Opua

A regular vehicular ferry runs the short distance between Opua and Okiato, from where the motorist drives to Russell, about 9 kms. Opua has always been an important New Zealand port. Until the 1970s frozen meat, dairy products and other cargo were shipped overseas. Today it is a favourite port of entry for yachts arriving from the Pacific. There is also a large yacht marina and extensive marine maintenance facilities.

The Opua – Paihia walkway is part of the New Zealand Walkway system, this 7-8 km walk starts near the Opua wharf and takes about 31/2 hours. The walk follows the shoreline where possible and part of it crosses a mangrove forest on a boardwalk. The track is well-signposted all the way.

Many well-defined walks and magnificent views are also to be found in the Opua Forest.

Bay of Islands by J C Hoyte