Hidden Gems of the Bay of Islands
If you are planning to head to the Bay of Islands, then you know all about the must do activities like visiting the 140+ islands, checking out the historic town of Russell, and visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. But there is so much more to this iconic holiday destination than meets the eye. Here’s some of our favourite hidden gems to explore while you are here.
On Your Bike
The Bay of Islands is home to Taitokerau Northland’s best mountain biking in the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park. There are over 50km of trails ranging from scenic beginner routes to zones full of trails for more experienced riders seeking an adrenaline boost. With onsite bike rental including e-bikes, there’s nothing stopping you from exploring this epic park.
In addition to the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park, the Bay of Islands marks one end of the Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail, one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s 23 Great Rides. This coast to coast cycle trail is a generally easy ride through diverse landscapes, along disused rail corridors, through rolling farmland, native bush, and mangrove lined boardwalks.
Artisan Alley
While the food and drink in the numerous restaurants around the Bay of Islands is award-winning, there is something to be said for finding the goods at the source. The Old Packhouse Markets in Kerikeri are one of the best places to do so. Every weekend growers, farmers, artisan producers, and more pack out the markets with Northland made goods. Rain or shine, the markets are on and frequented by visitors and locals alike. And if you feel like going on a journey of further discovery, the road into Kerikeri from the markets is lined with even more Northland goods, from divine chocolates at Makana Confections to art you can wear at Kaleo Designs.
Chasing waterfalls
Kerikeri is also home to Waianiwaniwa Rainbow Falls, one of the most iconic waterfalls in all of Taitokerau Northland. But for those who seek to explore, there is a network of trails around Rainbow Falls that lead to more stunning waterfalls – 5 to be exact. You could spend all day exploring, swimming, and climbing through this epic natural playground.
Walking Wonderland
The Bay of Islands conjures up all sorts of images of swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing...but what about hiking?? From beginners to keen hikers, there are trails for all levels. Loop your way around the entire inner bay with the Bay of Islands Coastal Walkway (connected by ferry trips between Okiato and Opua, and Russell and Paihia) or meander the boardwalk and bush from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to Haruru Falls. Tackle the challenging Cape Brett Track with an overnight at the Lighthouse Keepers Hut, or power up the short but somewhat steep Te Maiki Flagstaff Hill.