40 BEST Things to Do in the Bay of Islands ⛵ [2024]

The Top Tours, Activities and Attractions in the Bay of Islands

Beautiful beaches, pristine islands, energetic marine life, waterfalls, forests, history… The Bay of Islands is as dreamy as its name and then some. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do in the Bay of Islands!

The Bay of Islands is a small and stunning district of New Zealand’s Northland region. On the coast, you have the main hub of Paihia and Waitangi where you can find most of the water-based activities of the area. Go out on a cruise to check out the wildlife through snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and sailing. Across the water from Paihia is Russell, New Zealand’s first capital which is steeped in history. Inland are the towns of Kerikeri, Kawakawa, Kaikohe and Kaeo where there are heaps of natural features, historical sites and great foodie experiences to enjoy.

So take a look at the list below to see the best things to do in the Bay of Islands!

1. Cruise Around the Bay of Islands

Starting our list of the best things to do in the Bay of Islands is getting out on the water. Paihia Wharf and Russell Wharf are the starting points for many adventures in the Bay of Islands. How you want to explore the islands is just a matter of choosing. Speed off into the distance on a trip to the famous Hole in the Rock, take it easy on a sailing trip, or even join a dolphin-watching cruise. Whatever you choose, you’ll get to see and even stop off at some of the 144 islands dotted around the bay, look out for marine mammals, and take in the glorious views of the islands. Compare cruises in the 15 Best Cruises in the Bay of Islands.

Location: Tours depart from the Paihia Wharf, 69 Marsden Road and Russell Wharf, The Strand.

2. Ride at the Waitangi MTB Park or on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail

Not all the adventure is out on the water, you know! The Bay of Islands has a couple of fantastic biking options for all levels of mountain biking. Check out the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park for downhill blasts and heaps of features to play around on. Alternatively, take the 85 km (53 mi) journey of the Twin Coast Cycle Trail taking you through old railway tunnels and some stunning rural countryside. Check out more about bike trails around the country in The Best Mountain Biking Regions in New Zealand.

Location: Waitangi Mountain Bike Park, 33 Bayly Road, Waitangi. Ask bike operators, like Paihia Mountain Bikes, about transport to or from the Twin Coast Cycle Trail.

3. Visit Rainbow Falls

Next on our list of must-do Bay of Islands activities is Rainbow Falls. This waterfall is one of the most accessible and stunning waterfalls in the country. The 27 m (88 ft) Rainbow Falls has many different viewpoints from the top to the bottom of the falls. You can even clamber your way behind the waterfall if you are feeling adventurous! Just find a place to cross the stream at the bottom of the falls and make your way around the back (in a safe and cautious manner, of course). For more must-see waterfalls, check out the 20 Most Wonderful Waterfalls in New Zealand.

Location: Rainbow Falls Road, Kerikeri.

4. Explore Urupukapuka Island

If you love beaches, views, walks and birds then you’ll love Urupukapuka Island. The largest island in the Bay of Islands is well connected with walking trails to take you to some of the best views in the Bay of Islands, as well as historical Māori pā sites, forests and numerous beaches. The island is also alive with birdsong thanks to it being a predator-free sanctuary. When you are finished on the island, treat yourself to a drink or ice cream at the island’s cafe before taking the ferry back to Paihia. If you ask us, this is one of the best things to do in the Bay of Islands.

Location: Ferries depart from Paihia Wharf with Explore. Booking recommended.

5. Skydive from 20,000 ft and Land on the Beach

If you’re itching to do something crazy like a skydive in New Zealand, then the Bay of Islands is an awesome place to do it. When the weather is good, you get the best drop zone in the country right on the beach! There are three heart-thumping heights to choose from with Skydive Bay of Islands and great photo packages if you want to capture the action. Plus, check out more skydives around New Zealand in the 15 Best Places to Tandem Skydive in New Zealand. Admit it, this will go straight onto your to-do list of the Bay of Islands activities.

Location: 182 Wiroa Road, Kerikeri. Pick-ups are available around the Bay of Islands.

