Around the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands, which has been long-loved for its’ beautiful coastline, is one of New Zealand’s premier attractions. The Bay has many turquoise coves and roughly 150 small uninhabited islands. It is also the sight of the first permanent English settlement.

Taupo Bay, just north of the Bay of Islands, is a great surf beach.

Sailing is one of the most popular pastimes in this area. We hooked up with a small group of 6 people for a day of sailing on “She’s A Lady”, a modest 40-foot sailboat run by one guy.

Other options include sailing aboard the R Tucker Thompson, a schooner that has sailed around the world.


We were dropped off on one of the small islands for lunch, some snorkeling, and kayaking in the little lagoon. Birds, such as these Oystercatchers, were walking along the beaches looking for a midday meal.