Bay of Islands, New Zealand

A touch of paradise 

Kia Ora, as the resident kiwi of the Urban Economics team it seems only fitting to give a brief insight to a little place I like to call home.  Believe it or not life exists beyond Auckland – located some 230kms north of Auckland the Bay of Islands forms part of the Northland region.  Some 150 islands make up the ‘Bay’ with the main towns being Paihia, Waitangi, Russell and Kerikeri.  The Bay is a renowned playground for fishermen with the tourism and hospitality industry fundamentally underpinning the local economy.  Built on natural beauty the Bay is successful in enticing tourists and locals alike.

Paihia – a playground in the sun

Paihia is a quaint little town on the water’s edge adorned with an array of motels/hotels, boutique stores, cafes and restaurants.  Like any tourist town, the town centre is highly tourist oriented with a variety of tourism operators and gift shops to choose from.  Development within the town has been controversial at times with the locals proud to remain small scaled and local.  However, throughout 2007 and 2008 a number of residential apartments have appeared on the water’s edge catering towards the tourist influx throughout summer.  While Paihia may not be the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast, Paihia offers a place to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city life.

Waitangi – the birthplace of a nation

Waitangi is where it all began with the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6th 1840 between Maori and Europeans.  Waitangi attracts mainly international tourists seeking a taste of Maori Culture.  While the haka is synonymous with the All Blacks, Waitangi offers a story and history of Maori lifestyle and culture still prevalent for many today.  Although Waitangi is just around the corner from Paihia you are greeted by a much different surrounding with development consisting primarily of accommodation.  Waitangi comprises a small set of convenience shops, a Woolworths Supermarket and 2 service stations.  The slow pace of life in Waitangi can easily make you forget your troubles.  Paihia and Waitangi remain a popular tourist destination, with the locals passionate in keeping the town a quaint seaside town free of high rises and intense development.  Nevertheless there's still something special about the town.

By: Louisa Davies