All Bay of Islands Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

(833)

from $101

Explore the enchanting Kawiti Glow Worm Caves on this captivating tour from Paihia. Begin your journey with a scenic 30-minute drive, enriched by local insights from your guide. Once at the caves, embark on a 45-minute easy walk led by knowledgeable local guides, marveling at the mesmerizing glow worms illuminating the cavern. Continue the adventure at Haruru Waterfalls, where the impressive roar of cascading water awaits. Conclude your tour back in Paihia, where charming shops and eateries beckon for exploration. - Scenic drive from Paihia with local history and fun facts - 45-minute guided walk through the stunning Kawiti Glow Worm Caves - Visit Haruru Waterfalls and experience its thunderous roar - Pick up from Tender wharf for 9am tours for Cruiseship passengers. - Get in touch if you have a bigger group, we can accommodate over several vans. - Would recommend bringing a warm jacket, as caves can get cold.

Haruru Waterfalls and Glow Worm Caves Tour

Haruru Waterfalls and Glow Worm Caves Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(14)

from $101

Found on the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, the Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region home to dramatic landscapes, a fishing heritage, and historic treasures. On this half-day small-group tour, explore the areas of Waitangi, Paihia, Opua, and the Haruru Falls before riding a ferry across the bay for a visit to several local beaches and panoramic views from Flagstaff Hill.

Bay of Islands Scenic Tour

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

There’s no better way to discover the Bay of Islands than from the water, and this half-day cruise from either Paihia or Russell lets you experience island life in depth, with a long stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. You’ll get the chance to look for dolphins, learn about history, ecology, and wildlife from your skipper, and see signature sights including the Hole in the Rock.

(64)

from $65

Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

4.5

(252)

from $102

Make the most of your time in New Zealand's Bay of Islands with a half-day boat tour—the perfect way to experience the area from a vantage point on the water. Cruise by 144 subtropical islands, and visit natural rock formation, Hole in the Rock, plus Cape Brett Lighthouse. Head out on a bush walk on Motuarohia (Roberton) Island and take in scenic views of the area from the island's lookout point. As you travel the waters of the bay, keep an eye out for native wildlife and marine life, and enjoy onboard commentary.

3 Hours // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Bay of Islands Tour

3 Hours // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Bay of Islands Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Enjoy this full-day tour visiting the best of the Far North on board our purpose built coach. Let our drivers immerse you in the culture and history of the Far North while taking in the amazing scenery of places like Te Oneroa-a-Tohe (90 Mile Beach). Cape Reinga with its cultural significance. Te Paki Sand Dunes and the unique scenery that makes up the Far North. Look out for wild horses on your travel and be prepared to sand surf the sand dunes when we stop for sand boarding likely on 90 mile beach (Conditions permitting).

(159)

from $87

Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

10 to 11 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(251)

from $117

Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves Guided Tour in Bay of Islands

Explore the enchanting Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves on a guided tour led by knowledgeable Māori guides. Experience the mesmerizing sight of thousands of glowworms illuminating the ancient limestone caves, creating a magical atmosphere reminiscent of a starry night. Nestled in the stunning native forest of Waiomio, this tour offers intimate access to a site managed by the descendants of legendary Māori chief Kawiti. With a maximum group size of just 11 guests in the vehicle enjoy a personal and immersive experience filled with rich stories, legends, and the cultural history of the area. - Guided tour through the breathtaking Kawiti Glowworm Caves - Maximum group size of 11 for a personal experience - Learn about the history and legends from knowledgeable Māori guides - Ideal for nature lovers and culture seekers alike

Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves Guided Tour in Bay of Islands

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

3.8

(16)

from $93

There are few more unique ways to see the Bay of Islands than catching the wind and parasailing high above the water. See the Bay’s towns, forests and islands – all the way out to Cape Brett’s famous Hole in the Rock – from the sky on this aerial adventure. Take to the skies with your friends or family on tandem or triple flights. Your children can even go parasailing – this adventure is suitable for all.

Parasailing Adventure Over the Bay of Islands

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Embark on a 4.5 hour Cruise and Island tour in the scenic Bay of Islands, where nature's wonders and cultural exploration await. Cruising through the islands, keeping an eye out for marine wildlife and native seabirds while our knowledgeable guides offer insights into the history, ecology, and Maori culture. Stopping at Roberton Island, a pristine paradise surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Take a short walk to the lookout point over the twin lagoons to enjoy the panoramic views of the Bay. Visit the famous "Hole in the Rock," a breathtaking natural formation showcasing the Bay's unique geology and the Cape Brett Lighthouse Our second island stop provides the opportunity to explore secluded bays, make use of the snorkelling gear provided, have a swim or simply relax. Bring a picnic or contact Island Getaway directly to pre-order a packed lunch The perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural discovery, making it a must-do experience in the Bay of Islands!

