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!
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events
Bay of Islands Music Festival
When: Jan 25 to Jan 26, 03:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Where: 1 Tau Henare Drive, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Waitangi Sports Grounds, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Otehei Bay New Year's Eve Party
When: Dec 31 to Jan 1, 05:00 PM to 01:00 AM
Where: Corner of Williams and Marsden Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Otehei Bay, Paihia, Bay of Islands
The Feelers - All The Hits Summer Tour
When: Dec 31 to Jan 1, 07:30 PM to 12:00 AM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Zane Greys On the Dock, Paihia, Bay of Islands
New Years Eve Fireworks
When: Dec 31 to Jan 1, 12:00 PM to 12:10 AM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Paihia Wharf, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Overnight Cruise In the Bay of Islands
When: Dec 1 to Dec 31, 05:00 PM to 11:59 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: The Rock Adventure Cruise, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Day Cruise In the Bay of Islands
When: Dec 2 to Jan 1, 08:00 AM to 03:00 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: The Rock Adventure Cruise, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Littlest Biggest Circus
When: Dec 28 to Jan 9, 02:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Where: 60 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Village Green, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Colour Bonanza
When: Mar 7, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Where: Marsden Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Horotutu Park, Paihia, Bay of Islands
The Duo Coco
When: Nov 14 to Jan 2, 05:00 PM to 08:00 PM
Where: 50 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Rayz On the Bay, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Overnight Cruise in the Bay of Islands
When: Jan 2 to Jan 31, 05:00 PM to 11:59 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: The Rock Adventure Cruise, 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.