Bay of Islands
Home to more than 140 islands, this subtropical coastal region is known for its calm waters, rich history, scenic cruises and relaxed seaside towns.
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Where island waters tell New Zealand’s story
The Bay of Islands is one of the North Island's most loved destinations, combining beautiful coastal scenery with some of New Zealand's most significant historic sites. Its sheltered bays, island-dotted waters, golden beaches and welcoming towns create a holiday atmosphere that's both peaceful and memorable.
Spend time cruising through the islands, exploring the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, visiting the historic village of Russell or taking a day trip to Cape Reinga. It's an easy and rewarding addition to a North Island tour.
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A coastal escape in the far north
The Bay of Islands sits on the east coast of Northland, around three to four hours north of Auckland. Centred around Paihia and the surrounding harbour, it's close to Waitangi, Russell and Kerikeri, with easy access to Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach.
Its location gives the Bay of Islands a slower pace than New Zealand's larger cities. Here, the landscape shifts to sheltered coves, coastal lookouts, native bush and historic waterfronts. It's a natural place to unwind while exploring the Far North, with easy access to some of New Zealand's best coastal scenery and cultural experiences.
Things to do in the Bay of Islands
Hole in the Rock Cruise
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Bay of Islands Cruise
Dolphin & Whale Watching
Sailing Charters
Urupukapuka Island
Kayaking
Why book with New Zealand Coach Tours?
Our Wānaka-based team helps travellers choose and book guided coach, small group, train and coach, and self-guided coach journeys across New Zealand. We work with a wide range of established operators and provide local advice throughout the planning and booking process, backed by our Best Price Guarantee.
Tell us your dates, budget, pace and must-see places, and we’ll recommend suitable tours or create a tailor-made self-guided itinerary. We can also arrange extra accommodation, transfers and activities before or after your guided tour.
Get a tailor-made self-guided coach itinerary
Key info about Bay of Islands
Best time to visit the Bay of Islands
Summer brings warm weather for island cruises, beaches and time on the water, while autumn offers pleasant temperatures, quieter travel days and fewer crowds. Spring is ideal for coastal walks, wildlife cruises and exploring historic sites, and winter brings a peaceful atmosphere with mild Northland weather and quieter attractions.
Highlighted tour:
Discover Bay of Islands TourAverage temperature by season
Spring
September - November
Avg Temp: 11 - 19 ℃ / 52 - 66 ℉
Summer
December - February
Avg Temp: 22 - 26 ℃ / 72 - 79 ℉
Autumn
March - May
Avg Temp: 15 - 23 ℃ / 59 - 73 ℉
Winter
June - August
Avg Temp: 10 - 17 ℃ / 50 - 63 ℉
Getting to the Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands sits on the east coast of Northland and is served by nearby Kerikeri Airport. Rather than being a common place for coach tours to start or finish, it's usually included as part of a wider North Island itinerary, often linking with destinations such as Auckland, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves and Cape Reinga.
Drive times
Auckland to the Bay of Islands
4 hours
Rotorua to the Bay of Islands
7 hours
Wellington to the Bay of Islands
11 hours
Flights are also available between Auckland and Kerikeri Airport, with a flight time of 50 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The Bay of Islands features on many North Island itineraries, especially tours travelling between Auckland and Northland. It's often included for its island cruises, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, coastal scenery and relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Yes. Guided tours follow fixed itineraries, but we can help arrange extra accommodation, transfers or sightseeing before or after your tour. This is useful if you'd like more time for a cruise, Cape Reinga, Waitangi or simply relaxing by the waterfront.
Yes. The Bay of Islands works well as part of a coach touring holiday because the longer regional drives and local logistics can be arranged for you. You can enjoy the harbour, historic towns and surrounding coastline without hiring a car or planning each connection yourself.
The Bay of Islands is best known for its island cruises, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Hole in the Rock, dolphin encounters and the historic towns of Paihia and Russell. It's also one of New Zealand's most important regions for Māori and early European history.
Guided coach tours are a good choice if you want a set itinerary, a tour director and more of the planning handled for you. Self-guided coach tours suit travellers who want flexibility with dates, pace, accommodation and extra nights. Small group tours can offer a more personal style, depending on the operator and itinerary.
Travel specialists
Speak to a coach tour specialist
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