Special Attractions and Activities Nearby
Northland & Bay of Islands Area
Boat trips are available from nearby Whangaroa Harbour, and also Paihia in the Bay of Islands.
Big Game Fishing
There are a variety of Big Game Fish charters just 10 minutes away at Whangaroa Harbour.
Scuba Diving
Local dive charters are available from Whangaroa and offer world class diving experiences. Dive the Rainbow Warrior wreck! - sunk at the nearby Cavalli Islands.
Kayaking
Explore the beautiful Whangaroa Harbour and the Marlin Coast. Spot the Dolphins! Guided Kayak tours are available locally.
Golf
Play the world class Kauri Cliffs course situated along the coast near Matauri Bay, just a short scenic drive from Butterfly Bay.
Courses also at: Kerikeri, Kaikohe, Whangaroa, Waitangi in the Bay Of Islands, and Carrington Club in the Far North all within an hours drive.
Scenic Walks
Department Of Conservation walks are highly recommended. The walking tracks are well maintained, and range from short board walks through native forest, discovering the magnificent ancient Kauri trees and wide variety of native plants and birds, to coastal hikes with stunning vistas and secluded beaches.
Scenic Flights
Salt Air offer spectacular scenic flights by aeroplane or helicopter from Paihia and Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands.
Cuisine
Take a scenic drive to Kerikeri just 40 minutes away by car. This small, bustling town has many cafes and restaurants to choose from. Among them are: Marsden Estate and Cottle Creek wineries, and award winning cafes, The Fishbone and The Rocket.
In the other direction just 30 minutes from Butterfly Bay is Mangonui, where you will find the world famous Mangonui fish and chip shop as well as quaint cafes and pubs.
Whangaroa Gamefish Club is just around the corner from Butterfly Bay, join in with the locals celebrating the catch of the day.
Northland Wine Trail award-winning wineries.
Sightseeing
Whangaroa - Historic harbour, a land of legends, towering rock faces and 'Marlin Capital' of New Zealand. Here you will find the Whangaroa Big Game Fishing Club. Harbour cruises and fishing charters can be booked here. Just 10 minutes away from Butterfly Bay.
Kerikeri - Known as 'Cradle Of The Nation'.
In the same area is Rewa's Maori Village, The Stone Store and Kemp House, New Zealand's oldest surviving building made of wood.
Mangonui - A charming historic port and early Maori settlement. A must see!
An 18th century whaling port and important port for shipping of Kauri timber and gum. Today it is renowned for it's craft shops, cafes, New Zealand pubs and the Famous Mangonui Fish Shop. Take an afternoon drive for "fush 'n' chups" and a beer at one of the local pubs. Soak up the atmosphere of this quaint little town.