New Zealand’s a long way from anywhere, so when you’re coming to New Zealand for your holidays you’ll no doubt have high expectations and hoping for a fabulous time. New Zealand’s a wonderful place, but I remember when I first arrived in 2003 there were a few weird quirks that had me scratching my head. To save you from some of this confusion, here are my insider tips for … [Read more...]
Bay of Islands transport: How to get to (and around) the Bay of Islands
How to get to the Bay of Islands: your transport options Car Most people get to the Bay of Islands by car (or campervan). If there are good driving conditions on State Highway 1, here are indicative travel times from Auckland Harbour Bridge: 3 hours to Paihia 3 1/4 hours to Kerikeri 3 1/2 hours to Russell. However, there are often hold ups, so it is wise to … [Read more...]
Bay of Islands weather: what to expect
The Bay of Islands weather is described as being sub-tropical: that generally means warm and humid summers, and heavy rainfall (with high humidity) in winter. The “winterless north” it is not! Northland and Bay of Islands weather is often described as being the “winterless north” – whoever came up with that, I don’t know, because it isn’t quite true! Although we don’t get … [Read more...]
3 must-bring items for your vacation in the Bay of Islands
These are the things I can’t live without, as a resident in the Bay of Islands! I’d highly recommend you bring these 3 items on holiday with you (or be prepared to buy them here in the Bay of Islands): 1. Wet weather jacket I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it rains a lot in the Bay of Islands, all year round. I remember on my first visit, I was even in tears … [Read more...]
