3 Day Bay of Islands Short Break

North Island

NZ Fine Touring

from

US$542

per adult

Enquire Now

Haka cultural experience Waitangi Treaty Grounds Bay of Islands Northland

Experiences

Coach Tours

North Island

Start: Auckland

Duration: 3 days

Paihia, Waitangi and the Best of Coastal Northland

This 3 day Bay of Islands Short Break from Auckland offers a perfectly paced escape into Northland’s subtropical paradise, blending coastal beauty with rich cultural heritage. Stay in Paihia, the gateway to the Bay of Islands, where golden beaches, island-dotted waters and relaxed seaside charm create an unforgettable setting.

Experience the region’s highlights with a scenic cruise to the iconic Hole in the Rock and a visit to the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. With a balance of guided experiences and free time, this short getaway delivers a refreshing mix of nature, history and authentic New Zealand culture

Waka Ngātokimatawhaorua ceremonial Māori canoe at Waitangi

Māori wharenui carvings interior Waitangi Treaty Grounds Northland New Zealand

Interactive pounamu exhibit Waitangi Treaty Grounds Bay of Islands

Māori cultural performance poi Waitangi Treaty Grounds Bay of Islands Northland

Three people carrying sandboards up a steep dune at Te Paki Sand Dunes in Northland, New Zealand, under a clear blue sky.

A stunning aerial view of 90 Mile Beach in New Zealand, showcasing its vast golden shoreline and turquoise ocean waves stretching into the horizon.

Cape Reinga Lighthouse in New Zealand, standing against a clear blue sky with a yellow directional signpost indicating distances to various world cities.

A breathtaking aerial view of Urupukapuka Island in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, featuring lush green hills, sandy beaches, and turquoise waters.

Tourists on a boat watching dolphins swimming in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, capturing the moment on their phones.

A bottlenose dolphin swimming in the clear blue waters of the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.

Two hikers with backpacks enjoying a scenic view of Otehei Bay, Bay of Islands, New Zealand, with turquoise waters and a sandy beach below.

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

Christ's Church, a historic church with a peaceful graveyard, surrounded by lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Visitors at Flagstaff Hill enjoy panoramic ocean views, with a historic flagpole and a cruise ship in the distance under a clear blue sky.

Inclusions

Accommodation for 2 nights staying in Motels
Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App
The Visitor Promise - Cultural Learning Course
Auckland to Paihia by InterCity Coach
Paihia Central/Coach Stop to Paihia Accommodation Transfer
Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Guided Tour, Cultural Performance & Return Shuttle
Hole in the Rock Cruise with Fullers
Paihia, Bay of Islands to Auckland by Intercity Coach

Itinerary

Day 1: Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands

Paihia Waterfront at sunset in the Bay of Islands New Zealand

Leave Auckland and travel north through scenic coastal landscapes and rolling countryside into the subtropical Bay of Islands. As you arrive in Paihia, you’ll notice the shift to a relaxed seaside atmosphere, with golden beaches and calm turquoise waters welcoming you.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Auckland to Paihia
Journey along the Hibiscus Coast and through Northland’s farmland, passing charming rural towns and coastal viewpoints. This comfortable coach trip offers a scenic introduction to the Far North’s natural beauty and slower pace of life.

Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia

Stay in a centrally located waterfront hotel just moments from Paihia Wharf and local cafés. The relaxed setting and convenient location make it easy to explore the town or simply unwind by the water.

Day 2: Bay of Islands Cruise and Free Time

Aerial view of Otehei Bay in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, featuring turquoise waters, a pier, and a boat cruising through.

Today is all about experiencing the beauty of the Bay of Islands, a region known for its island-dotted waters and abundant marine life. You’ll have a mix of guided exploration and free time to soak up the coastal surroundings.

Included: Hole in the Rock Cruise
Cruise through the bay past historic islands and dramatic coastal scenery towards Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep watch for dolphins, seabirds and other marine life while enjoying uninterrupted views of this spectacular region.

Suggested Activity: Russell Mini Tour
Take a short ferry ride across to Russell and explore New Zealand’s first European settlement. This charming village offers historic landmarks, stunning harbour views and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3: Paihia to Auckland

Sky Tower Auckland in rainbow colours with Harbour Bridge and New Zealand Maritime Museum at night

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Paihia before beginning your journey back to Auckland. Take in the final views of the Bay of Islands as you depart this beautiful coastal region.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Paihia to Auckland
Travel south through Northland’s rolling countryside and rural townships, retracing your scenic route back to the city. This comfortable journey offers time to reflect on your coastal escape and memorable experiences.

Meals included: Breakfast

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