The number-one comment we get from our guests is "We wish we had allowed for more time in Russell". While vacationing in the Bay of Islands you will find yourself spoiled for choice by the incredible array of activities available to suit all tastes andabilities. We've collected together a wide range of options - there are 45 categories!! - to give give you some ideas to help you plan ahead. Let us know what you'd like to do and we can take care of all the bookings. Our comments about the attractions are in blue text.
Click on the red bar at the left to jump back up to the Activity Table
For those looking for a truly personalised and memorable experience we highly recommend Sojournz Premier Guest Services. Click here to see a selection of unique
| Sea | ||
Bay Tours |
There are quite a number of ways to see the 144 Islands in the Bay and its diverse sea life - from large group trips and high speed fast boats to relaxing private sailboat charters and many types of diving expeditions - it's all here. Fullers and Kings have comprehensive tour packages that will take you to many of the spectacular sea sights around the Bay of Islands including Piercy Island ( The Hole In The Rock), the Black Rocks and Urupukapuka Island. Whether you choose to sail or motor around it's likely that you'll get to see some of the dolphins and whales that frequent the Bay of Islands.
We can organise a sail boat or private launch to take you out exploring the Bay of Islands departing from Russell or Paihia. Take the opportunity to swim, fish, hike, have a picnic or just relax on a deserted beach. To see all of your options check out the tour operators in the other Sea categories below. |
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| Dolphin & Whale Watching | ||
| Fullers Bay of Islands 09 402 7421 |
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To see all the highlights of the magnificent Bay of Islands in one day then our range of cruises are for you. On board our new state of the art cruising ships you'll take in the awesome "Hole in the Rock" and go ashore to explore one of the most beautiful islands. You'll see the spectacular Black Rocks - unusual volcanic formations found in only two places in the world.You may see seals, dolphins or even whales and endless bird and fish life. |
| Kings Tours 09 402 8288 |
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Board 'Dolphin Seeker' to experience a fantastic feeling of seeing dolphins in the wild while cruising the beautiful surroundings of the Bay of Islands. Different types of whales may be seen outside the islands on your way to the famous Hole in the Rock & Cathedral Cave. Your captain provides a full commentary on the history of the Bay of Islands along with dolphins, whales and other marine life in the Bay. |
| Dolphin Discoveries Paihia 09 402 8234 |
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Join us for the ultimate marine mammal experience. Swim with the dolphins (conditions permitting) and see the magnificent semi-resident baleen whales, penguins, and other wildlife amidst the spectacular marine environment of the Bay of Islands. |
| Sailing and Boat Charters | ||
| Phantom Russell 0800 224 421 |
Phantom is a C & C 50 custom-built sailing yacht of 1972 Vintage. A winning classic ocean racer, Canadian built for the SORC (southern ocean racing circuit). We had fabulous time on the Phantom on a glorious Bay of Islands summer day. we were treated to a large pod of dolphins that played around and followed the boat all afternoon while eating a lovely lunch featuring mussels right out of the sea. | |
| R.Tucker Thompson Russell 09 402 8430 |
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The R.Tucker Thompson is spacious, gaff rigged, square tops'l schooner, with plenty of room on board to relax, read a book and soak up the sun. If you fancy something more energetic, then the crew will show you how to set the sails and you help sail the ship. If you really fancy adventure, then ride the bowsprit or climb the rigging, then swing off the rope for a lunch time swim. We've been out on the Tucker a few times for various occasions and it's always been great. It's especially fun if you want to get hands on and help with the ropes and rigging etc. |
| Great Escape Self Sail Charters Opua 09 402 7143 |
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The charter boats we use are light, responsive boats to sail, with a sail area easily handled by two people. An adjustable centre board on the smaller craft allows the boats to be sailed close into beaches, and the large open cockpit area is well suited for lazing in the sun. The boats available include: Hartley 5 meter, Kestrel 6 meter, Davidson 6.3 meter Noelex 7.6 meter & 9.2 meter and Raven 10 meter. |
| Fast Boats | For an exciting and fast way to see the Bay and The Hole in the Rock you can take either the Excitor or Mack Attack fast boats. They travel at up to 50 knots (90km/h)and will get you to Piercy Island, going through The Hole in the Rock, and back again in a little over an hour. | |
| Excitor Fullers Bay of Islands 09 402 7421 |
