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The Bay of Islands is well named, having 144 islands studded throughout its calm blue waters. Not surprisingly, the Bay is famous for its aquatic activities - big game fishing, yachting, swimming with the dolphins, diving or just plain lying on the white sands and swimming in the warm waters. There are a number of walking trails around the Bay featuring native forest and animals. There are many places of historical interest, such as Waitangi, where Maori chiefs signed a Treaty with Britain in 1840, probably the most famous document in New Zealand's history.
The Bay is also a good base for trips around Northland. You shouldn't miss magical Cape Reinga in the Far North, where two oceans meet and Maori souls depart on their journey to Hawaiki. Tours to the Cape feature a drive along the sands of 90 Mile Beach and through giant dunes. Another 'must see' is the forests of ancient kauri trees that still survive in the Northland area. Some trees are over 1500 years old and many metres thick in the trunk. You can purchase kauri gum jewellery and 40,000 year old carved swamp kauri souvenirs from many Northland shops.
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