All Bay of Islands Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves Guided Tour in Bay of Islands

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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/Russell daily at 10:00/10:15 am. We return around 4:00 pm. 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! Let us show you our paradise!

Awesome Bay of Islands Day Sailing Adventure

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Embark on a wildlife-focused cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands, where encounters with dolphins, whales, seals, and various bird species await. This 5.5-hour adventure includes a 1.5-hour stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, allowing you to explore the island's natural beauty and unique wildlife restoration efforts. The cruise is led by an experienced crew and is one of the few licensed operators by the Department of Conservation, ensuring a responsible and educational experience. Enjoy opportunities for swimming, beach relaxation, and learning about local conservation projects. - 4-hour scenic cruise aboard a purpose-built vessel with large viewing decks - Marine mammal viewing guarantee: come again free if no sightings occur - 1.5-hour island stop for swimming, exploring, and spotting native wildlife - Optional boom netting and lunch available at Otehei Bay Cafe & Bar

Bay of Islands Dolphin Eco Cruise Marine Wildlife Adventure

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Bay of Islands Waterfall Explorer Kayaking Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Whether you’re on a shore excursion or just want to get away from the crowds at the most famous attractions in the Bay of Islands, this half-day tour is ideal. You’ll visit the Kawiti Glowworm Caves with a local Maori guide, take a leisurely walk along boardwalks in Opua Forest, and make a comfort (and photo) stop at Kawakawa’s quirky Hundertwasser Toilets. Admission fees are included in the price.

Kawiti Glow Worm Cave Tour & Opua Forest Walk

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

Discover the sacred spiritual path from Ninety Mile Beach to Cape Reinga on this exclusive small-group tour hosted by the Ngāti Kurī tribe. This enriching experience invites travelers to connect deeply with Māori culture through storytelling and visits to ancestral sites. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the beautiful landscapes and spiritual significance of Te Rerenga Wairua. This tour is perfect for those seeking genuine interactions with locals and a meaningful cultural experience. - Small-group travel for personalized experiences - Guided insights and cultural storytelling along the spiritual pathway - Visit significant Ngāti Kurī sites and enjoy time at Cape Reinga - Packed lunch included to enhance your journey

Ka Uri Experience Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach Tour

11 hoursFree Cancellation

Sundowner Sailing Cruise— 2 Hour Sail, Swim Stop | Bay of Islands

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Bay of Islands and Hole in the Rock Scenic Helicopter Tour

Spend an evening immersed in Māori culture with a traditional hāngī dinner—food cooked in a heated pit—and live performance, held at the historically important site of the signing of New Zealand’s Treaty of Waitangi. Enact a warrior challenge on a bush walk and watch energetic Māori music and dance. Your Treaty Grounds admission ticket is valid for two days, so visit the museums and historic sites at your leisure.

Māori Cultural Experience & Hāngī dinner incl. Day Admission

1 to 2 daysFree Cancellation

Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters

Bay of islands Waterfall Cruise Kayaking Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Carino Wildlife Cruises - Island and Wildlife Day Cruise

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands

Cruise the stunning waters of the Bay of Islands on a thrilling speedboat adventure. Feel the excitement as you speed across open water in comfortable suspension seating designed for an exhilarating ride. This adventure offers a chance to extend your journey with an optional stop at Otehei Bay, where you can swim, relax, or explore the beautiful surroundings before returning on a later ferry. With local commentary throughout the ride, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of this breathtaking region.

Ocean Blast Bay of Islands with optional Island Stop

1 hourFree Cancellation

Enjoy an exhilarating 30km jet ski tour through the stunning Bay of Islands, perfect for those seeking adventure on open waters. The Urupukapuka Island Expedition features a vibrant 45-minute stop at Otehei Bay's cafe, allowing you to recharge with a drink while soaking in the island vibes. With experienced and safety-certified guides, this tour ensures a thrilling yet safe experience on Yamaha jet skis, all within small groups for a personalized touch. Get ready to embrace the best coastline New Zealand has to offer. • 2.5-hour jet ski adventure covering 30km round trip • Relax at Otehei Bay with a 45-minute cafe stop • Led by experienced, safety-certified guides • Small group sizes for a more personal experience

Urupukapuka Island Guided Jet Ski Experience

Shore Excursion To Historic Kerikeri Including Lunch

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Get onboard the most comprehensive day cruise in the Bay of Islands, taking in the Hole in the Rock, the historic Cream Trip route and an island stop at Otehei Bay. Start the morning cruising through the inner islands and past the Cape Brett Peninsula, out to the famous Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako. Take in the scenery, learn about the area's history through our informative and entertaining commentary, and keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine wildlife along the way. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach, explore a coastal walking track, have a swim or hire a kayak in peak season, then grab a bite to eat and drink from the fully licensed Otehei Bay Bar & Café. Following your island stop, cruise through the inner islands past the unique Black Rocks and the historic Marsden Cross, then try your hand at boom-netting when available.