This 1 1/2 hour adventure combines high speed thrills with exploration of the best of the Bay of Islands. You'll see beautiful bays as you pass between the islands enroute to Cape Brett where you'll pass through the awesome 'Hole in the Rock' and enter Grand Cathedral Cave.Feel the surge of power from the twin 800 horsepower engines as your skipper opens her up on the way home and the wind whips through your hair. | |
| Mack Attack Kings Tours 09 402 8288 |
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One and a half hour thrill-of-a-lifetime ride to the 'Hole in the Rock' and 'Cathedral Cave'. Enjoy the acceleration and speed of this purpose-built vessel with amazing sea keeping ability. Powered by two 600hp Mack Daytona engines, MACK ATTACK carries 30 passengers. With stops at Cape Brett, Cathedral Cave and the Hole in the Rock, with an informed commentary detailing the history of the area. Jump aboard and hold tight for this aquatic adventure. |
| Russell-Paihia Fast Ferry Kings Tours 09 402 8288 |
This 1 1/2 hour adventure combines high speed thrills with exploration of the best of the Bay of Islands. You'll see beautiful bays as you pass between the islands enroute to Cape Brett where you'll pass through the awesome 'Hole in the Rock' and enter Grand Cathedral Cave.Feel the surge of power from the twin 800 horsepower engines as your skipper opens her up on the way home and the wind whips through your hair. | |
| Fishing | Seventy years ago, Zane Grey dubbed New Zealand an "angler's El Dorado," and the Bay of Islands has been proving him right ever since. Here you will find some of the world's best saltwater fishing in locations as beautiful as nature has ever devised. In addition to spectacular scenery, you will find yourself fishing in crystal-clear waters for fish that are bigger and wilder than anywhere else. If you are an angler with a lifelong fishing dream, this is where dreams come true. Whether you're interested in light tackle or Big-Game fishing, the Bay of Islands is one of the worlds' premier fishing locations with records being broken constantly. Most of the world-record striped marlin and makos have been caught in the waters near us. |
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| Russell Water Taxi & Fishing Charter Russell |
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We've sent an awful lot of guests out with Terry who runs the Russell Water Taxi and Fishing charter boat and they've caught something every time. In Russell everyone knows that if Terry isn't catching fish then nobody is. |
| Triple B' Charters Russell 09 403 7200 |
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The 'Triple B' is ideal for all fishing options - Flyfishing, Light Tackle, and Big Game Fishing, and is especially suited for Island Cruising and Sightseeing. All the comforts of home are found in the cabin - modern galley and first class toilet facility.The most popular option is Sightseeing through the Islands, with its associated early history - then finding a good spot for Flyfishing, Light Tackle fishing, or both!! |
| Major Tom Fishing Charters Russell 025 377 844 |
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Major Tom II is a serious fishing boat with a fun crew. She is owned and operated by Geoff and Heather Stone, who along with their anglers, hold numerous Club, New Zealand, and even World Records for marlin, broadbill, swordfish, shark, tuna, kingfish, snapper and sea bass. For two of the last three seasons, Major Tom II has collected the Bay of Islands premium awards for both Most Gamefish, and Most Gamefish Tagged. |
| Diving & Swimming |
FIt's a whole new world down there...sure, there's plenty to see on land, but scuba diving the Bay of Islands is a fantastic way to explore New Zealand's sub-tropical scene. The underwater volcanic landscape is home to a vast lineup of marine life, caves, and wrecked ships including the Rainbow Warrior, the Greenpeace ship blown up by the French in the 1980s. Proficient divers can explore the nearby Poor Knights Islands, a marine reserve which is the nation's premier diving spot. Warm water, exotic fish, and diverse dive locations make the Bay of Islands a prime place to learn, or expand your experience. |
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| Paihia Dive Paihia 0800 107 551 |
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Our services include fully-guided (or unguided if preferred) Dive Charters with our highly qualified and caring staff aboard our 40ft charter dive vessel. Use of Sea Kayaks for Non-divers and Snorkellors. Full PADI dive training from Open Water through to Dive Master and many specialties. PADI Discover Scuba Diving (including 2 full dives) for people who have never dived before but can't wait to try it. Full equipment hire, sales and servicing. |
| Dive North Paihia 09 402 7079 |
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Dive the beautiful Bay of Islands, Cavalli Islands and the spectacular Cape Brett. Dive the famous Rainbow Warrior wreck. With all the above sites we can offer some of the most awesome diving in New Zealand. Literally dozens of sites ranging from 5 - 35 metres with visibility of 10 to 25 metres. There are sites for all types of divers, from newly certified through to the very experienced. |
