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The region of Northland and the Bay of Islands stretches north from Auckland, towards the warm waters of Polynesia, the ancestral home of New Zealand ’s first inhabitants. A gold, green and blue world of beaches, bays and subtropical pleasures. Relax and unwind while you discover the stories of New Zealand’s early history.
The relaxed, sunny lifestyle of Northland springs from its subtropical climate and the myriad of beautiful islands, bays and beaches around the coastline. The people of the North have a passion for water sport - surfing, boating, game fishing, sailing and diving. They also have a deep appreciation of the region’s fascinating Maori and European history.
Northland’s history is rich and interesting. It is believed that the first Polynesian voyagers arrived in Northland during the 11th century. Today Waitangi is the seat of Maori culture, which is very much alive in this region (32 percent of the population are Maori). European settlement began in the 1840s, further enriching the region’s colourful past.
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Much of Northland's extensive coastline remains unspoilt - an aquatic playground for adventure activities and escapist relaxation. Whangarei and Opua are havens for international and local yachts; Tutukaka and Russell are game fishing hot spots; the beaches of Doubtless Bay are endlessly beautiful. Throughout the region you’ll also enjoy the shopping, dining and entertainment possibilities that stem from the distinctive local culture, which embraces art, creativity, organic farming and alternative thinking.
 Drive to the northernmost point of New Zealand and watch the Tasman Sea collide with the Pacific Ocean. Walk up to Cape Reinga Lighthouse or take a coach tour along the sand of Ninety Mile Beach
The Bay of Islands is an aquatic playground lavishly furnished with 144 islands and a myriad of secluded beaches. Go swimming with dolphins, sailing, big game fishing and kayaking, take the ‘Hole in the Rock’ cruise to the tip of Cape Brett or visit Waitangi National Reserve, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840.
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