Things to do in Bay of Islands, New Zealand. The Bay of Islands is a stunning holiday destination in subtropical Northland, in the far north of New Zealand. This elegant, vast district sits on the beautiful east coast and is centred around more than 144 subtropical islands, which has made it one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations for generations. Golden beaches, rolling green hills and native forest rich with birds sit alongside a coastline that invites you to get out on the water.
The region is equally rich in history and culture. Many of the pivotal moments in Aotearoa New Zealand’s story happened here, including the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the Treaty of Waitangi, which is why the area is often called the nation’s birthplace. The main hubs of Paihia, Opua and Waitangi sit close together, so it is easy to base yourself in one spot and explore the rest of the bay from there. Here is a look at the best things to do in the Bay of Islands.
Start at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are the most important historical site in the Bay of Islands, and they appear near the top of almost every list of things to do in the region. This is where the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi took place, an event that shaped the future of Aotearoa New Zealand. A visit here is both educational and moving, and the grounds are widely considered a must-see for first-time visitors. Allow plenty of time to explore the site and take in its significance before moving on to the rest of the bay.
Cruise to the Hole in the Rock and Beyond
A cruise is the classic Bay of Islands experience. With 144 islands to explore, boat trips are the best way to see the region’s scale and beauty. The Hole in the Rock cruise is one of the most famous options, and many operators combine it with island hopping so you can stop at islands such as Urupukapuka along the way. Keep an eye out for wildlife, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery as the boat weaves between the islands. If you prefer something quieter, a sailing trip offers a more relaxed way to spend an afternoon on the water.
Explore Historic Russell
Russell sits across the water from Paihia, and it is one of the most historic towns in New Zealand. It is an easy trip from the main hub, either by ferry or as part of a cruise, and it is a great place to spend a few hours wandering the streets. Many of the pivotal moments in the area’s early history played out here, so the town has plenty of character. Combine Russell with a cruise or make it the starting point for a day exploring the eastern side of the bay.
Hike Urupukapuka Island
Urupukapuka Island is one of the best places in the bay for a day on foot. Island hopping boats call here, and the walking tracks take you across rolling green hills with golden beaches below. The views over the surrounding islands are some of the best in the region, and the island has a relaxed, remote feel despite being so close to Paihia. Pack a picnic, take your time, and make the most of the trails before catching a later boat back.
Get Out on the Water with Kayaking and More
Water is the main attraction in the Bay of Islands. From Paihia and the surrounding hubs, you can hire a sea kayak and paddle along the coast, or join an activity such as snorkelling, paddleboarding, scuba diving or sailing. Fishing and boating are also popular, and the list of possible activities goes on. The water is warm enough in summer for swimming, and the clear conditions make it an excellent place for seeing marine life. If you want a hands-on way to explore the 144 islands, this is it.
Follow the Coastal and Forest Walking Tracks
On land, the Bay of Islands offers beautiful river and seaside walking tracks that suit a range of fitness levels. The Paihia to Opua Coastal Walkway is a favourite, linking two of the area’s main hubs along the water. For something different, a local kauri walk takes you into the rainforest to encounter the mighty kauri tree, which is a special experience in its own right. These walks are a good option for families and for anyone who wants to balance busy days on the water with some quiet time in nature.
Ride the Twin Coast Cycle Trail
If you would rather cover more ground, the Twin Coast Cycle Trail passes through the wider region and is one of the more popular things to do in the Bay of Islands. Cycling lets you explore at your own pace and see parts of the area that are harder to reach by car. You can ride sections of the trail from Paihia or plan a longer trip through Northland, depending on how much time you have.
See Haruru Falls
Haruru Falls is another natural highlight and one of the easiest things to add to a Bay of Islands itinerary. The falls are a short trip from Paihia, and the surrounding area has walking tracks that make it easy to spend a couple of hours there. If you are already planning to walk the Paihia to Opua Coastal Walkway, you can link the two for a longer day out. In the right light, the falls are a memorable sight.
Fly Over the Bay in a Helicopter
For a completely different perspective, consider a helicopter flight over the bay. Seeing the 144 islands, the coastline and the green hills from the air gives you a sense of just how large and beautiful the region is. It is one of the more adventurous activities in the Bay of Islands and a memorable way to celebrate a special occasion or simply treat yourself to a different view.
Explore Kerikeri and Kawakawa
The Bay of Islands district extends beyond the coast, and the towns of Kerikeri and Kawakawa are worth adding to your plans if you have time. Both appear on many lists of things to do in the wider area, and they give you a chance to see a different side of Northland beyond the water-based activities. Whether you spend an afternoon in each or just pass through, they add variety to a Bay of Islands trip.
Visit The Parrot Place
The Parrot Place is a popular attraction in the Bay of Islands and regularly appears on lists of must-see sights in the region. It is an especially good option for families and for anyone looking for a break from boats and walking tracks. It is an easy activity to combine with a wander around Paihia, and it adds a different kind of experience to an itinerary that is otherwise dominated by the outdoors.
Wander Around Paihia
Paihia is the main hub of the Bay of Islands and the natural starting point for most visitors. A simple wander around town is one of the most enjoyable free things to do, with the waterfront and the relaxed holiday atmosphere setting the tone. From Paihia you can join cruises, hire a sea kayak, walk the Paihia to Opua Coastal Walkway, or catch the ferry across to Russell. Opua and Waitangi are close by, so you have plenty of options for where to base yourself.
Things to Do in Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Look for the Hidden Gems
Beyond the headline attractions, the Bay of Islands rewards visitors who take the time to look for hidden gems. Because the region is made up of so many islands, there are quiet beaches and viewpoints that never feel crowded, even in peak season. Chat to local operators about the less obvious spots, take a sea kayak out for the day, or simply follow a walking track and see where it leads. The area has a way of surprising you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bay of Islands worth visiting?
Yes. The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday destinations, and the combination of 144 subtropical islands, golden beaches, native forest and significant historical sites makes it well worth a place on any Northland itinerary. The main hubs are easy to reach, and the range of activities means there is something for every kind of traveller.
What can I do for free in the Bay of Islands?
Several of the best experiences are free. You can wander around Paihia, walk the Paihia to Opua Coastal Walkway, follow river and seaside walking tracks, and see kauri trees in the local rainforest. Hiking on Urupukapuka Island is also an option, although you will need to pay for the boat trip to get there.
How long do you need in the Bay of Islands?
Most visitors should plan for at least two or three days. This gives you time for a Hole in the Rock cruise, a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a walk or water activity, and a day exploring Russell. With more time you can add Kerikeri, Kawakawa, Urupukapuka Island and a helicopter flight.
What is the Bay of Islands best known for?
The Bay of Islands is best known for its 144 subtropical islands and its many water-based activities, including boating, fishing, sailing, snorkelling, paddleboarding and kayaking. It is also known as the birthplace of the nation, because the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the Treaty of Waitangi, took place here at Waitangi.