6. Go Scuba Diving or Snorkelling

The waters of the Bay of Islands are teeming with life from marine mammals to thousands of fish species. While some cruise and sailing companies offer snorkelling trips (we recommend Barefoot Sailing Adventures, Island Getaway Tours and Bayscapes Charters), there is also Paihia Dive and Dive Zone Bay of Islands taking divers to reefs, wrecks and underwater caves. There’s plenty to see in the kelp forests around the Bay of Islands, so pop on your mask and snorkel and start exploring! For more dive sites check out the 10 Best Places to Scuba Dive in New Zealand.

Location: Paihia Dive – 35 Williams Road, Paihia. Dive Zone Bay of Islands – 5 Klinac Lane, Kerikeri. Barefoot Sailing – Paihia Beach. Island Getaway Tours – Paihia Wharf. Bayscape Charters – Paihia Wharf.

7. Kayak or Walk to Haruru Falls

Everyone likes a good waterfall but it’s the journey to Haruru Falls that’s the appeal. Either take the Mangrove Boardwalk along the Waitangi River to reach the falls or go on a kayaking trip up the Waitangi River (allow 2 hrs 30 mins one way). At high tide, you can kayak among the mangrove forest or take a tour with Bay of Islands Cruise & Kayak (more info on Viator or Klook) to see wildlife along the way. With double kayaks and an easy boat ride to the falls, kayaking is one of the 10 Best Things to Do in the Bay of Islands with Kids.

Location: 1 Tau Henare Drive, Waitangi.

8. Check Out the Hell Hole of the Pacific

That’s right, Russell was New Zealand’s first capital and was once known as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific”. With that, there are a few historical sites to check out like the first church, Christ Church on Church Street, as well as the first hotel and licensed pub in New Zealand, The Duke of Marlborough on The Strand. Walk up to Flagstaff Hill and get some awesome views of Russell and the bay. Plan your visit using the 10 Best Things to Do in Russell.

Location: Passenger ferries operate every 10 minutes from Paihia Wharf, 69 Marsden Road. Car ferries operate every 10 minutes from Opua Bay.

9. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is one of the most historically significant sites in New Zealand. This is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and New Zealand became a nation. A two-day pass to the grounds includes entry to the Museum of Waitangi, the colonial house, guided tours, bushwalks, the Waka House and a cultural show at the carved meeting house. Find out more about the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on Viator, Klook and the 5 Reasons to Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Location: Tau Henare Drive, Waitangi.

10. Fly Over the Islands in a Helicopter

Nothing allows you to truly appreciate the bay’s 144 islands quite like a scenic flight from Paihia. Salt Air offers an array of experiences by air. You could fly from Paihia to Ninety Mile Beach on the “Cape Reinga Tour“? Or, just keep things simple and enjoy the views on the “Hole in the Rock Helicopter Flight“. Either way, a scenic flight across the Bay of Islands is a sure-fire way to indulge. See more indulgences like this in the 10 Best Luxury Experiences in the Bay of Islands.

Location: Tours depart from Paihia Wharf, 69 Marsden Road.

14 Best Things to Do in the Bay of Islands

11. Do a Winery-Hopping Tour

Experience one of the most underrated wine-growing regions of New Zealand on a winery-hopping tour with Mullarkeys Tours. This half-day activity includes a visit to the Sovrano Estate for a vineyard tour and tasting before travelling to Marsden Estate for more tastings and a lunch platter in a scenic lake setting. Next, it’s off to PhatHouse Brewing Co. for tasting beers made from natural ingredients. Finally, tour the Fat Pig Vineyard before returning to your accommodation. See more like this in the 10 Best Foodie Experiences in the Bay of Islands.

Location: Tours depart from the Paihia i-SITE or Kerikeri town centre.

