Bay of Islands Guide
The Bay of Islands and Far North offer an extraordinary mix of experiences – from island cruises, beaches and coastal walks to vineyards, waterfalls, golf courses, galleries and some of New Zealand’s most important historic sites.
Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, food and wine, culture or simply time to slow down, the region offers countless ways to experience the unique character of Northland at your own pace.
At Treghan Lodge we are always happy to help guests with restaurant recommendations, local advice, activity bookings and day trip suggestions to help make your stay both relaxed and memorable.
Sightseeing and Coastal Experiences
The Bay of Islands is known for its beautiful coastline, island scenery and relaxed pace of travel. Cruising among the 144 islands remains one of the best ways to experience the region, whether on a sightseeing cruise, private charter, sailing trip or dolphin cruise.
Many guests choose to visit the famous Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett lighthouse, while others prefer slower days exploring secluded beaches, coastal villages and scenic harbour settlements.
Scenic flights to Cape Reinga offer a spectacular perspective of Northland’s coastline, forests and harbours, while day trips west to the Hokianga and Waipoua Forest reveal another side of the Far North, including Tāne Mahuta and the remarkable Wairere Boulders.
Closer to Kerikeri, guests can enjoy Rainbow Falls, riverside walks, subtropical gardens and peaceful nature tracks within easy reach of Treghan Lodge.
Adventure and Water Activities
For guests looking for a little more adventure, the Bay of Islands offers everything from sailing, diving and kayaking to parasailing, fishing and scenic helicopter flights.
The region is well known internationally for its boating and diving, including the Rainbow Warrior and HMNZS Canterbury wreck dives. Sailing experiences range from private yacht charters to multi-day cruising adventures and traditional tall ship sailing aboard the R Tucker Thompson.
Other popular activities include horse trekking, cycling trails, kayaking and scenic coastal excursions throughout the Bay of Islands and wider Far North.
Arts, Galleries & Local Craft
Kerikeri has long been known for its strong creative community, with local artists and makers producing everything from paintings and ceramics to jewellery, sculpture, glasswork and fibre art.
Treghan’s onsite Little Black Gallery features original artwork, jewellery and ceramics from Northland and New Zealand artists and designers. Guests also enjoy visiting local galleries, artist studios and creative spaces throughout the region, including Art at Wharepuke and local artisan workshops.
The Old Packhouse Market is a favourite weekend destination where local growers, food producers and craftspeople gather to showcase fresh produce, handmade goods and artisan products in a lively market atmosphere.
History and Culture
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most historically significant regions and offers a rich mix of Māori and European heritage.
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds remain one of the country’s most important cultural and historic sites. Visitors can explore the museum, historic buildings and carved meeting house, view Ngātokimatawhaorua – the world’s largest ceremonial waka – and experience cultural performances offering insight into New Zealand’s unique Māori heritage and traditions.
Nearby in Kerikeri, the Stone Store and Kemp House stand beside the tranquil Kerikeri Basin and are among New Zealand’s oldest surviving historic buildings.
Guests can also visit Te Ahurea, a replica Māori fishing village overlooking the Kerikeri inlet, where exhibitions, gardens and cultural displays help tell the stories and traditions of the region.
For a more immersive experience, Waka voyages offer the opportunity to learn about traditional customs and stories while travelling by Māori war canoe through the waters of the Bay of Islands.
Golf and Sport
The Bay of Islands and Far North offer a wonderful range of sporting and outdoor experiences, particularly for guests who enjoy fishing, golf and time on the water.
The region is internationally known for its excellent fishing, with experienced local skippers offering everything from relaxed inshore fishing trips to world-class game fishing for species including Snapper, Kingfish and Marlin.
For golf enthusiasts, the Far North is home to several outstanding courses. Kauri Cliffs is internationally recognised for its dramatic coastal setting, while the Bay of Islands Golf Club and Waitangi Golf Club both offer scenic and enjoyable rounds within easy reach of Kerikeri. Further north, Carrington Golf Course provides another memorable coastal golfing experience.
The Twin Coast touring route also makes it possible to combine golf with some of Northland’s most beautiful coastal and rural scenery.
Relax and Unwind
The Bay of Islands is equally suited to guests seeking relaxation, slower travel and time to simply enjoy the surroundings.
Many guests choose to spend part of their stay enjoying massages, spa treatments, beauty therapies or quiet afternoons exploring Kerikeri’s cafés, galleries and gardens.
The region is also known for its vineyards and long lunches, with several wineries located throughout Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands offering wine tastings, relaxed dining and beautiful rural settings.
For something a little different, guests can visit local artisan producers including the well-known Makana Chocolate Factory, where handcrafted chocolates are made onsite.
At the end of the day, the Bay of Islands offers a wonderful choice of restaurants and vineyard dining experiences, ranging from relaxed local favourites to elegant long lunches overlooking vines and countryside.
