tours from auckland to bay of islands

Bay of Islands Day Tours

The beautiful Bay of Islands is a stunning region made up of 144 islands dotted throughout waters abundant in marine life. It’s just three hours north of Auckland by road, but feels like a world away from city life. Your journey to the Northland region will take you through beautiful lush countryside, rural towns and past golden sandy beaches to the waterfront township of Paihia. Northland is regarded as the birthplace of New Zealand, as it was here that Kupe the first Māori voyager arrived on its shores more than 1000 years ago. In 1840 the historic Treaty of Waitangi between Māori and the Crown was signed just a short distance from Paihia. This treaty established a relationship that is still at the heart of New Zealand’s governance today.

There are Bay of Islands day tours to suit every traveller. See the natural wonder that is the Hole in the Rock on an island cruise and enjoy spotting all kinds of birds and marine life from the boat – whales, dolphins, seals and penguins are all frequent visitors. Visit historic Russell – today a charming historic village of boutique shops and eateries, but once a lawless open port known as the ‘Hell Hole of the Pacific’.

From Paihia you can take a Cape Reinga tour to the very tip of New Zealand and see the spot where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean collide. During your tour you’ll drive along the sand on spectacular Ninety Mile Beach, sand-surf down giant dunes (if you’re feeling adventurous!) and visit ancient native kauri trees in the Puketi Forest.

4 Day Tours to experience

Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise Including Dolphin Watching and Island Stop

• 4 hours 30 minutes
• Bay of Islands Dolphin Watching Cruise
• See the famous 'Hole in the Rock'

from $ 150 NZD

Bay of Islands Day Tour with Russell Mini Tour

• 12 hours 40 minutes
• Historical Russell sights
• Bay of Islands ferry ride

from $ 206 NZD

Auckland to Paihia Coach Only Tour

• 3 hours 45 minutes
• Luxury coach travel Auckland to Paihia
• Scenic native forest

from $ 126 NZD

Paihia to Auckland Coach Only Tour

• 3 hours 40 minutes
• Luxury coach travel Paihia to Auckland

Free cancellation

You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 2 hours in advance of your tour experience.

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2 Day Bay of Islands Encounter Independent Coach Tour

Pricing From $850

Accommodation

4 Star Hotels

We have a wide range of 4 star hotel properties. Most hotels in this category generally have swimming pools, fitness gyms, a choice of restaurants, and are usually a little closer to town centres or occupy premium locations. Room types may include standard, deluxe, superior, mountain view, lake view, suites, etc. Many also include 2 and 3 bedroom suites which can offer great value for larger groups.

3 Star Hotels

All our 3 star hotels have restaurant facilities. Meals can be included in your package, if required. Please note that smaller destinations such as Coromandel, Kaikoura, Akaroa, etc. hotels don't usually feature this as an accommodation option.

Motel accommodations are self-contained facilities. At minimum, a studio unit includes cooking utensils, a hot plate and/or a microwave, toaster, kettle, and crockery and cutlery. Others will include a full kitchen and can include saunas, spas, and swimming pools and sometimes a full breakfast service. Room types include stuido, 2-bedroom, or family units. Our motels are of a very high standard and are generally owned and operated by locals who would love to share their genuine interest in their region with you.

Independent Coach Tours, using nationwide bus services, daily departures

Route : Auckland - Bay of Islands - Auckland

Start: Auckland

Finish: Auckland

• All coach tour transport as specified in this tour package
• Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
• Discover Kerikeri Tour
• Russell Mini Tour
• Waitangi Treaty Grounds

PRICE PER PERSON (TWIN SHARE)

October 2022 - April 2023

• 3-Star Accommodation: from NZ$850 *

* PLEASE NOTE

Prices are estimates only, and are subject to availability and exchange rates when booking, seasonal or holiday price surcharges (such as Christmas/New Year and Easter); as well as special events that may be on. Please forward a request and we will be happy to forward a quote.

Prices quoted are per person and are room only. Prices do not include meals. Twin share is based on 2people traveling together and sharing one rooms. Single room and triple share prices are available.

• Deposit: 20% of the package cost or NZ$250 per person (whichever is the greater) at time of booking
• Full Payment: 60 Days before travel
• Airfares (if applicable): Paid in full no more than 6 days after booking

CANCELLATION CHARGES

• Cancellation Fees up to 100% can apply after booking. Extra deposits or full payment may be requested to cover these charges prior to booking

Hole in the Rock Cruise

Inside a Whare (meeting house), Waitangi Treaty Grounds

View of Russell

You will need to stay at least for a night in Auckland before this tour.

