2 Day Bay of Islands Encounter Independent Coach Tour

North Island

NZ Fine Touring

from

US$445

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Two men greeting each other with a hongi at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Northland, New Zealand

Experiences

Coach Tours

North Island

Start: Auckland

Duration: 2 days

Discover Northland’s Coastal Beauty and Historic Highlights

This 2 day Bay of Islands Encounter offers a relaxing escape from Auckland into the subtropical beauty of Northland. Travel through scenic coastal landscapes to Paihia, where golden beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere create the perfect seaside retreat. Highlights include the culturally significant Waitangi Treaty Grounds and a guided exploration of historic Russell .

Throughout the journey, experience a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions. From Māori heritage and colonial stories to stunning coastal views, each moment offers something unique. This short yet rewarding itinerary delivers a memorable introduction to the Bay of Islands.

Māori cultural group performing haka inside a carved meeting house at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Northland, New Zealand

Traditional Māori carving studio at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Visitors exploring the interior exhibits of Treaty House at Waitangi historic site in Bay of Islands

Whare Waka Café on the waterfront in the Bay of Islands

A historic church with a well-preserved graveyard, surrounded by lush greenery under a bright blue sky.

A Russell Mini Tours bus parked outside Christ's Church, a historic church with a graveyard, surrounded by lush greenery on a sunny day.

A scenic beachfront picnic area with wooden tables, lush green grass, and a peaceful sandy cove with calm blue waters.

A stunning panoramic view of Long Beach Bay with calm turquoise waters, lush greenery, and a golden sandy shoreline under a bright blue sky.

Aerial view from helicopter over Piercy Island Hole in the Rock Bay of Islands New Zealand

Helicopter landing platform on motu Piercy Island Hole in the Rock Bay of Islands

Salt Air helicopter at landing platform near Hole in the Rock Cape Brett Bay of Islands

Salt Air helicopter cockpit view approaching Hole in the Rock Piercy Island Bay of Islands

Salt Air helicopter landing on Piercy Island at Hole in the Rock Bay of Islands New Zealand

Inclusions

Accommodation for 1 night staying in Motel
Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App
The Visitor Promise - Cultural Learning Course
Auckland to Paihia by InterCity Coach
Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Guided Tour, Cultural Performance & Return Shuttle
Russell Mini Tour with Fullers Bay of Islands
Paihia, Bay of Islands to Auckland with InterCity Coach

Itinerary

Day 1: Auckland to Paihia

Family walking with a guide through the grounds of Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Northland, New Zealand

Leave Auckland behind as you travel north through scenic coastal landscapes and rolling countryside. Today introduces you to the relaxed charm and natural beauty of the Bay of Islands.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Auckland to Paihia
Journey along the Hibiscus Coast and through Northland’s rural heart, passing seaside villages and lush farmland. The drive offers a scenic introduction to the region before arriving in the vibrant seaside town of Paihia .

Included: Waitangi Treaty Grounds guided tour, cultural performance and return shuttle
Explore one of New Zealand’s most important historic sites, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. The guided tour and cultural performance provide fascinating insights into Māori heritage, traditions, and the stories that shaped the nation.

Accommodation: Admirals View Lodge & Motel, Paihia

Stay in a peaceful, centrally located property just a short stroll from Paihia’s beach, cafés, and waterfront. The relaxed setting and comfortable, self-contained rooms offer the perfect place to unwind by the coast.

Day 2: Bay of Islands to Auckland via Russell

Hole in the Rock on Piercy Island near Cape Brett Bay of Islands New Zealand

Spend your morning exploring the historic charm of Russell before beginning your journey back to Auckland. This day blends heritage, coastal scenery, and a relaxed return through Northland.

Included: Russell mini tour with Fullers GreatSights
Discover New Zealand’s first European settlement on a guided coach tour through Russell’s historic streets. Visit landmarks such as Christ Church and Pompallier Mission while enjoying panoramic views from Flagstaff Hill.

Suggested Activity: Hole in the Rock helicopter scenic flight and landing
Take to the skies for a unique perspective of the Bay of Islands and its iconic Hole in the Rock. Landing on the island offers a rare opportunity to stand atop dramatic cliffs and take in breathtaking coastal views.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Paihia to Auckland
Travel south through Kawakawa, Warkworth, and the Northland countryside as you return to Auckland. The journey offers a final chance to enjoy the region’s scenic landscapes before arriving back in the city.

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BOOKING DETAILS:

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Accommodation

Optional Tours

Please tick any of these popular tours if you want to include them.

Land on the Hole in the Rock - Heli Scenic Flight & Landing Time Away: 35 minutes

Extra accommodation options

Please select any stops where you require extra nights accommodation. If you require 2 or more extra nights anywhere, please mention where in comments.