At the remote northernmost tip of New Zealand the Bay of Islands offer a beacon of tranquillity guarded by dolphins that leap through its crystal blue waters. Intense natural beauty and tranquil waters make this a leading location for big game fishing and sailing enthusiasts, and a regular flow of day trippers including bird watchers flock to see the Blue Penguin and endangered New Zealand Dotterel. The bay itself is a 16km wide inlet on the north east coast of the island with several arms extending out into the land. Surrounded by islands and peninsulas, a Bay of Islands holiday offers the opportunity for discovery of both islands and charming towns like Russell and Waitangi.