Bay of Island
The townships of this historic bay are infused with both Maori and European history. You'll find out why the Bay of Islands is considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation. You'll also see how Maori culture and lifestyle have adapted to modern times.
Wherever you are in the Bay of Islands, there are plenty of recreational activities in the blue-green world of island and beach: charter a yacht or launch, dive or snorkel, paddle a sea kayak in and out of the islands' nooks and crannies or swim with the dolphins.
Must See / Visit Places
Paihia
Paihia is known as the jewel of the magnificent Bay of Islands. With shimmering safe waters and superb beaches Paihia is a good place to be based for your Bay of Islands experience. Take a relaxing walk along unspoilt beaches, take a guided tour through historical sites or go fishing. If adventure is what you seek, perhaps try skydiving, parasailing, scuba diving or kayaking. Paihia is the place of friendly locals, happy cafes and people enjoying life. Whether it is swimming with delightful dolphins, taking in a spot of retail therapy or just lazing under a tree, Paihia is the place for it.
Russell
A quick ferry ride across the water from Paihia is the charming, elegant township of Russell. Historic buildings to visit include the Catholic Mission "Pompallier" and Christ Church, which still carries the bullet holes from the Maori Wars. Discover Russell's exciting past by visiting the museum, cafes, restaurants and craft galleries, while appreciating its colonial architecture.
Top of the North
All travellers should experience the splendour of seeing two oceans collide at Cape Reinga and the spiritual "place of the leaping" where spirits of the departed leap to the ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. And what do you do with all those sand dunes? ? you boogy board down them of course. Or conquer them on a quad bike. Take a spot on a beach-side camping ground, pack your fishing gear and your hiking boots and eat your way around the region.
Waitangi
Truly one of New Zealand's most historic sites, being the place where both Maori and European joined in signing the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. The Treaty House is located amongst a vast peaceful estate which includes a fully carved Maori Meeting House, one of the largest Maori War Canoes and a Visitor Centre and Gallery. The estate is a must see for any visitor interested in New Zealand's history and culture.
Napier & Hawke’s Bay
Napier, the city by the sea, is renowned for its 1930s Art Deco architecture, events such as the Brebner Print Art Deco Weekend in February; stately Norfolk pines, surrounding wineries, local fresh produce and national tourist attractions.
Supported by a mediterranean climate and over 2,200 hours of sunshine a year this popular year-round destination boasts a vibrant cafe culture amongst the splendour of the Art Deco buildings. Around 30 cafes are within walking distance of the central city area, while Ahuriri, just over Bluff Hill, is home to a further cluster of upmarket establishments.
Must See / Visit Places
Cape Kidnappers
It was named by Captain James Cook after local Maori tried to kidnap the servant of Cook’s Tahitian interpreter. The cape is the site of a large garnet colony. The garnet is a large white seabird with black tipped flight features, a golden crowns, and wings that can reach a span of 6 feet.
Wineries
Hawke’s Bay’s long sunshine hours, wide range of growing microclimates, and variety of soil types have allowed more than 40 wineries to develop all classical grape varieties to a high standard. Hawke’s Bay’s fruit is sourced from varied vineyard and orchard sites, and traditional techniques. The success of the region’s wine is not only evident in its international awards, but in one of New Zealand’s most important wine events, the annual Harvest Hawke’s Bay, celebrated during the first weekend of February.
Qualmark is New Zenaland tourism's official quality assuarance agency and JTB has been a member of Qualmark since 2008.
Weather
- Auckland
- Showers.
- 16°C/ 5°C
- Rotorua
- Fair.
- 13°C/ -5°C
- Christchurch
- Partly Cloudy.
- 13°C/ 2°C
- Queenstown
- Partly Cloudy.
- 11°C/ -1°C
