Bay of Islands Escape
Escape to Paihia in the Bay of Islands to cruise through the iconic Hole in the Rock, and spot dolphins and native wildlife. Explore Cape Reinga, drive along the legendary Ninety Mile Beach, and immerse yourself in New Zealand’s rich culture at the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds before returning to Auckland.
**Please be advised that certain aspects of this tour may operate on specific days of the week during the winter months. We recommend contacting one of our travel specialists to identify a departure date that suits your schedule.
Independent Tours
This suggested tour costs from NZD$1,240 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland
3 days/2 nights
Hotel 3 star
Customisable? YES
Viewed 155 times in the last 7 days
Tour Inclusions
At a glance - Bay of Islands Escape
Day 1: Depart the "City of Sails" and venture to the "Winterless North"
Accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia
Day 2: Explore the Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach
Accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia
Day 3: Explore Historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds then return to Auckland
Detailed itinerary
Day 1 - Depart the "City of Sails" and venture to the "Winterless North"
Leave Auckland and head North to the Bay of Islands. Taking you along the coast road past the seaside villages of Orewa and Waiwera. Then it's on to the township of Puhoi, New Zealand's only Bohemian settlement, then Warkworth and the harbourside city of Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa. Arriving into the subtropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush-clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main centre of the bay and has a great beachside atmosphere.
Paihia, an oceanside gem, played a pivotal role in Aotearoa-New Zealand's history. A visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds offers a profound look into the signing of the Waitangi Treaty, where 43 Māori chiefs and 39 Crown representatives shaped the nation’s future. Beyond its rich history, Paihia is a haven for water-based activities. From sailing through the Hole in the Rock and dolphin spotting to kayaking or fishing, or perhaps a day relaxing on the beach, this picturesque coastal town is the perfect base to explore the stunning Bay of Islands.
Board your cruise and take in the stunning views as you glide out through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over and Piercy Island/Motukōkako, or as it is popularly known as the Hole in the Rock. According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof above were a good omen. If conditions permit, your skipper will expertly guide the ship through the narrow space. Keep an eye out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales, and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island where you have time to relax, take a walk, have a swim, or enjoy a bite to eat and drink from the on-site fully licensed café. The purpose-built catamaran is licensed by DOC (the Department of Conservation) for dolphin viewing and the crew has years of experience locating dolphins in these waters.
Your accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia
The Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia is located on the waterfront only 100 metres from Paihia wharf and township. All rooms are air-conditioned and hotel facilities include restaurant and spa pool
Day 2 - Explore the Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach
Journey to the very tip of the North Island and uncover a region of rich Māori tradition along the way on an unforgettable full-day tour. Travel along the sand-swept shore of Ninety Mile Beach in our purpose-built coach and experience sandboarding (weather permitting). In Māori tradition, Cape Reinga or Te Rerenga Wairua is the place where spirits depart on their long journey back to the homeland. Stand at the northernmost point of New Zealand and drink in the panoramic views. As you stand beneath the iconic lighthouse, and watch the Tasman Sea and the mighty Pacific Ocean collide far below, you'll feel the power of this special place. Throughout the day your local driver guide will provide an entertaining and thought-provoking insight into the culture, history and natural wonders of the Far North.
Your accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia
The Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia is located on the waterfront only 100 metres from Paihia wharf and township. All rooms are air-conditioned and hotel facilities include restaurant and spa poolDay 3 - Explore Historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds then return to Auckland
Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between 43 Māori chiefs and the British Government. This two-day pass allows you access to the Treaty of Waitangi Grounds and includes admission to the Te Kōngahu Museum and Te Rau Aroha Museum and a Māori Cultural performance. During your guided tour, you'll learn about the history of the treaty and discover the stories and events that shaped New Zealand. The cultural performance inside the carved meeting house includes waiata (singing), poi, a display of Māori weaponry and the haka - a war dance New Zealand is well known for.
Leaving the magical Bay of Islands behind you head south on State Highway 1 back towards Auckland, the "City of Sails". The route takes you through Kawakawa, affectionately known as 'train town'. The farming regions of Wellsford and Warkworth accompany you the rest of the journey before passing through the suburbs of the North Shore and crossing the harbour bridge and into the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau-Auckland City.
| Starts | Status | Double (2 people sharing) | Single occupancy | You save | ||
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Dec 10, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 11, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 12, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 13, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 14, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 15, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 16, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 17, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 18, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 19, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 20, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 21, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 22, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 23, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 24, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 25, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 26, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 27, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 28, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 29, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 30, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 | |||
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Dec 31, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$1,240 | NZD$1,600 |