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The Complete Guide to... Northland
Heading to the Bay of Islands for a holiday and want to do some research to find out the best places to stay, what to do and where to eat? Then you've come to the right place!
Check out our comprehensive guide to the Bay of Islands below.
> About The Bay Of Islands
We all know you're just dying to get there and explore, but it does help to equip yourself with a little knowledge about the area before you hit the road. So here are some of the most common frequently asked questions for travellers to the Bay of Islands.
How Long Does It Take To Get To The Bay Of Islands?
From Auckland, the drive will take you approximately 3 hours. It is also possible to fly to the Bay of Islands, which takes around 50 minutes from Auckland. Flights land at Kerikeri Airport, roughly 20 minutes drive from Paihia.
How Many People Live in The Bay Of Islands?
The current population of the Bay Of Islands sits at around 30,000 people.
Where Are The Bay of Islands?
The Bay of Islands refers to a small harbour area of the coast of Paihia and Russell on the north-eastern side of the Northland region. The actual Bay in the Bay of Islands is only about 16 kilometres wide. Its northernmost border is defined by the Kerikeri and Te Puna inlets, and at its southern end is the Waikare inlet.
Why Is It Called The Bay of Islands?
The Bay of Islands is made up of around 140 small islands dotted across the harbour area. It was first named in 1769 by James Cook after he came to New Zealand and charted both North and South Islands. The colloquial term 'Bay of Islands' generally refers to the landmass that surrounds the Bay, which encompasses Paihia, Kerikeri, Opua, Kawakawa and Russell.
What's The Weather Like In The Bay Of Islands?
The Bay of Islands enjoys a semi-tropical microclimate with fairly consistent temperatures in the summer and a slightly cooler winter. Average temperatures sit around 24-26 degrees from November to March, settling to around 16 degrees between June and August. The warmest months are January and February. Average rainfall in the Bay of Islands sits at around 2000mm per year, and typical water temperatures are 20°C in summer and 16°C in winter, thanks to tropical currents travelling down from the equator.
> History And Culture
The Bay of Islands has a rich cultural history; it was New Zealand's first capital city, the landing place of the famous discoverer Captain Cook where he promptly named the place, and most notably, New Zealand's founding document, the famous Treaty of Waitangi.
After Cook landed at the Bay of Islands in 1769, the landing place became a popular spot for traders, whalers, fugitives and sailors. Russell was their main base, where lawlessness ensued until later in 1840 when the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and the area declared the nation's capital.
The Treaty is a historic agreement between the Māori tribes of NZ and the British Crown that was signed at Waitangi to instate British sovereignty. By the 1900s, New Zealand's capital was moved to Auckland, then later to Wellington. The Bay of Islands has remained a popular destination for travellers ever since.
> 7 Best Places To Eat
Dining out in the Bay of Islands, you will find all of the usual places to eat with a strong focus on fresh seafood and locally grown produce. Choose from the following list for the best places to eat, or take your chances and grab a bite to eat on the fly.
Charlottes Kitchen
Enjoy a contemporary dining experience complete with fresh, seasonal produce and the best views! Charlottes Kitchen is located right at the end of the wharf in Paihia.
Alfresco's Restaurant and Bar
A popular seafront family-run restaurant with an all-day menu. Happy hour begins at 3 pm (until 6). Alfresco's is located on Marsden Road.
Vinnies Fish and Chips and Takeout
You can't visit the Bay of Island without getting some yummy fish and chips – it's something of a kiwi institution. You will find Vinnies on Marsden Road, Paihia.
Sally's Restaurant
Enjoy beautiful views and lovingly prepared locally sourced produce at Sally's across in Russell. Be sure to book ahead on this one, as it gets pretty busy at peak times.
The Gables Restaurant
Fine dining at its best, you can expect only the best produce, finest meats and freshest seafood. Built in 1847, The Gables is New Zealand's oldest operating restaurant. You will find The Gables on The Strand, at Russell.
Zane Grey's
Head on over to Zane Grey's on the waterfront for the best breakfasts in town! Or choose to dine at their Aquarium Restaurant for something a little bit special.
