Some places are best experienced slowly.
A stay in Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands isn’t about rushing from attraction to attraction or trying to tick everything off a list. It’s about having enough time to relax, explore, and discover the Far North at your own pace.
Here’s one example of how a relaxed three-night stay at Treghan might unfold. Of course, every stay is different. The weather, the season, tour availability and your own interests will all influence how you choose to spend your time.
Day One – Arrival in the Far North
The journey north is part of the experience. Whether you’ve flown into Kerikeri or enjoyed the drive through Northland, arrival at Treghan marks the beginning of a slower pace.
After a warm welcome and settling into your private guesthouse, take time to wander through the gardens and explore the grounds. Perhaps browse Little Black Gallery, home to a carefully curated collection of work by Northland and New Zealand artists.
As the afternoon light softens, enjoy a welcome platter and a glass of wine on your private deck before heading out for dinner. Kai Māta is a favourite for a relaxed and memorable first evening in the Bay of Islands.
Day Two – Discovering Kerikeri
The next morning begins with breakfast in your guesthouse before heading out to discover Kerikeri’s rich history and natural beauty.
The Stone Store, Kemp House and Te Ahurea sit around the Kerikeri Basin alongside the Kerikeri River and offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. Allow time to wander the riverside pathways and enjoy one of the most beautiful historic precincts in New Zealand.
Lunch at Marsden Estate is a wonderful way to spend part of the afternoon, combining local wine, good food and vineyard views.
Later, take the short drive to Rainbow Falls, one of Northland’s most photographed waterfalls, before returning to Treghan to relax before dinner.
As evening arrives, enjoy dinner at the Plough & Feather overlooking the Stone Store Basin, where history, hospitality and local flavours come together beautifully.
Day Three – Exploring the Bay of Islands
No stay would be complete without spending time exploring the wider Bay of Islands.
A visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds brings New Zealand’s story to life through cultural performances, exhibitions and spectacular views across the bay.
From there, the day can unfold in different ways.
Some guests choose to cross the Opua ferry and spend the afternoon in Russell, enjoying lunch at the Duke of Marlborough or The Gables before exploring the waterfront, galleries and historic streets.
Others prefer to experience the bay from the water, joining a cruise among the islands, watching for dolphins, visiting secluded bays and enjoying the unique beauty that has made the Bay of Islands famous.
For those seeking something truly memorable, a scenic helicopter flight offers a spectacular perspective of the Bay of Islands and Far North coastline. Whichever path you choose, the day ends back at Treghan, where the gardens are quiet and the pace slows once again.
For your final evening, perhaps return to a favourite restaurant, enjoy dinner at Maha, or simply relax and savour one last evening in the Far North.
Day 4 – Until Next Time
All too soon, it’s time to leave.
Enjoy one last relaxed breakfast in your guesthouse, perhaps with the doors open to the gardens and the sounds of birdsong drifting in from outside. Take a final stroll around the grounds, browse the gallery one last time, or simply savour a quiet coffee before beginning the journey home.
Many guests leave with a list of things they didn’t quite have time to do – and a promise to return and explore a little more of the Far North next time.
If You’re Here on a Saturday
Many guests enjoy including a visit to the Old Packhouse Market during their stay. Local produce, artisan food, plants, crafts and Northland-made products make it one of Kerikeri’s most popular gathering places and a wonderful introduction to the region.
A 4th Night and 5th Day? Even Better
One of the things guests often discover is that three nights rarely feels quite enough.
An extra night opens the door to experiencing the region further afield. You might spend a day wandering the historic harbour at Mangōnui and enjoying the beaches of Doubtless Bay. You could head west to Rawene and the Hokianga Harbour, discovering a very different side of Northland.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a scenic flight to Cape Reinga, combining dramatic coastlines, giant sand dunes and spectacular aerial views of New Zealand’s northernmost landscapes.
Perhaps you’ll spend the day visiting local vineyards and galleries, or simply enjoy a round of golf at one of Northland’s outstanding courses, including Kauri Cliffs, Waitangi Golf Club or Bay of Islands Golf Club.
Or perhaps you’ll do very little at all.
After all, one of the greatest luxuries of a stay at Treghan is having the time and space to choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many nights should I stay in Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands?
While it’s possible to see some highlights in two nights, many guests find that three or four nights allows them to explore at a more relaxed pace and experience more of the Bay of Islands and Far North..
Is three nights enough to experience the Bay of Islands?
Three nights provides time to explore Kerikeri, visit the Bay of Islands, enjoy local dining and still have time to relax. Guests with four or more nights can explore further afield, including Doubtless Bay, the Hokianga or Cape Reinga.
What can I do during a stay at Treghan?
Guests often combine local history, vineyards, dining, galleries, cruises, walks, golf and day trips throughout the Bay of Islands and Far North. Every stay is different, and we’re always happy to suggest ideas based on your interests.
Can Treghan help plan activities and day trips?
Yes. We’re happy to provide local recommendations and help guests discover experiences, dining, attractions and day trips that suit their interests and the length of their stay.
What can we do in the Bay of Islands if it rains?
A little rain rarely spoils a Far North holiday. Many attractions, galleries, food experiences, cultural sites and indoor activities remain enjoyable regardless of the weather.