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
"it!" Bay of Islands Food and Wine Festival
When: Oct 3, 11:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Where: 60 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Village Green, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Mind Body Spirit Festival Paihia
When: Jul 11 to Jul 12, 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Where: Williams Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Paihia War Memorial & Community Hall, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Overnight Cruise in the Bay of Islands on The Rock
When: Jul 4 to Aug 29, 04:00 PM to 11:59 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Bay of Islands Overnight Cruises, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Copthorne Bay of Islands 4-Course Golf Classic
When: Oct 5 to Oct 9, 09:30 AM to 11:59 PM
Where: Tau Henare Drive, Waitangi, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Fullers GreatSights Bay of Island Beast
When: Aug 29, 11:00 AM to 04:30 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Road
Venue: Bay of Islands, Paihia, Northland
Jennian Homes Bay of Islands Run/Walk 2020
When: Oct 18, 09:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Where: 60 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Village Green, 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 International
A central, secure backpacker hostel in the heart of Auckland City with room options to suit all travel styles.
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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.