Duke Of Marlborough
Located right on Russell’s waterfront, the Duke of Marlborough offers an excellent al fresco pub-style dining experience and atmosphere.
> Where To Stay
The Bay of Islands has a wide range of accommodation, from well-equipped motels and hotels through to luxury waterfront resorts - there are options for every type of traveller. Check out our top 4 best places to stay in the Bay of Islands below.
The Duke of Marlborough
Not only can you dine at the Duke, but you can also stay there too! Situated right on the waterfront, The Duke of Marlborough Hotel offers a selection of comfortable rooms set amongst its grand historic architecture and old-world feel.
Edgewater Palms Apartments
Tropical landscaping and a waterfront location will mean you instantly feel like you're on holiday when staying at the Edgewater palms. Exceptional facilities, including an outdoor pool, onsite restaurant, and ocean views complete the picture.
Eagles Nest
Luxury from top to toe is what you'll find at the Eagles Nest. There are five villas to choose from, complete with an infinity-edged pool, private cinema room and Jacuzzi. Plus, there is a private chef, chauffeur, butler and resident personal trainer available on request – they have thought of everything!
The Paihia Beach Resort and Spa Hotel
A luxurious hotel with light and airy suites just metres from one of Paihia's most beautiful beaches. Spa and heated salt water pool onsite, plus restaurant.
> Top 10 Things To Do In The Bay Of Islands
White sandy beaches, an abundant marine life, sparkling clear waters and lush native forest make the Bay of Islands a popular year-round holiday destination for both New Zealanders and travellers from afar. While your stay will undoubtedly include getting out on the water and relaxing by the beach, there are many other fun things to do – let's check them out!
1. Cruise Around The Bay
Getting out on the water is going to be a top priority when staying in the Bay of Islands. You will find plenty of sailing and cruise options from the wharf at Paihia or Russell. Join a dolphin-watching cruise, visit the famous 'hole in the rock', go fishing, sail away on a traditional gaff-rigged schooner – the choice is yours!
Bay Cruise Highlights:
140 Islands to explore!
The 'Hole in the Rock'
Dolphins and sea life
The Cape Brett Peninsula
2. Visit The Waitangi Treaty Grounds
One of New Zealand's premier cultural attractions, the Treaty Grounds offer unique insight into New Zealand's founding people and their history.
Apart from the picturesque views and extensively manicured grounds, a day pass will allow you to explore the museum, watch authentic Māori cultural performances, see traditional Maori carving taking place, and get up close and personal with a traditional Maori waka (canoe). Allow at least 2 to 3 hours, and be sure to join in one of the guided tours to get the most out of your visit.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds highlights:
Museum
Giant waka
Cultural performance
Carving studio
3. Have A Go At Parasailing
Prefer more of an aerial viewpoint? Take to the sky for an unforgettable parasailing adventure 1,200 feet above the ocean. Enjoy this exhilarating ride and soak up the incredible 360-degree views.
This unforgettable activity combines adventure thrills with a distinctive sightseeing experience – you can even have a go with a friend or two on the tandem/triple parasails. The Flying Kiwi Parasail company operates from the wharf at Paihia, always book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Parasailing highlights:
The views!
Tandem or triple options
The thrill of the ride
The Royal Splash!
4. Ride It Out At The Waitangi Mountain Bike Park
The Waitangi Mountain Bike Park is the perfect place to burn off some energy and enjoy the great outdoors at the same time. Hire a bike and hit the tracks for as long as you please on the track of your choosing from the easier Grade 2, up to a more expert level at Grade 5.
Get out amongst the gorgeous New Zealand native forest. Alternatively, seek out the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, 87 km of inland biking trails including old railway tunnels and some peaceful rural countryside scenery.
Mountain biking highlights:
The Waitangi Mountain Bike Park
The Twin Coast Cycle Trail
5. Visit The Quaint Little Town Of Russell
Just a short ferry ride across the Bay (or a 50 minute scenic drive), and you will find yourself in the quaint little town of Russell. Originally a trading post for whalers, sealers and sailors, much of this town's historic architecture has been lovingly preserved for visitors to enjoy today.
Keep an eye out for the Christ Church built in 1835, the Old Customs House built in 1870, the Pompallier Mission built in 1842 and the Russell Museum for the best insight into the history of the town.
