TAKE A BOAT TOUR
If you want to get a true sense of the Bay of Islands you need to get on the water. There are many great boat tours that can last one day or a few hours and will take you to great spots. No trip is complete with out seeing or travelling through the Hole in the Rock or finding a few playful dolphins (they are not too hard to find around here).
I can recommend the Explore - Discover the Bay - half day tour which stops at Otehei Bay for a meal and gets a great looks at some of the 144 islands that make up the Bay of Islands.
1 Day in the Bay?
🚤 Morning on the Water
Hop aboard for a half-day cruise out to the legendary Hole in the Rock. Departing from Russell Wharf at a very civilized hour (no crack-of-dawn wake-up calls here!), you’ll be back just in time for a late lunch. Glide past some of the 144 stunning islands that make up the Bay of Islands, keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins, and—if the seas are kind—watch your skipper thread the boat right through the majestic rock arch. You’ll be dropped back at Russell ready to tuck into something tasty and maybe a cold beer before round two of your adventure.
🌿 Afternoon Strolls & Stories
After refueling, wander through Russell’s charming historic village. Step inside Pompallier House for a guided tour of New Zealand’s only surviving Roman Catholic mission printery, check out Christ Church (built in 1836, complete with musket ball holes from turbulent times), or pop into the Russell Museum to see a 1/5 scale replica of Captain Cook’s Endeavour. History, charm, and plenty of character—perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
2 Days in the Bay
☀️ Morning Vibes: Reel It In
Another day in paradise? Yes, please. 🎣 Hit the water again—this time with a fishing rod in hand. The Bay of Islands is legendary for its fishing, and the local charters know all the secret spots. Whether you’re chasing snapper or just keen for the thrill of the catch, it’s the perfect way to spend the morning.
🏖️ Afternoon Chill: Beach Mode
When the sun’s high, roll out your towel at the gorgeous Long Beach. Swim, snooze, or just soak up those epic views across to Roberton Island. Sunscreen is your best friend here—trust us.
🚤 Option B: History & Hangouts
Not a beach bum? No worries. Wander up to Waitangi, the birthplace of modern New Zealand. Dive into some history where the Treaty was signed, then swing back into town. Before you head home, grab a table at Charlotte’s Kitchen—killer food, cold drinks, and a front-row seat to one of the best views around.
Other Options
Fancy a fish
Yellowtail Kingfish
7 hours (approx.)
Are you ready to experience moments that will last a lifetime? Get hooked on Days Out fishing charters Bay of Islands for an adventure fishing our hard fighting kingfish. Once you have felt the pull and power of the kingi you will understand why people come to the Bay of Islands to catch these monsters. Private or shared charter options available.
VISIT WAITANGI
Waitangi welcomes you on a journey of discovery through Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important historic site.
Explore the two contemporary museums, Te Rau Aroha Museum of the Price of Citizenship and Te Kongahu Museum of Waitangi, Te Whare Runanga and traditional Maori waka taua.
Visitors can also enjoy a full programme of tours and cultural performances.
TAKE THE FOOT FERRY TO RUSSELL
Cruise across the Bay between Paihia and Russell
CAPE REINGA
Cape Reinga is the northwesternmost tip of the Aupouri Peninsula, at the northern end of the North Island of New Zealand. Cape Reinga is more than 100 km north of the nearest small town of Kaitaia. State Highway 1 extends all the way to the cape, but until 2010 was unsealed gravel road for the last 19 km.