Auckland to Paihia by InterCity Coach Heading north to the Bay of Islands takes you along the coast road past the seaside villages of Orewa and Waiwera. Then its on to the township of Puhoi, New Zealand's only Bohemian settlement, then Warkworth and the harbour side city of Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa. Arriving into the sub tropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main tourist centre in the bay and has a great beach side atmosphere.

Shuttle Transfer - Paihia Coach Depot to Accommodation On arrival, you will be met by a Total Tours representative and will be transferred to your accommodation. If your transfer has not arrived within 5 minutes of the designated pick up time, please phone the number provided and get them to locate the pre-booked transfer for you.

Shuttle Transfer - Paihia to Waitangi You will be met by a Total Tours representative at your hotel and will be taken to Waitangi. If your shuttle has not arrived within 5 minutes of the designated pick up time, please phone the number provided and get them to locate the pre-booked transfer for you.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Guided Tour and Cultural Performance Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the local Maori 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 Maori 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 Maori weaponry and the haka - a war dance New Zealand is well known for.

Shuttle Transfer - Waitangi to Paihia You will be met by a Total Tours representative at Waitangi and will be taken back to your accommodation. If your shuttle has not arrived within 5 minutes of the designated pick up time, please phone the number provided and get them to locate the pre-booked transfer for you.

Russell Mini Tour with Fullers GreatSights Known until the early 1840s as Kororāreka, Russell was the first town and sea port in New Zealand. The Bay of Islands offered a safe anchorage and by the 1830s Russell had become a lawless trading centre where whalers, seafarers and merchants mixed with adventurers, deserters and escaped convicts from Australia. Today the town once called the “Hell Hole of the Pacific” is a charming and tranquil spot. This intimate one-hour coach tour visits many of Russell’s iconic locations that make it so significant in New Zealand’s early history. Your tour will be led by an engaging guide whose combination of historical knowledge and local insight will bring the culture and history of the area to life.

Bay of Islands Coastal Discovery Scenic Helicopter Flight Explore a little more of the coastline surrounding the Bay of Islands region on this 30 minute flight. Fly north via the picturesque Kerikeri Inlet, to the Cavalli Islands, before wandering down the coast over Matauri Bay, Takou Bay, Tapuataehi Bay, Purerua Peninsula and over the inner and outer Bay of Islands before landing back on the Paihia waterfront.

Paihia to Auckland by InterCity Coach 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 Auckland City.

You will need to stay at least for  a night in Auckland  after this tour.

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BAY OF ISLANDS TOUR & CRUISE from auckland

Bay of islands small group tour & cruise from auckland (currently unavailable).

(Currently unavailable) 

Bay of Islands Tour & Cruise, this small group, fully guided day trip combines the best of both a nature and highlights tour together to form the ultimate Bay of Islands experience. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Highlights:

• Bay of Islands Cruise
• Hole in the Rock
• Wildlife spotting
• Site of cultural and historical significance 

1.       Auckland - Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

2.        Whangarei Falls - Exiting Auckland we travel north through the stunning coastal countryside, over mountain ranges with spectacular views out to the Pacific Ocean and a variety of farm animals along the way. Stopping in Whangarei for a quick break we take advantage of and visit the very impressive Whangarei Falls.

3.        Paihia – Continuing north the beautiful scenery continues and our guide will entertain you with interesting information and stories of the area before we arrive at Paihia, the main town of Bay of Island, and our departure point for your cruise. While your guide collects the cruise ticket you will have a short time to explore this cute seaside town filled with art shops and cafés.

4.        Bay of Islands Cruise – Depart on a magical cruise exploring the extensive islands of the area. During this cruise the guides will tell you all about the rich history and nature of the region while searching for the marine life that has made these cruises so famous. With a little luck we will find dolphins or whales or both for you to view and enjoy.

5.        Hole in the Rock - Cape Brett - The cruise continues with a visit to the iconic Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett (weather permitting). This massive ocean archway has been thrilling guests for decades.

6.        Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island – No Bay of Islands cruise can be complete without spending some time at the beach on one of the islands. In our case we will stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. Have a swim, stroll along the white sand beach, walk to the top of the hill for scenic views over the entire Bay of Islands or simply recharge at the island’s fully licenced bar and café.

