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Boutique hotels in Bay Of Islands

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Bay Of Islands Overview

New Zealand

Coastline
To-die-for cliffs, bays, beaches and islands
Coast Life
Whale-watching and wine-quaffing

Easy does it is the mantra in this sub-tropical haven that features 144 islands, craggy coves and crystalline waters.

Small-town life and fishing villages are the main characters in this breathtaking coastal area in New Zealand’s Northland. Nature lovers can spot dolphins, whales and penguins, while culture-vultures can soak up fascinating insights into the country’s early history and Maori culture. It’s the best of both worlds: plenty of unique activities with an abundance of options for just kicking back and recharging. Highlights include pretty tourist hub Paihia, sleepy, historic Russell and wilder Kerikeri to the north (known for its orchards and cafes) – as well as the famous Waitangi National Reserve.

Beautifully Bay Of Islands

The last resting place of the famous Greenpeace vessel Rainbow Warrior is here, at the Cavalli Islands, and is a spectacular spot for diving. The ship was sank by French saboteurs in 1985 in Auckland Harbour, but its skeletal remains were later transported here where it now serves as an artificial reef that is home to a huge variety of aquatic life. Dive HQ operate trips out of Paihia (www.divenz.com). To find out more see www.rainbow-warrior.org.nz.

Local knowledge

Taxis
Local hubs Kerikeri and Paihia have taxis but they are usually run by tour operators and can be expensive. Dial-A-Ride offers a taxi and shuttle service between Kerikeri Airport and the Bay of Islands (www.dial-a-ride.co.nz). Water taxis are also available, but again are used mostly for private tours and start from NZ$130 for up to six people (www.islandshuttle.co.nz).

Tipping culture
Optional five to 15 per cent tip depending on service.

Siesta and Fiesta
Most shops are open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm. Restaurants get busy about 7pm and booking is advisable during the summer.

Packing tips
Sunscreen, hat and plenty of space on your camera’s memory card. The Bay of Islands is nature's equivalent of a supermodel.

Recommended reads
US Western writer Zane Grey and his books The Tales of the Angler’s Eldorado detail this angling addict’s view of the region as a marlin-fishing paradise.

Cuisine
It doesn’t get fresher than this; local produce from vegies to seafood is plentiful. The region has a number of top-class restaurants offering European-, Asian- and Pacific Rim-inspired dining, as well as many cafés for good quality light meals and coffee.

Currency
New Zealand dollar (NZ$).

Time zone
GMT +12.

Dialling codes
Country code for New Zealand: +64; Bay of Islands: (0)9.

Do go/don't go
The warmer months from September to April are the best time to visit as many tour companies close down during winter.

Don't go home without

Making sure you get a gannet’s eye view of the region by taking a scenic flight. Heliops offer a number of helicopter flight routes, from NZ$135 a person for a 20-minute bay-view whirl, as well as heli-fishing trips to remote islands and rocks (www.heliops.co.nz).