From dolphins to New Zealand’s first European settlement, read my three-day Bay of Islands itinerary to help you plan an epic trip in an area which most visitors miss.  

Located in Northland at the top of New Zealand’s North Island, the Bay of Islands is a stretch of coastline characterised by 144 islands, beautiful beaches and history. In the summer, it’s a popular destination for those in Auckland wanting to escape the city. 

It’s one of my favourite places on the North Island, not just because it gave me my first glimpse of New Zealand when I arrived. I was also blown away by its wide golden beaches, incredible history and mild, sunny weather which was surprising as it was the depths of winter.

Dolphin spotting, historic towns, parasailing and sea kayaking are just some of the many thrilling activities to do here all year round.

Many travellers arrive in Auckland and make their way down the country, missing the Bay of Islands altogether. I’m here to tell you why you should allow an extra few days to head north instead.  

Whether you’re visiting for three days or less or you have an entire week to enjoy, here is everything you need to know when planning your Bay of Islands itinerary. Feel free to mix and match activities to make the itinerary your own!

When’s the best time to visit the Bay of Islands? 

Located in Northland at the top of New Zealand’s North Island, the Bay of Islands has a subtropical climate which means it rarely drops below 16℃ even in the deepest winter. This makes it an easy destination to visit all year round. 

Although fairly hot (24℃), the summer months between December and February see this part of New Zealand get busy as many people leave the city for the summer holidays.

You’ll also have plenty of other travellers there and the Bay of Islands is not a big place.

If you want to escape the crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are perfect. Winter is also great for budget travellers as there are plenty of off-season discounts to make the most of – and the weather is still pretty mild as I found out!

How to get to the Bay of Islands from Auckland? 

The journey to the Bay of Islands from the city is a pretty three hours by car via the state highway.

If you don’t drive like me, you could travel up by the InterCity bus network (a coach service between main towns and cities) or do a hop-on, hop-off bus tour with companies like Kiwi Experience. For the record, I did the latter.

Whichever mode of transport you choose, you’ll be travelling to Paihia which is known as the ‘gateway to the Bay of Islands.’ The InterCity bus runs directly from Auckland to Paihia in about four hours with stops along the way.

For more tips on getting around New Zealand, budgeting and things to do, read my complete New Zealand travel guide.

Bay of Islands rocks and beaches fom above with little white dots for the boats.
You can’t go wrong with a 3-day itinerary in the Bay of Islands! | Photo credit: Canva.com

How many days to spend in the Bay of Islands? 

The Bay of Islands is a stunning corner of New Zealand with plenty of picturesque natural sights and historic towns to explore. 

If you’re doing a road trip you can absolutely see some of the top highlights in a flying 24-hour pitstop. However, you’re going to want more time to get a real feel for the place. 

Once you arrive, you’ll realise that the Bay of Islands is not for rushing.

About three days is the perfect amount of time to see the best of it. And if you fancy staying an extra day or two longer then I honestly wouldn’t blame you. 

As for where to stay, I’ve listed my favourite hotels and hostels in New Zealand, including the Bay of Islands.

The perfect three-day Bay of Islands itinerary 

If you’re planning to add the Bay of Islands to your New Zealand trip, I’ve put together the ultimate itinerary to make the most of your time. 

Whether you’re staying for a day or a little while longer, here are my top suggestions for your Bay of Islands itinerary. Hint: there’s plenty of nature involved!

Map courtesy of Wanderlog, the best travel planner app

Bay of Islands itinerary day 1: Historic towns and famous pubs 

View from the historic town of Russell in the Bay of Islands hidden among the trees.
Russell, once a hub for drunken sailors | Photo credit: Canva.com

Once you’ve arrived in Paihia, kick off your itinerary with a wander around the neighbourhood, great food and a historic town with original streets dating back to 1843. 

Stop for a pint at one of the most famous pubs in New Zealand and see the beauty of the Bay of Islands emerge by ferry. 