7.        Free time in the Bay  –   With the cruise coming to an end we have some flexible time for you to enjoy. Maybe stroll around the historically important town of Russell (New Zealand’s first capital) or time permitting and at your own expense head to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (the birthplace of New Zealand).

8.       Auckland – Sadly after this day in paradise we must start to head south again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland with secret stops along the way.

Inclusions:

• Small Group Fully Guided Tour
• Cruise tickets
• Bottled Water

Optional Extras:

• One way tour from Auckland to Paihia available 

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

• [email protected]
• +64 3 384 0999

• Bay of Islands

Auckland – Bay of Islands Day Tour LT38A

from 0 review

12.5 hours approximately

Cancellation

Up to 7 days

Day tour from Auckland to the Bay of Islands, a subtropical aquatic wonderland with 144 islands and the home of the Waitangi Treaty grounds. Depart Auckland and travel by coach north over Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and along the Hibiscus Coast, with golden sand beaches. Along the journey you may be able to view the kauri, one of New Zealand’s mighty native trees. The journey continues, travelling through Whangarei arriving in the beautiful township of Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Following arrival and time for a look around the township you will board the Dolphin Seeker, a purpose built catamaran for dolphin and whale viewing. Enjoy the large outdoor viewing decks as you cruise past the islands of the Bay. Keep a look out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales and other marine life. Cruise past the Cape Brett Lighthouse, before arriving at the majestic Hole in the Rock. Admire the rock walls towering above you as the skipper navigates right through the narrow space (conditions permitting) before heading back into the inner island of the Bay. There is time to explore on foot this beautiful area before returning to Auckland by coach.

Tour duration 12.5 hours.

Tour commences 07.30 am  Tour returns 8.00 pm

Attractions

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3-Day Bay of Islands Tour from Auckland

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Auckland
• Transportation by air-conditioned coach
• Commentary by local guide
• 2-nights accommodation in the Bay of Islands
• Hole in the Rock' Cruise (weather permitting)
• Russell township tour
• Entry/Admission - Waitangi Treaty Grounds
• Entry/Admission - Manginangina Kauri Walk
• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Please advise if your hotel is located outside the pick up area and we will provide you a meeting location for pick up and drop offs.
• InterCity Sky City Bus Terminal, 102 Hobson Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Most travelers can participate
• Independent touring - this is not a group tour - we use local suppliers & you will have a different coach & driver each day.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
• If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
• If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
• If you cancel within 2 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
• Waitangi Treaty Grounds

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3-Day Bay of Islands Tour from Auckland provided by Leisure Tours

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The Bay of Islands is an area on the east coast of the Far North District of the North Island in New Zealand. 700 Years ago it was the 1st settlement for the Maori tribes when they arrived in New Zealand.

The Bay of Islands has the Second bluest sky in the World after Rio De Janeiro.

This Full-day tour starts by picking you up from Auckland city.

We head north of Auckland on a three-hour scenic drive into The Far North District.

We along the way at the beautiful Whangarei Waterfalls, where you can hike around the falls for 30min and take lots of amazing photos. On arrival to Paihia you will join a 4 and half hour guided cruise in search of Dolphins and other Marine life in New Zealand and a visit to the famous Hole in the Rock.

You will be cruising on the Catamaran between the bays and the 144 islands in the area.

You will have a stopover on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach or walk to the top of the island to enjoy 360° views of this beautiful region. You will be visiting the famous Hole in the Rock on Motukokako Island as the boat sails right to the end of the Cape Brett Peninsula.

Then we head back to Auckland through the scenic roads of Northland.

Tour Highlights

• Pick up from Auckland central
• Snacks & Water
• 4.5 hours guided boat cruise
• Hole in the Rock Sighting
• Urupukapuka Island Stop
• Whangarei Waterfalls
• Professional tour guide/driver
• Drop off at Auckland central

Frequently Asked Questions

Its about 3hrs each way from Auckland.

We offer complimentary pick ups and drop offs from any Auckland Central Accommodation.

DESTINATIONS

Quick links, contact details.

Auckland & Beyond Tours +64 220 474 575 [email protected]

Get in touch

Website by Flow | Auckland & Beyond Tours. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2023.

