Itinerary Suggestions: Bay Of Islands

Time-Based Itineraries

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

A quick visit or a longer stay each offer unique experiences.

Quick Trip & Weekend Getaway

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.

One-Week Exploration

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

Weekly Plan

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.
Day 4: Kerikeri (Stone Store, Rainbow Falls, winery/artisan studio).
Day 5: Outdoor adventure (kayaking, diving, mountain biking).

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

Two-Week Deep Dive

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

Exploration

Expand on the one-week itinerary.
Add extensive hiking in Puketi Kauri Forest.
Consider a multi-day sailing trip within the Bay.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Bay of Islands itinerary to your specific interests.

Custom Itineraries

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.

Art & Wellness Journeys

Specialized routes for unique experiences.

Focused Explorations

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

Long-Term Stays

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

Accommodation

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

Pace of Exploration

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

Community Integration

Experience daily life, beyond typical tourist activities.

Immersive Travel

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

Budget & Seasonal Plans

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

Budget-Based Plans

Tailor your trip to fit your financial plans.

Traveler Guides

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 winery visits, 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.

Seasonal Specialties

Each season presents a distinct Bay of Islands experience.

Seasonal Highlights

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.

Planning by Interest

Tailor your Bay of Islands itinerary to your specific interests.

Historical Exploration

Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Russell's historic sites.
Kerikeri Mission Station and Kororipo Pa.
Guided tours highlighting New Zealand Wars history.

Culinary Delights

Kerikeri Farmers Market (Sundays) for local produce.
Local vineyards for wine tastings and dining.
Seafood restaurants for fresh fish, mussels, and oysters.

Adventure & Outdoors

Experience adrenaline and nature.

Active Pursuits

Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or diving.
Full day mountain biking at Waitangi Mountain Bike Park.
Half-day or full-day hikes on coastal tracks or in native forests.
Adrenaline activities like parasailing or skydiving.

Family-Friendly Trips

Activities suitable for all ages.

Kid-Friendly Options

Plan a dolphin cruise. Many are suitable for children.
Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds (interactive exhibits, cultural performances).
Spend time at safe swimming beaches around Paihia and Russell.
Include short, easy walks to waterfalls like Rainbow Falls.

Important Reminder

Seasonal Changes

Always verify operating hours for attractions and tours, especially during public holidays or the low season. Some may have reduced schedules.

Booking Ahead

During peak season (summer), booking everything well in advance is highly advisable to secure availability.

Trip Planning Note

Remember to check for combination tickets or online discounts when planning your activities to maximize value.

Itinerary Suggestions