Relax and soak up the spectacular scenery in the pretty Bay of Islands.

Filled with secluded coves, tranquil harbours, golden beaches and thick rainforest this marine wonderland is washed with sunshine and a region ripe for exploration. Spend a few days in the pretty Bay of Islands, where wooden clapboard houses overlook clear blue waters and a relaxed atmosphere pervades before heading up and over to the west coast and the Waipoua Forest, home to Tane Mahuta, the largest kauri tree in the world. Pukematu Lodge, with its beautiful views and warm hospitality is your base in Russell, while Waipoua Lodge, a kauri villa, blends old and new and is the perfect place from which to explore the west coast. Getting up in the skies with family run Salt Air gives an birds-eye perspective of the Bay of Islands and you’ll also get to see some of the far north’s most spectacular scenery including Ninety Mile Beach and the Cape Reinga Lighthouse. On the west coast the Waipoua Twilight Encounter with Footsteps of Waipoua is a must, this evening tour is led by Maori local guides and gives great insight into the Maori culture, ecology and flora and fauna of the forest.

“ We have been to New Zealand before but didn’t do the Bay of Islands. I’m so glad we did this time, it was as beautiful as the photographs and the weather was kind as well.” Janet & Martin Crowley, Derbyshire

From £789 per person, including 2 nights at Pukematu Lodge with breakfast, 2 nights at Waipoua Lodge with breakfast, Salt Air Bay of Islands Coastal Discovery Flight, Waipoua Twilight Encounter and 5 days car rental.
Based on travel Oct 2011-Jan 2012 and Mar 2012.