Bay of Islands 3 Day Leisurely

Includes an accommodation and coach travel with InterCity out of Auckland to Paihia, from there enjoy a famous Hole in the Rock cruise, a beautiful Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach, and a tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Tour overview

Departs every day - flexible independent travel

This suggested tour costs from NZD$800 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

3 days/2 nights

Hotel 3 star

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 179 times in the last 7 days

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Day 1 - Auckland to Pahia and a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock

Heading north to the Bay of Islands takes you along the coast road past the seaside villages of Orewa and Waiwera. Then its on to the township of Puhoi, New Zealand's only Bohemian settlement, then Warkworth and the harbour side city of Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa. Arriving into the sub tropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main tourist centre in the bay and has a great beach side atmosphere.

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. The purpose-built catamaran is licensed by DOC (the Department of Conservation) for dolphin viewing and the crew have years of experience locating dolphins in these waters. Dolphin Seeker has indoor and outdoor seating available, and the largest outdoor viewing decks in the Bay of Islands.

Your accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia

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Day 2 - Experience 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 tour also includes a locally prepared lunch to keep you fuelled throughout the day.

Day 3 - Explore historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds then return to Auckland

You will be transferred from your accommodation in Paihia to Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the local Maori 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 Maori 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 Maori weaponry and the haka - a war dance New Zealand is well known for.

You will be transferred from Waitangi Treaty Grounds to your accommodation in Paihia.

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 Auckland City.

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NOTE: Quotes are subject to the availability of specific accommodations and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on today's exchange rate and are subject to change. Terms and Conditions apply.

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Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton 3 day tour

3 days, from Auckland to Auckland

Bay of Islands 3 Day Tour

Bay of Islands Escape

Hobbiton, Rotorua and Geothermal 3 Day Experience

Bay of Islands 3 Day Tour

This 3 day tour includes coach travel from Auckland to Paihia, a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock, Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach experience and a tour of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Independent tour (bus & coach)

This suggested tour costs from NZD$905 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

3 days/2 nights

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 669 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

At a glance - Bay of Islands 3 Day Tour

Day 1 : Auckland to Paihia then a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock Accommodation: Admirals View Lodge & Motel

Day 2 : Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach day tour Accommodation: Admirals View Lodge & Motel

Day 3 : Explore the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds then return to Auckland

Heading north to the Bay of Islands takes you along the coast road past the seaside villages of Orewa and Waiwera. Then its on to the township of Puhoi, New Zealand's only Bohemian settlement, then Warkworth and the harbour side city of Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa. Arriving into the sub tropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main tourist centre in the bay and has a great beach side atmosphere.

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. The purpose-built catamaran is licensed by DOC (the Department of Conservation) for dolphin viewing and the crew have years of experience locating dolphins in these waters. Dolphin Seeker has indoor and outdoor seating available, and the largest outdoor viewing decks in the Bay of Islands.

You will be transferred from Paihia Central to your accommodation. 

Your accommodation: Admirals View Lodge & Motel

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 tour also includes a locally prepared lunch to keep you fuelled throughout the day.

You will be transferred from your accommodation in Paihia to Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the local Maori 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 Maori 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 Maori weaponry and the haka - a war dance New Zealand is well known for.

You will be transferred from Waitangi Treaty Grounds to your accommodation in Paihia.

You will be transferred from your accommodation to Paihia Central. 

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 Auckland City.

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NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

See our privacy policy here

Some similar tours to this one

Waitomo, rotorua and hobbiton 3 day tour, hobbiton, rotorua and geothermal 3 day experience.

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Don't know where to start, best places to visit in auckland, tours and things to do in auckland, best day trips from auckland.

Auckland to the Bay of Islands

Driving Tours of New Zealand

Bruce Hart/Getty Images

The majority of visitors to New Zealand give the area north of Auckland a pass. After arriving in the country in Auckland they will tend to head south to Rotorua and then on to the South Island . Yet this is a great pity because Northland , the northernmost part of New Zealand, is one of the country's most beautiful and historic regions.

It also has one of the best climates in the country and can be pleasantly warm even in the winter. The best-known destination in Northland is the Bay of Islands. However, on the trip there from Auckland , there are many points of interest along the way, as well as other driving tours.

Auckland and North

As you travel along the northern motorway, the first settlement north of Auckland is the beachside resort town of Orewa. This requires a slight detour off the motorway but it is well worth it. It boasts one of the best beaches in the Auckland region and has some excellent cafes (highly recommended is the Walnut Cottage at the northern end of the beach).

