee rivers in California since 1978.
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Newzealand Info Center - information about New Zealand.
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Wairere Boulders - Hokianga, Northland. Walking tracks through spectacular rock formations that have existed for thousands of years.
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Hokianga Tourism - Listing of all tourism attractions, accommodation and food outlets in the Hokianga Harbour, New Zealand.
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Newzealandholiday.com - Travel info.
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Experience New Zealand - Travel info.
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Waitangi River Lodge - Large holiday home in Paihia.
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Opononi Lighthouse Motel - Motel in Opononi, Hokianga Harbour, Northland.
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Kayaking Kiwi - Seakayaking on Lake Taupo.
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New Zealand Info - Your guide to New Zealand.
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Kayak British Columbia - Sea Kayaking expeditions.
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Coastal Spirits Expeditions - Kayak with Orcas in British Columbia.
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Aomotu Lodge - Luxury Lodge accommodation in the Bay of Islands.
- American River Recreation - Exciting California river rafting adventures.
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Art of This World - A showcase of contemporary NZ art, craft and
gifts. -
Flying Kiwi Wilderness Expeditions - New Zealand tours and adventure travel.
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Pukeko's Nest - Luxury backpackers accommodation in the Bay of
Islands. -
Bush 'n' Bike Adventure Company Ltd - Quad and horse riding adventures in the Bay of Islands.
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Pickled Parrot Backpacker Lodge - Paihia's friendly, peaceful, relaxing travellers accommodation.
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Adventure Travel Guides - the leading resource for adventure travel planning and outdoor recreation.
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First Step World - Certified language immersion programs around the world.
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Decks of Paihia - A bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of Paihia, Bay of Islands.
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The Sea Kayak Company - Sea Kayak trips in the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park.
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Go New Zealand - Self drive tour packages, car rental, accommodation, activities.
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Outdoor Discoveries - Guided sea kayak tours and kayak sales in Auckland.