| Octopus Dive Kerikeri 09 407 4900 |
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Guided dives, Rainbow Warrior wreck.Scenic Bay of Islands, Pacific coastline and offshore island groups. Live-aboard charters as well as dive instruction from novice through to professional levels. |
| Russell - For Additional Russell links go to our "Russell" or "Links" pages | ||
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Russell is a wonderfull seaside village with a lot going for it. It has to be one of the most romantic and picturesque places to get married and / or to enjoy your honeymoon. | |
| History & Culture | ||
| Russell Scenery | ||
| Russell Shopping | There is a vibrant shopping scene in Russell considering how small the town is. There are galleries with works from area artisans, souvenier shops, antiques dealers, crafts shops featuring local talent | |
| Russell General Store The Strand on the waterfront 09 403 7819 |
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For all your grocery, supply, beer and wine needs the Four Square on the waterfront is where you want to go. The owners, Chris and Paul, are great guys and will always try to get anything you need. We buy most of our supplies at the Russell General Store and can't speak highly enough of it. |
| Foxgloves Florist & Gifts York Street Russell 09 403 7734 |
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Foxgloves can create the perfect flower arrangements for your wedding or other event. You'll also find a range of quality gifts to pamper yourself or someone special. |
| Russell Walks | ||
| Russell People | ||
| Heritage & Culture | ||
| Waitangi National Trust Waitangi 09 402 5990 |
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The Waitangi National Trust Treaty Grounds houses the historic Treaty House, a fully carved Maori Meeting House, Maori War Canoe and Museum Exhibitions, with extensive park grounds with abundant native bird life, heritage trees and wonderful Bay views. There are 90 guided tours of the grounds regularly throughout the day and Maori culture shows and performances every night. Check the Waitangi National Trust website or call for details. |
| Treaty of Waitangi Sound & Light Show Waitangi 09 402 5990 |
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A two hour show combining stunning drama, vibrant Maori culture, sound and lights, we bring you the 1000 year story from the first Maori to discover this land through to the present day. Learn of the events surrounding the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. This show brings the story alive as visions of the past. Shows Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday 7:30 to 9:30pm |
| Ancient Maori Sites | ||
| Historic Buildings | ||
| Museums | ||
| Russell Museum York Street Russell 09 403 7701 |
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The Russell Museum tells the story of its township, recording the earliest years of Mäori/opean contact, including a 1:5 scale model of Cook's Endeavour, and a collection of replicaEur costumes from the Hansen/King family who were early settlers in the Bay of Islands.There are also artefacts relating to the town's 100 years as a port of call for whaling ships. |
| Sunbeamland Motorcycle & Pioneering Museum 09 404 0154 |
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Located at Taumarere, 3kms north of Kawakawa on Route 11. A museum of mainly British motor cycles, military and pioneering exhibits including live steam traction engine, ancient weapons and bookbinding. An insight into customs, culture and engineering which helped to mould a new nation. Many machines are in as ridden or raced condition and have interesting histories. |
| Historical Figures | ||
| Land Tours | ||
| Bay of Islands | ||
| Russell Mini Tour Fullers Bay of Islands 09 402 7421 |
When in Russell there's no better way to see the sights than on a "Russell Mini Tour". This one hour tour by mini-bus departs the Russell Wharf and visits areas which cannot be easily covered on foot. You'll see all the major sights of Russell, including Pompallier, Christ's Church, the Maritime Park Visitor Centre and the fabulous views from Flag staff hill. Share a personal insight into New Zealand's earliest European history on this great tour. | |
| Kiwi Eco Tours Russell 09 403 8823 |
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Kiwi Eco Tours specialises in exclusive, customised tours of the Bay of Islands and New Zealand's Far North. Our tours give you an insight into the history and natural beauty of the Bay of Islands, the arrival point of early migatory Polynesian canoes as well as early European explorers. Discover unspoilt and little-known places of this beautiful part of Northland, New Zealand. |
