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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"it!" Bay of Islands Food and Wine Festival

When: Oct 5, 11:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Where: 60 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Village Green, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Fullers GreatSights Bay of Island Beast

When: Aug 24, 11:00 AM to 04:30 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Road
Venue: Bay of Islands, Paihia, Northland

Overnight Cruise in the Bay of Islands

When: Aug 1 to Sep 24, 04:00 PM to 11:59 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: The Rock Adventure Cruise, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Reireis School of Reggae: CANCELLED

When: Mar 21 to Sep 5, 08:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Where: 16, Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Thirty30, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Toastmasters Paihia

When: Aug 22, 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Where: 64 The Mall
Venue: Paihia Community Room, Paihia, Northland

Duo Coco

When: May 16 to Aug 29, 05:00 PM to 08:00 PM
Where: 50 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Rayz On the Bay, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Acoustic Jam Nights

When: Aug 2 to Aug 30, 05:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Where: 342 Puketona Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Twin Pines Manor, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Live Music From WiEkko

When: Aug 23 to Dec 6, 06:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Where: 16, Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Thirty30, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Live Music From Scarlet Fever

When: Aug 24, 08:30 PM to 11:30 PM
Where: 16, Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Thirty30, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Sunday Jammers

When: Aug 4 to Sep 1, 06:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Where: 342 Puketona Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Twin Pines Manor, Paihia, Bay of Islands

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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