(123)

from $93

Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour - Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour - Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch

(201)

from $101

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission

4.6

(283)

from $114

1 to 2 daysFree Cancellation

4.7

(345)

from $44

Discover the stunning beauty of the Bay of Islands on this scenic mini tour of the Bay of Islands from Paihia. Begin your journey by passing the iconic Stone Church and idyllic beaches before reaching the picturesque Opua Bay and Marina for some memorable photo opportunities. Continue to Haruru Waterfalls, where you can get up close to the cascading water. The tour concludes at Waitangi Lookout, offering breathtaking views of the bay. Perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. - Scenic tour starting from Paihia Town, including iconic landmarks - Capture beautiful moments at Opua Bay and Marina - Get close to the stunning Haruru Waterfalls - End with panoramic views at Waitangi Lookout Tour runs for 75-90 minutes, giving you a snapshot of the beautiful Bay of Islands. We also offer complimentary drop off to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds with a free shuttle dropping back into Paihia Town over peak periods.

Bay of Islands - Mini Tour: (75-90mins)

1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Bay of Islands Glow Worm Caves & Scenic Shore Excursion

(6)

from $45

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.5

(354)

from $147

Explore the captivating Bay of Islands on a comprehensive 4-hour Nature Adventure tour. Beginning in Paihia, the journey leads to Haruru Waterfalls for an up-close experience, followed by a visit to the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves. Accompanied by local guides, enjoy a scenic walk among the twinkling glow worms. We then take you for a walk with ancient Kauri trees, some over 800 years old through beautiful scenic nature walk. We also finish off at Waitangi Lookout, showcasing the beautiful Bay of Islands. The itinerary also includes a visit to the artistic Hundertwasser Toilets, ensuring a unique blend of nature and culture. This tour guarantees a timely return to the ship or Paihia for shopping. - 4-hour guided tour starting from Paihia Town - Visit Haruru Waterfalls, Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, and Kauri Forest, Waitangi Lookout & Hundtertwasser Artistic Toilets. - For bigger groups get in touch, we can accommodate with several vans. *Note bring a warm jacket for the Glow worm caves*

4 hoursFree Cancellation

(8)

from $143

Discover the unique wildlife of NZ on this captivating tour. Begin your adventure by spotting the iconic Kiwi bird in its natural nocturnal habitat, offering a rare glimpse of this national treasure. This is the only tour in Northland, which offers siting of a Kiwi Bird. The center also showcasing different N.Z reptiles. Continue to the Whangarei Heritage Museum, where New Zealand's rich history and culture come alive through engaging exhibits. Marvel at the stunning Whangarei Falls, a magnificent 26.3-meter waterfall that creates a serene backdrop for your journey. Finish off at Waitangi lookout, breathtaking view of the Bay of Islands. - Spot the iconic Kiwi bird in its natural nocturnal habitat - Explore the Whangarei Heritage Museum showcasing N.Z's history - Marvel at the stunning 26.3-meter Whangarei Falls - Waitangi lookout, of beautiful views of the Bay of Islands. Perfect for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts ensuring an unforgettable experience.

**Popular Cruiseship Tour** - Total Kiwi Experience!

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Kawiti Glow Worm Cave Tour & Opua Forest Walk

(2)

from $161

Special Offer

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Explore the stunning landscapes of Northland with a personalized private tour designed just for you and your group of up to five passengers. Benefit from a tailor-made itinerary that caters to your specific interests, allowing you to enjoy the region's beauty at a leisurely pace for a full 6 hours. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, scenic views, or hidden gems, this tour ensures a memorable adventure in Northland. Engage with knowledgeable guides who provide insights and stories along the way, making your journey enriching and enjoyable. - Private tours for 1 to 5 passengers, tailored to your interests - 6-hour duration to explore Northland at your own pace - Flexible itineraries that cater to your specific desires - Expert guides offering unique insights into the region's culture and history

Private Tours in Bay of Islands

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 hour evening sailing cruise with swim stop

