A holiday in the Bay of Islands is a relaxing and rewarding way of exploring New Zealand’s hidden hideaways. A picturesque drive from Auckland on the twin coast discovery route brings you to New Zealand’s premier seaside resort – the Bay of Islands, with pristine green islands studded throughout its crystal blue waters.
Aptly named by Captain Cook, the Bay of Islands has been adored by generations for its stunning setting. With 144 islands it offers superb sailing, diving and game fishing, and chances to swim with dolphins. It’s so laidback here that no one will question if you simply choose to stretch out on one of Northland’s sandy beaches.
Cruise through big game fishing waters to the Cape Brett lighthouse and the fabulous ‘Hole in the Rock’ aboard a luxury high speed catamaran or experience an amazing day sailing on New Zealand’s fastest commercial catamaran, where you’ll have plenty of time for kayaking, snorkeling or simply enjoying a cool kiwi wine.
Swimming with dolphins in their world is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You’ll encounter dolphins, whales, sea birds, penguins and other wildlife as expert guides ensure you get the most from your adventure. Take a fun trip on a giant 4WD along ninety mile beach and take the chance to swim and relax on a broad sandy beach. Maybe you’d enjoy a thrilling boogie board ride down the massive sand dunes?
But it’s not all about what’s on the water in the Bay of Islands. A number of picturesque communities contribute to a thriving art and crafts industry with several trails linking vibrant artisan communities and museums celebrating the Maori and early European heritage, and farms and homestays giving fascinating insights into the Northland lifestyle.
Amid the colonial history in the Kawakawa Township you'll find the only building in the Southern hemisphere designed by Austrian artist, Frederick Hundertwasser and the last of his buildings before he died in 1999. Even more curious, it's the public toilet.
Bay of Islands fun facts
The Bay of Islands is in a broader region of NZ known as Northland
The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway runs only on Friday to Sunday
The first European to visit the area was Captain James Cook, who also gave its name
Family friendly Fiji
Friday 12th February 2010
Travel Counsellor: Tamsin Catto
In February 2010 my young family and I went to Fiji. We flew V Australia from Sydney to Nadi. V Australia had great service and in-flight entertainment, I would definitely fly with them again.
In Fiji we stayed at The Outrigger Lagoon Resort situated on the Coral Coast on the mainland. The Outrigger is a beautiful resort with many facilities including a very large pool area, watersports, tennis, golf driving range, horseriding, spa and four restaurants. There is also a playground, kids club and a babysitting service for young families. Our favourite part of the day quickly became breakfast. With a huge buffet to choose from, there was also a free nanny service. Once our kids had eaten, they then played games and did drawings whilst being supervised by a nanny. My husband and I could then relax and eat all the delicious food to our hearts content.
During our stay, we booked a tour on a tourist train that made its way to the nearby town of Sigatoka. The train ran along an old... view full story
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