The Original Full day Bay of Islands Cruise with Dolphins

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Fly over the Far North coastline on a scenic flight between Paihia and Cape Reinga. Soar above Ninety Mile Beach before landing for a minibus tour. Visit Cape Reinga Lighthouse, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, then stroll along the beach at Tapotupotu Bay and visit the giant sand dunes at Te Paki. Look down on remote Parengarenga Harbour and Great Exhibition Bay on your return flight.

Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour Including Scenic Flight

Thriller Tour - Bay of Islands, 30 mins (min 2)

30 minutesFree Cancellation

Explore the stunning Bay of Islands with Bay Cabs’ reliable taxi service, providing seamless transfers throughout Paihia, Russell, and Kerikeri. From airport pickups to ferry terminals, our modern fleet accommodates up to 9 passengers, ensuring you travel in comfort and style. Local drivers share insights into the magnificent scenery and attractions, making your journey just as enjoyable as your destination. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group, Bay Cabs guarantees a hassle-free experience at transparent metered fares.

Bay Of Islands - Airport Transfers

30 minutes to 1 hourFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing

1 hour 50 minutesFree Cancellation

Bike Hire at the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park

1 2 3 4

Must-Dos in Bay of Islands

1 / 2

What are people saying about Bay of Islands

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

Jason_D, Oct 2026

Hole in the Island a Highlight

The staff were very friendly - great communication very email and messaging, in person they were friendly and helpful and the crew on the boat were fantastic pointing on wildlife and other features on the Bay of Islands. Unfortunately we did not see Whales or Dolphins but we did see Fur Seals and numerous birds. And then the absolute highlight the Hole in the Island - it was stunning to see in person and because the water was not rough we actually went thru the Hole and it was absolutely AMAZING. This was definitely a highlight of my whole New Zealand trip. The Meal was very good and to walk around on the islands was a bonus - some of our group went swimming in the calm Crystal clear and refreshing water while we did a hike amongst hundreds (if not thousands) of years old forests. Stunning!!!!

Bay of Islands Scenic Tour

Darren_H, Oct 2026

Highly recommend this tour

Michael was a fantastic tour guide. My wife & I had a private tour, as we were the only 2 people on the bus. With Michael's knowledge of the area & his easy going nature, the time flew along. Great sights, great tour. Thanks Michael. Darren & Kerry Humphrey

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

Sophie_S, Oct 2026

Good views and amazing crew

The views are amazing it is so pretty. It was a perfect day so we got to sail through the hole in the rock which was so cool. Adam and Caroline were amazing crew very happy and good spirits we could tell they actually loved what they do. If you stop at Roberton Island highly recommend doing the 10 minute hike to see the islands

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

Pamela_K, Oct 2026

Great Crew and Fantastic Scenery

This was an excellent excursion. Blair and Blue were wonderful. They were informative, friendly and extremely knowledgable. The scenery was amazing. The pier was easy to find and Blair stayed on schedule. They both did a great job. I highly recommend this tour.

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

Ian_P, Oct 2026

Exhilarating half day

Very exhilarating especially as we were able to go through the hole in the rock on the boat . A very varied 4 and a half hours , sailing through the bay visiting 2 islands , one with a fantastic view of the bay , and of course out in open sea to visit the hole . Hamish the skipper was very informative, and amusing in his commentary and the other members of the crew , were very welcoming, and ready to assist as well as also providing information, maps etc . Very good value for the cost

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

Lewis_L, Oct 2026

Fantastic Bay of Island Tour Experience.

Cass and BlueBell were amazing guides throughout our Bay of Islands cruise. They were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely engaging, involving us in conversation and making the experience feel personal and enjoyable. The highlight was seeing orcas in the wild while they were actively hunting, an incredible experience that we will not forget. Cass and Blue Bell did a fantastic job helping us understand and appreciate what we were witnessing. Professional, welcoming, and passionate guides. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Russell and the Bay of Islands!

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

Richard_W, Sept 2026

Best way to see the Cape

It is a long day, and the beach section has been shortened and now misses the large sand dunes but overall a relaxing experience and better than driving up to the Cape yourself. We had George as our driver/guide and he was excellent. Great sense of humour and made the day for his "Bus Family"

Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

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

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!

Island Hopper- Sail to wildlife sanctuary - 6 hr - Bay of Islands

Douglas_P, Mar 2026

Peaceful sailing.

Our day was one of the best excursions we’ve ever had. Weather was perfect and the sail was so peaceful. Thank you Captain Mike for your expert handling and great hospitality. We won’t forget this day. And thanks to everyone who assisted us in assuring we were back on the ship on time. Word to cruisers, be sure you allow lots of time to meet your tour as it is a tender, shuttle to the beach and then a walk to meet up. Took us over an hr. Rachael and Mike were on top of trying to get us back on time also. Wonderful last day to our trip to NZ.

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!