The Luxury Travel Guide to the Bay of Islands

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From renowned golf courses to breathtaking scenic flights, there are some truly special experiences to be had in the Bay of Islands. Now, let’s talk more about those scenic flights…

Salt Air offers an array of experiences incorporating both land and air. Cruise to one of the islands for a hike, swim or snorkel before embarking on a helicopter flight over the Hole in the Rock on the Heli Cruise Island Escape. Alternatively, fly from Paihia to Ninety Mile Beach on the Cape Reinga Tour, which combines with a bus tour to the Cape Reinga Lighthouse and drive along Ninety Mile Beach. Or, just keep things simple and scenic on the Hole in the Rock helicopter flight. Take a look at Salt Air’s flights on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Speaking of flights, amp up your scenic journey to the next level with an adrenaline-pumping skydive. Offering one of the highest skydives in New Zealand, Skydive Bay of Islands does jumps from a whopping 20,000ft giving you 85 seconds of freefall. In good weather, you also have the unique experience of landing on the beach. Find out more about Skydive Bay of Islands on Viator and Tripadvisor.

For something a little closer to sea level, but still at 1,300ft high, Flying Kiwi Parasail offers a unique experience hiring a private parasailing charter for up to 12 people, picking you up from any private yacht, island or even your cruise ship anchored in the bay. Soar over the bay’s 144 islands in a single, double or tandem flight! Find out more about Flying Kiwi Parasail on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Finally, test your swing at the ultra-scenic golf course, the Kauri Cliffs Golf Course. Play alongside cliffs that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, of which you can enjoy the views of from 15 holes. Alternatively, the Waitangi Golf Club and Bay of Islands Golf Club are also worth a visit.

For more inspiration for your stay in the Bay, check out the 8 Luxury Activities in the Bay of Islands.

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All-weather Activities

Sure, the Bay of Islands is known as the “Winterless North” but with a subtropical climate, wet weather is always a possibility. Nevertheless, the Bay of Islands’ all-weather activities will keep you entertained no matter what.

Join Rogue Pony for a tour visiting the Bay of Islands’s most popular wineries in either a Jeep or a Mustang convertible. Sample various varietals, learn about the regional wines and enjoy a customised itinerary, perhaps stopping at attractions like Rainbow Falls or the Kerikeri Mission Station along the way – it’s up to you! Find out more about Rogue Pony’s tours on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Another way to relax in the Bay of Islands is with a heavenly spa treatment. Indulge in a wide variety of treatments, from facials to body polishes, at the Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel. Get pampered with a range of spa therapies, as well as restaurant discounts, at the Pure Bliss Spa of the Copthorne Hotel & Resort. And those staying at the Paroa Bay Winery can choose from four relaxing treatments.

For more ideas and inspiration, don’t forget to see our 8 Luxury Activities in the Bay of Islands.

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Fine Dining in the Bay of Islands

Of course, no luxury getaway is complete until your evenings are filled with sumptuous flavours. Fine dining experiences can be found in Paihia, especially at the Terra Restaurant (76 Marsden Road) with its seasonal menu of the produce Northland is known for, making up a contemporary New Zealand menu.

If you’re not staying in Russell, be sure to at least take the ferry there to indulge in the Northland fare of The Gables (19 The Strand), New Zealand’s oldest operating restaurant.

Don’t forget to treat yourself to some of the wineries in the Bay of Islands during your visit, such as the Paroa Bay Winery (31 Otamarua Road, Russell), which also offers luxury accommodation. Their restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine made to match their wines. Alternatively, venture to Kerikeri to try the wines and cuisine of the Marsden Estate (Wiroa Road) and Ake Ake Vineyard (165 Waimate North Road).

For more on gastronomical experiences, check out The Foodie Guide to the Bay of Islands.