The stunning Bay of Islands beckons you with majestic beauty, clean beaches, and beautiful shores. This natural harbour is magnificent and carries the country’s past through time. If you plan to go here, you must know what to do here and how to do it correctly. This listicle blog will shed light on these things and more.
Things To Do In The Bay Of Islands
Whether you are a thrill seeker for water sports or a historical-savvy person looking to scroll through the pages of ancient times, the Bay of Islands will keep you entertained. Let’s explore in this blog, the activities in the Bay of Islands or the best places to visit.
1. Boat Trip To Hole In The Rock
Image Credit: Matt Lemmon for Wikimedia Commons
New Zealand is full of natural wonders. And the Bay of Islands is no exception. One of the first activities in the Bay of Islands may include a trip to a floating rock with a hole in it. Start by taking a guided boat excursion that leaves Paihia and see some of this natural wonderland’s most distinctive features. Stop to take in the breathtaking view of the Hole in the Rock.
As you cruise the coast, keep an eye out for a variety of marine species. Explore the renowned Hole in the Rock and Cathedral Cave on Motukokako Island. You may even sail across it if the weather allows it. Other activities include touring the breathtaking Cape Brett Peninsula and the lighthouse beside it. Along the journey, make a stop at one of the islands.
Things To Do: Sightseeing, historical tours, guided commentary
Duration: 3-4 hours
Must Read: Hiking in New Zealand
2. Skydive In The Bay of Islands
Image Credit: W. Bulach for Wikimedia Commons
Bay of Islands is home to adrenaline junkies. When you choose to skydive in the Bay of Islands, you are in for a once-in-a-lifetime memory. This is an ideal option to enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Islands’ pure golden beaches, crystal blue waters and verdant landscape. You can schedule a courtesy pick-up or drive to Kerikeri Airport, the pickup point.
Depending on your option, climb aboard the aircraft for a cruise up to 9,000, 12,000, 16500, or 20000 feet to take in the breathtaking views of the 144 islands comprising the Bay of Islands. You will be attached to an experienced tandem instructor who will ensure you have fun and stay safe the entire time. Depending on your chosen altitude, jump from the plane for an exhilarating freefall lasting anywhere from 20 to 85 seconds.
Things To Do: Skydive
Duration: 2-3 hours
3. Opua Kauri Forest Walk
Image Credit: Jogsia for Wikimedia Commons
Within a quick drive of Kawakawa, you can enjoy the spectacular and mysteriously stunning Opua Kauri Forest Walk. Start by visiting the home of the renowned Hundertwasser Toilets in Kawakawa. These are one of the few public restrooms recognised as an international work of art. Created by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the toilets are made of recycled materials from the surrounding area.
From there, head towards the Opua Forest, home to nearly millennium-old Kauri trees. After that, you may return to the wharf from this point through the Waitangi viewpoint, which offers fantastic photo ops, especially with your ship parked in the Bay. You can also choose to visit the newly opened Hundertwasser Cultural Centre.
Things To Do: Guided tours, walk, hike
Duration: 5-6 hours
Suggested Read: Nevis Catapult in New Zealand
4. Visit Glow Worm Caves Of Kawiti
Image Credit: Alan Vernon for Wikimedia Commons
Your tour guide can lead you through underground caverns where you can see the glowworms. You can start your tour at the Waitangi Wharf (pickup and drop-off point). Your friendly local guide will take you to the caverns in a 12-seater dual air-conditioned minivan, roughly a 15-minute journey.
Then, you will go into the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves where a local Maori guide will bring you into underground chambers to observe the glow worms and tell you about the caves. You can travel through a 200-metre system of limestone caves on a wooden boardwalk (complete with railings) during your 30-minute guided tour. Once inside, you will notice stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and thousands of glow worms scattered throughout the ceiling.
Things To Do: Sightseeing, photography, guided tours
Duration: 2-3 hours
5. Visit Historic Kerikeri
Image Credit: W. Bulach for Wikimedia Commons
Visiting the historic Kerikeri station can help you experience the rich and ancient culture. You can plan the journey, including a visit to the magnificent Rainbow Falls. At the summit of Rainbow Falls, three breathtaking observation platforms make for excellent photo sessions. Next, you may taste the tantalising handcrafted chocolates at the Makana Chocolate Factory. If time permits, you can also explore the nearby Kauri Workshop, which sells crafts and collectables.
After this, you can explore the 1819-founded Kerikeri Mission Station. There are two notable structures here: “The Stone Store,” constructed in 1832 and formerly used as a warehouse for the Missionary Society; and the nearby “Kemp House,” New Zealand’s oldest building. Go the extra mile to visit Mission Station’s historic Plough & Feather bar. One can enjoy lunch here alongside a glass of locally brewed beer or wine (all included in the ticket fee).
Things To Do: Sightseeing, photography, dining
Duration: 5-6 hours
Further Read: Kaikoura Travel
Bay of Islands is a coastal paradise with breathtaking beauty and popular travel spots. However, looking at the list of things above, you will realise that this place has much more to offer. Book a trip to New Zealand to explore the wonders of the Bay of Islands. You’ll surely make lasting memories with your family and friends.
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Cover Image Source: Wikimedia
Frequently Asked Questions About Bay Of Islands
How is the Bay of Islands weather?
The Bay of Islands weather usually showcases moderate lows and highs. Summertime temperatures will peak in the 70s and dip into the 50s. You can expect lows in the 40s and highs in the low 60s throughout the winter. September is usually the warmest month while January is the coolest.
What are the most thrilling activities in the Bay of Islands?
The most thrilling activities in the Bay of Islands include forest walks, cave exploration, skydiving, cruise tours, snorkelling, scuba diving, etc.
Are Bay of Islands boat trips too expensive?
The Bay of Islands can be expensive. Due to the overall economy and pricing of the country, the Bay of Islands may be an expensive travel, especially when you compare it to other countries. However, it should always be remembered that what you see here is worth all your money. Hence, one should not hesitate to book the tours to the Bay of Islands.
What makes the Bay of Islands so iconic?
There are plenty of things that make it all the more iconic. The most famous thing about the Bay of Islands is that the American author Zane Grey made it known internationally through his big-game fishing in the 1930s. Since then, it has become one of the most well-liked fishing, sailing and tourism sites in the nation.
Is the Bay of Islands worth visiting?
Yes, the Bay of Islands is totally worth visiting. The subtropical microregion is renowned for both its breathtaking beauty and rich history. It is heaven for people who enjoy being near water and beaches.
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