Slow Days from Treghan
Explored and recommended by your hosts.
One of the joys of staying at Treghan Lodge is that so many of Northland’s most memorable places are within easy reach. From historic waterfront towns and spectacular coastlines to quiet cafés and hidden gems, there’s so much to discover beyond Kerikeri. It’s one of the reasons many of our guests choose to stay four or five nights, giving themselves time to explore at a relaxed pace before returning each evening to their own private guesthouse.
After many years of living in the Bay of Islands, we’ve come to know the places we return to time and again. Some are well known, others are quieter discoveries, but all are destinations we genuinely enjoy and happily recommend to our guests.
These itineraries are inspired by those experiences.
They’re not intended to be comprehensive travel guides. Instead, they’re our suggestions for unhurried days exploring the Bay of Islands and the Far North, with favourite stops, local discoveries and ideas to help you experience this remarkable part of New Zealand at a slower pace.
Planning to stay a little longer? Discover our Stay 4, Pay 3 offer or learn why Kerikeri is one of the best places to base yourself for exploring the Bay of Islands and Far North.
We hope these Slow Days inspire you to stay a little longer, slow the pace and discover the region one memorable day at a time.
A Delightful Day in Russell
Historic waterfront, heritage sites and long lunches.
One of Northland’s most charming towns, Russell is perfect for a relaxed day of wandering. Cross by ferry, stroll the waterfront, enjoy a leisurely lunch and discover one of New Zealand’s oldest settlements at your own pace.
A Journey West to the Hokianga
Dramatic landscapes, Maori history and unforgettable scenery.
The Hokianga is unlike anywhere else in Northland. Discover ancient stories, sweeping harbour views and quiet places that invite you to slow down and take it all in.
Exploring Mangonui & Doubtless Bay
Historic charm, beautiful beaches and relaxed coastal living.
Explore the heritage waterfront of Mangōnui before discovering the beautiful beaches and coastal villages of Doubtless Bay, including Coopers Beach, Cable Bay and Taipa.
A Relaxed Day Exploring Kerikeri
History, waterfalls, local flavours and relaxed village charm.
From the historic Stone Store and Rainbow Falls to vineyard lunches and artisan treats, Kerikeri offers a wonderfully relaxed day just minutes from Treghan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why stay in Kerikeri rather than Paihia?
Kerikeri offers a quieter, more relaxed base while still being only around 20 minutes from Paihia and Waitangi. Staying here makes it easy to explore the wider Bay of Islands and Far North before returning each evening to your own peaceful accommodation.
How many nights should we stay?
While many visitors stay two nights, we generally recommend four or five nights if you’d like to experience the Bay of Islands at a relaxed pace. It gives you time to enjoy several day trips without feeling rushed, while still leaving time to unwind at Treghan.
Are these easy day trips to enjoy during our stay?
Yes. Every itinerary has been chosen because it can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace while staying at Treghan Lodge. Whether you’re exploring the Bay of Islands, heading west to the Hokianga or discovering Northland’s beautiful coastline, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the journey before returning for the evening.
Why do guests stay longer at Treghan?
Many guests choose four or five nights because they enjoy having the freedom to explore a different part of the region each day before returning to the same private guesthouse, peaceful gardens and familiar surroundings each evening.
Is Kerikeri a good base for exploring Northland?
Yes. Kerikeri sits at the heart of the wider Bay of Islands and Far North. Russell, Paihia, Mangōnui, Doubtless Bay, Whangaroa Harbour and the Hokianga are all comfortable day trips, making it an ideal place to stay if you enjoy exploring.
Which day trips do you recommend from Kerikeri?
Our favourite day trips include Russell, Mangōnui and Doubtless Bay, the Hokianga, Whangaroa Harbour and, of course, exploring Kerikeri itself. Each itinerary has been designed to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace during your stay at Treghan.
Can I adapt the itineraries?
Absolutely. These guides are designed to inspire rather than provide a fixed schedule. Spend longer in the places you enjoy most, skip others, or ask us for recommendations based on your interests.
How far are these destinations from Treghan Lodge?
All of these itineraries are within an easy drive of Treghan Lodge in Kerikeri, making them ideal for relaxed day trips. Each guide includes approximate driving times, suggested stops and ideas to help you make the most of your day.
Why are these called Slow Days from Treghan?
These itineraries reflect the way we enjoy exploring Northland ourselves. Rather than trying to fit as much as possible into one day, they’re designed to help you discover the region at a relaxed pace, with time to wander, enjoy local cafés, admire the scenery and simply slow down.
Can you help us plan our days in the Bay of Islands?
Of course. These itineraries are simply a starting point. During your stay we’re always happy to recommend places based on your interests, whether you’d like scenic drives, coastal walks, local cafés, gardens, galleries, historic sites or hidden gems that many visitors never discover.