Northland's Pacific Coast is the ideal Sailing destination. The Hauraki Gulf is a beautiful cruising area, covering over 1500 miles of mainly rural coastline. Being quite close to Auckland there is a good range of activities ashore and some great Cafe's and Restaurants. Enjoy unspoilt beaches, explore the numerous islands and bays too, with breath-taking panoramic views throughout the whole journey. With its excellent sailing conditions the Hauraki Gulf is home to Auckland - the City of Sails and the America's Cup. <br> The coast between the Hauraki Gulf and the Bay of Islands is a magnificent area, only just beginning to be recognised as a tourist destination. The Southern boundary of this area is marked by one of the best harbours in the country at Whangarei. As one sails north one has the opportunity to sample numerous attractive anchorages and bays and superb harbours at Tutukaka, Whangaruru and Whangamumu. Just outside Whangarei are the Hen and Chicks Islands and twelve miles offshore from Tutukaka are the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve, rated as one of the world’s top dive locations & undoubtedly New Zealand's Marine Eco-tour Icon. These islands offer scores of different dive and snorkeling sites in clear oceanic water, where a warmer Pacific current nudges near sheer underwater cliffs nurturing an amazing array of colourful marine life.<br> The Bay of Islands is truly a boating paradise with magnificent scenery and over 80 different islands and countless sheltered bays. Coupled with a mild climate and gentle sea breezes the Bay of Islands is one of the world's most desirable cruising grounds with unlimited opportunities for cruising, swimming, fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, dolphin & bird watching. Ashore one can visit local souvenir shops and try some of the many restaurants and cafes in Russell, Paihia and Waitangi as well as visiting some fascinating local cultural sites. <br> The Bay of Islands to Manganui part is still a relatively unspoilt area with far less charter boats than the Bay of Islands yet there are several Island to explore, some great bays and the magnificent fiord like Whangaroa Harbour. One of the major attractions on this piece of coast is the Cavalli Islands. There are about 20 Islands in the group, which offer excellent walking (Motukawanui Island), good kayaking, snorkeling and some lovely sandy beaches. Near Hamaruru Island the Greenpeace ship, the Rainbow Warrior was laid to rest after being sunk by the French Secret Service whilst in Auckland Harbour.