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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This friendly hotel is built up a hillside in Paihia. The rooms are large and some are split-level. Great staff. While in Paihia, take the mini-cruise to Russell, the original capital of New Zealand. Lots of historic buildings, but little tourist tat.

www.paihiapacific.co.nz

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Its a real outdoorsy place, a lot of people up here go out fishing and sailing evry weekend.

There's really no better way to get out and see the islands.

Go fishing and catch yourself a whopper, jump on a sailboat and feel the waves under you, or hit up a jetboat ride (best in waves if you like adrenaline!).

There's a heap of accommodation option as well, everything from campsites to hostels and luxury apartments.

Bay of Islands, Northland, New Zealand
www.bayofislands.net/
www.bayofislands.net/accommodation/

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The Bay is a very chilled spot, maybe one of the best places in NZ to get on a boat and go out into the ocean. Great fishing, a great outdoors life, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, what more could you want?

www.bayofislands.net/

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Very cool youth hostel, cosy and warm.

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