Top North Island Water Tours - page 3

The fictional, yet globally famous, village of Hobbiton™ and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves rank among New Zealand’s top attractions. Visit both sites in one day on a small-group tour that includes hotel pickup, a delicious lunch, and personal attention from your guide. Avoid the hassle of self-driving from Auckland and admire scenic views en route. A must-do tour for nature and movie lovers short on time in the North Island.

Get out of Auckland for the night, away from the harsh neon lights, and experience a natural light party on this kayaking adventure. Paddle along the northern coast of Auckland and witness the bioluminescent plankton that live in the ocean. Watch as it lights up the beach at night, with only the sounds of the Hauraki Gulf and the native birds in the background.

If you’re a nature lover, the island sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi offers the chance to spot rare native wildlife that are tricky to see anywhere else in the region. Hop aboard the ferry in Auckland and explore the island’s walking trails and beaches, keeping an eye out for tuatara reptiles, and rare birds such as the kokako, takahe, and tieke.

The vibrant blue-green waters of Tauranga Harbour are home to some of the area’s most popular sights. Relax aboard a two-deck boat on this boat cruise as you explore the harbor, taking in ocean views and the area’s beaches, forests, islands, and village settlements, contrasted by scenes of the Grand Kaimai mountain range and Mount Maunganui in the distance.

The abundance of volcanic activity that has shaped New Zealand’s dramatic landscape is also why the coastline around Whitianga is home to imposing sea caves and twisting lava tubes. Take a journey through these stunning natural landscapes on this boat tour around the rugged coast while keeping an eye out for the seasonal wildlife that roams the region.

Join the only tour that takes you out to the remote Aldermen Islands Marine Reserve and experience one of New Zealand's most exclusive wildlife adventures. Explore a spectacular chain of volcanic islands that very few people ever have the opportunity to visit. Travel with expert local guides as you search for dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, whales (seasonal), seabirds, and other marine wildlife in this pristine environment. During suitable conditions and seasons, you may also have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the marine reserve. This is a truly unique small-group adventure to one of New Zealand's most remote and protected destinations. Join the select few who have experienced the extraordinary Aldermen Islands.

Kapiti Island is one of New Zealand’s best-kept nature sanctuaries and a predator-free haven for native birds. On this private day trip to the island, take a ferry from Paraparaumu Beach and spend your day walking the island, identifying kākā, kōkako, kererū and other native species with the help of your nature guide. Enjoy a chef-prepared lunch on the island before you head back to the mainland.

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-visit North Island attraction, and while many day tours depart from Auckland, this handy tour is ideal for independent travelers who can make their own way to the caves. The Ruakuri Cave is the longest, with impressive rock formations, subterranean rivers, and thousands of glittering glowworms. Explore the magnificent cave on a guided walking tour and learn more about Māori culture as you go.

Sitting majestically off the coast, Rangitoto’s distinctive symmetrical cone rises 260m over the Hauraki Gulf. Boasting a unique landscape of rugged lava crops, lush native bush and sandy coves. This not to be missed walk to the summit takes about an hour at an easy pace. Lookouts along the way provide stunning views as you climb - make sure to leave enough time to detour and explore the lava caves. Plan your visit in advance and ensure you arrive with plenty of time to meet the return ferry to downtown Auckand.

Join local guides, on a 2-3 hour tour covering over 25km of continuous volcanic coastline. Our custom-built vessel will take you places no other tour can, allowing you to get closer and experience more. Enjoy 360° views of spectacular sea caves, twisting lava tubes, towering volcanic arches and seasonal wildlife. Covers in lush native bush and rich in NZ history this is a must do for any Coromandel traveller!

See and do exactly what you want in the Bay of Islands with this private yacht charter. Ideal for celebrating a special occasion or experiencing the natural beauty of the island-filled bay. The Vigilant is available for between two and six hours. Charter includes a fresh picnic lunch, a bottle of wine, and the use of kayaks and snorkeling gear if you like.

Explore the Rotorua lakes district and learn about its history on a 2-hour tour duck boat cruise from Rotorua. Travel on land and by water in the amphibious World War II vehicle, visiting four lakes including Lake Tarawera, located at the foot of Mt Tarawera. Hear about the devastating 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera and other aspects of local history on this family-friendly tour.

Kapiti Island is a predator-free nature sanctuary off the Kapiti Coast, but few people get to visit, especially overnight. This 2-day experience offers the rare opportunity to stay on the otherwise uninhabited island, with Department of Conservation permits included. Take a hike and spot native birds in the forest, dine on chef-prepared meals, look out for New Zealand’s endangered, nocturnal kiwi bird, and stay in your choice of accommodation.