Highlights of Russell:
The Catholic Pompallier Mission building
Watching a sunset from the balcony of the historic Duke of Marlborough restaurant
Maiki Hill (Flag Staff Hill)
The Cape Brett walking track
6. Explore The Delights Of Urupukapuka Island
Love spending time on the beach, soaking up the views, leisurely walks and seeking out the resident bird and wildlife? Then you'll love exploring Urupukapuka Island. Catch the ferry from Paihia (the trip will take about 40 minutes), and you'll soon find yourself at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island.
Once there, you can hire a kayak or standup paddleboard, explore on foot around the many self-guided walking tracks, or simply sit back and relax on the white sand beaches and swim in the crystal clear waters.
Urupukapuka Island highlights:
Otehei Bay
Kayaking around the Island
Beautiful swimming beaches
7. Skydive At The Bay Of Islands
Skydiving and landing on the beach is one of the once in a lifetime experiences not to be missed when visiting the Bay of Islands. This fantastic experience will provide you with one of the most scenic and stunning viewpoints from far above the Bay and its beautiful surrounds.
There are four different jump heights to choose from (9,000, 12,000, 16,500 and 20,000 feet) with Skydive Bay of Islands priced from $300 to $600 per person. Associated package deals and photo/video add-ons are available—pick-ups and drop-offs available on request.
Skydive highlights:
Highest skydive in NZ (20,000 feet)
The stunning 360-degree views!
Video add-on package
8. Go Scuba Diving Or Snorkelling In The Bay
The crystal clear waters of the Bay of Islands are ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving. You will find the water teeming with sea life with thousands of species of fish.
There are various scuba diving operators in the area taking divers to reefs, marine reserves, wrecks and underwater caves. The Rainbow Warrior shipwreck is one of the most popular drawcards, along with the HMNZS Canterbury wreck.
Scuba and snorkelling operators:
The famous Rainbow Warrior shipwreck
The HMNZS Canterbury wreck
Stunning reef and underwater sealife
9. See The Giant Kauri In The Puketi Forest
Home to ancient Kauri, and a variety of podocarp and hardwood trees, the Puketi Forest supports a diverse ecological system including 370 species of plants and a selection of native birds such as North Island brown kiwi, NZ pigeon, and the fernbird.
Enjoy walking amongst the enormous Kauri, the peaceful environment on a variety of walks from the 15 minute boardwalk loop to the 4 hour Pirau Ridge Track. You will find the Puketi Forest roughly 40 minutes drive inland from Paihia.
Puketi Forest highlights:
The enormous Kauri
Birds and wildlife
The peace and quiet!
10. Visit The Kerikeri Mission Station
Originally built back in 1819 for the missionary John Butler, the Kerikeri Mission Station was among the first places in New Zealand where the Māori community invited visitors to live among them.
The rooms of this historic building have been lovingly preserved in their original 1840s style, and guided tours are offered to provide a deeper insight into the colourful lives of the people who lived here long ago. You will also find the Stone Store (NZ's oldest stone building) and Kemp House here.
Kerikeri Mission Station highlights:
The history
And the architecture!
The Bay of Islands has long been a popular holiday destination for locals and international visitors alike. Still, it can be a bit time consuming organising the ins and outs of your holiday.
Prefer to leave all of the planning up to someone else? Get in touch with the team at Zest Tours for a Personalised Bay of Islands tour experience designed with you in mind.
The Complete Guide to... Rotorua
When you think of Rotorua you instantly think of bubbling mud pools, gushing geysers and naturally occurring hot springs - but there is so much more to this wonderful little North Island town! Let’s explore the best things to do in Rotorua, a little bit about its colourful history, how to get there, and where to stay when you get there.
Located in the Bay of Plenty region, Rotorua is one of the easiest places to visit as it is very central to all most of the main North Island centres including Auckland, Hamilton, Taupo and Tauranga. The city offers a wide range of activities, and attractions, has a lively cafe scene, good restaurants and a wide range of accommodation styles.
> About Rotorua
Before we get into all of the great things to see and do in Rotorua, here are a few interesting facts about this geothermal hotspot.
