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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Northland Road Trip
Head to the Winterless North to catch some rays any time of year. This itinerary shows off some of Northland's highlights.
events
SIX60 Saturdays
When: Jan 16, 05:00 PM to 11:59 PM
Where: 1 Tau Henare Drive, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Waitangi Sports Grounds, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Otehei Bay New Years Eve Party
When: Dec 31 to Jan 1, 05:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Where: Corner of Williams and Marsden Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Otehei Bay, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Paihia Christmas Parade
When: Dec 4, 05:30 PM to 07:00 PM
Where: Williams Rd
Venue: Paihia, Paihia, Northland
The Feelers - Summer Tour 2021
When: Feb 6, 07:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Zane Greys On the Dock, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Musicians Night
When: Nov 1 to Dec 27, 06:00 PM to 11:59 PM
Where: 342 Puketona Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Twin Pines Manor, Paihia, Bay of Islands
"it!" Bay of Islands Food and Wine Festival
When: Nov 6, 11:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Where: 60 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Village Green, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Overnight Cruise in the Bay of Islands - Rock the Boat
When: Oct 20 to Dec 11, 05:00 PM to 11:59 PM
Where: 69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: The Rock Adventure Cruise, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Fun Day Out On Spirit of New Zealand in the Bay of Islands
When: Jan 6, 09:00 AM to 03:00 PM
Where: 28 Baffin Street, Opua, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Opua Marina, Paihia, Bay of Islands
The Extravaganza Fair
When: Jan 23 to Jan 24, 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Where: Te Karuwha Parade, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Venue: Waitangi Marae, Paihia, Bay of Islands
Rock the Boat - Day Cruise in the Bay of Islands
When: Oct 21 to Dec 11, 08:00 AM to 03:00 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 International
A central, secure backpacker hostel in the heart of Auckland City with room options to suit all travel styles.