Paihia 

Start your day nice and early with a morning stroll around Paihia (sunrises across the Bay are really quite magical). Paihia is known as the gateway to the Bay of Islands. 

From Paihia, you can book ferries to the islands and book a range of activities including kayaking – and skydiving if you’re brave enough.

It’s as good a place as any of you want to tick that hair-raising activity off your bucket list!  

Wander along the sandy beach or make your way to the wharf where you’ll find a choice of cafes such as Charlotte’s Kitchen. Arriving at the wharf is perfect for your next activity – catching the ferry to Russell. 

Russell

Board the passenger ferry and take the 15-minute ride across the harbour to the historic town of Russell. Just strolling around it feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

Much of its original street plans and names from as far back as 1843 remain perfectly intact. 

Although small, Russell plays an important part in New Zealand’s history. It was the very first European settlement and seaport in New Zealand.

When wandering around its 19th-century streets, it’s not hard to imagine what it was like back then. All you’re missing are a few unruly sailors. 

Before the Europeans arrived, the area was inhabited by Maori and was then known as Kororareka (which interestingly translates to ‘how sweet is the penguin’).

Once European and American ships started to frequent the Bay in the 1800s, Kororareka became a prime trading spot between them and the Maori. 

The one big problem was that it grew to be a lawless place. New Zealand’s Wild West if you will. The rowdy port, nicknamed ‘the Hell Hole of the Pacific’, became a hub for prostitution, criminals and all-round bad eggs.

There were plenty of wars between Western settlers and Maori too. 

You’ll be pleased to know that nowadays the town is much more charming and a must-visit for your Bay of Islands trip.

I recommend stopping for a snack and a drink at the iconic Duke of Marlborough, a pub that once served all manner of whalers and sailors. It’s since become a 4-star hotel.

Bay of Islands itinerary day 2: Dolphins, Hole in the Rock and an important treaty 

The Hole in the Rock in the Bay of Islands. Sometimes catamarans pass through it.
Bay of Islands’ famous Hole in the Rock

One word – dolphins! You can take a catamaran out and see them up close, stopping off at the unmissable Hole in the Rock. 

Then it’s back to shore to discover the birthplace of the New Zealand we know today. 

Dolphin Cruise 

No trip to the Bay of Islands is complete without meeting the resident wildlife and observing the natural beauty of the harbour in full. 

There are a number of cruise options available to book from the wharf at Paihia. I recommend this excellent Eco-Certified tour with Explore Group New Zealand for dolphin watching, seal spotting and a chance to see the formidable Hole in the Rock.

If you’re really lucky, you might see a blue penguin or a whale or two too!

This cruise is a half-day excursion lasting about 4 hours. Passengers can sit or stand on deck as the catamaran makes its way to the end of Cape Brett Peninsula and the famous Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako Island.

Weather permitting, your skipper may even steer the catamaran through the Hole in the Rock itself!

In case you’re wondering, the Fullers catamaran is fully licensed by the Department of Conservation for dolphin viewing so it’s all perfectly safe and ethical. 

Top Tip: Cruises depart daily from Paihia at 8:30am. They run afternoon trips at the weekend. This is why I recommend the cruise for the second day so you’re not rushing. If you’re there on the weekend, you can do the cruise on the first day and save Waitangi and Russell for day two. 

Waitangi Treaty Grounds 

After a thrilling morning on the water, it’s time for some more history and culture.

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds mark the site of the Waitangi Treaty, an important document signed by British representatives of the Crown and 500 Maori chiefs in 1840.

This event played a vital role in shaping the New Zealand we see today. 

Entrance to Waitangi costs 60 NZD and includes access to two contemporary museums, a guided tour around the treaty grounds and heritage buildings. 

You’ll also get the chance to see the world’s largest war canoe and cultural performances like the spine-tingling haka (it really is an incredible sight to see live). The site also has a carving studio, cafe and a gift shop for all your souvenir needs. 

Tip: I recommend getting a skip the line pass for the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. That way you can beat the queues and it’s valid for two consecutive days!

