The Bay of Islands is the ultimate holiday destination in all of New Zealand. Its spectacular beauty and sub-tropical climate has been a major drawcard with tourists who come back for the stunning views of the 150 or so Islands that pepper the Bay plus the wide range of leisure activities on offer. Campervan hire vehicles are a fantastic way to see the region which boasts pristine rainforests, spectaular views of the Bay and a laid back holiday atmosphere.

The Bay of Islands is located on the very top of North Island of New Zealand. From Auckland it takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to drive to the Bay of Islands. The closest major city is Whangarei which is home to approximately 50,000 people and is the most densely populated part of the Northland region. Campervan rental travellers may wish to break up the journey from Auckland to the Bay with a pit stop at Whangarei.

The bay is a 16km wide inlet which serves as a natural harbour. It has an irregular shape with several watery arms extending into the land creating a large number of coves and inlets that are ideal places to go exploring. The most notable of these is Waikare Inlet in the south and Kerikeri and Te Puna inlets in the North West. Many of the best vantage points are accessible from the mainland and make ideal destinations for campervan rentals, however a vehicle ferry operates in some areas.

Visitors to the area are well catered for with a range of fun holiday activities that is sure to offer something please everyone.

The Bay of Islands provides the perfect sailing conditions most of the year round and can boast stunning blue waters and million dollar views of the headlands and lush green native vegetation. Many tour operators will provide you with a full day of fun on the water including a stopover at one of the many beautiful island destinations for some amazing photo opportunities and the chance to view some of the marine life that inhabit the bay. Fans of European nautical tradition can choose to take a full day sail on a traditional Tall Ship.

Many of the boat tour services operate out of Paihia which is geared up to cater for the tourist trade. Here you will find a range of shops, restaurants, cafes, bars and accomodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Explore the water by day, enjoy the local fare by night and retire to one of our comfortable motorhome rentals when it is time for bed.

Nothing compares to swimming and interacting with the dolphins in their natural environment. Being the most northerly point in New Zealand the weather and the water are warm all year round and the dolphins are a constant presence. Dolphin sightings are guaranteed. In fact the dolphins in this region have been interacting with humans for centuries and they are showing no signs of slowing down. The area is actually is home to a large variety of marine life, Manta Rays, Killer Whales, common and bottle nosed dolphins just to name a few. If your budget does not extend to a one on one dolphin experience it is often possible to see a range of marine life from the shore. We recommend you explore the area in your motorhome hire vehicle and find a vantage point on high ground. Dolphins can often been seen swimming in front of large ships as they move through the water.

If you have the chance to visit one of the islands we would highly recommend you do. Urupukapuka Island is the largest in the group of approximately 150 islands that encircle the Bay of Islands. It is historically significant and contains a rich archaeological landscape. A total of 66 sites have already been identified with many dating back hundreds of years before European settlement. If you have a thirst for knowledge and an appreciation for history you will love this islands rich cultural heritage. This is just one of the many islands that can be visited during your stay in the Bay of Islands region.

Each town around the bay has its own distinctive history and character. Visitors can learn about this history through a range of means. There are several museums and exhibits on display as well as a range of tours that will provide transport, refreshments plus an informative presentation about the Maori and European history of the area. Why not take the vehicle ferry across to Russell and drive your campervan rental around the historic former capital of New Zealand.

The strong and proud history of the New Zealand Maori is brought to life from October through April most nights of the week. A contemporary production combines drama, music and dance to tell the story of how the two cultures learned to live in peace with each other.

Fishing is a favourite activity of visitors to the region. It has been renowned internationally for its big game fishing since the 1930s. The area also boasts superb fishing opportunities. If you are a keen angler then why not try your luck at one of the many wharves or jetties. All of our campervan rentals come with a range of kitchen facilities which make an ideal way to cook your own catch at the end of a satisfying day of fishing.

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