| Cape Reinga Tours | Fullers, Kings, Salt Air, 4WD Adventures and a number of other operators run tours from the Bay of Islands up to Cape Reinga which is the northern most region of New Zealand. The trips are well worthwhile as Cape Reinga is an amazing primal and spiritual area that is especially important to Maori. | |
| 4WD Adventures | ||
| 4x4 Dune Rider Paihia 09 402 8681 |
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A special 4WD coach tour to Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach. Visit the Puketi Kauri Forest, traveling via the beautiful East Coast beaches to Taipa for morning tea. Travel 90 Mile Beach, stopping to dig for native shellfish, drive along Te Paki quicksand stream, enjoy exhilerating sand tobogganing down spectacular sand dunes; view the meeting of the Tasman Sea & Pacific Ocean from Cape Reinga Lighthouse, swim/walk/lunch at a beautiful white sandy beach; admire the workmanship at Ancient Kauri Kingdom. |
| Paihia Duck Paihia 09 402 8681 |
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It's a BOAT, It's a BUS, It's BOTH Ride high on the land and in the water and see the Bay of Islands as it's never been seen before in a single tour. Paihia Duck is a brand new amphibious vehicle/vessel designed to give you a land and water sightseeing experience like no other. We often see the Duck quacking it's way in and out of the bay and around Russell - looks like a lot of fun. |
| Self Guided Tours | ||
| Art & Craft | ||
| Galleries & Shopping | ||
| Just Imagine York Street Russell |
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Just Imagine features truly fine art and gifts in all media from some of the best artists in New Zealand and the World. Exquisite items can be found in every price range. We've personally bought a number of beautiful items and are intending to get a few more from this wonderful gallery shop and cafe. |
| Lester Hall Fish Art Gallery Cass Street Russell |
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Unique art for all with an interest in the sea. New Zealand Artist, Lester Hall, draws and paints fish in two distinctly different styles. The first are intricate, biologically correct images, drawn in pencil. Lester also paints using oils over a base of gold and silver leaf, this gives the image a living, luminescent, quality. These works are often produced on bark cloth paper sourced from the Pacific Islands. |
| Entrance Art and Craft Studio 13 York Street Russell 09 403 7716 |
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A collective of local artists from the Bay of Islands such as Catrina Sutter who produce high quality art and craft in a wide variety of styles and mediums. We've bought a number of wonderful gifts for our relatives overseas from this studio. |
| Scenes of New Zealand York Street Russell |
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A comprehensive collection of paintings and prints with a New Zealand focus. We particularly like the wide range of historic maps on display. |
| Art Upstairs 22 Mill Lane Kerikeri 09 407 8180 |
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A working gallery with works on display from the artists in residence. A wide range of styles and media are represented, many with a New Zealand flavour. |
| Hundertwasser Toilets Kawakawa |
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Painter, architect, ecologist and philosopher, Friedrich Hundertwasser lived in seclusion on the Waikare Inlet near Kawakawa. His unique talents were commissioned to design and build the public toilets in the towns main street which were completed shortly before his death in February 2000. The Kawakawa toilet block with its ceramic columns, garden roof and curving, colourful structures has put the Northland town of Kawakawa on the International tourist route. For a huge range of Hundertwasser products check out The Grass Hut shop in Kawakawa |
| Blue Penguin Gallery The Strand Russell 09 403 7300 |
A wide range of high quality gifts and souvenirs made in New Zealand featuring many one of a kind items. | |
| Anticus Cass Street Russell 09 403 8000 |
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Fine Antique & Estate Jewelry, Sterling Silver, Lace, Porcelain, Pottery, Art, Sewing Collectibles, Furniture & much more. . Genuine antique and vintage stock, plus a gfiftware and jewelry section. |
| Port of Call The Strand Russell 09 403 7630 |
All kinds of gifts and souveniers, many with a Russell and Bay of Islands theme. | |
| The Cottage Shoppe Pitt Street Russell 09 403 7587 |
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| The Grass Hut Kawakawa 09 404 1290 |
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(Opposite the Hundertwasser toilets, Kawakawa) Our vibrant shop boasts the largest range of Hundertwasser products in New Zealand... especially imported from Austria and Germany. We also offer quality New Zealand made products including ceramics, handmade leather shoes, greenstone and paua jewellery, wool and possum products and much more. |
| Pottery & Glass | ||
| Just Imagine York Street Russell |