Bay of Islands itinerary day 3: Stunning hikes and pretty beaches 

Rainbow Falls waterfall near KeriKeri in the Bay of Islands.
Worth the walk to Rainbow Falls | Photo credit: Canva.com

After spending the last few days learning about the important history and exploring some of the famous landmarks, you’ve earned some well-deserved rest on day three. 

Go for a walk to Rainbow Falls (you can drive up and take a ten-minute stroll to the Falls if you want to take things slow). Finish off with a relaxing afternoon in the sunshine. 

Hike to Rainbow Falls 

Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa in Maori) is a beautiful 27m waterfall about an hour’s walk from the town of Kerikeri depending on the route you take. 

Kerikeri is just over 20 minutes north of Paihia by car and 20 minutes by bus. Once you get to the town, you then follow the Kerikeri River Track from the historic Stone Store and Mission House. 

It takes about an hour to complete with no stops and you follow an out-and-back trail, meaning you’ll go back the way you came when it’s time to return.

The hike is arguably one of the best short-day tracks in New Zealand which is quite a statement if you’ve seen even a fraction of the landscape the country has to offer!

As you walk, you’ll pass through stunning native bush and basalt lava fields. Nature here gives off a Jurassic vibe and it feels like you’ve stepped into another place and time. 

Once you reach Rainbow Falls (so named for the rainbow you can usually see at the base of the falls), there are several viewing platforms to make the most of. You can also swim in the water below so bring swimmers if it’s warm enough!

Lounge on the Beach 

It’s time for some relaxation before you get ready to move on – you’ve earned it!

If you want a rest, the Bay of Islands and its laid-back way of life is the perfect place. With plenty of amazing beaches to choose from, you can snorkel, parasail, fish or simply sunbathe to your heart’s content. 

Possibly the easiest beach to get to is Paihia Town Beach. Accessible from the town centre, this beach is a popular spot for picnics as it’s so close to the shops. 

Another favourite is Te Tii Bay, a beautiful sandy beach framed with native pohutukawa trees. It’s an ideal spot for sunset viewing on your last evening. 

For somewhere a little sheltered and secret, head to Sullivan’s Bay. The only way to get to it is through the southern end of Paihia Town Beach at low tide. It’s a quiet beach and popular with families. 

Bay of Islands itinerary bonus: Day trip to Cape Reinga

View of Cape Reinga with the lighthouse in the distance. A bonus trip on this 3 day Bay of Islands itinerary.
Where oceans collide: Cape Reinga | Photo credit: Canva.com

Have a little more time in the Bay of Islands? 

You’ll be missing out if you head straight back to Auckland without exploring more of the Northland. My top pick is a day trip to Cape Reinga, the northernmost tip of New Zealand. 

How to get to Cape Reinga from the Bay of Islands 

Cape Reinga is about three hours from Paihia. The easiest way to get there is by car or coach if you’re not driving. 

If you’re doing the latter, I recommend you do this full-day guided tour which picks you up from Paihia. The Eco-Certified tour includes sand-boarding, stunning beaches, the very top of New Zealand and world-famous fish ‘n’ chips for lunch!

Cape Reinga activities

Giant Sand Dunes near Cape Reinga with a girl standing in front.
Time for some sandboarding!

The activities below are all featured on the tour but you can just as easily plan your own mini self-guided itinerary too. 

Giant Sand Dunes 

The Giant Sand Dunes or Te Paki Sand Dunes are a remarkable sight to see and it feels like being in a desert. Honestly, you’ll be wondering if you’ve stumbled across a portal to the Sahara. 

All jokes aside, it’s essentially a 10km long coastal strip of 150m high sand dunes – and the best thing to do here? Sandboard, of course!

Your tour guide will give you the equipment you need or you can pick up a sandboard for about 15 NZD in the nearby town of Te Kao.

Then kick off your shoes and climb up the dunes for epic scenery and an adrenaline rush on the way down – just keep your mouth closed unless you want to eat sand. 

