The Bay of Islands area comprises a large stretch of coastline and the townships of Kerikeri, Paihia and Russell. The latter two towns face each other across a natural harbour, and are connected by a ferry service. The historical highlights of the area are spread throughout the three major towns, and will easily fill a few days spent sightseeing.

Christ's Church
New Zealand’s oldest surviving church building is located in the Bay of Islands town of Russell. Completed in 1836, the bullet holes in the building’s façade are a reminder of the violence that permeated the area as the new European settlers fought against the native Maori when they were attempting to secure a foothold in the region.

Kawakawa Toilets
The small Northland town of Kawakawa is home to the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway, which operates between Kawakawa and Opua. However, this town’s claim to fame is more related to its public toilet buildings, designed by the renowned Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, who was resident in the town from 1975 until 2000, when he died. The toilets are considered a work of art, and are striking and ornate, incorporating a grass roof, ceramic and mosaic tiles, bottle glass windows, copper handwork and gold balls, floors of cobblestone and numerous sculptures as well as a living tree that was integrated into the overall design.

Kerikeri
Approximately 25 minutes by car from Paihia, Kerikeri is the Northland’s fruit-growing capital. Recently the town has seen growth in its permanent population as the number of artist enclaves and vineyards increases. Points of interest to visitors here include the Kemp House and Stone Store - two of New Zealand’s oldest buildings.

Paihia
This large community is known as the centre of activity for the Bay of Islands region. A number of organised tours begin in Paihia, such as visits to Cape Brett and the ‘Hole in the Rock’ as well as swimming and dolphin viewing adventures. On the latter type of tour, visitors not only have the opportunity to see these compelling creatures close up, but can swim alongside them as well. Also from Paihia, charter boats for deep sea fishing, diving and sailing can be hired.

Russell
This town is a quaint spot that was New Zealand’s first European settlement. Home to numerous historic timber buildings, it’s filled with visitors during the summer months and is home to lovely beaches. Popular highlights here include Flagstaff Hill, offering panoramic views of the entire Bay of Islands area, and Pompallier House, one of the country’s oldest homes.

Stone Store Basin
Located in Kerikeri town, this former storehouse was built over a period of several years, beginning in 1832. Ranking as New Zealand’s oldest stone building, the structure has been restored recently to its original condition, and continues to draw large numbers of visitors. It’s one of the country’s most photographed buildings.

Whangarei
Subtropical Whangarei, known as the ‘City by the Sea,’ was at one time the site of the largest fortified Maori village in the country. Mount Parahaki’s summit is the highest point in the city, and can be reached by an easy walk through the forest. At the summit, the excavated site can be visited. When you’re on your way back down, a visit to Quayside at the Town Basin is next on the agenda. This is a casual yet sophisticated dining and entertainment complex. The colonial architecture is complemented by modern landscaping, and the centre serves as a gathering place for locals, tourists and the yachting set from around the world. You’ll also find interesting museums, galleries and shops here.

Check out the interesting Kerikeri Arts and Crafts Trail. This trail is actually a circuit of artisan enterprises located in and around Kerikeri, ranging from chocolate makers and vineyards to ceramic artists. There are dozens of arts and crafts businesses here, and the trail has become a tourist favourite as the variety and high quality of the offerings have become well-known.

Go flying and check out the stunning views. Both small plane and helicopter tours are on offer out of Paihia. In particular, the helicopter option offers visitors the opportunity to see more of the coastline of the Bay of Islands region. The flight north begins at the scenic Kerikeri Inlet, and moves on to the Cavalli Islands, and then down the coast. On the way you will fly over: Matauri, Takou and Tapuataehi bays; the Purerua peninsula; and both the inner and outer Bay of Islands before landing at Paihia’s waterfront.

See the hidden side of the Bay of Islands on a dive. If you’re looking for a unique diving experience, Paihia is a great choice. Underwater life off the coast here features an unusual mix of temperate and tropical fish, a colourful array of other marine life and amazing sea floor topography. There are historic wrecks to see as well. A popular operator is Paihia Dive, offering equipment hire, instruction and full service dive trips.

Swim with dolphins. Catamarans operating on water-jet power take guests from Paihia on dolphin encounters. Weather permitting you can actually swim with the dolphins during the trip. You might be fortunate enough to see orcas, penguins, seals and whales as well. Some excursions stop at Urupukapuka Island, allowing time to enjoy the beaches, coastal walks and the local café.

Try your hand at game fishing. The fishing is good in the waters of the Bay of Islands region year-round, and a number of charters operate out of Paihia for those interested in trying their hand at sports fishing. In February, the New Zealand Big Game Fishing Nationals are also held here. Catches typically include kingfish, marlin and shark.

Visit Cape Brett Lighthouse. The lighthouse dates from 1906, and can be reached by walking along a path or taking a boat to Grand Cathedral Cave. The US writer Zane Grey, famous for his tales of the American west, fished for Marlin off the coast here in 1921. Guides will tell you about that period of Cape Brett history while showing you the historic sites of the area. The unusual horseshoe-shaped Haruru Falls are a highlight of the attractions here, and you’ll hear the roar of the falls long before you’re able to see them. Water from the falls flows to the legendary water monster, or 'taniwha,' in the lagoon below.