12. See the Giants of the Forest in the Puketi Forest

Be awed by some of the largest trees in New Zealand on the walking trails of the Puketi Forest. A popular walk that’s suitable for families and wheelchair users is the Manginangina Kauri Walk, a 15-minute boardwalk loop that showcases enormous kauri trees. We also like the Puketi Nature Trail, which is similar but takes an hour to complete. For something longer, try the 4-hour Pirau Ridge Track. What’s more, guided nature tours of the forest and little-known sites are available with Puketi Adventures, offering insightful and unique experiences of this mesmerising forest.

Location: The Manginangina Kauri Walk is approximately 20 km (12 mi) from Kerikeri via Pungaere Road. Yellow and green Department of Conservation (DOC) signs point out other walks in the Puketi Forest.

10 Best Things to Do in the Bay of Islands

13. Tackle the Cape Brett Track

For those wanting to escape the crowds and embark on a real adventure, consider hiking the Cape Brett Track. The trail is a traverse over the hilltops of Cape Brett through a mix of native bush and exposed hills revealing commanding coastal views. Although the two-day hike has a hiking fee for track maintenance and the hut accommodation, they are quite affordable and happen to keep the trail blissfully uncrowded. See more intimate experiences like this in the 10 Romantic Things to Do in the Bay of Islands.

Location: Start the track from Oke Bay in Rawhiti, approximately 32 km (20 mi) from Russell.

14. Parasail Over the Bay of Islands

Fly high above the Bay of Islands with Flying Kiwi Parasail and take in some incredible views! The tour departs from Paihia Wharf and quickly takes you to the uncrowded waters of the bay where they fly you to around 1,200 ft over the water! Brave it alone, do tandem-style or triple (weight depending) as you are attached to a huge canopy. We guarantee you will be the most colourful thing in the sky.

Location: Trips depart from Paihia Wharf, 69 Marsden Road.

15. Go On an Island-Hopping Sailing Trip

Relax to the sounds of elements on a sailing cruise around the Bay of Islands. Multiple sailing trips operate in the Bay of Islands, such as Barefoot Sailing Adventures, R. Tucker Thompson and Vigilant Yacht Charters, so there’s plenty of choices, whether you’re looking for more of a foodie experience or mix a little adventure in there with snorkelling and stopping off at various islands along the way. Sail through the day or cruise at sunset. Whatever your choice, just remember to sit back, relax and crack open a beer!

Location: Tours depart from Paihia Wharf, Russell Wharf or Paihia Beach.

40 BEST Things to Do in the Bay of Islands ⛵ [2024]

16. Get Social on an Overnight Cruise

Extend your trip out on the water in an overnight cruise with The Rock Adventure Cruise. Relax with your cabin mates, go out for some night kayaking to see some bioluminescent algae, go fishing for snapper, and enjoy some great food straight from the ocean. The next day is your chance to explore the islands, go snorkelling, or kick back and soak up the sun while slurping some sea urchins.

Location: Departures from 69 Marsden Road, Paihia Wharf.

17. Take a Bus Trip to Cape Reinga

Explore ancient kauri forests, stop for fish and chips, see the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide before your eyes, get a photo with the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, sand surf down the sand dunes and enjoy the drive down Ninety Mile Beach! It’s an action-packed day to New Zealand’s Far North with Fullers GreatSights (more info on Viator and Klook)! More information about the Far North can be found in our Northland destination category.

Location: Bus trips depart from Paihia (accommodation pick-up can usually be arranged).

18. Cruise, Paddle, Hike and Snorkel with Island Getaway Tours

An active cruise in the Bay of Islands, Island Getaway Tours offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy watersports and a hike on an island on their cruise and island tour. They have small-group and private tours available with snorkelling gear, paddleboards and more to make the most of your day. Light refreshments are included but you might want to bring your own lunch. Find out more about the five-hour tour on Viator and Klook. Plus, see how this cruise compares to the 15 Best Cruises in the Bay of Islands.

Location: Cruises depart from 69 Marsden Road, Paihia Wharf.

