http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/ The latest Blog feeds from www.crabshackcottage.co.nz en-us Tue, 13 Oct 2026 16:55:37 +1300 Rocketspark http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/post/171242/why-base-your-bay-of-islands-holiday-in-russell-paihia-alternative/ There is a common misconception among international travellers, and even visitors from across the Tasman, that basing a Bay of Islands holiday in Paihia or Opua is the most logical choice for regional logistics. But to truly unlock the magic of this coastline, you have to experience a morning like we just did. Imagine waking up to crisp coastal air, stepping out of your accommodation, and heading straight to a wood-fired beach sauna right on the sand at Long Beach (Onero... Mon, 05 Oct 2026 13:47:52 +1300 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/#post171242 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/post/169729/new-years-eve-russell/ There are plenty of places to countdown to the New Year, but few match the magic, history, and community spirit of a classic Kiwi summer night in Russell (Kororāreka). For families and friend groups looking for the perfect blend of a relaxed coastal escape and vibrant midnight traditions, our historic slice of the Bay of Islands is the ultimate destination.There are plenty of places to countdown to the New Year, but few match the magic, history, and community spirit of a cla... Sun, 06 Sep 2026 13:29:04 +1200 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/#post169729 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/post/169333/long-beach-russell-bay-of-islands-guide/ When our family first discovered Russell, one of the places we immediately fell in love with was Long Beach. Whether it's an early morning walk, a family swim, coffee by the beach, or simply sitting in the sunshine looking out across the Bay of Islands, Long Beach has become one of our favourite places to visit whenever we stay at Crab Shack Cottage.Located just 1.2 kilometres from Crab Shack Cottage, Long Beach is approximately a 15–20 minute walk or a three-minu... Thu, 27 Aug 2026 20:47:16 +1200 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/#post169333 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/post/168878/island-hopping-in-paradise-a-day-trip-to-otehei-bay-motuarohia-island/ There is a reason the Bay of Islands is world-famous, but to truly understand its magic, you have to get off the mainland and onto the water. One of our absolute favorite day trips is heading out to Otehei Bay on the stunning, pest-free Urupukapuka Island Recreation Reserve. Accessible entirely by boat, this island paradise feels worlds away, yet it is right on the doorstep of your luxury base at Crab Shack Cottage.... Wed, 19 Aug 2026 13:59:33 +1200 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/#post168878 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/post/167408/off-the-grid-in-the-bay-of-islands-live-like-a-chef-at-crab-shack-cottage/ Did you catch TV chefs Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel exploring the hidden gems of Northland in their hit series Off The Grid? In their recent episode, the duo headed north for big-game fishing, tracking down spectacular local flavors, and diving headfirst into the rich history of the area. It’s no secret they fell head over heels for our coastlines and incredible kaimoana (seafood)—and you can experience that exact same magic right from our doorstep.... Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:16:26 +1200 http://www.crabshackcottage.co.nz/blog/#post167408