Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward

Top attractions in Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward

Explore the cradle of New Zealand's modern history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, featuring the 1840 signing site and the massive Ngātokimatawhaorua ceremonial waka. The region offers diverse natural landscapes, from the columnar basalt formations of Charlie's Rock to the ancient giants of Puketi Kauri Forest. Strategic lookouts like Flagstaff Hill and St. Paul's Rock provide perspectives on the coastline's volcanic geology and significant Māori heritage sites, including the historic Kororipo Pā.

Top Bay of Islands Attractions — Map

A

The Treaty House

Built in 1833 for British Resident James Busby, this Georgian-style house served as the site for the initial signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6, 1840.

B

Charlie's Rock

A swimming hole on the Waipapa Stream featuring distinct columnar basalt rock formations created by ancient lava flows.

C

Wharepoke Falls

A five-metre waterfall located along the Kerikeri River track, surrounded by native bush and accessible via a well-maintained walking path.

D

Te Wairere Waterfall

A tiered waterfall situated on the Wairoa Stream, accessible via a forest trail through native regeneration areas near Kerikeri.

E

Puketi Kauri Forest

One of the largest remaining kauri forests in Northland, home to ancient trees, diverse podocarps, and the endangered North Island kokako.

F

Haruru Falls Walk

A 6-kilometre track connecting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to Haruru Falls, featuring a boardwalk through a mature mangrove forest.

G

Ngātokimatawhaorua

One of the world's largest ceremonial Māori war canoes (waka taua). Measuring 35 metres, it was built for the 1940 centennial and requires 80 paddlers.

H

Hobson Memorial

A monument on the Waitangi Treaty Grounds commemorating Captain William Hobson, New Zealand’s first Governor and co-author of the Treaty of Waitangi.

I

Tapeka Point Lookout

The site of a historic Māori pā, offering 360-degree views across the Bay of Islands, including Russell, Paihia, and the outer islands.

J

Paihia Lookout

An elevated vantage point offering views over the Paihia township, the Waitangi estuary, and across the water to Russell.

K

Dukes Nose / Kairara Rock

A prominent dacite rock formation at the entrance of Whangaroa Harbour. The summit is reached via a steep track involving a fixed-chain climb.

L

Flagstaff Hill Lookout

Also known as Te Maiki, this historic site features a flagpole famously cut down four times by Māori chief Hone Heke in the 1840s.

M

Kororipo Pā

A fortified Māori village site that served as a strategic base for Ngāpuhi leader Hongi Hika during the early 19th-century Musket Wars.

N

St. Paul's Rock

A volcanic plug overlooking Whangaroa Harbour, providing panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding Northland countryside.

Other Lists

Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward Essentials Northland Hidden Gems Historic Sites & Memorials Coastal Wonders Historic Churches