19. Go Dolphin-Watching on the Carino Wildlife Cruise

For a sailing tour with an emphasis on wildlife and dolphin viewings, choose the Carino Wildlife Cruise. The six-hour cruise on a 15 m (50 ft) catamaran yacht focuses on looking out for little blue penguins, gannets and, of course, the Bay of Islands’ resident pods of dolphins. The cruise includes an island stop with a scenic walk, as well as a barbecue lunch and the opportunity to snorkel from the beach. See more places to spot dolphins in the 5 Best Places to Swim with Dolphins in New Zealand.

Location: Cruises depart from 69 Marsden Road, Paihia Wharf.

20. Sail the Bay of Islands on a Private Sailing Charter

Amp things up a notch with a private charter on a luxury sailing catamaran. There are several gorgeous yachts to choose from, typically including SUP boards and/or kayaks, snorkelling gear and lunch. To keep things as exclusive as possible, indulge in a private sailing charter with one of the following Bay of Islands sailing charters:

Location: Departure from Paihia Wharf or Russell Wharf. See more activities like this in the 10 Best Luxury Experiences in the Bay of Islands.

21. Check Out the Stone Store Museum and Kemp House

This building may look a little out of place in New Zealand, but the Stone Store is one of New Zealand’s oldest buildings and stores still trading (since 1833!) Today, you can pick up some tasteful gifts from the store and check out the Stone Store Museum upstairs (entry fees apply). Next door is New Zealand’s oldest surviving house, Kemp House. You can discover more about this piece of history by taking a guided tour of the house, which departs from the Stone Store. See more attractions like this in the 10 Best Historical Places in Northland.

Location: 246 Kerikeri Road. If you don’t have transport to get there, check out this private tour.

22. Discover a Replica Māori Village at Te Ahurea

See Kerikeri and New Zealand’s history from the Māori perspective in Te Ahurea, formerly Rewa’s Village. Set among native forest, this replica pre-European Māori fishing village gives you an insight into what Māori architecture used to look like. Check out museum displays, gardens, a waka (canoe) and some stunning vantage points overlooking the Kerikeri Basin. Find more affordable attractions like this in the 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in the Bay of Islands.

Location: 1 Landing Road, Kerikeri.

23. Check Out Kororipo Pā

More New Zealand history can be found at this easily accessible pā site in Kerikeri. A pā site was once a fortified Maori village, where Kororipo Pā dates back before 1775 and was once the home of Hongi Hika, a famous fighting chief. A 20-minute circular walkway takes you around the site.

Location: Access is near the Stone Store on 246 Kerikeri Road beside the Plough & Feather Restaurant.

24. Mingle with the Locals at the Bay of Islands Farmers’ Market…

Meet a passionate group of local growers and artisans at the Bay of Islands Farmers’ Market. This free event takes place every Thursday afternoon in Paihia and every Sunday morning in Kerikeri, where you can taste and purchase a range of locally grown produce, cheese, preserves, free-range eggs, artisan goods, beverages and more. The markets happen whatever the weather, so don’t miss out!

Location: Paihia – The Village Green, 60 Marsden Road. Kerikeri – Post Office Carpark, 10 Hobson Avenue.

25. … Or The Old Packhouse Market

Another quintessential Kiwi market arrives on the weekend in Kerikeri at The Old Packhouse Market. Happening every Saturday and Sunday morning, meet the locals, sample an array of street food and baked goods, and browse an array of local plants, artisanal products, seafood, cheeses and more! If you can’t make it on a weekend, at least the charming Old Packhouse Cafe, Bakery and Deli are open all week long! For more Kerikeri antics, check out the 15 Best Things to Do in Kerikeri.

Location: 505 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri.

26. Take a Pee Break at the Hundertwasser Toilets

Yes, New Zealand’s most famous public toilets are right here in the Bay of Islands in the unsuspecting town of Kawakawa. They are probably going to be the most colourful and artistic toilets you’ll ever get the chance to relieve yourself in. The Hundertwasser Toilets are decorated in mosaic ceramic and glass bottles, designed by the famous Austrian artist who made his home in the Bay of Islands, Friedensreich Hundertwasser. For more experiences near these famous bathrooms, check out the 10 Best Things to Do in Kawakawa.

