Destination: Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Introduction
The Bay of Islands is one of the most celebrated cruising grounds in the South Pacific, comprising over 140 islands, sheltered anchorages, warm subtropical waters, and a layered Māori and colonial heritage stretching back to New Zealand's founding document. Opua, at the head of the Veronica Channel, is the principal Port of Entry for international arrivals on the east coast and a legendary Pacific landfall. The bay is the traditional finishing point for the annual Fiji–New Zealand and Tonga–New Zealand races, and its friendly cruising community makes every arrival feel like a homecoming.
GPS Coordinates
35° 18' 42.840"S 174° 07' 21.000"E
35 18 42.840S 174 07 21.000E
Protected Anchorages
Opua offers well-marked channel entry and anchorage off the marina in 3–5 metres over mud. Waipiro Bay, immediately north of Opua, is a popular first-night anchorage in 4–6 metres. Roberton Island (Motuarohia) has a stunning lagoon anchorage in 3–5 metres over sand with excellent holding. Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island provides beautiful shelter in 5–8 metres with a café and walking tracks ashore. Kerikeri Inlet at the head of the inlet is quieter than Opua, with good mud holding in 2–4 metres, and the historic Stone Store a short walk away. Most bay anchorages are 5–15 metres over mud or sand with reliably good holding.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Opua is the designated Port of Entry for international arrivals on Northland's east coast. Fly the Q flag and contact Bay of Islands Radio on VHF Ch 16. Customs, Immigration, MPI (biosecurity), and Health clearance are all conducted at the Opua Customs Wharf — do not go ashore until cleared. Advance notice of at least 48 hours is required via Maritime New Zealand's online pre-arrival system. All fresh produce, meat, dairy, and honey is subject to strict New Zealand biosecurity controls and must be declared.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Opua Cruising Club
- Bay of Islands Sailing Club (Paihia)
- Bay of Islands Marina (Opua)
Renowned Attractions
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds — where New Zealand's founding document was signed in 1840, with outstanding cultural performances and museum
- Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock — dramatic sea-level passage through Piercy Island's natural arch by charter boat
- Kerikeri — historic Stone Store and Mission House, New Zealand's oldest surviving buildings, plus excellent local produce
- Urupukapuka Island walking tracks and snorkelling — island park accessible by water taxi with superb coastal walks
- Russell (Kororareka) — New Zealand's oldest European settlement with the Duke of Marlborough hotel and Christ Church (1836)
- Oke Bay and Whangaroa Harbour — nearby gems worth exploring by yacht, just north of the bay
- Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve — world-class diving 20 nm offshore, accessible by day charter from Tutukaka
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: New Zealand Dollar
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
The Bay of Islands is the quintessential New Zealand cruising destination — stunning scenery, superb anchorages across 140 islands, world-class facilities at Opua, and a wealth of historical and cultural attractions make it an outstanding landfall and cruising ground for any Pacific-circuit yacht.