Bay of Islands Day Tours

The beautiful Bay of Islands is a stunning region made up of 144 islands dotted throughout waters abundant in marine life. It’s just three hours north of Auckland by road, but feels like a world away from city life. Your journey to the Northland region will take you through beautiful lush countryside, rural towns and past golden sandy beaches to the waterfront township of Paihia. Northland is regarded as the birthplace of New Zealand, as it was here that Kupe the first Māori voyager arrived on its shores more than 1000 years ago. In 1840 the historic Treaty of Waitangi between Māori and the Crown was signed just a short distance from Paihia. This treaty established a relationship that is still at the heart of New Zealand’s governance today.

There are Bay of Islands day tours to suit every traveller. See the natural wonder that is the Hole in the Rock on an island cruise and enjoy spotting all kinds of birds and marine life from the boat – whales, dolphins, seals and penguins are all frequent visitors. Visit historic Russell – today a charming historic village of boutique shops and eateries, but once a lawless open port known as the ‘Hell Hole of the Pacific’.

From Paihia you can take a Cape Reinga tour to the very tip of New Zealand and see the spot where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean collide. During your tour you’ll drive along the sand on spectacular Ninety Mile Beach, sand-surf down giant dunes (if you’re feeling adventurous!) and visit ancient native kauri trees in the Puketi Forest.