The short answer
- From Auckland
- About 3.5 hours
- Nights
- 2
- Must do
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds, island cruise
- Best months
- November to April
Northland is New Zealand's subtropical north, and the Bay of Islands is its heart: sheltered water dotted with islands, the holiday town of Paihia and the historic village of Russell across the bay.
Things to do
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the British Crown and Maori chiefs on 6 February 1840, with museums and a carved meeting house.
- Hole in the Rock cruise: To Motukokako island at the outer edge of the bay, often with dolphins.
- Russell: A short ferry ride from Paihia, once a whaling port, now a quiet historic village.
- Cape Reinga: A long day trip to the northern tip and Ninety Mile Beach.
Fitting it in
The Bay of Islands is north of Auckland, the opposite direction from most routes, so it works best at the start or end of a trip, or with a short flight to Kerikeri.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Bay of Islands worth visiting?
Yes, for history, islands and warm water, especially in summer. With less than two weeks in New Zealand it's often the first thing to drop.
How do you get to the Bay of Islands?
About 3.5 hours by road from Auckland, or a short flight to Kerikeri.
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