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TRAVEL

With breathtaking scenery, a wealth of history and great weather, the Bay of Islands is not to be missed

Words NAOMI LARKIN

Why you should head north to the Bay of Islands.

Made up of 144 islands, many of them uninhabited, the Bay of Islands is known for its white sandy beaches, rolling surf, sailing and big-game fishing – New Zealand at its most idyllic. Its native forest walks, cycle trails and dolphin and whalewatching opportunities are legendary. But it’s also the cradle of much of our nation’s history and is a honeypot for other tourist attractions like great food and wine, and high sunshine hours. But don’t just limit your visit to the summer months; its plethora of attractions make it the perfect destination all year round.

STAY

Located on the Russell waterfront with sweeping views across the water to Paihia and Waitangi, The Duke of Marlborough Hotel is one of those places that after you’ve checked in, you won’t want to leave. Built in 1827 (it was the country’s first place to get a liquor licence) this historic building has had a series of renovations and now offers luxe rooms, a wedding venue, bar and sea-facing restaurant.

The latter is one of the most fabulous spots to watch the sun go down, champagne in hand, and is also home to consistently good food and an expansive wine list, so it’s popular with both locals and visitors – you will need to book ahead.

We suggest splurging on a waterfront room so you enjoy all of this from the privacy of your own balcony.

Russell is a tiny township and The Duke of Marlborough Hotel is the hub, meaning all the local delights are just a stroll away.

It’s a short ferry ride across the water to Paihia’s resortstyle Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands. With 114 rooms, set in a large tropical garden with an outdoor swimming pool, it’s also just a three-minute walk to the beach – making it an equally excellent choice to rest your head.

The hotel has business and conference facilities but its sprawling layout means that if romance is your aim there is enough space not to be bothered by bigger groups.

EXPERIENCE

Opened just last year, Te Rau Aroha is an extraordinary museum. The Price of Citizenship/ Te Utu o Te Kiriraraunga is the theme of the museum’s main exhibition and the overriding message is the brave contribution and the sacrifices that Māori made – not just the soldiers but also their whānau back home – throughout decades of war, much of it in the hope of an equitable future. Prepare to be moved by what you see and experience.

Divided into three galleries it traverses the New Zealand and Boer wars and focuses on the Pioneer Battalion of World War I and the 28 (Māori) Battalion of World War II. A gallery is dedicated to the 28 (Māori) Battalion’s A Company, most of whom came from Northland. The third gallery “acts as a contemplative Whare Maumahara (house of memories) for visitors, descendents and whānau”.

Te Rau Aroha is on the Waitangi Treaty Grounds so it’s smart to get an Experience Pass which also covers Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi, a cultural performance and guided tours of the grounds that take in panoramic views of the Bay of Islands.

CONTENTS

en-nz

2021-10-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-10-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

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