Skip to main content
Turquoise water and white-sand beach in New Zealand's far north
Holiday park · North Island

Bay of Islands & Paihia

Northland

Subtropical beaches, 144 islands and the country's early history at Waitangi.

The Bay of Islands is Northland's headline act — warm swimming, dolphins, island-hopping and the colonial history around Waitangi and Russell. Paihia is the base for boat trips, and beach-side campsites make an easy run north from Auckland.

Days here are for the water: sailing, kayaking and lazing on the sand. It's the warmest corner of the country and busiest over the summer holidays, so plan your nights ahead.

Planning this area? Bay of Islands route →

More campsites in the North Island