NZ 2009 - The Bay of Islands

With Paihia as the main accommodation centre and Russell as its more sophisticated partner the Bay of Islands has a lot to offer for scenery and all things watery. We spent 3 nights in Paihia, 1 in Russell and 1 on Urupukapuka, our favourite place. To appreciate the island and hence the whole of this area you need to walk up to as many as possible of the vantage points and look down on the magnificent coast line of bays and beaches and boats. We had a cloudless day and hence the best conditions. The sea was clear and inviting and this must be one of the most beautiful places in the world!
Another place to get great views is the flagpole location near Russell. Quite a steep walk up although some people drive! Around 1850 the Brits made 4 attempts to put up the flagpole only for the Maoris to chop it down. Well who would blame them!