Cape Reinga Lighthouse 

Located in Cape Reinga is a lighthouse. Once you see it, you’ll know you’ve reached the northern tip of New Zealand and although it’s no longer in use, it’s a beacon for visitors from all over the world.

It also marks the spot where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea. 

Cape Reinga is an important part of Maori culture. The Maori people believe that the souls of the dead travel up here to embark on their final journey into the afterlife. Together with the dramatic scenery and colliding oceans, it certainly has a powerful energy. 

Ninety Mile Beach 

On your way back from Cape Reinga, you can stop off at Ninety Mile Beach. It’s an actual highway but you’ll need to be with a tour to drive it. If you’re lucky you might even spot wild horses among the bushes!

Ninety Mile Beach is renowned for its spectacular sunsets and surfing. Although it seems to stretch on forever, it’s actually only 88km long.

On a clear day, the shimmering wet sand at low tide reflects like a mirror. 

More things to see and do in the Bay of Islands 

90 Mile Beach in Northland New Zealand. A must for your Bay of Islands itinerary.
Ninety Mile Beach which is actually 88km but shhh

While three days in the Bay of Islands is a good amount of time, there are still plenty more activities to make the most of.

Whether you have more time to spend or you’re looking for alternative attractions, here are some more fun things to do in the Bay of Islands. 

Go Kayaking 

Kayaking is a fun way to explore what the Bay of Islands has to offer. You can hire a kayak and island-hop across some of the islands in the bay.

Or you can walk from Waitangi to Haruru Falls and go kayaking right underneath the waterfall. 

Try Parasailing 

If you’re seeking more of an adrenaline rush, parasailing is always a good option to try.

You can ride single, tandem or triple seat at heights of 1,300 feet and get an absolutely stunning bird’s-eye view of the Bay of Islands below. You can find parasailing in Paihia. 

Sail the Bay 

The 144 islands in the bay keep most of the bad weather out, making this area a fantastic spot for sailing.

You can join one-day or multi-day sailing excursions involving plenty of island-hopping, swimming and snorkelling. Or, you can try your hand at sailing lessons with the Royal Yachting Association. 

Dive a Shipwreck 

Ever wanted to scuba dive to a shipwreck? In the Bay of Islands, you can do just that.

There are two ships you can see in particular – The Rainbow Warrior, a surprising Greenpeace ship that was bombed in 1985 by covert French agents (now there’s a story!).

It’s now become an artificial reef. The second is the HMNZS Canterbury, a frigate that was decommissioned in 2005. 

Stop By Tane Mahuta

Known as ‘the lord of the forest’, Tane Mahuta is a majestic kauri tree over 45m tall and over 4.4m wide. Located in the Waipoua Forest, the tree is believed to be about 2,500 years old. 

On the western side of the North Island, you do have a bit of a drive to go at about an hour and a half.

However, if you do make the journey, it’s a spectacular sight. Heads up you’ll need to clean your shoes before you visit as kauri trees are highly susceptible to disease. 

Top tips for visiting the Bay of Islands 

Girl standing overlooking a beach in Cape Reinga
Another view of the top of New Zealand

Now that you know exactly what the Bay of Islands has to offer, here are some more top tips to make the most of your time there. 

Wear sturdy footwear 

There are many stunning walking trails around the Bay of Islands. If you want to get active, I recommend bringing along a good pair of sturdy footwear that you don’t mind getting muddy and wet.

You’ll also want something that will keep you steady on a catamaran while dolphin spotting!

Pack a water bottle 

Reusable water bottles are the way forward. To make sure you stay hydrated on all of your many excursions, I have a complete guide to the best water filter bottles.

Always be prepared 

Like travelling anywhere in the world, it’s always best to be prepared for anything life throws at you. 

Always purchase travel insurance before all your adventures. It’s an extra piece of protection even if hopefully, you never end up needing it.

There are hundreds of insurance providers out there but my favourite is Holiday Extras. They cover a lot and their prices are so affordable!


 

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