Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Bay of Islands offers some fine subtropical diving, made even better by the sinking
of the 113m navy frigate HMNZS
Canterbury
in Deep Water Cove near Cape Brett.
Local operators also head to the wreck of the
Rainbow Warrior
off the Cavalli Islands,
about an hour north of Paihia by boat. Both offer a colourful feast of pink anemones, yel-
low sponges and abundant fish life.
There are opportunities for kayaking or sailing around the bay, either on a guided tour
or by renting and going it alone. Cruises and dolphin swimming are also available.
Dive North
DIVING
( 09-402 5369;
www.divenorth.co.nz
; reef & wreck $225)
Based in Kerikeri but offering free
pick-ups from Paihia.
Paihia Dive
DIVING
( 09-402 7551;
www.divenz.com
;
Williams Rd, Paihia; reef & wreck $229)
Combined reef and
wreck trips to either the
Canterbury
or the
Rainbow Warrior
.
Dive Ops
DIVING
( 0800 387 892, 09-402 5454;
www.diveops.co.nz
; 2 dives incl equipment $230-280)
Family-
run diving operators, based out of Paihia.
Island Kayaks & Bay
Beach Hire
KAYAKING, BOATING
( 09-402 6078;
www.baybeachhire.co.nz
;
Marsden Rd, Paihia; half-day kayaking tour $69;
9am-5.30pm)
Hires kayaks (from $15 per hour), sailing catamarans ($50 first hour, $40
per additional), motor boats ($85 first hour, $25 per additional), mountain bikes ($35 per
day), boogie boards ($25 per day), fishing rods ($10 per day), wet suits and snorkelling
gear (both $20 per day).
POU HERENGA TAI TWIN COAST CYCLE TRAIL
Planned to be completed by late 2014, this cycle route stretches from the Bay of Is-
lands clear across the country to the Hokianga Harbour. OK, so that's only 84km,
but as far as we're concerned that still gives you boasting rights when you get
home. The complete route will travel from Opua via Kawakawa, Ngawha Springs,
Kaikohe and finish up in Horeke.
