7-Day Itinerary for the Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Day 1: Arrival in Paihia & Exploring Waitangi

Morning: Arrival in Paihia Start your journey by flying into Kerikeri Airport or driving up from Auckland, which is roughly a 3-hour scenic drive. Check into your accommodation in Paihia, a bustling seaside town that serves as the gateway to the Bay of Islands. Whether you prefer a luxury resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly hostel, Paihia has plenty of options to suit your style.

Afternoon: Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds After settling in, make your first stop at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, New Zealand’s most important historical site. Here, you can learn about the Treaty of Waitangi, signed between the Māori chiefs and the British Crown in 1840. Don’t miss the impressive Māori meeting house (Whare Rūnanga) and the ceremonial war canoe (Waka). You can also enjoy cultural performances and guided tours to get a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s history.

Evening: Sunset Dinner at Paihia Waterfront End your day with a leisurely walk along the Paihia waterfront and a relaxing dinner at one of the town’s waterfront restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sun set over the bay, setting the tone for your next few days of exploration.

Day 2: Full-Day Cruise and Dolphin Watching

Morning: Bay of Islands Cruise On Day 2, embark on a full-day cruise that takes you through the Bay of Islands’ 144 islands. These cruises often stop at iconic sites like the Hole in the Rock at Motukokako Island, where you can witness breathtaking rock formations and sea caves. The waters are teeming with marine life, so keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, whales, and seals. Some tours even allow you to swim with the dolphins, so pack your swimsuit just in case!

Afternoon: Stop at Urupukapuka Island Most cruises make a stop at Urupukapuka Island, the largest of the Bay of Islands. Spend the afternoon hiking its scenic trails, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relaxing on the beach. The island also has archaeological sites that give you insight into the early Māori settlements.

Evening: Return to Paihia After a full day on the water, return to Paihia for a casual dinner. If you’re up for it, explore Paihia’s lively nightlife with its selection of bars and pubs offering live music and local brews.

Day 3: Explore Russell – The First Capital of New Zealand

Morning: Ferry to Russell Take a quick ferry ride from Paihia to Russell, New Zealand’s first capital and once known as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific” due to its rowdy reputation during the whaling era. Today, Russell is a charming, peaceful town filled with history, art galleries, and quaint cafes.

Afternoon: Visit Pompallier Mission and Christ Church Start by exploring Pompallier Mission, a well-preserved French Catholic mission where you can learn about the early European settlers. Then, head to Christ Church, the oldest church in New Zealand, with bullet holes still visible from historical skirmishes. Spend some time wandering through the town, soaking in its historic ambiance.

Evening: Waterfront Dining in Russell Russell is known for its fine dining options, with many restaurants offering beautiful views over the bay. Treat yourself to a gourmet meal, featuring local seafood and fresh produce, as you watch the boats bobbing in the harbor.

Day 4: Adventure Day – Kayaking and Hiking

Morning: Kayaking Along the Coast Start your day with a kayaking adventure along the sheltered coastline of the Bay of Islands. Paddle through calm waters, explore hidden coves, and get up close to native wildlife. You can join a guided tour or rent a kayak and explore on your own.

Afternoon: Hike to Haruru Falls After kayaking, take a scenic hike to Haruru Falls, a waterfall shaped like a horseshoe, located just a short drive or walk from Paihia. The hike offers picturesque views of the river and is suitable for all fitness levels. The falls themselves are a beautiful spot for a picnic or a refreshing swim.

Evening: Relax in Paihia After an action-packed day, unwind back in Paihia. Consider visiting one of the local spas for a relaxing massage or simply take a quiet stroll along the beach before heading to dinner.

Day 5: Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach Day Trip

Morning: Cape Reinga Start early with a day trip to Cape Reinga, the northernmost tip of New Zealand, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea. The drive takes about 2.5 hours, but the stunning views from the Cape Reinga Lighthouse make it worth the journey. Māori legend holds that Cape Reinga is the point where spirits depart for their journey to the afterlife, giving the location a sacred significance.

Afternoon: Explore 90 Mile Beach On your way back, stop at 90 Mile Beach, a seemingly endless stretch of sand that is also classified as a highway. You can either drive along the beach in a 4WD or join a guided tour. For some added excitement, try sandboarding down the massive sand dunes at Te Paki Stream.

Evening: Return to Paihia Return to Paihia for a quiet evening after a full day of exploration. Consider grabbing takeout from a local restaurant and enjoying it at your accommodation for a relaxed end to the day.

Day 6: Discover Kerikeri – A Day of History and Wine

Morning: Kerikeri Stone Store and Kemp House On Day 6, drive to nearby Kerikeri, a town rich in history and known for its orchards and vineyards. Start with a visit to the Kerikeri Stone Store and Kemp House, the two oldest standing buildings in New Zealand. The Stone Store offers a fascinating museum experience, showcasing New Zealand’s early colonial history.

Afternoon: Wine Tasting and Foodie Delights Kerikeri is home to several wineries and local food producers. Spend the afternoon indulging in a wine-tasting tour at one of the area’s boutique vineyards. For lunch, try some of the local delicacies such as fresh fruit from nearby orchards, honey, or handmade chocolates. Don’t forget to visit Makana Confections for delicious handmade chocolates.

Evening: Relax in Kerikeri Stay in Kerikeri for the evening, where you can enjoy a peaceful dinner at one of the town’s charming restaurants, many of which focus on farm-to-table dining using fresh, local ingredients.

Day 7: Relax and Reflect

Morning: Relax at a Local Beach On your final day, take the time to relax and reflect on your journey. Choose a nearby beach, like Long Beach in Russell or Paihia Beach, and spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or reading a book. The Bay of Islands is known for its tranquil beauty, and this is the perfect opportunity to soak it all in.

Afternoon: Visit Kawiti Glowworm Caves Before heading home, stop by the Kawiti Glowworm Caves for a magical experience. Guided tours take you through limestone caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms, creating an ethereal atmosphere. It’s a unique way to end your trip on a high note.

Evening: Depart from Bay of Islands After seven days of adventure, relaxation, and discovery, it’s time to head back. Whether you fly out from Kerikeri or drive back to Auckland, you’ll leave with memories of a lifetime.