Bay of Islands Tours and Activities

Russell featuring tranquil scenes and a bay or harbour
Bay of Islands
Russell featuring street scenes, a bay or harbour and a coastal town
Stone Store featuring interior views and signage as well as an individual female
Bay of Islands


Swim with dolphins, learn to sail or discover New Zealand’s fascinating history in one of the most beautiful areas in the country.

Visit the stunning Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island and enjoy the many water-based tours, from discovering uninhabited islands dotted around the cold, blue waters to watching dolphins leap around the boat. Enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere in the bay’s towns or retreat to the ancient native forests to be at one with nature.

The Bay of Islands area is one of New Zealand’s premier tourist destinations and it is easy to see why thousands of people flock here each year. Despite its popularity, the Bay of Islands never feels overcrowded.

Most visitors stay in Paihia, a colourful, waterfront town full of cafés and buzzing bars. A short ferry ride across the bay is Russell. This town was the first European settlement in New Zealand. Spend a day wandering the historic streets and admiring the quaint, colonial architecture.

The nearby Waitangi Treaty Grounds are where historic documents were signed by the original Māori people and the “Pākehā”, as the natives called the British newcomers. The agreement allowed the Māoris to keep their culture alive.

The most popular activities in the Bay of Islands involve boat tours. Choose between fishing, dolphin or orca watching and cruising around the islands. If you are feeling adventurous, learn how to sail and windsurf or join a scuba diving tour around some of the outer islands.

For a day away from the water take a walk in the Puketi Forest. Follow trails past giant kauri trees and other native species. Make sure you visit the Haruru Falls, a picturesque waterfall that cascades down the cliff face in the shape of a horseshoe.

The Bay of Islands is located 240 kilometres (150 miles) north of Auckland. Driving is the quickest way to get there, although regular buses and organised tours run from Auckland too. Summer is the busiest time, but the Bay of Islands’ prime location in New Zealand’s “winterless north” means that you can enjoy stunning days here year-round.

Tours & day trips

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Wildlife & nature

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Popular places to visit


Top Bay of Islands Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Things to do near Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands offers a range of exciting activities for visitors, including scenic ferry rides, dolphin watching, and boating adventures. You can explore local attractions, enjoy fishing trips, and make the most of holiday parks and boat launches. With plenty of visitor activities to choose from, the Bay of Islands promises a memorable getaway filled with natural beauty and marine life.

Shopping

For a unique shopping experience, visit The Old Packhouse Market, a vibrant public market located 22.5km away from Bay of Islands, offering local crafts and produce. If you're up for a drive, check out The Kauri Workshop, also 22.5km away, for exquisite handmade wooden gifts.

Recreation

At Waitangi Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, perfect for relaxation and outdoor fun. The Waitangi Mountain Bike Park offers scenic trails for biking enthusiasts, while Pure Day Spa provides rejuvenating body treatments to unwind and refresh your spirit, just a short drive from the Bay.

Adventure

Embark on the Kororipo Pa hiking trail, located 17.7km from the Bay of Islands, where you'll experience stunning scenery and the thrill of outdoor adventure. Alternatively, the Manginangina Kauri Walk, situated 33.8km away, offers a captivating journey through ancient kauri forests and breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

The Bay of Islands nightlife pulses with excitement, offering thrilling adventures at Action World, an arcade and adventure zone located 12.9km away. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, where you can unleash your inner child and enjoy a fun-filled evening with friends or family.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, breathtaking bays, and enchanting waterfalls. Whether you're seeking the best bay to relax in or top-notch accommodation options, there's something for every type of traveller. Enjoy a beach getaway filled with exploration and relaxation at this iconic New Zealand destination.

  • Paihia Beach: Located 12.9km from Bay of Islands, Paihia Beach offers stunning coastal views and a relaxed atmosphere. With golden sands and clear waters, it's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, making it a quintessential Kiwi beach experience.
  • Flagstaff Hill: Situated 8.0km away, Flagstaff Hill provides breathtaking panoramic scenery. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the hill offers walking tracks that reward you with stunning vistas of the Bay of Islands, especially at sunset.
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Just 11.3km from Bay of Islands, this historic site is rich in New Zealand's cultural heritage. Explore the gardens, museum, and the iconic Treaty House while learning about the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi in the nation's history.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bay of Islands

To save money on your trip to Bay of Islands, consider visiting during the cheaper months of June or August to September, and aim to book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates. Wednesday is the least expensive day to stay, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals, filter by budget, and explore eco-friendly options. Don't forget to check for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, take advantage of free activities like hiking and beach visits to enjoy the stunning scenery without spending a dime.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bay of Islands are June and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Bay of Islands about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bay of Islands is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Bay of Islands is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search feature enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation options right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Bay of Islands accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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