What Is Rotorua Most Known For?
Rotorua is best known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural immersion and diverse range of adventure activities. You will find everything from bubbling mud pools and kiwi houses through to giant Redwoods, white-water rafting and traditional Maori performances.
Where Is Rotorua Located?
Rotorua is located in the Bay of Plenty region of the central North Island. The city itself is situated on the edge of Lake Rotorua and with several other lakes nearby (Lake Rotoiti, Lake Tarawera, Lake Okareka, Lake Okataina, and Lake Rotoma).
How Do You Get To Rotorua?
Rotorua’s central location means it is well connected to the rest of New Zealand by road and air travel. Rotorua is approximately 2 hours 45 minutes’ drive from Auckland, just an hour from Tauranga and Taupo, and 1.5 hours from Hamilton and Whakatane.
The closest domestic airport at Rotorua is roughly 20 minutes from the city centre. The nearest international airport is in Auckland. Rotorua is also on the main bus route.
What Is The Weather Like In Rotorua?
Rotorua’s average temperatures sit around 20 to 25°C in the summer with winter temperatures falling as low as 9°C, the average annual rainfall is around 1400-1500mm. Sunshine hours are recorded at approximately 2117 per year with the driest and sunniest month being January.
Why Does Rotorua Smell?
When first entering Rotorua many people notice a distinctive sulphur like smell. This is actually a result of the naturally occurring hydrogen sulphide in the air from the geothermal activity.
> Where To Stay?
Rotorua has a wide range of accommodation with everything from well-equipped backpackers, comfortable motels and hotels, through to luxury lakeside resorts – there are options for every type of traveller. Check out our top 3 best places to stay in Rotorua below.
Peppers On The Point Rotorua
For the ultimate in 5-Star luxury Peppers Point is where you’ll want to be. Enjoy Lakefront views, fine dining, spacious living areas, spa baths all in close proximity to the central city.
VR Rotorua Lake Resort
Perfect for a touch of luxury just beyond the city limits, the VR Rotorua Lake Resort is situated on the shores of Lake Rotoiti just 15minuets drive from Rotorua. 7 acres of manicured gardens, a swimming pool and spa and sauna mean you will be well catered for.
Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort
It’s all about the day spa complete with Jacuzzis, plunge pool and a sauna at the Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort. Add a dash of fine dining and you’ve got yourself the perfect weekend getaway or overnighter.
> 6 Best Places To Eat
Being a town that caters well to tourist you will find Rotorua has a good selection of eateries, cafes and restaurants to suit every taste. Finding them, however, can be a bit of a chore so we have put together this quick-fire list of the best places to eat in Rotorua for you!
Skyline Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar
For the best views in town and most novel way of getting there – by gondola!
Sabroso Restaurant
For tasty tapas, marvellous margaritas and mojitos and some delicious rustic South American fare.
The Factory Smokehouse & Grill
For the best gourmet burgers and cheesecake to die for!
Giovanni's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
For the best handmade wood fired pizza in town.
Atticus Finch
For kiwi fare and that homely feel that makes you want to linger over a good glass of wine.
Pavilion Cafe & Restaurant
If it’s something a little different you are after then sample the delights of the High Tea at the Pavilion – you won’t be disappointed!
> Top 10 Things To Do In Rotorua
Rotorua is packed full of exciting adventure and attractions. You will find everything from gondolas to jet boating, sheep to kiwis, fishing to golf, museums and galleries to forests and parks - you name it Rotorua has it! Let’s check out the top 10 things to do in Rotorua.
1. Immerse Yourself In Maori Culture
One of the most popular things to do in Rotorua is to learn more about the local Maori’s, their way of life, their history and their food. There is no better way to kick start your local immersion than with a Maori cultural performance.
These performances generally include Waiata (songs) about the history of the tribe, Patere (rhythmic chants), stick and poi demonstrations, and sometimes there is an opportunity for visitors to join in and learn these skills for themselves.
You will find these performances are pretty common around Rotorua, but the standard and content does vary so hunt around for something that suits you best.
