Bay of Islands Scenic Tour

4.8
(41 reviews)

3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

This a very comprehensive tour of the Bay of Islands area and we pack a lot into the 3+ hours.
Visit the Waitangi area, Paihia, the Haruru Falls, Opua, and travel by vehicle ferry to the other side of the bay where we visit historic Russell, Long Beach, and enjoy fabulous views from the top of Flagstaff Hill.
You will get a real feel for the Bay of Islands area. It's geography, history and our way of life.

Benefit from an expert guide and a small group size.
Extensive, detailed commentary, delivered with a dose of humor. Spectacular scenic views. Free time in Russell to enjoy a glass of wine or lunch. Passenger ferry return to Paihia included. Hotel pick-up from the Paihia area or Cruise ship wharf.

Small group size limited to 11 people ensures a personalized
experience

What's Included

Passenger ferry from Russell to Paihia
Car Ferry from Opua to Okiato
Air-conditioned vehicle
In-person guide is included which is the driver
Gratutities

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Our main pick-up location for Cruise Ship passengers is from Waitangi Wharf. I'll e-mail you prior to the tour with a more detailed description and a map. We also pick-up from Maritime Building on Marsden Rd, next to the Paihia Wharf, but you would need to let me know. If you are staying in the Paihia area I also offer hotel pick-up. I'll e-mail you with a pick-up time.

OR
Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point

Your tour concludes in Russell, with a free (included) ferry ride back to Paihia. As an option, if you have mobility issues, I'm happy to take you back to Paihia in my bus.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    Following pick-up, there is a short drive to our first stop of the day, close to the Waitangi Golf Course, where we enjoy a fabulous scenic view of the Bay of Islands.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    We drive past the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where our guide explains in detail the history and the importance to New Zealand.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Next, it's a short drive the fabulous Haruru Falls where we stop for photos.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Paihia is the largest village in the Bay of Islands and most of the accommodation and shopping is in this area. We drive a circuit through the village. Our guide will give recommendations explanations and suggestions on the various restaurants, and shops. We continue along the waterfront with its beautiful beaches and picturesque Island views.

    Admission ticket free
  • 3

    From Paihia we enjoy a short scenic drive around the waterfront to Opua Marina, where we can stop for ice-creams, or coffees.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    From Opua Marina we take our bus on the vehicle ferry for a scenic water crossing to Okiato on the other side of the bay.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • (Pass by)

    Disembarking from the Vehicle Ferry we enjoy a short scenic past Orongo Bay to historic Russell township

    Admission ticket free
  • 5

    We drive to the top of Flagstaff Hill for expansive and spectacular views over the Bay of Islands. This is one of the highlights of the tour.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Next stop is beautiful Long Beach in Russell. Enjoy the views. Take your shoes off and get your feet wet in the sea.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    We loop through the historic village of Russell, where historical sites, shops & eateries are described in detail.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8

    Our tour concludes in Russell with as much free time as you want. Russell is a picturesque village with many stores. There's a point of difference here. Enjoy a glass of wine at one of the waterfront restaurants or have fish and chips on the beach. You will be given a passenger ferry ticket to return to Paihia. (free)

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    If you prefer not to use the Russell/Paihia passenger ferry you have the option of returning to Paihia on the bus.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • If you are unwell, please do not travel. I will refund you
Supplied by Bay of Islands Scenic Tours

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Shore Excursions
Small Group
Excellent Quality
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
New Product
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.8 Based on 41 41 reviews
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