Location: 62 Gillies Street (State Highway 1), Kawakawa town centre.

27. Ride a Vintage Train

Every weekend, the vintage steam train, Gabriel, chugs its way through the town centre of Kawakawa at the start of its scenic railway journey. Get in on the action by hopping on the train at the Kawakawa Station with the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway. If you don’t manage to make it to Kawakawa on a weekend, or between January and March when trails run daily, there are still restored locomotives and carriages on display outside of the Kawakawa Station.

Location: Gillies Street, just off State Highway 1, Kawakawa.

28. See the Glowworms at the Kawiti Glowworm Caves

For an experience almost like magic, delve into the glowworm caves of Kawiti Glowworm Caves just south of Kawakawa. A tour of this large limestone cave reveals amazing stalactites, stalagmites and thousands of glowworms. Learn about the interesting lifecycle of the glowworms and enjoy a short bushwalk too on this tour that lasts approximately 45-60 minutes. The Kawiti Glowworm Caves are also included in half-day guided tours with Mullarkey Tours and Bay of Islands Tours, departing from Paihia.

Location: 49 Waiomio Road, Waiomio, just off State Highway 1.

29. Walk Among New Zealand’s Largest Trees on the Opua Kauri Walk

For those feeling active, a pleasant stroll through kauri forest can be found just north of Kawakawa. The Opua Kauri Walk is a 30-minute return walk partly over boardwalk through a classic example of kauri forest. Kauri here range from 25 to around 400 years old! The Oromahoe Traverse links the Opua Kauri Walk to Paihia, taking a further two hours. Once you discover this enchanting forest, you’ll definitely want to hit the 10 Best Kauri Forests in Northland.

Location: Oromahoe Road, Opua.

30. Unwind in the Ngawha Springs Hot Pools

Based in the centre of a geothermal hotbed and landscaped with Māori carvings and rock gardens, the Ngawha Springs Hot Pools provide a warm and soothing experience. Just take your pick out of one of the 16 small pools of 34-40°C (93-104°F) with varying mineral contents and some with bubbles to leave the skin rejuvenated. For more experiences towards the neighbouring town of Kaikohe, check out the 10 Best Things to Do in Kaikohe.

Location: 303 Ngawha Springs Road, Ngawha Springs.

10 More Things to Do in the Bay of Islands

As for all those honourable mentions, here are 10 more things to do in the Bay of Islands:

Horse Trek’n Bay of Islands – Ride along the hills of Waitangi and take your horse for a swim – 33 Bayly Road, Waitangi
Pompallier Mission – Join a heritage tour of New Zealand’s oldest industrial building – 5 The Strand, Russell.
Russell Museum – Check out early Māori and European artefacts – 2 York Street, Russell
Beaches – Highlights include Paihia Town Beach, Te Tii Bay in Paihia and Oneroa Bay in Russell
Bay of Islands Restaurants – Dine on fresh kai moana and ice cream – see The Food Guide to the Bay of Islands for recommendations
Russell Mini Tours – See all the sights on a comprehensive tour of New Zealand’s first capital – Russell waterfront
La Spa Naturale – Indulge in spa treatments at Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel – 130 Marsden Road, Paihia
Mahoe Cheese Factory – Sample artisan cheese straight from the farm – Oromahoe Road, Pakaraka
Akeake Reserve Track – Hike to a small beach, pā site and viewpoint – Opito Bay Road, Kerikeri
Trike Tours – Get a personalised tour of the bay on a 350 Chev Trike – Paihia Wharf.

More Things to Do in the Bay of Islands

The question is, how can you want any more things to do in the Bay of Islands?! Regardless, we have the content, right here in our insightful guides:

And if all else fails, start from scratch with The Complete Travel Guide to the Bay of Islands.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
Visit Northland New Zealand (Regional tourism website)
Northland Regional Council (Local council website)
Far North District Council (Local council website)
Kaipara District Council (Local council website)

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura S.

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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