Te Ika-a-Maui/North Island NZ

We drove into Paihia (Bay of Islands) and settled into our accommodation. Paihia offers close proximity to the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds and a number of towns and beaches along the coastline. We dined at Terra, Paihia and Mata in Keri Keri, both excellent restaurants.
Whilst staying in Paihia, we drove to Cape Reinga (northern most point of the North Island) and closest point to Australia in the North Island. The Cape Reinga lighthouse stands on one of the most significant cultural sites of Aorteaora (NZ). It is believed it is where a person's spirit comes after death, to depart for their eternal home. On the way we saw giant sand dunes and expansive white sand beaches surrounded by mountain ranges and dramatic rock formations creating such contrast.
On the morning of the second day, we visited Haruru Falls and Rainbow Falls. The afternoon was wet and windy, which provided a perfect time to visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, museum and performance centre.Read more