There are almost endless opportunities for immersing yourself in the blue-green world of island and beach. Charter a yacht or launch. Dive or snorkel. Paddle a sea kayak in and out of the islands' nooks and crannies. Swim with dolphins.
Many people come to the Bay of Islands with marlin in mind.
Zane Grey, the great American western writer and big game fisherman, pitched a tent and caught his first marlin here in 1926. Today enthusiasts come from all over the globe in pursuit of marlin, broad bills and game sharks. You can take part in keenly contested tournaments or hire a boat and fight your own private battles with the denizens of the deep. Paihia is a good place to be based for your Bay of Islands experience. Or if your game is adventure perhaps skydiving, parasailing, scuba diving, kayaking or a beautiful bushwalk will take your pleasure.