Day 3: Bay of the Plentiful: 144 Islands to Explore

Today & tomorrow is about wow moments, seeing something different for the first time & pure fun. Venture into Glow Worm Caves after an up close & personal wildlife interaction. Then for your adrenaline, relaxation or pleasure we are out in the deep blue waters surrounding 144 Fishing Islands, sprawling figures basking in the afternoon sun. Choices include swimming with the dolphins, sailing the tall-ship, riding America's Cup Fast Boat or just taking in the view while playing on the cliff high golf course. Revel in Maori cultural celebrations in the evening after a walkthrough of the Waitangi Museum & Treaty Grounds. Yee-ha!

The Bay of Plentiful Run is today's theme beginning with a wildlife meet and greet. Talking Tuis, Tuataras and the adorable Kiwis, New Zealand's national bird. Discover them as you would in the wild at Kiwi North set on 25 hectares of rolling, volcanic farmland, forest and bush, with views that overlook the city of Whangarei and The Heads.

Discover the magic when you walk through a network of 656-foot long caves lined with glow-worms, stalactites and stalagmite. Located right in the heart of the Waiomio Valley, the Kawiti Caves are home to thousands of luminous glow worms, breath taking rock formations and lush green rainforest. Journey underground through networks of stalactites and stalagmites to hidden chambers like the Waiomio night sky where the glow worms are so close you can almost touch them.

New Zealand’s beloved Bay of Islands – an area of truly magnificent natural beauty and character-filled charm – offers near endless scope for exploration and delight. Known as a gateway to the region, Paihia makes an easy base for the next 2 days from which to either relax and indulge in all the town has to offer, or to take day trips to nearby vineyards, historic Russell Island, or embark on boat tours and game-fishing expeditions. Excursions include the Bay's most intimate dolphin viewing and swimming experience, exploring the Bay’s hidden secrets on the cruise that started it all, the Cream Trip or take a thrilling fast boat cruise on America's Cup Fast Boat around cliffs and caves, some of the Bay’s most untouched islands. Sail, take the helm and climb the rigging of the Tall Ship R Tucker - a majestic experience. The town Paihia is blessed with an incredible array of water activities so you can go for a paddleboard along the coastline or get beneath the surface of the aquamarine waters and dive the wrecks. Choose from an array of included excursions or from the add on excursion menu when booking your tour with us.

Beautiful weather, inspiring coastlines, idyllic islands, important historical sites, glorious beaches, boutique wineries and a relaxed way of life are what make the Bay of Islands a very special holiday destination. There’s plenty to explore during your stay in Paihia – from peaceful back-to-nature activities to unique adventures, inspired shopping and quality dining – it’s all right on your doorstep. 

Experience the day that changed the history of New Zealand.  Step back in time and discover the birthplace of the nation. An absolute ‘must-do’ for visitors and locals alike, the award-winning Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Museum of Waitangi are unquestionably one of New Zealand’s premier attractions. As you journey through the expansive grounds, with spectacular views over the Bay of Islands, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the people who changed history. Enjoy a colorful food dinner exquisitely prepared in a “steam earth oven” (Hangi) followed by a spellbinding Maori cultural performance. Every year on February 6, New Zealand marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. In that year, representatives of the British Crown and over 500 Māori chiefs signed what is often considered to be New Zealand's founding document. 

Retreat to your hotel along the waterfront for a nightcap and capture the photographic memorable moments of your day.

Inclusions

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Island Excursion

Day 3: Bay of the Plentiful: 144 Islands to Explore Photo Gallery