Overview
Overview
This collective of 144 islands extends north from Auckland and is internationally renowned for its big-game fishing and sailing. Its rugged and beautiful beaches cater to a range of interests, though, including surfing, kayaking, swimming with dolphins, snorkeling or parasailing. Historically significant, the bay is home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where a treaty was first signed between the British crown and indigenous Maori, so there’s plenty to explore on land. Bay of Islands is also known for its boutique vineyards, luxurious art galleries and surplus of quaint cafes.
Marriage Requirements
Same-sex marriage became legal in New Zealand in April of 2013. Couples must fill out a Notice of Intended Marriage at least three days prior to the ceremony. Birth certificates may be required. Divorce and death decrees are required if applicable. Refer to your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist for more details.
Travel Documents, Language & Currency
Travel Documents
Passports are required for visitors entering New Zealand. If you are a citizen of the US, visit travel.state.gov for more information on travel documents needed. For Canadian travelers, visit travel.gc.ca for relevant travel information.
Language
The official language of New Zealand is English, though a number of regional Pacific dialects are also spoken.
Currency
The New Zealand dollar is the official currency of New Zealand.
Climate & Beaches
Climate
Bay of Islands has a tropical climate with warm summers and damp winters. The average temperature in February is 74 degrees F and the average temperature in July is 61 degrees F.
Beaches
Bay of Islands is home to post-card worthy New Zealand beaches, many of which are utterly secluded and uninhabited. The soft white sand and shallow bay waters make them great for swimming and snorkeling. Urupukapuka Island is a popular choice for its amenities and colorful water.
Activities & Tourist Attractions
Activities
Bay of Islands is best explored on and around the water, with endless modes of transportation to choose from. Rent a kayak and paddle to Haruru Falls, or charter a yacht. The hospitable waters host endless fish, so diving below the surface is also a necessity, whether you swim with wild dolphins or cast your line off the side of a boat. The Islands are also of historical significance, so stop by the Treaty House to see New Zealand’s largest war canoe. The elegant ports and town also cater to visitors with boutique vineyards and great shops and cafes.
Let us help plan your perfect romantic celebration.
Let us help plan your perfect romantic celebration.
Disclaimer:
GayDestinationWeddings.com makes every effort to keep the travel information up to date on this website, however, resorts, wedding packages and laws do change and so we cannot guarantee that all information regarding rules, regulations, and marriage requirements at particular sites are completely accurate at the time of viewing. Before making marriage decisions on a particular destination, we highly recommend you speak with your specialist or wedding coordinator to verify rules at a particular destination before finalizing your travel plans.