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Just Imagine features truly fine art and gifts in all media from some of the best artists in New Zealand and the World. Exquisite items can be found in every price range. We've personally bought a number of beautiful items and are intending to get a few more from this wonderful gallery shop and cafe. |
| Glasstime Glass Museum Paihia 09 402 8538 |
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A wonderful array of glass produced by some extremely talented New Zealand artists. You'll get to see glass made with uranium glow under ultra-violet lights, recognise pieces your parents used to have, and find out the value of the pieces you have at home. This museum and gallery have an extensive display of collectable and antique glass spanning 150 years from every glass-making country in the world. Also check out the contemporary art glass exhibition. |
| MacInnes Pottery Studio Russell 09 402 8538 |
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| Kaleidoscopes 265 Waipapa Rd Kerikeri 09 407 4415 |
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We make lots of different Kaleidoscopes. Our wooden Scopes use the worlds oldest commercially available wood, New Zealand Kauri, buried in swamps for 40,000 years, and we do all our own woodwork here on site. We also fashion all our own metal work and even make our own front surface mirrors, in our own, home made Vacuum Metaliser. There are some truly amazing and mezmerising kaleidoscopes to be found here. |
| Food & Wine | ||
| Restaurants and Cafes | You'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to dining in Russell and the Bay of Islands. Much of the produce and ingredients are produced right here and favoured by the local chefs. These along with the seafood and award winning wines of the area combine create a Pacific rim cuisine to please the most sophisticated diners. | |
| Omata Estate Russell 09 403 8007 |
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A great restaurant in an amazing location - on a peninsula between 2 bays, overlooking the vineyard and the sea. Click here for the menu. |
| Gannets York Street Russell 09 403 7990 |
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Casual fine dining combining the fabulous flavours of New Zealand and the Pacific Rim, presented and balanced with european panache.. Click here for the menu. |
| Sally's The Strand Russell 09 403 7652 |
Casual inside or alfresco dining for lunch and dinner on the Russell waterfront. The best coffee in Russell with quality cafe style food during the day and fine dinig in the evenings.Hosts Sally and Graham are a lot of fun. | |
| Kamakura The Strand Russell 09 403 7771 |
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Excellent fusion cuisine with Waterfront views out to Russell harbour. |
| Fallow Fields Historic Homestead Kawakawa 09 404 1552 |
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3kms north of Kawakawa on road to Paihia. Experience the old world charm of a Victorian Villa set in acres of rambling gardens, meadows and winding river. Lunch menu features pure New Zealand local produce, Altura espresso, teas, scones, patisserie, ice-creams and sorbets. Childrens playground. A wonderful and varied range of traditional and exotic teas and complimentary pastries and food in a lovely, tranquil garden setting. |
| Sugar Boat Waitangi |
Located in the Waitangi harbour just before the bridge to Waitangi Treaty Grounds . | |
| Vineyards | New Zealand wines have long been respected arounf the world. You'll find some of the best on offer at the many wineries of the Bay of Islands and the Northland region. | |
| Omata Estate Russell 09 403 8007 |
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In 1836, James Busby planted a small vineyard at Waitangi. Over 160 years later, New Zealand is famous for its wines, and not far from this original vineyard, Omata Estate maintains Busby's tradition of bold, rich, full-bodied wines such as Syrah, Chardonnay and Merlot with the distinctive taste of the lush Bay of Islands. |
| Marsden Estate Wiroa Road RD3 Kerikeri 09 407 9398 |
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Lying in the sun amidst the citrus- covered slopes of Northland is Marsden Estate, Kerikeri's award winning winery. The estate is name after Samuel Marsden, who introduced the grapevine to New Zealand with 100 plantings at Kerikeri in 1819. Original cuisine, complimented by estate grown wines can be enjoyed in a relaxed courtyard atmosphere overlooking the lake and vines. Wine sales, tastings and tours are also available. |
| Cottle Hill Winery Kerikeri 09 407 5203 |
Gourmet platters and ploughman's lunches served in summer. Relax with a glass of award winning wine overlooking the vineyard. We offer the delicious Cottle Hill wines at the lodge for your enjoyment. | |
| Karikari Estate Karikari Peninsula Ph 09 408 2066 |
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Above the beach and golf course rises a mountainous hillside, which is home to Karikari Estate, a new winery that began production in 2003. The winery building itself, with striking views in all directions, overlooks the vineyards. The winery produces a broad range of varietals and blends, with particular emphasis upon cabernet sauvignon, shiraz, merlot, and chardonnay. |
