Area in the Far North District, New Zealand
Photo: Fuadounet, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Bay of Islands is a historic area and very popular tourist destination in the Northland region of the North Island of New Zealand.
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Gifted to the nation by Lord and Lady Bledisloe in 1932. The Waitangi National Trust Treaty Grounds give a unique and fascinating insight into New Zealand's historic past. New Zealand's most significant document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was first signed here in 1840 between a few Maori chiefs and the British Crown, and became the basis for life in New Zealand as it is known today.
Along with Omahuta Forest, forms one of the largest contiguous tracts of native forest in Northland. Home to Te Tangi o te Tui Puketi, the fourth largest living kauri with a height of 50.9 m (167 ft), Puketi is easily accessible from the Bay of Islands, Whangaroa and Hokianga Harbour. Access to the recreation facilities can be reached from State Highway 1 or the network of secondary roads that skirt the forest. Kauri dieback disease, which is devastating kauri forests, has not reached Puketi yet. Clean your shoes before and after visiting, and keep to the tracks.
Cruises the Bay of Islands for 22 hours, incorporating lots of water activities, island walks, on-board meals, as well as time to watch the stunning scenery and wildlife.
By bus
GreatSights New Zealand operate daily sightseeing tours from Auckland.
By plane
Bay of Islands Airport at Kerikeri (KKE) has scheduled flights several times a day from Auckland Airport and North Shore Aerodrome. Flights take 45 minutes.
A number of boat operators run regular ferries between Paihia Wharf and Russell. Tickets can be purchased on-board and cost around $6 each way or $10 return.
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Kerikeri · Regional · KKE
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