ISSUE
Friday, May 2, 2025
Volume 16 . Issue 57
New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud, the Middle-earth or God’s own country, whichever way you describe it, it tells the story of how this country's unique combination of landscapes, people and activities cannot be found anywhere else in the world—it is a "100% Pure New Zealand" experience. The Tourism NZ campaign over the years has used 100% pure relaxation, 100% pure welcome, 100% pure adrenalin and 100% pure you—all connected back to the core premise of 100% Pure New Zealand to describe the travel experience in New Zealand.
The latest adaption is 100% Middle-earth, 100% Pure New Zealand, leveraging the huge exposure New Zealand is getting around the world from the first Hobbit movie.100% Middle-earth, 100% Pure New Zealand was named best destination marketing campaign at the 2012 World Travel Awards.
Awards or not, the sheer experience of traveling through this abundantly endowed country is nothing but pure bliss.
With the daylight saving giving us an extra hour and summer giving us longer days, it is the best time to enjoy the experience of discovering this beautiful country. So as the school holidays approach and the silly season catches up, it may be the best time to head out and experience the wonders of this beautiful country. In this issue, we bring you some options that are worth considering. A snapshot on the short and quick trips around Auckland that are easy on the pocket and on the time at hand but promise the full New Zealand experience.
We hope to cover the length of the country in different issues and start right from the top in this one, starting from the Bay of Islands.
The Bay of Islands is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in New Zealand, conveniently located just over three hours from Auckland by road. The weather is usually warm all year round, which makes it popular for big-game fishing, snorkelling, diving, and sailing as well as other water-based activities. The Bay of Islands is also home to several historical attractions such as the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Stone Store. No matter your age or interests, you are sure to discover activities of your liking here, be it relaxing on the golden sandy beaches or exploring the hidden caves of the islands.
The Bay of Islands has 144 islands and includes the tourist towns of Russell, Opua, Waitangi and Paihia. There are an abundance of picturesque views that will take your breath away, as well as a host of exciting activities to keep you entertained. Great options include going kayaking, chartering a yacht, or walking along the seaside with your family and friends. You can also go on the famous ferry ride to the town of Russell, visit the Hundertwasser attractions in Kawakawa, view the scenic sunset on the 90 Mile Beach, hang out at one of the famous cafes or collect souvenirs from flourishing art shops in Kerikeri.
BAY OF ISLANDS ITINERARY INSPIRATIONS
These sample itineraries have been compiled to showcase the beautiful Bay of Islands’ a fantastic destination for a short trip away from the city. Whether you’re after a romantic trip for two, family fun, adventure or relaxation the Bay of Islands has so much to offer. With its proximity to Auckland or a short flight from one of the main centres, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend’s escape or longer. The Bay of Islands - it’s where stories begin.
See www.visitboi.co.nz for more useful information on the area.
Cuisine themed itinerary in the Bay of Islands
Day 1:
Stay at the waterfront Kingsgate Hotel in Paihia - the perfect position to explore the Bay from.
Enjoy dinner at Provenir, an intimate local restaurant with a seasonally driven menu that emphasises the age-old formula of simple ingredients cooked well, with a focus on handmade and artisanal.
DAY 2:
Visit the Old Packhouse Market in Kerikeri for the freshest, locally grown produce, quality meats, poultry, seafood, cheeses, flowers and more.
http://www.theoldpackhousemarket.co.nz/
Head back to Paihia to enjoy a casual lunch and drinks over the water at the picturesque Alongside Bar.
Take the passenger ferry from Paihia to Russell and dine at the award-winning Duke of Marlborough restaurant on Russell's beautiful waterfront where you can embrace the history and charm of New Zealand’s first licensed hotel. The Duke is a truly majestic destination for an unforgettable experience.
Fun and adventure themed itinerary in the Bay of Islands & Hokianga
Day 1:
Stay at the tropical 4 star Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands, situated at the entrance to Paihia it’s a short stroll into town to the main wharf, visitor activities, dining and shopping.
Day 2:
Cruise the sparkling waters of the Bay on the Inner Island Explorer Tour. You’ll encounter diverse wildlife in their natural surroundings with a chance to swim with the dolphins.
Drive 2 hours to Hokianga and stay at the 4 star Copthorne Hotel & Resort Hokianga. From the beachfront rooms, you are just a one-minute stroll to the picturesque shore, providing a relaxed ambience away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Walk through the spectacular Waipoua Forest at night to see the mighty Tane Mahuta with Footprints Waipoua.
Day 3:
Let out your inner child and have fun sandboarding in the giant sand dunes of with Hokianga Express.
Family fun themed itinerary in the Bay of Islands
Day 1:
Spot the thousands of luminous glow-worms at Kawiti Caves – Northland’s ultimate glow-worm experience.
Stay at the tropical 4 star Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands, situated at the entrance to Paihia it’s a short stroll into town to the main wharf, visitor activities, dining and shopping.
Day 2:
Learn about where New Zealand’s story began with a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty grounds and an authentic Maori cultural performance including waiata, poi and haka in the Marae.
Explore the Bay of Islands on a cruise that has it all – the iconic Hole in the Rock Cruise will take you in search of dolphins and other marine life as you journey to the end of Cape Brett Peninsula to the famous Hole in the Rock on Motukokako Island.
Enjoy a unique dining experience over the water at 35 South Restaurant, the central 60,000-litre salt water Aquarium filled with local fish in the centre of the restaurant is sure to be a hit with the kids.
Romance-themed itinerary in the Bay of Islands
Day 1:
Stay at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel in Russell, a unique setting where you can embrace the history and charm of New Zealand’s first licensed hotel. Located on the waterfront in the heart of romantic Russell, The Duke is a truly majestic destination for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Enjoy fabulous three-course fine dining at The Duke of Marlborough’s award-winning restaurant.
Day 2:
Treat you and your special someone to a luxurious couples’ massage at La Spa Naturale at the award-winning boutique Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel.
Continue to relax and unwind with cocktails and canapés at Alongside Bar perched over the water in Paihia.
Make no mistake, while the Bay of Islands itself is picturesque, the trip itself is worth every mile. There are several cafes and scenic points to stop and soak in nature’s beauty.
So inspire yourself to choose from one of the itinerary inspirations and head out this summer. A quick check on the relevant websites (www.visitboi.co.nz) will give you more options. (Source – Mango, Auckland).