Northern Discoverer (5 Days)

We drive north of Auckland for 3 hours, arriving at Paihia in the picturesque Bay of Islands around midday.

The Bay of Islands is the finest maritime park in New Zealand including 144 islands, secluded bays, and an abundance of marine life including marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and many other species. It is one of the most picturesque and popular holiday sites in New Zealand. It combines great fishing, diving, sailing and other water sports with some of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites.

This afternoon you will have the opportunity of visiting New Zealand's premier cultural heritage site at Waitangi. It was here the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, an agreement between early NZ European Settlers and the local Polynesian populace, the Maori, to establish New Zealand as a British Colony. Visit Tu Whare Ruanga, a Maori meeting house and the waka's (canoes) used in the Waitangi celebrations held annually on 6th February. Visit the Treaty House, the former house of the British Resident in New Zealand, James Busby and enjoy a 30 minute cultural performance.

Alternatively you may like to visit Russell, just 15 mins by fast ferry across the bay from Pahia. Russell was New Zealands first capital and an early whaling settlement. The collection of the dregs of society (trigger happy thugs, ex convicts and suchlike) and the influx of money through trade eventually led to utter anarchy earning it the reputation as the 'Hell-hole of the Pacific'. Today Russell is a sleepy town (pop 1100) catering to the needs of tourists, sailors and explorers.

Choose one of the activities listed below:

Dive the Poorknights Marine Reserve. The Poor Knights Marine Reserve, was Named by Jacques Cousteau as one of the Top 10 Dive Sites in the world. The islands are a special experience for divers and snorkellers, with a unique blend of subtropical and temperate marinelife. Over 125 species of fish share this complex marine environment, along with soft corals, sponges, vibrant anemones, sting rays, gorgonian fans and vast kelp forests. Beneath the waters you’ll also find the world’s largest sea cave, Rikoriko. The warm currents here originate in the Coral Sea, so the water temperature is higher and visibility greater than that of nearby coastal waters. Born from volcanic activity, tropical and sub-tropical life abounds in this unique underwater environment. Caves, tunnels and archways are all home to great schools of friendly colourful fish – great photography! More...

Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach. Visit Cape Reinga lighthouse and view the meeting of the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, climb huge sand dunes and boogie board back down, visit giant Kauri trees, learn about the gumdigging days in the early 1900’s on the site of an ancient buried kauri forest and stop at the 'world famous' Mangonui fish and chip shop. More...

Choose one of the activities listed below:

The Cream Trip. This cruise follows the path of the original 1927 ‘Cream Trip’ and will take you on a journey back in time as you cruise past the secluded islands of the Bay, delivering essential supplies and mail to island residents. See dolphins in their natural environment and if conditions are suitable, try swimming alongside these inquisitive creatures – a once in a lifetime experience. On arrival at Cape Brett Lighthouse, we take you through the stunning Hole in the Rock at Motukokako Island. Take in the majestic Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the sheltered waters of the Bay. Your journey also includes a visit to the Black Rocks and Marsden Cross (where in 1814 the first Christian sermon was held in NZ). While we stop for lunch, enjoy the opportunity to visit an island. Relax on the sandy beach or take a short walk.

Deep Sea Fishing. Whether you are a novice who dreams of catching a big game fish, a tourist who just wants to enjoy snapper fishing or an experienced angler who is after a world class fish, the Bay of Island fishing charters cater to all levels of experience. All world records of striped marlin, yellowtail kingfish and snapper are held on this coast.

Choose one of the activities listed below:

Sailing Charter, R. Tucker Thompson. 'The best day of our tour', that's what people say after taking a day sailing on Paihia's very own tall ship, and with good reason, it is rated the number 1 tour of 25 tours in the Bay of Islands popularity index. Get involved with a chance to take the helm, hoist the sails and climb the rigging. Morning tea and scones, BBQ lunch, lunchtime swim and island stoppover are all included in your days sailing.

Wreck Diving HMNZS Canterbury. The HMNZS Canterbury was one of two broad beam Leander class frigates operated by the Royal New Zealand Navy. On 3 Nov 2007 she was sunk by plastic explosives to create an artificial reef. Located in Deep Water Cove off the stunning Cape Brett Peninsula.

This Peninsula forms the southern arm of the Bay of Islands. Because of its sheltered aspect, flat sandy bottom and relative lack of tidal currents and therefore great visibility, this wreck dive has become very popular dive site with the New Zealand diving fraternity. The very top of the wreck lies at 12 metres the midsection at 22 metres the bottom at 36 metres, she is standing bolt upright on the ocean floor.  More...

On our way back to Auckland today we stop at Matakana for lunch and an opportunity to visit a few of the boutique wineries in the area.

Overnight in Auckland and continue on with Southern Edge's 'North Island Adventure Combo' or 'The Volcanic Zone' tours.