Discover Browns Island's rich history near Auckland. Horses were swum across the harbor by early settlers, while Māori thrived with farming and fishing centuries ago, leaving behind remnants of pā sites. Even more intriguingly, remnants of the Sydney mud cockle were found within volcanic shell beds. In 1909, New Zealand's aviation history took flight as Alex and Claude Barnard launched a homemade flying machine from the island's peak, marking the nation's first aeroplane trials. Browns Island is a volcanic cone from an eruption 25,000 years ago, part of the active Auckland Volcanic Field. Now uninhabited, it's a recreational reserve turned wildlife sanctuary, home to native birds like tūī, pūkeko, silvereye, as well as unique wildlife such as skinks and geckos. For students and researchers, Browns Island offers educational opportunities in volcanology, geology, and environmental conservation, making it an ideal field study destination.

Discover Rotoroa Island & Man O’ War, Waiheke Island - explore these two unique Hauraki Gulf islands in one day! Immerse yourself in the beauty of Rotoroa Island, explore this island sanctuary via the established walking tracks, native bush and coastal walks with expansive views across the Gulf. Then take a quick ride between Rotoroa Island and Man O’ War Vineyard's beachfront cellar door and restaurant on Waiheke Island, to sample their iconic wines and relaxed hospitality with stunning ocean views. Indulge in a meal at the Tasting Room Restaurant and take a swim in the calm waters of Man O' War Bay. WINTER SCHEDULE (until 23 October 2026): Wednesday - Sunday: Departs Auckland: 9:15am | Arrives Man O' War: 10:45am Departs Man O' War: 12:45pm | Arrives Rotoroa: 1:00pm Departs Rotoroa: 2:25pm | Arrives Auckland: 4:00pm

The Rock overnight cruise in the Bay of Islands is the only overnight cruise in the area to offer such a wide range of activities, including kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, island walks, and more. Enjoy adventure activities as well as time to relax in peaceful nature. As this is an all-inclusive tour you don’t need to worry about any logistics. Just show up ready for fun.

Enjoy an exciting outdoor adventure on the Rangitikei River that’s suitable for the whole family. Bounce and splash your way through 30 class II (easy) rapids on an 8-mile (13-kilometer) stretch of river while admiring the beautiful views of the canyon walls, cliffs, and native bush. Stop for a picnic lunch and finish with a relaxing float to the finish. Vessels can be modified to suit beginner and advanced paddlers.

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!

Enjoy a cruise through Tikapa Moana, the Hauraki Gulf, and discover the Rotoroa Island sanctuary. This pretty little island is a perfect escape from the city for the day or longer. Explore the island on foot via established walking tracks across open fields, native bush and sandy shorelines. Take your chance at spotting iconic native species free ranging across the island including kiwi, takahē and tīeke. Rotoroa Island has been predator free since 2014 and is now home to a number of native birds and wildlife free ranging across the island. Discover the unique history of the island through the award-winning museum exhibition and heritage buildings or enjoy the sheltered sandy bays and clear waters for relaxing, swimming and snorkeling. Facilities on the island include a gift shop, freshwater drinking fountain, toilets and electric barbeques.

Spend a day cruising through the Bay of Islands aboard a deluxe yacht that sets sail from Russell. Your captain will stop at picturesque islands and beaches, where you can snorkel, kayak, swim, walk, and enjoy a picnic lunch. Keep an eye out for marine life as you cruise, and hear commentary from your local captain about the region.

Explore the underwater world of the Goat Island Marine Reserve without getting wet when you join a glass-bottomed boat tour. Learn more about New Zealand’s first marine reserve and the wonderful biodiversity around the island. Sail into dramatic caves and admire views of other offshore islands, such as Little Barrier Island. The Goat Island and Matakana areas are an easy half-day trip north of Auckland city.

Ocean Adventure is the fastest boat to the Hole in the Rock, combining exhilaration and exploration with a balance of speed and thrills, as well as stops to view wildlife, learn about the Bay of Islands & take photos. Great for families & adventure seekers to feel the thrill of speeding across the water & viewing the stunning islands of the Bay Relax in state of the art suspension seating for a safe & comfortable ride as you fast track your journey through the iconic scenery of the Bay of Islands. Not suitable for guests over 120kg in weight due to the hydraulic seating. Jump on board for a 1.5 hour cruise, visiting the Cape Brett Peninsula & travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako, conditions permitting. Enter the amazing Cathedral Cove if conditions permit & hear entertaining commentary about the Bay of Islands with stops for photos. Option to stop at Otehei Bay, Urupukapuka Island (must be pre-booked) and return on a later ferry at no extra cost.

Experience the best of the Hauraki Gulf on this day trip from Waiheke Island. You’ll receive personalized attention on a small group tour aboard the Pacific Star catamaran. Stop at an island in the harbor for a guided walk, spot a variety of birds and marine animals, and get the chance to swim, snorkel, and stand-up paddleboard. There’ll also be time to relax on board and admire the views.

Some people just like to lounge on a beach, but if you’re seeking a more active way of exploring the Cathedral Cove area, this two-hour small-group adventure is ideal. Take a thrilling fast boat tour along the coastline, zooming up to cliffs and blowholes and into caves. The open-roofed boat allows for close-up views. Snorkel at the marine reserve, if you like.