Bay of Islands

PRICED FROM $1,295* | DURATION: 3 days & 2 nights

Discover the ‘winterless north’ in the sub-tropical Bay of Islands, a foodie’s paradise rich in history, authentic culture and natural beauty.

Regional Highlights

The Bay of Islands, located in the Northland region of New Zealand, is renowned for its natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor activities.

Russell: Holding significance as one of the country's earliest European settlements, Russell had a rowdy reputation during the whaling and trading eras of the 19th century. Russell is now a charming historic town with heritage buildings, galleries, and cafes.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds: This is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and various Māori chiefs, marking the beginning of New Zealand as a nation. The grounds offer a rich cultural experience with guided tours and traditional Māori performances.
Art and Culture: The region is rich in artistic expression, with galleries showcasing local and national talent. The vibrant culture of the Māori people is also evident in various cultural performances and crafts.
Local Cuisine: Sample fresh seafood and local delicacies at the many restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the Bay of Islands, particularly in Paihia, Russell, and Kerikeri.
Hiking and Nature Reserves: There are several scenic walking tracks in the area, including the Opua Forest Paihia Lookout Track and the coastal track from Paihia to Opua.
Fishing and Water Activities: Fishing charters are popular in the Bay of Islands, known for its excellent game fishing. Other water activities include sailing, snorkeling, and diving.
Dolphin Watching: The Bay of Islands is home to several pods of dolphins. Boat tours offer opportunities to watch these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
Historical Sites: Aside from Waitangi, the Bay of Islands boasts other historical sites such as the Stone Store and Kemp House in Kerikeri, which are among New Zealand's oldest surviving buildings.

Includes

Guided transfer Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands including a visit to Hundertwasser Art Centre
Return ferry ride to visit Russell
Winery Cellar Door Lunch including
- Boat transfers
- A glass of wine on arrival at the Tasting Room
- Tour of the winery
- Wine tasting
- Two-course lunch with two glasses of wine
2 nights’ accommodation at the 4-star Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands
Full cooked breakfast daily
Complimentary upgrade to next room type based on availability
Transfer from Bay of Islands to Airport

*Price per person - share twin based on low season rates

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1. AUCKLAND / BAY OF ISLANDS

Heading north from Auckland, enjoy the relaxed drive with your guide and driver to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Along the way visit the quirky Hundertwasser Art Centre celebrating painter, architect, ecologist and visionary Friedensreich Hundertwasser and contemporary Māori artists. Stop to discover artisan produces of honey, cheese and the famous Makana Chocolates, hand-made from only the freshest, natural ingredients. Watch how chocolates are made, taste a few samples and, of course, shop for delicious chocolates.
With over 140 islands to choose from in the Bay of Islands, whether it’s fun and adventure or peaceful relaxation you’re looking for, it’s out there waiting for you. This afternoon board a short ferry ride across to the quaint whaling town of Russell, New Zealand’s first capital. Historic buildings in Russell include Christ Church, which still bears bullet holes from the Māori Wars. Wander through the village and dine at your leisure. We highly recommend the Duke of Marlborough Hotel – an award-winning restaurant who have been refreshing rascals and reprobates since 1827 on the waterfront of Russell.
Your accommodation is an island-style getaway at Scenic Hotel Pahia. Surrounded by lush subtropical garden, it has an all important on-site restaurant and swimming pool. Choose to stay right where you are and relax or use it as a base for exploring the wider Bay of Islands.
**Stay: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands**

DAY 2. BAY OF ISLANDS

Well known to many for being a coastal wonderland, the Bay of Islands and surrounding areas will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into another world.
Warmed by Northland’s long summers, dried by the sea breeze and nurtured in ancient clay and sandstone soils, there is no better way to understand what goes into a glass of wine than tasting it overlooking the vineyard where it’s grown. Cruise across the bay experiencing wine-tasting with superb views. Your delicious two course lunch is prepared using the best seasonal produce from the Northland region while overlooking beautiful vineyards, native bush and farmland.
**Stay: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands**

DAY 3. BAY OF ISLANDS / DEPART

Enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure before transferring to the airport and departing on connecting flights homeward bound.
If you have time, learn all about New Zealand’s history at The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the place where New Zealand’s founding document was signed between Māori leaders and Queen Victoria in 1840. You can also enjoy the many galleries and craft shops. Be sure to take time to relax for lunch enjoying fresh local fare at one of the region’s cafés.

Your Accommodation

Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands | 58 Seaview Road, Paihia

Located in Paihia, Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands is the perfect base to explore the rest of Northland, Bay of Islands and the Far North region. Situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihia, it’s a pleasant stroll into town to the main wharf, visitor activities, fine dining and shopping.