| Okahu Estate Kaitaia 09 408 2066 |
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New Zealands most northern vineyard and winery. The winery is situated 3.5ks from Kaitaia on the road to Ahipara which is at the southern end of the Ninety Mile Beach. The first vines were established in 1984 by vineyard owner by Monty Knight, since then label has earned a reputation for consistent quality, wining numerous awards including two gold medals for their Chardonnay and one gold medal for Shiraz. |
| Specialty Foods | You'll find yourself spoiled for choice when it comes to unique and indulgent foods in the Bay of Islands and New Zealand in general. New Zealanders have a love for great food and tis is just what you'll find throughout the country. | |
| Makana Confections Kerikeri |
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Makana Confections specialises in gift-quality confections - all hand-made and using only the freshest, natural ingredients available to us. Our boutique chocolate factory is located in Kerikeri, in the beautiful Bay of Islands area of the North Island, New Zealand. You are most welcome to visit - we are set up like a winery where you can see how we make our chocolates, taste a few samples and, of course, shop for delicious chocolates. |
| Pete's Butchery Kerikeri 09 407 8725 |
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We know it might seem strange to put a butchery on list of activities but the smoked New Zealand meat that come from Pete's shop are second to none. We've eaten literally the best bacon (which we serve at Aomotu Lodge every morning), smoked ham, manuka smoked venison, and all kinds sausages of our collective lives from this butchery!!! Mmmm Mmm Mmm. |
| Traditional Maori Hangi | ![]() |
The hangi is the traditional Maori way of cooking food that is a must for any visitor to try. The food is buried in a hole with extremely hot stones, wood and flax for many hours and becomes infused a beautiful delicate and smoky flavour The slow cooking makes the food extremely tender. We can arrange for our guests to attend a traditional hangi for $75 per person which includes wine and desert and a wonderful array of Maori songs and fun. Highly recomended. |
| Dinner Cruises | ||
| Sian Russell |
Excellent food in the spectacular setting of the Bay of Islands on the water.SIAN is a classic 12 metre launch available for dinner or as an exclusive charter. | |
| Air | ||
| Salt Air Paihia 09 402 8338 |
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Spectacular airplane or helicopter scenic flights around the Bay of Islands and Cape Reinga as well as charter flights to any destination within New Zealand. Our Cape Reinga Fly/Drive tour is the only way to experience the Far North of New Zealand in it's entirety. Much of the North is unreachable by road and therefore our scenic flights are the best viewing platform for this area. We've been on the Salt Air scenic flights and all we can say is WOW - what a fantastic trip and an unforgettable way to appreciate the true beauty of the north of New Zealand. |
| Kiwi Parasail Paihia 09 402 6078 |
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Soar high above the Bay of Islands with Flying Kiwi Parasail, "New Zealand's Highest Parasailing". Enjoy breathtaking views of Paihia, Russell and out to Cape Brett, "Hole in the Rock". Fly away in ease as your gently lifted off the back deck of the "worlds leading" purpose built parasail boat. |
| Hang Gliding | ||
| Sky Diving | ||
| Tandem Ultralight | ||
| Nature & Walks | ||
| The Department of Conservation maintains many tracks and walks suitable for visitors based in the Bay of Islands. The walks take in a variety of forest, coastal and island scenery and they cater for a wide range of ages or fitness. Here you'll find detailed descriptions and maps provided as PDF and/or JPEG files for you to download. There are also numerous heritage and historical trails for you to explore with guides or by yourself. | ||
| Cape Brett Walkway | ![]() |
The Cape Brett peninsula walkway is maintained by the department of conservation. The hike takes any where from 5 to 8 hours depending on your level of fitness from one end to the other. The scenery is spectacular and you'll find a wealth of archaeological and natural sites all along the way. You can do the walk by yourself or can take a guided tour provided by Kiwi Eco Tours. Cape Brett Walkway Part 1 PDF, Cape Brett Walkway Part 2 PDF |
| Island Hikes | There are 144 islands within the Bay of Islands Maritime Park. The stunning scenery, hidden bays, native flora and fauna and beautiful private beaches are the reward for all who explore them. | |
| Urupukapuka Island Archaeological Walk | The complete Urupukapuka Island Archaeological Walk takes around 5 hours. The route is divided into two shorter walks of 2.5 hours each.The southern loop covers more sites and overlooks calm, sheltered bays. The northern loop visits fewer sites, but includes some interesting sites and offers dramatic views from high, rugged cliffs. Urupukapuka Walk Part 1 JPEG, Urupukapuka Walk Part 2 JPEG |
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| Moturua Island Scenic Reserve | Moturua Island is a scenic reserve with rapidly regenerating native forest. The dominant vegetation is manuka and kanuka which creates an ideal nursery for young shrubs and tree ferns. Young pohutukawa thrive along the coastal fringe. Moturua Walks Part 1, Moturua Walks Part 2 |
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| Heritage Walks | ||
| Kauri Forests | ||
| Kawiti Glow Worm Caves 09 404 0583 |
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A network of caves with a history that dates back twelve generations, approximately 300 years. See beautiful massive pillars of pure white stalactites and stalagmites and caves that are covered with literally millions of glow-worms. Upon exiting the caves you'll find yourself in a fantastical Jurassic Park like terrain that alone is worth the $10 admission. The guides are very entertaining and informative. We really enjoyed this attraction. |
| Sport | ||
| Golf | New Zealand has the highest number of golf courses per head of population in the world - many of which are truly world class and more affordable than anywhere else. | |
| Waitangi Golf Club 09 402 7713 |
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The Waitangi Golf course features 18 holes with spectacular views over the Bay of Islands seascape. Many of our guests have played here and thoroughly enjoyed themselves and were amazed at the very reasonable green fees for such a wonderful course. |
| Kauri Cliffs Matauri Bay 09 405 1900 |
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New Zealand's Premier Golf Course - voted best new golf course in the world in 2001. Spectacular holes complimented with spectacular scenery make for an unforgettable golfers' outing. |
| Kerikeri Golf Club 09 407 8837 |
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Outstanding course layout, well bunkered featuring water hazards. Clubs, trundlers and electric golf carts are available for hire. |
| Carrington Club Maitai Bay Rd Karikari Peninsula 09 408 7222 |
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Carrington Club stresses the natural contours of its location on the gently sloping lower levels of a mountainous site adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. The resultant effect is the challenging play of a rolling inland golf course but with the beautiful ocean vistas of its seaside location. We believe that this is a combination unique to the Carrington Club and unmatched at any other top ranked tournament quality golf course in New Zealand. |
| Horse Riding | ||
| Bush N Bike Kawakawa 09 404 1142 |
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Our Horseback Adventures cater for riders of all levels of experience. We tailor the treks to suit each small group and your riding ability so that you have an enjoyable and memorable time with us. |
| Water Sports | If it can be done on water then it's probably available in the Bay of Islands. How about - speed boating, water skiing, wind surfing, jet skiing, kayaking, surfing, sailing, diving or big game fishing - as a few suggestions to start with. The Bay of Islands are known as New Zealand's premier maritime park with good reason. |
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| Coastal Kayakers Paihia 09 402 8105 |
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Sea kayaking in northern New Zealand in the Bay of Islands. You will experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the country and there's no better way to enjoy this sub-tropical paradise than by sea kayak. Explore the outer islands with lagoons, natural rock caves and quiet sandy beaches, or relax amongst the mangrove forest and challenge the Haruru Falls. We look forward to sharing all this and more with you on our popular New Zealand kayaking tours. |
| Bay Beach Hire Paihia 09 402 6078 |
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At Bay Beach Hire in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand we specialise in sea kayak tours and rentals. We supply you with the leading kayaks and safety equipment available on the market. We also rent the following equipment: Kayaks - Doubles and Singles, Sailing Boats - Catamarans, Rowing Boats, Small Motor Boats, Bicycles - Touring and Mountain, Windsurfers, Snorkel Gear, Wetsuits, Fishing Tackle, Boogie Boards, Wake Boards plus much more!!! |
| Cycling | ||
| Motor Sports | ||
| Bush N Bike Kawakawa 09 404 1142 |
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Our QUAD BIKE ADVENTURES are the ultimate in fun and thrilling action combined with awesome NZ scenery. These 500cc 4-wheel farm bikes can go anywhere and do anything! Experience the excitement as you splash through the sparkling Tirohanga river, 4WD over rocks, test your heart on extreme slopes and follow your guide along rugged bush tracks and rolling farmland amongst the cattle. Then try your skills on our fun challenge circuit. |
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