(1)

from $838

Per group

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Race around New Zealand Forest and Bush at the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park on the very popular Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes. The park is only located a short drive away from Paihia. There are plenty of trails for all abilities, and on an E-Bike, it will mean that you can do four times the amount of trails you would do on a conventional bike. However, do not think that because it has a motor you are cheating - these are pedal assist (no throttle) so you still need to keep on pedalling! - Get advice on which trails best suit your riding experience from our staff - Experience a beautiful view of the Bay of the Islands from the top of the tracks - Rental includes the $10 Donation to the Community-Built Mountain Bike Park

(32)

from $57

Explore the Waitangi MTB Park on Electric Bikes

Explore the Waitangi MTB Park on Electric Bikes

4 hours

Discover the Puketi Kauri Forest on an enriching guided tour, where ancient kauri trees and vibrant wildlife await. Traverse this subtropical rainforest with DOC-licensed guides who provide insights into the forest's ecology and the Māori culture closely tied to this land. Each tour option—day, or night—offers a unique perspective of the lush surroundings. Engage with the rich biodiversity and historical significance of the forest while contributing to its conservation efforts. - Explore the ancient kauri trees, some over a thousand years old - Choose from day, twilight, or night walking tours - Learn about the forest's ecology and Māori heritage from expert guides - Enjoy opportunities to spot native birds and rare plants along protected boardwalks

(2)

from $83

Guided Puketi Kauri Forest Tour in Bay of Islands

Guided Puketi Kauri Forest Tour in Bay of Islands

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.0

(4)

from $90

Awesome sailing on our 65 foot ocean sailing yacht!

Awesome Bay of Islands Day Sailing Adventure on our 65 foot ocean going yacht GUNGHA II. Our sailing tour is exciting, funny and informal. We provide tasty morning snacks, heaps of sailing, a unique island stopover, masks & snorkels, hot outside showers and our yummy fresh sandwich lunch. Marine life including penguins, seabirds and others are often plentiful and frequently sighted in playful groups. Our friendly crew will help you sail the boat or you can simply relax and enjoy. We depart from Paihia daily at 10:00 am (Russell transfers included). Return around 4:00 pm. The cost per Adult is $175 ... all activities and yummy fresh lunch included! GUNGHA II is the largest and most widely travelled ocean sailing yacht in the Bay of Islands! Our crew have sailed and lived aboard throughout the Pacific and beyond. Our winter schedule often includes Tonga, Fiji and New Caledonia. If you are keen to talk about or learn some sailing skills our crew will be happy to share!

Awesome Bay of Islands Day Sailing Adventure

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Bay of Islands and Hole in the Rock Scenic Helicopter Tour

(7)

from $105

20 minutes

The Bay of Islands is made up of 144 islands, and the best way to explore them is by boat. On this island-hopping day cruise, you can relax on board a comfortable catamaran while admiring the beautiful views of the sea, islands, and maybe even some dolphins. Snorkel, swim, or paddle board, and stop on land to visit a wildlife sanctuary. This is the easy way to see the bay, as it’s difficult to travel here independently without a boat.

(124)

from $200

Island Hopper Day Cruise - sailing to wildlife sanctuary island - 6 hr cruise

Island Hopper Day Cruise - sailing to wildlife sanctuary island - 6 hr cruise

6 hoursFree Cancellation

(312)

from $135

Indulge in New Zealands local wine with this wine tour around the Bay of Islands. Start at the Ake Ake Vineyard to explore a family-run operation located just outside Kerikeiri. Tour the vineyard, learn about grape production, and sample drinks including Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Travel to the Marsden Estate Winery & Restaurant. Enjoy a lunch platter while admiring the lake view.

Bay of Islands, Spirit & Craft Beer Tour with Lunch

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

(37)

from $132

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Top Attractions in Bay of Islands

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What are people saying about Bay of Islands

Adish_T, May 2026

Great experience, go for it

Great service. The cruise was well equipped and the staff was very attentive and helpful. The waters were a little chilly that day and the staff was really on their feet with the service and helping passengers with vomit bags and stuff. The commentary was good as well

3 Hours // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Bay of Islands Tour

Tim_D, May 2026

An excellent tour of a stunning area

Loved the crew on this beautiful tour. They were fun, engaging and new what they were doing! We were upgraded, at no cost due to some over bookings, to the 4 1/2 hour tour. Had we known what was included, we would have booked this from the start. In addition to Roberton Island and Hole in the Rock, this tour stopped on Urupukapuka Island, where we had lunch and pint at the very casual, but lovely Otehei Bay Restaurant. We were also rewarded with a huge school of dolphins following us for 30 minutes! An excellent tour that fits safely within your cruise ship stop window. Highly recommended.

Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour - with two island stopovers

Michele_S, Apr 2026

A great way to see the beautiful Bay of Islands

The cruise visits some of the many stunning locations in the Bay of Islands. The crew were great - engaging and informative- and the Captain’s commentary was from the perspective of a true local. Recommended. (Note there are 3 options for lunch - order a picnic pack as part of the cruise, take your own, or lunch at the cafe at the Otehei Bay stopover)

Bay of Islands Scenic Tour

Jarrod_M, Apr 2026

A great introduction to the Bay of Islands

Michael was the perfect host who accommodated a later arrival (that never happened) from a cruise ship. Our group of 8 was show keys sights with local commentary. Great ending in Russell where additional time could be spent (or alternative dropped off back at Praihai). Highly recommnded tour.

Bay of Islands Glow Worm Caves & Scenic Shore Excursion

Debra_W, Apr 2026

Glow worms and more- wow!

This was a fine tour, and Rob was a wonderful guide- very knowledgeable and interesting. It was great seeing a variety of what this port has to offer— especially the glowworm caves- which are not to be missed! And we got a six hour tour for half the price of a shorter tour offered by our ship- what a bargain!

Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour - Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

Anthony_M, Apr 2026

Must see in the Bay of Islands

We have been all around the world. The captains in the crew were outside we amazing. They talked to everyone on the ship they provided blankets because it was chilly and the captain was very knowledgeable and clear and concise. We blown away and that only by what we saw but the way we were traded

Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

Kerry_T, Apr 2026

Although it is a long day...

Although it is a long day as there are many KMs to cover, this trip shows a lovely outlook of the NZ landscape with its beautiful rolling green hills with and without native bush, and the beautiful sea views of NZ's many beautiful beaches mostly accompanied with our beautiful pohutakawa tree. This is what makes NZ so unique compared to the rest of the world with the time to chill out and take in the big space. However, Cape Reinga has its own special place, not only being the most northern point in NZ but it is a very spiritual place and there is a sense of calmness here when you visit it. You also see the Tasman sea and Pacific Ocean meat at a triangular point. - It is a very special place. Other entertaining things are the sandunes, driving on the sand along 90 mile beach, finding and eating Tuatua (pipi) and having a laugh. Our driver Willie, was amazing. He entertained us pretty much for the entire day with history of area and jokes and singing. We also learnt a couple of maori songs. A great day

Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch

Nicola_M, Mar 2026

Enjoyable in spite of awful weather.

Inspite of really poor weather we really enjoyed the trip. Experienced and knowledgeable skipper meant that even though the sea was rough we were able to reach the hole in the rock even if we could not go through. Sadly no marine life was seen that day but we enjoyed a nice lunch and walk on the island before heading back to Russell

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission

Nicola_M, Mar 2026

A Must Visit Experience, even on a wet windy day.

This is so much more than a visit to an outdoor space where the treaty was signed. It offers an insight into the history and culture of New Zealand by way of a guided tour and cultural performance which gave us an understanding of what led to the treaty and how it was perceived at the time. Our tour guide was amazing, the enthusiasm and knowledge she shared with us for the history of the Treaty made it so interesting. It was a really wet, windy day so we did not spend too long outside but there were plenty of indoor areas and a museum to explore. This visit went beyond my expectations and in my opinion is a must do activity.

Parasailing Adventure Over the Bay of Islands

Thomas_G, Jan 2026

Still Smiling

We were wondering how an 82 and 79 year old could be accommodated but we had the great assistance of Ben and crew. The weather was perfect and it took all the rest of the day to relax the smiles on our faces. Of all the choices we had that sunny day we picked the best. There is not a negative word to be said. I recommend this adventure to all reading this account

Haruru Waterfalls and Glow Worm Caves Tour

K_W, Dec 2025

Top notch service

On time pick-up at the cruise docking with a wonderful and hospitable guide driver ?William to drop-off. Gave a great drive with history of Maori culture and even invited us to come stay with him to get a true immersive experience. The team at the cave site were also great. There was a short stint through the bush as an alternative exit from the cave that added a challenge for "moderate level" adventurers. Then off to the waterfall for a picturesque and relaxing taste of nature's beauty. Wish I more time than the short cruise docking to explore more!

Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover (Half Day)

Joanna_J, Nov 2025

Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopovers

The cruise itself was excellent and luckily we had a good clear day for it. Lots of photo opportunities were provided. The staff were very professional, checking in with us regularly and accompanying us on the island walk. Lots of Dad jokes from the Skipper made it a very fun day out for everyone. Highly recommend the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopovers.