2 daysAuckland
Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour from Auckland with Cruise
4.9(52)Free cancellation
from$421
Photo: W. Bulach, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsBay of Islands
The North Island
The Bay of Islands, about 3.5 hours north of Auckland, is a sheltered bay of some 144 islands, and the birthplace of modern New Zealand: the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed here on 6 February 1840.
Things to do
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Museums, a carved meeting house and a giant waka (war canoe).
- Hole in the Rock: A cruise to the arch at Motukokako, often with dolphins.
- Russell: Once a rowdy whaling port, now a quiet historic village.
- Sailing and kayaking: Explore sheltered coves and islands.
Tip: Visit on Waitangi Day, 6 February, for the national commemorations, but book accommodation early. See our Bay of Islands guide.
Getting there
- By road: About 3.5 hours north of Auckland.
- By air: Short flights from Auckland to Kerikeri, about 25 minutes from Paihia.
- Getting around: Passenger ferries link Paihia and Russell several times an hour.
When to go
November to April for warm water and calm sailing days. Winters are mild but wetter, and some cruises run less often.
Honest downsides
It's a detour north of Auckland, the opposite direction from most routes. With less than two weeks in New Zealand, many travellers skip it in favour of the South Island.
Where it is
Multi-day tours that visit Bay of Islands
Every tour here includes Bay of Islands in its itinerary. Best rated first.
2 days
3 daysLikely to sell out
3 days
2 daysAuckland
Private Tour[2 Days]:Bay of Islands, Waitangi, Russell & Hole In The Rock Cruise
New
from$2,020
4 days
3 daysCombine it with
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Bay of Islands: questions
How long should I spend in the Bay of Islands?
Two nights: a day for Waitangi and Russell and a day on the water.
Is the Bay of Islands worth it?
Yes, for history and islands, though it's out of the way: allow at least two nights.