Top 3 Maori cultural performances in Rotorua:
Whakarewarewa Maori Cultural Performance
Te Puia Thermal Reserve
Tamaki Māori Village
2. Go Mountain Biking in Whakarewarewa Forest
Over 5600 hectares of forest awaits the outdoor enthusiast complete with a vast network of walking and biking tracks. In fact the Whakarewarewa Forest is home to some of the best mountain biking trails in the Southern Hemisphere. Get ready for some epic riding!
If mountain biking isn’t your thing then the Forest provides a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including walking, horse riding, running, or just relaxing in nature. There is also the Redwoods Treewalk experience high above the forest floor on a 20 metre high walkway made up of 28 suspension bridges.
Whakarewarewa Forest highlights:
The Redwoods!
Mountain Biking
Walking
Redwoods Treewalk
3. Check Out Some Of The Local Geothermal Activity
You simply can’t visit Rotorua without going in search of the wondrous natural geothermal activity. Colourful mineral pools, steaming lakes, bursting geysers and bubbling mud are what Rotorua is best known for!
Don’t miss the famous Pohutu Geyser at Te Puia. This is the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere. It erupts quite regularly usually once or twice an hour so time your visit just right and you’ll get to see it in action. Te Puia also has Kiwi birds, Māori art and architecture, and cultural performances on offer for the complete experience.
Does soaking in the mineral hot pools sound good to you? Then head on over to the Hells Gate wellness spa. Take a dip in the mud, soak away your stresses in the hot pools or sign up to experience the healing powers of our sulphur waters in the Sulphur Spas – you will come away feeling rejuvenated and relaxed!
Try the Waimangu Volcanic Valley or the Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland for the best scenic geothermal areas, complete with colourful steaming lakes, bubbling waters and geothermal rock formations.
Best geothermal places to visit in Rotorua:
Wai-O-Tapu
Te Puia
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Hell Gate
4. Take On The Luge At Skyline Rotorua
What is Luging? Just racing down a hill in a part go-cart, part toboggan-like contraption with nothing but you and gravity out on the track - that’s all! Luging at Skyline Rotorua is definitely one for those who like to let loose and have some fun. Enjoy a graceful ride up Mount Ngongotaha in the gondola before hitting the especially design luge tracks with your mates and family.
There are two luge tracks to choose from, both complete with twists, turns and tunnels and trees! Both tracks are a lot of fun but the Scenic Track is best for a leisurely trip whilst enjoying the panoramic views. Whilst the Intermediate Luge Track is more about speed!
For a different luge experience try luging at night complete with disco lights and the twinkling of stars up above. However you choose to do the luge you will find this is simply a must-do when visiting Rotorua.
Luge highlights:
The Scenic Track and the Intermediate Luge Track
The Night Luge
5. Visit The Rainbow Springs Kiwi House
The Rainbow Springs Nature Park is best known for its kiwi house encounters and conservation efforts. Explore this beautiful little park with a behind the scenes tour for the best insight into the native wildlife, kiwi breeding program and more.
Explore the native forest, meet the resident kiwi, tuatara, kaka, kea, and discover more about New Zealand’s native flora and fauna as you go.
Rainbow springs is conveniently located right next door to the Skyline complex so it is a good addition to the day if you are heading up the gondola or going for some luging. Behind the scenes tours will cost around $195 per adult and $175 per child.
Rainbow Springs highlights:
The National Kiwi Hatchery tour
Native forest walk
Underwater trout viewer
Onsite playground
6. Ride The River On A Raft
Take on the challenge of this adrenaline filled white water rafting adventure and you can be assured it will be the highlight of your holidays this summer!White-water rafting down the Kaituna River is a simply must-do when visiting Rotorua. This epic adventure leads you into the native forest at Okere Falls near Rotorua where you will be provided with wetsuits, helmets, lifejackets and a paddle – and some safety instructions of course!
Rafting the Kaituna River means you get to tackle Tutea Falls which are the highest commercially rafted falls in NZ at approximately 7 metres high (23ft). This Grade 5 rafting experience takes about an hour and also includes 14 fast and challenging rapids, and some stunning riverside scenery along the way.
You will find there are multiple rafting operators rafting the Kaituna River, these include Rotorua Rafting, Kaituna Cascades, Raftabout and River Rats Rotorua. Most of these operators also provide alternate rafting experiences too so if you aren’t quite ready for Grade 5 then you are sure to find something that suits.
