Here is where Kupe and the first Maori picked to explore New Zealand and now it’s your turn! Often viewed as the best North Island scenic route, this 1,000 km loop will take you on a journey through the “winterless north” at a pace allowing you enough time to explore. Meander around the best of both coasts of New Zealand’s warmest region, getting off the beaten path and finding your own unique places and memories.
With 144 Islands, world class beaches, along with some of the most culturally significant places in New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is known by people the world over as their trip highlight to Aotearoa. Will it be yours?
That’s just the beginning.
From local legends around Cape Reinga to massive Kauri trees that are thousands of years old, this route will take you on a journey like no other. It’s not just the land that welcomes you, with world class diving and snorkeling at the Poor Knights Islands on the Tutukaka peninsula a favorite part of this route.
To top it off, here is your chance to see kiwis in the wild thanks to the unique experience on offer at Aroha Island Eco-center where you can camp amongst New Zealand's favorite and allusive feathered friends!