Bay of Islands Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

Tailor your Bay of Islands itinerary to your specific time constraints.

A quick visit or a longer stay each give one-of-a-kind experiences.

24-Hour Layover: Waitangi Treaty Grounds (2-3 hrs), ferry to Russell, dinner.
Weekend (2-3 days): Day 1: Waitangi. Day 2: Hole in the Rock cruise, Russell. Day 3: Kerikeri (Stone Store, Rainbow Falls).
Depart from Kerikeri Airport or drive towards Auckland on Day 3.

Extended Stays & Interests

Extend your visit with comprehensive or interest-based itineraries.

A week in the Bay of Islands for a full experience.

Days 1-2: Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Hole in the Rock/Dolphin Cruise, Paihia, Russell. Find experiences.
Day 3: Full day trip to Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach.
The FOURTH day: Kerikeri (Stone Store, Rainbow Falls, winery/artisan studio).
On THE fifth day: Outdoor adventure (kayaking, diving, mountain biking).

Day 6: Relaxation and island exploration (Urupukapuka Island). Day 7: Depart or combine with further Northland exploration.

For a truly immersive experience, extend your stay to two weeks.

Tailor your Bay of Islands itinerary to your specific interests.

Historical: Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Russell's sites, Kerikeri Mission Station.
Food: Kerikeri Farmers Market, local vineyards, seafood restaurants, Hāngī meals.
Adventure: Kayaking, diving, mountain biking, coastal hikes, parasailing.
Family-Friendly: Dolphin cruises, Waitangi Treaty Grounds (interactive), safe beaches, Rainbow Falls.

Specialized routes for unique experiences.

Art & Architecture: Hundertwasser Toilets in Kawakawa, galleries in Russell and Kerikeri, colonial architecture.
Spiritual & Wellness: Ngawha Springs hot springs, secluded beaches for thought, Māori cultural sites, local spas.
Engage with Māori cultural sites, for understanding their spiritual connection.
Visit Ngawha Springs for a simple hot spring experience.

For longer visits, live like a local and deeply explore the region.

Consider renting a bach (holiday home) or an apartment for a number of weeks.

This allows exploration at a relaxed pace, integrating into community life.

Experience daily life, beyond typical tourist activities.

For two-week or longer stays, dedicate more time to specific interests like birdwatching or cultural engagement.

Travelers experience the Bay of Islands across a range of budgets. Each season has a distinct experience.

Tailor your trip to fit your financial plans.

Backpacker: Hostels/campsites, self-catering (Pak'nSave), free walks/beaches, passenger ferry, InterCity buses.
Mid-Range: Motels/B&Bs, mix of self-catering/mid-range restaurants, one major boat tour, rental car for a few days.
Luxury: Boutique lodge/high-end hotel, fine dining, exclusive tours of vineyards, private yacht charter, scenic flight, spa treatments.
Value-Focused: Travel in shoulder season, book tours online in advance, combination tickets.

Consider shoulder season (autumn/spring) for potentially lower prices and fewer crowds.

Each season has a distinct Bay of Islands experience.

Summer (Dec-Feb): Peak season. Focus on swimming, snorkeling, sailing, beach activities. Book everything well in advance.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Quieter attractions, lower prices. Best time for whale watching. Enjoy cozy pubs and crisp days for walks.
Festival-Centered: Waitangi Day (Feb 6th) with special events. Check local calendars for summer events.
Off-Season: Fewer crowds, relaxed pace. Focus on hiking, cultural sites, local life without summer rush.