Top 4 Whitewater rafting operators in Rotorua:
Rotorua Rafting
Kaituna Cascades
Raftabout
River Rats Rotorua
7. Meet The Sheep At The Agrodome
Want to see some of New Zealand’s iconic sheep up close? Feed a lamb? Or See what it’s like on a New Zealand farm? Then the Agrodome is where you want to be! Experience first-hand these wonderful little animals as you learn about their breed, life on the farm and their individual personalities.
Watch a live sheep shearing demonstration, feed a baby lamb, see the sheep dogs in action as they herd some ducks, milk a cow, see wool spinning and more at the Agrodome’s famous Farm Show.
Join in the farm tour to learn more about life on the farm. See sheep, deer, cattle, llamas, alpaca’s emu and ostrich as you make your way around the 350 hectare farm. Hand feeding some of the animals is a highlight along with organic fruit and honey tasting.
Highlights of the Agrodome:
Farm tours
Farm show
Baby animals
8. Get The Adrenaline Pumping At Velocity Valley
A more recent addition to Rotorua's adventure activities, Velocity Valley is an adrenaline-fuelled theme park featuring six thrilling rides for all adventure tastes. Choose from the Agrojet, Swoop Swing, Sweeb Racer, Freefall Extreme, Freestyle Airbag, and the Bungy. Pick your favourite - or try them all!
The Agrojet is all about jet boating on the lake across a specially designed course complete with 360 degree twists and turns. Or try out the gravity defying Freefall extreme to see what it's like to skydive at exhilarating speeds of up to 220kmph.
For the more traditional, check out the 43 metre bungy jump, or the Swoop Swing and experience the thrill of Rotorua’s only multi-person bungy swing. Prefer to be a little more in control? Try the Sweeb Racer, a pedal powered monorail and race your mates to the finish line.
Love mountain biking? Perfect your tricks with the Freestyle Airbag. Get up some speed as you race down the slope, get airborne and practice your tricks before landing in the safety of the purpose built airbag.
Velocity Valley highlights:
Agrojet
Swoop Swing
Rotorua Bungy
Freefall Extreme
Sweeb Racer
Freefall Airbag
9. Take A Scenic Flight To Mt Tarawera
Landing on Mount Tarawera is a once in a lifetime experience that offers spectacular views of volcanic craters and domes formed back in the 1886 eruption. As you fly enjoy a complimentary commentary explaining the region's history, cultural aspects and interesting facts about the geology of the mountain. And some pretty spectacular views!
Upon landing you will be able to depart the helicopter for a short walking tour where you can see what it's like to be standing on a live volcano. Expect to see expansive views of the Lakes District including Lake Tarawera and Lake Rotomahana, and out over the forest reserves that surround the mountain.
Flights depart from the Rotorua City Lakefront, allow at least 40 minutes. These tours are weather dependent.
Mt Tarawera highlights:
The helicopter ride
Scenic views of Lake Tarawera and Lake Rotomahana
The Volcano!
10. Glide Through The Trees At Rotorua Canopy Tours
Widely considered one of the best things to do in Rotorua, Canopy Tours combine ziplining, swing bridges and ancient NZ forest to create a super special experience for visitors. Enjoy this fun and educational experience with friends or family in small groups of no more than 10 people. Anyone over the age of 6 can participate.
This canopy journey allows you to experience NZ native forest in a whole new way while traversing swing bridges, climbing high into the tree tops and ziplining your way across the canopy. Choose from two different options; the first being the original 3 hour Canopy Tour featuring the longest zipline in the country (220 mteres) and swing bridges. Or the Ultimate Canopy Tour (3.5 hours) which incorporates a tandem zipline, spiral staircase, controlled descent and more!
Tour prices range from $199 for the Ultimate Tour to $159 for the Original Tour. Family discounts are available. Tours operate year round however it can be pretty cold in the winter months. Canopy Tours run in all types of weather, warm clothing is provided if you are unprepared.
Rotorua Canopy Tours highlights:
A total of 600 metre of zipline
3 hours of fun
Small groups
Free photos!
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