If not stopping at Orewa, be aware that the stretch of motorway from the Orewa exit north is a toll road. The alternative is the coastal route, passing through Waiwera and Wenderholm. Although slightly longer it is a very pretty drive.

Warkworth and Approaches

The motorway ends just to the south of Puhoi. This is a tiny settlement with a fascinating Bohemian history; there are a small church and museum and a number of small cafes.

If you want to try some delicious New Zealand honey, the Honey Center just to the south of Warkworth is well worth a stop. A wide range of honey is available for tasting and purchase, including those made from such native flowers as rata, rimu, manuka, and pohutukawa . There is also a gift shop with honey-related products and a cafe.

Warkworth itself is a small service town with a number of cafes and shops. It is the gateway to the Matakana area, which has become a popular weekend retreat for Aucklanders. In addition to the many beautiful beaches, this has become quite a spot for vineyards. There are a number of excellent award-winning wineries, including such names as Heron's Flight and Providence.

Wellsford, Kaiwaka, and Mangawhai

The main road passes straight through the center of Wellsford, in itself a rather unremarkable little town. Slightly further on is Kaiwaka, which has a little more charm (including a funky cafe called Cafe Utopia and a sign which says "Last cheese for miles"). Just past Kaiwaka is a turnoff to the right to Mangawhai. Although quite a detour, this is a lovely coastal spot, with a magnificent ocean beach.

Waipu, Uretiti Beach, and Ruakaka

The road then climbs along a pass through the Brunderwyn Hills. At the top, there is a stunning view out to the east coast, with the Hen and Chicken Islands and the Whangarei Heads in the distance. Waipu is another small town with a European heritage, this time having been settled by immigrants from Scotland.

If you're wanting to take a break for an ocean swim, one of the best spots (and one of the easiest to get to) is at Uretiti Beach, just 8 kilometers (5 miles) north of Waipu. The beach part of a long sweep of sandy coastline called Bream Bay which stretches from Lang's Beach in the south to the entrance to Whangarei Harbor.

The beach is very close to the main road here and there is a camping ground as well as miles of beach to enjoy (be aware you may encounter nude swimmers as parts of this beach are popular with naturists; however, it is such a long stretch of beach it is never crowded). Another access point to the same stretch of beach is a bit further on at Ruakaka, where there are also shops and facilities. You can also camp .

Whangarei is Northland's largest city and the commercial and business hub for all the Northland region. It has many points of interest to explore if you have time. If you don't, take a break down by the harbor basin. Enjoy a coffee at one of the several cafes or browse through the shops and art galleries, the latter of which feature some excellent examples from regional artists.

Whangarei to Kawakawa

Although with lovely scenery, this stretch of the journey doesn't have much in the way of interesting places to stop at. The only exception is Kawakawa with the most unlikely of tourist attractions - public toilets; these were designed by renowned Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and are an artistic marvel.

Kawakawa to the Bay of Islands

From Kawakawa, the main highway veers inland although the road to the Bay of Islands continues north. The road is winding here in parts but there are some lovely stands of native bush along the way. And when you see the first glimpse of the sea at the top of the hill at Opua, you know you've arrived in the magical Bay of Islands.

Traveling Information

Northland roads are not the best in New Zealand. Due to the hilly terrain, even the main highway can be narrow, winding and in a relatively poor condition in places. It's perfectly drivable of course, but another option is to take a coach tour from Auckland to the Bay of Islands. This has the added advantages of being more relaxing and with an informative commentary

Bream Bay in Northland: The Complete Guide

The Top 10 Things to Do in New Zealand's Bay of Islands

The 10 Best Beaches of Northland, New Zealand

Northland Highlights: Best Things to See and Do

Top 10 Things to Do in Whangarei

The Best 15 Beaches in New Zealand

Take a Road Trip on New Zealand's North Island

The 12 Best Places to Go Camping in New Zealand

The Top 10 Offshore Islands in New Zealand

Top 15 Things to Do in New Zealand's North Island

The 15 Best Small Towns in New Zealand

Guide to the Kaipara Harbour

Top 9 Beaches in the Far North of New Zealand

The Top 10 Cities in New Zealand

Three-Day Driving Tour of the Coromandel from Auckland

North Island Beaches