The Rock was the most fantastic experience we had in New Zealand as a family. It is an overnight boat trip which takes you out to the bay of islands where you can have a go at fishing, kayaking and looking at the night stars. We had a really nice meal and the kids were entertained by the young crew who were so friendly and attractive! We then drank in to the early hours and my husband played guitar with one of the crew.
The next day we could swim in the ocean and collect green lipped muscles which were cooked and eaten on board. Our daughter loved this and we saw her confidence grow as she swam in the water. We then moored up at one of the islands and went walking. As we kayaked back to The Rock we were joined by some dolphins which were very playful. We then headed back to shore. All in all one of the best things we have ever done and we met so many interesting people from all over the world.

www.rocktheboat.co.nz
Paihia Wharf Building, The Wharf Marsden Rd, Paihia 0250
(09) 402 7796
Google map: bit.ly/jsKQeF

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Over a hundred islands, sunny weather (the locals call it 'The Winterless North'), and a generally relaxed disposition make the Bay of Islands a perfect place to visit.

Reliable winds, safe anchorages, and stunning viewpoints mean that any sailing trip is going to be amazing. There's quite a few old seadogs living in their boats in the Bay, taking people out for a day or a few days - the best way to see the islands.

www.bayofislands.net/activities/day-sailing/

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Sublime Apartments is great value motel apartment accommodation in Paihia, Bay of Islands, Northland, New Zealand.

They provide a great budget (but only in terms of price) option in a lovely, lush, hillside location in Paihia.

It's about a five-minute walk from the centre of town and has a small pool and BBQ facilities. The hosts are very friendly and extremely helpful. The apartments are clean and well maintained.

Paihia itself has loads to do and the hosts can help organise tickets for the attractions and provide tips on where to head to.

All things considered, Sublime Apartments provide a great alternative to a hotel, is far quieter than a traditional looking motel (it's not based around the car park) and it's run by people who have lived in the area for many years - a good choice.

Sublime Apartments
58 School Road
Paihia
Bay of Islands

Tel / Fax : +64 (0)9 402 5289

Email: info@sublimeapartments.co.nz

Website: www.sublimeapartments.com

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This trip was the highlight of my year travelling around NZ. There are lots of boat companies in the Bay of Islands; I would recommend ignoring the glossy corporate operators and going on this owner-operated trip.

We saw dolphins, hammerhead sharks and visited remote islands off the tourist trail. The skipper truly makes the trip - a true sea captain with tales from afar!

If you just go on one trip in NZ I would recommend the Gungha II.

GUNGHA NEW ZEALAND CRUISES
RD 1, Kerikeri, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Ph +64 9 407 7930 Fax +64 9 407 9794 Mobile +64 25 760 670
E-mail BayOfIslandsSailing@xtra.co.nz

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