The Bay of Islands NZ

Rourke and Sky

The Bay Islands are known for their stunning beauty and history (I will cover some of the historical significance in one of the upcoming posts).  The 144 islands are situated in the Northland Region of the North Island of New Zealand. 

Chris had to fly home to South Africa for two months and the children and I decided to spend some time sailing around the Bay of Islands for a few weeks, it was delightful!

Sugarloaf Islands dot the Bay

T R I B E anchored in a sweet spot

For those that love water sports, big game fishing, beaches and sea life, it is paradise!  We saw Orca whales swim right past us and swam with dolphins many times.  We collected fresh black mussels and steamed them with garlic, cream and white wine. We swam, hiked, wakeboarded, dived and lay in the sun, taking full advantage of what the islands had to offer. 

mussels, mussels, mussels

Sky contemplating a swim to shore...

Sailing between the islands is quick and pleasant as they lie close together and one always finds a safe anchorage no matter which way the wind is blowing.

Rolling island hills

Layla giving it sticks, go girl!

one beautiful bay after another

Rourke getting some air

Local Island residents…meh!

morning coffee cockpit view

beautiful happy Sky

Sky and Rosie exploring

Bay sailors

Rourke taking Katie for a paddle in the bay

The water is relatively warm as it has a subtropical climate and the islands are green and alive.  We went back a couple of times and when Chris returned, again to show him the beauty of the Bay of Islands….

Leave only footprints...