Explore the Bay of Islands with YHA New Zealand

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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YHA Ahipara travellers checking out lighthouse at Cape Reinga

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Bay of Islands Music Festival

When: Jan 25, 02:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Where: 1 Tau Henare Drive, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Waitangi Sports Grounds, Paihia, Bay of Islands

LADI6 DJ SET: Bay of Islands Music Festival After-Party

When: Jan 25 to Jan 26, 11:00 PM to 01:00 AM
Where: 16b Kings Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Sandpit Poolroom and Bar, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Carlise Guy & Nu Blu & Billy TK Jnr Road to Chicago NZ Tour

When: Feb 6, 06:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Zane Greys On the Dock, Paihia, Bay of Islands

NZ House & Garden Tours

When: Feb 14, 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM
Where: 101 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Bay of Islands i-SITE Information Centre, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Landslide - Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Tribute Show

When: Feb 29, 08:30 PM to 11:30 PM
Where: Tau Henare Drive, Waitangi, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Day Cruise In the Bay of Islands

When: Jan 3 to Feb 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

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

2020 Bay of Islands 4 Course Golf Classic

When: May 25 to May 29, 08:00 AM to 03:00 PM
Where: 1 Tau Henare Drive
Venue: Bay of Islands, Paihia, Northland

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

Sunday Night Markets

When: Dec 22 to Feb 2, 04:00 PM to 08:00 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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