Robertson Island Bay of Islands

Robertson Island - Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands Vacations

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Coastal beauty in New Zealand's far north

The Bay of Islands is home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a central location in New Zealand's rich cultural heritage.

Composed of nearly 150 subtropical islands, sheltered bays, and golden beaches, the Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most idyllic coastal destinations. Beyond its beauty, it holds deep cultural importance as the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 by the British settlers and the incumbent Māori population, marking a defining moment in the country’s history.

Activities here are as varied as they are unforgettable: sailing, dolphin-spotting cruises, fishing, sea kayaking, and trips to Russell, New Zealand’s first capital.

Bay of Islands trips

Just south of the Bay of Islands lie the Poor Knights Islands, a marine reserve celebrated for its dramatic volcanic cliffs and thriving reef systems. Diving and snorkelling here reveal an underwater world of corals, colourful fish, rays, and even seasonal orca and whales. The islands are uninhabited, adding to their sense that you are a long way off the beaten track.

Accommodation in the Bay of Islands

Hotels range from boutique hideaways to world-class retreats. For ultimate luxury, the Eagles Nest in Russell offers private villas with panoramic views, including from the hotel's infinity pool.

Best time to visit the Bay of Islands

This region is at its best from November to April, when warm weather is perfect for sailing, swimming, and island-hopping. Winter is quieter but still pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the area’s cultural sites.

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Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

July, 2024
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. It was good value for the level of luxury we had.

June, 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

July, 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps was ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

June, 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

May, 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

April, 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

March, 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

March, 2024

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