The huge popularity of the Bay of Islands as a holiday destination for the ‘Kiwi’ locals speaks for itself. The Bay of Islands is a stunning destination situated on New Zealand’s North Island and is about 3 ½ hour drive from Auckland. It consists of 144 beautiful and dramatic islands and is perfect for those seeking a beach holiday with plenty of activities such as swimming with dolphins, nature walks and fishing on your door step.

1 / 6

Bay of Islands

2 / 6

Bay of Islands

3 / 6

Bay of Islands

4 / 6

Bay of Islands

5 / 6

Bay of Islands

6 / 6

Bay of Islands

Description

Perhaps the area’s most famous attraction is the ‘Hole in the Rock’ formation – also known as Piercy Island and situated at the tip of Cape Brett. There are many organised boat trips and cruises that will take you to this striking place, where you will cruise the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands, hopefully catching sight of wild dolphins, whales and penguins, before the skipper navigates the boat right through the hole (weather and water permitting).

Another lovely spot to visit is Rainbow Falls in KeriKeri. There are several pathways that will take you to various vantage points to get the best views of this exquisite waterfall in all its glory. The unspoilt island of Urupukapuka is also not to be missed and can be visited on a day trip either by water taxi or an organised boat trip. If you venture to the top of the island, you will be rewarded with fabulous panoramic views. Down by the beautiful beach there are clear blue waters for you to paddle in.