Events in the Bay

Bay Of Islands Activities

Check out all these exciting events and activities held in the Bay of Islands - all of which you can do while staying and enjoying the comforts of The Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

Bay of Islands Country Rock Festival

10, 11, 12 May 2024

The Bay of Islands Country Rock Festival features good music and friendship in the stunning setting of the Bay of Islands of New Zealand – one of the top tourist spots of the country. 

The Duke of Marlborough boasts acts over the three days, check out our Accommodation options too! 

Hotprintz Bay of Islands Run/Walk Festival

26 May 2024

This iconic event offers a choice of four distances - 6km (Walk only) 8.7km (Run/Walk) 21.1km (Run Walk) and the Trek Trail & Fish 50km Ultra, all finishing in Paihia.

New Zealand 29er Nationals

31 May 2024 & 1, 2 June 2024

Bay of Islands Yacht Club proudly presents the 29er Nationals Championship! A pinnacle event on the sailing calendar, drawing seasoned sailors and passionate enthusiasts alike.

Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival

9, 10, 11 August 2024

The Bay of Islands Jazz and Blues Festival features good music and friendship in the stunning setting of the Bay of Islands of New Zealand – one of the top tourist spots of the country. 

The Duke of Marlborough boasts acts over the three days, check out our Accommodation options too! 

The Edge Bay of Islands Beast

24 August 2024

The Bay of Islands Beast is designed to be tough but fun, so have some fun by participating in an awesome fancy dress costume – just make sure it can handle hills!

Bay of Islands Walking Weekend

10, 11, 12, 13 October 2024

We walk many of the islands and remote spots on the peninsula that are hard to access as individuals – the walking weekend makes it cost effective and hassle free.  The walks are spectacular with breath taking scenery, amazing flora and fauna, but also very rich in history and culture, you are walking in footsteps of some of the first explorers to arrive in New Zealand.

PIC Bay of Islands Coastal Classic

25, 26, 27 October 2024

The PIC Coastal Classic Yacht Race from Auckalnd's Devonport Wharf to Russell Wharf in the Bay of Islands, is New Zealand's premier fleet yacht race and has been held annually at Labour weekend since its inception in 1982.

Northland Chess Championship 2024

2 November 2024

Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon

16 November 2024

Starting in Okaihau the 21.1km course makes its way through rolling countryside to finish in the centre of town at the Kerikeri Domain. The race is largely downhill, so good for a PB, and perfect if you're new to running!

What our customers say

We loved everything about our wedding at The Duke of Marlborough. The venue has such character and class and it suited our wedding style perfectly. Even without adding any styling, it is truly a stunning venue and location. The team were a breeze to work with as we added our own little touches for our wedding reception. The service from all the Duke staff was impeccable, and the food (as always) was divine. We had so many comments from our guests after our wedding about the outstanding food and wonderful service. Big thanks to Ida, Tim and the team for running such a smooth operation. We would do it all again in a heartbeat. - Chloe & Kent xx

- Chloe & Kent 24th March 2016,

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