Bay of Islands - the birthplace of the nation
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s hottest holiday destinations, and not just for the sunshine that beats down on its golden beaches. This collection of 144 islands north of Auckland enjoys year-round warm weather that lures visitors to its deep blue waters, rich marine life and undeveloped strips of sand.
Home to a string of quaint colonial-era towns, the Bay of Islands also carries immense historical significance. Waitangi is where Māori chiefs and the British Crown signed the landmark Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, earning this area a reputation as the birthplace of the nation.
at a glance
Best known for
untouched golden beaches
Did you know
the Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840
Don't leave without
A trip on YHA Bay of Islands, The Rock!
stories
Top 7 Mountain Biking Towns in New Zealand
Whether you're an avid downhill mountain biker..
events
The Wonky Donkey
When: Apr 22, 10:30 AM to 02:00 PM
Where: Tau Henare Drive, Waitangi, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Easter Family Fun Day
When: Apr 20, 08:30 AM to 06:30 PM
Where: Corner of Williams and Marsden Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Otehei Bay, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Paihia Natural Health & Mystic Fair
When: Apr 19 to Apr 21, 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Where: Williams Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Paihia War Memorial & Community Hall, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Bootleg Band
When: Feb 9 to Apr 20, 08:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Where: 16, Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Thirty30, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Reireis School of Reggae
When: Mar 21 to May 30, 08:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Where: 16, Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Thirty30, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Open Mic - Jam Night
When: Mar 17 to May 5, 07:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Where: 16, Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Thirty30, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Jennian Homes Paihia Mother's Day Run/Walk 2019
When: May 12, 09:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Where: 60 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Village Green, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Music From Jam Sandwich (Duo)
When: Apr 26, 06:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Where: 16, Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Thirty30, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Royal Riot Drag Queen Bingo
When: Jan 23 to Apr 24, 08:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Where: 16, Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Thirty30, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Comedy Hypnotist with Rob Young
When: Apr 27, 07:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Where: 1 Joyces Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Paihia Ex-Services Club , Paihia, Bay of Islands
Nearby Hostels
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YHA Bay of Islands, Paihia
We're 5 minutes' walk to the golden sands of Paihia, with a great outdoor seating area, friendly hosts, and comfortable backpacker accommodation.
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YHA Bay of Islands, The Rock
YHA Bay of Islands, The Rock Cruise will take you on an aquatic adventure around the Bay of Islands; kayaking, swimming, target shooting, exploring and more on this overnight cruise.
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YHA Whangarei
YHA Whangarei Falls Backpackers and Holiday Park is a relaxed spot right next to Whangarei Falls, complete with swimming pool and hot tub.
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YHA Ahipara
YHA Ahipara is part of a spacious holiday park including a purpose-built backpacker lodge, communal kitchen, lounge, and laundry facilities. Relax on-site or take a short stroll to Ninety Mile Beach.
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YHA Auckland City
This modern, recently refurbished backpacker hostel combines the excitement of the city with a safe and secure environment.
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YHA Auckland International
A central, secure backpacker hostel in the heart of Auckland City with room options to suit all travel styles.