Indulge in culture
Got the time? Why not spend a week exploring the beauties of the Bay of Islands, and experience our stunning ocean cruises and the rich history of the Bay!
Day One: Monday
Kicking off your week in the Bay with....
Arrive at Paihia in the morning!
Dive straight into your week-long adventure and spend the first day on a yacht charter with Bayscapes! Departing from Paihia Wharf, the 6-hour trip promises scenic views as you set sail to a secluded island where you can enjoy lunch with a swim, snorkel, paddleboard or walk before cruising back to Paihia. It’s the perfect way to spend a family day out and settle into your exciting adventure!
Upon arrival back to Paihia, check into your picturesque waterfront accommodation – The Copthorne Hotel and Resort, located in the historical Waitangi. For dinner: head to King Wah Chinese Seafood Restaurant in central Paihia waterfront to combine great food with great sunset views over the harbour.
Day Two: Tuesday
The adventures continue
Enjoy a special day exploring the beautiful and historic township of Russell! It’s easy and fun to catch the passenger ferry over the harbour. Once you step foot on these historic shores, cruise down the road to the Pompallier Mission and Printing Room, and take a guided tour of the House and surrounding gardens before exploring the gift shop and having a tasty lunch at the quaint onsite cafe. In the afternoon, take the chance to explore the wider Russell area, Russell Mini Tours runs excellent small bus trips around the beaches and town, all while providing informative and interesting commentary! In the Evening head to Hone’s Garden which boasts a fantastic atmosphere and even better pizza, have dinner here before cruising back over water to Paihia.
Day Three: Wednesday
Head over the hill to Waitangi
Start your morning the right way with a yummy brunch at the Whare Waka Cafe @ Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Then head up and explore the birthplace of our nation, where two captivating museums await your exploration at Waitangi Treaty Grounds. As the afternoon rolls in be sure to get outdoors and active by heading up to the renowned Waitangi Mountain Bike Pike. Hit some of the hundreds of diverse trails on bikes hired from Paihia Mountain Bikes which are located conveniently onsite! The day will fly by as you test your skills on different trails, there is a trail for everyone, with tracks available graded Level 1 through to Level 5. After a physical, active day, no better place to unwind than Charlotte’s Kitchen, who are located right on the wharf, and serves amazing pizza with even better vibes.
Day Four: Thursday
Out into the Bay
Now that you are well acquainted with the inner Bay of Islands area, it’s time to get out and about and experience what the islands have to offer! The best way to see the Bay is on a Hole in the Rock Trip with Fullers GreatSights, you’ll get to see the world-famous Hole in the Rock, and maybe even pass through it, as well as discover the islands and even sometimes view wild marine mammals before stopping in at Otehei Bay. Cash in some extra Island time by booking to return on a later ferry, and use our extra time to hike Urupukapuka Island, push yourself to the top and reap the rewards: 360 views of the whole Bay of Islands chain. Rest and refuel at the Otehei Bay Cafe, Bar & Restaurant. Catch your ferry back to Paihia and have a well-earned evening at Tipsy Oyster Tapas and Bar before heading back to your accommodation!
Day Five: Friday
Discover Kerikeri
30-minute drive from Paihia, another Bay of Islands gem awaits – Kerikeri! Head down to the Kerikeri Basin and discover all the hidden gems and history-rich spots. The Stone Store and Kemp House is the perfect spot to browse for gifts and souvenirs and the lawn of Kemp House is a beautiful place to sit and take in the environment! Walk the Rainbow Falls track, at the end, see where the stunning waterfall cascades into the fairy-like pools with the native forest surroundings. Have lunch at Super Bowl on Kerikeri Road before taking a mini road trip slightly north to visit Matauri Bay, perfect for swimming, surfing, or even just a beach walk. On your way back to Paihia, you can wander through The Old Packhouse Night Market and find something freshly cooked for dinner while you enjoy the charm of the little community.
Day Six: Saturday
West Coast time!!
Make an early start on your Saturday and head over to the West Coast! The Hokianga is an area surrounding the Hokianga Harbour, known in full as Te Hokianga-nui-a-Kupe. This area is home to the Manea Footprints of Kupe cultural experience. Experience guided storytelling through art, taonga, film and performance in this 75-minute multi-sensory experience. Afterwards, stop by the Horeke Tavern for a classic Kiwi pub lunch before making the drive back to Paihia where can have an afternoon in-house at SOS Beauty Studio, followed by dinner at Jimmy Cooks @ The Copthorne Bay of Islands.
Day Six: Saturday
Last day in the bay, for now
For the last day of your paradise adventure, it’s only right that you see the Bay from the heights, how do you ask? …With a Flying Kiwi Parasail trip of course! Spend the morning taking it all in from the sky, an adrenaline-filled experience you will never forget! Relax after with a coffee and treat from the Third Wheel Coffee Co in the heart of Paihia. To stretch your legs before returning home, take one last walk. This time up the tucked away School Road Track. Once you reach the summit, there are amazing views back down onto Paihia, giving you one last new perspective over the township. Exhausted no doubt – enjoy your trip home reflecting on all the fun you have had.
We look forward to seeing you back soon!!