Luxury hotel holiday Grand Mercure Puka Park Coromandel

About Northland and Bay of Islands

An Expressions tailor-made holiday to Northland and the Bay of Islands is an opportunity to explre a region of rich pastures, rolling farmland, forests of gigantic kauri trees that can be up to 2000 years old, lush fern filled valleys, cliffs, bays, inlets and miles of sandy beaches and a scattering of islands offshore. From Auckland to the very northern tip of the country, Northland stretches between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea in a splendour of outstanding natural beauty and sites of historic significance. The climate is sub-tropical, and a diversity of plants thrive; from silver fern to vines, from the pohutukawa tree with its crimson flowers to manuka, plus an array of fruit and vegetables including avocadoes, figs and oranges. In addition to the beautiful scenery and welcoming climate, Northland has numerous sites of historic significance as the region where Europeans and Maoris first came into contact. Russell, Pahia, Waitangi and Kerikeri are all interesting places to visit. Local arts and crafts including plaited flaxen baskets, carved wood and greenstone and pottery flourish in the region. The area is strong on leisure activities, many associated with the water such as fishing, kayaking, diving and sailing but also scenic flights, horse trekking and tramping.