The western bay of Islands generally plays second fiddle to the more popular eastern Bay of Islands, but historically, the western Bay of Islands is just as significant. The western Bay of Islands contains historical places such as the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Kerikeri, and the surrounding water ways. Also situated in the western part of the Bay are the Black Rocks - the only rock type of its kind in the world. Exploring the western side of the Bay gives you a lot of opportunity to spot many different types of plant and animal life, including the elusive Kiwi bird.
Waitangi is best known for being the location where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed on February 6, 1840; however, it is also the place where the Declaration of Independence of New Zealand was signed five years prior, on October 28, 1835. This document was ratified by the British Crown the following year. The introduction of the Treaty effectively revoked the Declaration of Independence; making New Zealand a British colony, and the Treaty is generally considered the founding document of New Zealand as a nation.
These are columnar jointed basaltic flow remnants and have subtidal reefs that are mostly steep-sided, and extend to between about 4m and 30m depth. Subtidal caves, tunnels, shafts, pinnacles and very large boulders are common. The reefs are mostly bounded by boulder gravel deposits, or by bioclastic sediment. These rocks are where gannet, an Australasian bird, come to breed and also contain unique types of flora.
Kerikeri, the largest town in the Northland Region of New Zealand. Kerikeri is home to many historic sites and buildings including the Mission House, the Stone Store, and St. James Church. The Mission House (and for more than 100 years referred to as the Kemp House) is the oldest wooden structure still standing in New Zealand. A much visited and photographed building, it is administered along with the Stone Store by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. The Stone Store, a former storehouse, is the oldest stone building in New Zealand, construction having begun on 19 April 1832.
For more information about Kerikeri, please visit the Department of Conservations website here.
A typical itinerary for a multi-day kayaking trip in the western Bay of Islands will begin with a morning departure from Paihia. From Paihia you'll make your way along the coast towards Waitangi then onward to the Black Rocks. After exploring the Black Rocks and the neighboring Moturoa Island, you'll then head east up the Kerikeri inlet to Aroha Island, which is we're the campsite is located. The following days can be used for exploring the remainder of the Kerikeri inlet and the surrounding islands and waterways.
The beach-side camping ground has a variety of sheltered sites and adjoins native bush. Tracks allow you to explore the island's rare native flora and fauna.
Camping Facilities include large shade sail, picnic tables, an ablution block with 3 toilets, 2 showers, kitchen preparation room with sink, fridge and kettle, but no cooking facilities.
For booking a tent site, and more information, please visit the Aroha Island accommodation website or call +64 9 407 5243.
For those who would prefer to take a water taxi out to their destination, on their return trip, or both, there is an option available. Dive Ops provides a water taxi service in the Bay of Islands.
For more information on pricing and availability, please contact Dive Ops directly at 0800 387 892 or visit their website, www.diveops.co.nz.
As an alternative to the traditional all kayak trip, we offer a combination package that involves a sailing trip aboard our 42' yacht Vigilant. This will include a full day sail out to your destination of choice(or your campsite) where you can get as involved as you'd like in the sailing process. We also include a fresh lunch on-board.
The price for this option is $95 and that includes your day sail, lunch, and your kayak hire for that day.
