Boating and Fishing
We are spoilt for fishing in the Bay of Islands and so spoilt for choice of fishing charters to take you. From $99 per person upwards it’s an affordable day out! I’m not a fishing fan but still arrange spots on boats and place heaps on Blue Sea Charters, Anglers Anonymous, and Spot X my three favourite fishing guys. I get lovely fresh fish to eat yum,yum !! Super day out, all gear provided and experienced fishermen, nothing better than a feed of fresh fish for tea that you have caught!!
Our lovely friendly guys Mike and Debbie have years of experience sailing on the 65 foot Maxi yacht Gungha. She’s a beautiful boat and they offer a great days sailing in and around the bay of islands. Departing from Paihia you not only get fantastic sailing you stop on an island and have a chance to swim, snorkel, see dolphins and get a fresh yummy lunch, truly a great day out on the bay. Don’t forget your sunscreen and hat!!!
Fullers Great Sights and Explore NZ have really got it right when cruising the beautiful Bay of Islands and this really is a must even if you do nothing else! If you don’t have the money to fly really this is the way to see the Bay of Islands in all its glory! You have the choice of a morning or afternoon cruise (I recommend the morning as the winds can come up in the afternoon). This can include a free pick-up from your accommodation!!
Both companies have big, roomy, fast and very comfortable viewing boats (plenty of room inside and hot drinks and snacks available on board) Room enough to have the push chair and back packs while you venture outside. Both companies also offer a variety of cruises including Cape Reinga bus tours and swimming with the dolphins. I have yet to do the fullers cream trip ( full day) so if you’re staying with us at the Bay of Islands Holiday Park and do one of these trips come and find me and tell me what a great day you had!
I love being up the front of the boat and watching out for dolphins, and when the dolphins come to play and swim along- side the boat its really great and a warm and fuzzy feeling comes over you, there the best swimmers! We had a 40 minute stop over on Urupukapaka Island for lunch. Sitting in the sun on the beach and relaxing, you do have time to walk some of the tracks and even a guided Maori tour is on offer. I didn’t walk I was too lazy. We cruised onwards to Motukokako Island - Hole in the Rock. If the winds and seas are favourable the cleaver skipper will go through the hole… now that’s cool. There are plenty of chances to take photos. The staff is helpful and friendly and will assist you any way they can. I’ve done this trip 3 or 4 times and always enjoy like it was the first time.
After a long day fishing, the best place to eat is the Paihia RSA Restaurant, I do eat out there a lot and it is the best food in town and all the staff club and restaurant are brilliant. So if you’re looking for a cold beer or wine and great food this is the place to go. Tell them Wendy from the Bay of Islands Holiday Park sent you.
