Located 3 hour (drive) North of Auckland the beautiful Bay of Islands has lots to do for a long weekend escape.

Staying in Paihia will give you option to do a number of day trips including a Ferry across to the historic town of Russell which was New Zealand’s first Capital or over the bridge to Waitangi to see some of NZ’s Maori Culture and view the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

If you wanted to see more of the North you can also do a day trip to Cape Reinga which is 3 hours north of the Bay of Islands. With stunning Coastal Views you get the see both East and West Coast beaches along with driving down the well-known 90 Mile Beach. I would definitely recommend this as it is a great way to see the Far North of New Zealand.

There is also a number for boat tours and activities to see and do in the area which provide History of the area and has some amazing Scenic views.

By Tracey Robinson