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Bay of Islands Tours and Activities

What if you could explore enchanting islands and dive into local marine adventures? Bay of Islands offers both, allowing you to discover its mesmerizing waters and lush landscapes. Take a moment to browse available activities that capture the essence of this captivating region.

The best Bay of Islands tour packages

With its picturesque beaches and the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the Bay of Islands invites exploration. Immerse yourself in the local café culture, where artisan coffee and fresh pastries await.

Tour image of Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch
5.5 hours
4.92 (343)
Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch
$108.75
Tour image of Bay of Islands: 12,000ft Skydive
4 hours
4.95 (253)
Bay of Islands: 12,000ft Skydive
$219.88
Tour image of Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters
5.5 hours
4.92 (217)
Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters
$112.4
Tour image of Bay of Islands: 16,000ft Skydive
4 hours
4.93 (188)
Bay of Islands: 16,000ft Skydive
$279.48
Tour image of Bay of Islands Glow Worm Caves & Scenic Shore Excursion
5.5 hours
4.51 (295)
Bay of Islands Glow Worm Caves & Scenic Shore Excursion
$136.7
Tour image of Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands
5.5 hours
4.94 (170)
Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands
$118.48
Tour image of Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour Including Scenic Flight
4.5 hours
4.94 (132)
Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour Including Scenic Flight
$327.16
Tour image of Bay of Islands: 18,000ft Skydive
3 hours
4.99 (98)
Bay of Islands: 18,000ft Skydive
$386.96
Tour image of Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing
1.8 hours
4.88 (95)
Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing
$60.15
Tour image of Kawiti Glow Worm Cave Tour & Opua Forest Walk
4 hours
4.68 (110)
Kawiti Glow Worm Cave Tour & Opua Forest Walk
$123.94
Tour image of Bay of Islands Scenic Tour
3.5 hours
4.81 (43)
Bay of Islands Scenic Tour
$66.23
Tour image of Bay of Islands Shore Excursion: Puketi Rainforest Guided Walk
4.5 hours
4.78 (27)
Bay of Islands Shore Excursion: Puketi Rainforest Guided Walk
$153.72
Tour image of Private Charter Bay of Islands
5.5 hours
5 (13)
Private Charter Bay of Islands
$1124
Tour image of Electric Boats to explore Kerikeri river
7.3 hours
4.71 (14)
Electric Boats to explore Kerikeri river
$60.15
Tour image of Bay of Islands: 9000ft Skydive
4 hours
4.5 (12)
Bay of Islands: 9000ft Skydive
$199.83
Tour image of Private Parasail Charter over the Bay of Islands
1.5 hours
5 (3)
Private Parasail Charter over the Bay of Islands
$759.46
Tour image of Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves Guided Tour in Bay of Islands
2.5 hours
5 (2)
Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves Guided Tour in Bay of Islands
$94.17
Tour image of Phantomsailing Private Charters
5 hours
5 (1)
Phantomsailing Private Charters
$1184.76
Tour image of Guided Puketi Kauri Forest Tour in Bay of Islands
3 hours
5 (1)
Guided Puketi Kauri Forest Tour in Bay of Islands
$91.14

Attractions in Bay Of Islands

  • Boat Tours: Explore remote islands and spot marine wildlife.
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Discover New Zealand's history through engaging stories.
  • Snorkeling Adventures: Swim with diverse marine life in crystal waters.
  • Guided Kayaking: Navigate tranquil bays while taking in stunning views.
  • Café Culture: Experience local flavors at charming waterfront cafés.

Most popular destinations close to Bay Of Islands

Day trips in Bay Of Islands

Cape Reinga

  • Duration: full-day loop
  • Highlights: Sacred lighthouse, scenic coastal views, and dramatic cliffs
  • Best for: nature enthusiasts seeking remote landscapes

Kerikeri

  • Duration: one hour
  • Highlights: Historic Stone Store, lush gardens, and local markets
  • Best for: culture aficionados exploring New Zealand's heritage

Whangarei Heads

  • Duration: two hours
  • Highlights: Breathtaking coastal walks, stunning beaches, and rich wildlife
  • Best for: hikers looking for outdoor adventure
Tour image of Private Charter Bay of Islands
5.5 hours
5 (13)
Private Charter Bay of Islands
$1124
Tour image of Phantomsailing Private Charters
5 hours
5 (1)
Phantomsailing Private Charters
$1184.76

Hidden gems

  • Visit the quaint Opua Farmers' Market on Saturdays.
  • Explore the art at local galleries in Russell.
  • Discover unique vintage shops tucked away in Paihia.

Bay of Islands Expert Travel Tips

  1. Download the Maps.me app for offline navigation.
  2. Bring NZ$20 for local market purchases.
  3. Book boat tours ahead during peak months.
  4. Respect local wildlife; keep a safe distance.
  5. Try fresh fish and chips from beachside vendors.

Travel Bay of Islands your way

Outdoor Activities

Image of In the Air
In the Air
Image of Air Tours
Air Tours
Image of Extreme Sports
Extreme Sports
Image of On the Water
On the Water
Image of Sailing
Sailing
Image of Nature and Wildlife Tours
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Image of Kayaking Tours
Kayaking Tours
Image of Water Equipment Rentals
Water Equipment Rentals
Image of Boat Rentals
Boat Rentals
Image of Parasailing
Parasailing
Image of Eco Tours
Eco Tours

Art & Culture

Image of Culture
Culture
Image of Historical Tours
Historical Tours
Image of Cultural Tours
Cultural Tours

Classes & Workshops

Image of Food & Drink Classes
Food & Drink Classes
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Cooking Classes

Food & Drink

Image of Food & Drink Classes
Food & Drink Classes
Image of Cooking Classes
Cooking Classes

Seasonal & Special Occasions

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Seasonal

Best time to visit Bay of Islands

Icon of spring

Spring 2025

Image of spring
Enjoy mild weather with blooming flowers; join the Bay of Islands Boat Show in September.
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Summer 2025

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Experience warm temperatures perfect for beach days; indulge in the annual music festival during January.
Icon of autumn

Autumn 2025

Image of autumn
Temperatures cool pleasantly, ideal for hiking; sample local wines at the Autumn Wine Festival.
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Winter 2025

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Mild winter days are inviting; participate in the Winter Festival for food and music.
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FAQs

Yes, it is advisable to book popular activities like boat tours at least one week ahead during peak seasons.
Yes, public transport is available, but renting a car gives you more flexibility to explore at your pace.
Joining a guided snorkeling or dolphin-watching tour offers unforgettable encounters with marine wildlife.
Entry costs NZ$25 for adults, providing access to informative exhibits and guided tours.
Yes, many beaches are safe for swimming, with Paihia Beach being particularly popular among visitors.

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