2-Day Bay of Islands Tour & Cruise (No Accommodation)

1. Auckland - Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out over the iconic Harbour Bridge, your guide will set the scene for your adventure and point out some top highlights along the way.

2. The Kauri Museum - Leaving Auckland, we head west through New Zealand's kumara capital. Our first stop is the Kauri Museum, where you'll learn about New Zealand's largest and most famous native tree. Discover how the kauri has supported lives and livelihoods for centuries and understand their fragility. You might even have the chance to help in the conservation of these mighty trees.

3. Waipoua Forest - Continuing north, you'll enjoy beautiful scenery and interesting stories from our guide before we enter the majestic Waipoua Forest. As the drive winds through the ancient forest, we reach Tane Mahuta, the Lord of the Forest.

4. Opononi Beach - Take a lunch break in the beachside settlement of Opononi with views over the Hokianga Harbour.

5. Waitangi Treaty Grounds - After lunch, we head north to Waitangi, the birthplace of our nation. Here, you'll enjoy a fully guided tour and cultural performance at New Zealand's most important historic site.

6. Overnight Stay - Paihia - Arrive in Paihia and check into your hotel (self-booked). Take a relaxing walk along the beach and end the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

1. Bay of Islands Cruise - After breakfast, we set off on a magical cruise exploring the many islands in the area. During this 4.5-hour cruise, the guides will share the rich history and nature of the region while looking for the marine life that has made these cruises famous. With some luck, you might see dolphins or whales.

2. Hole in the Rock - Cape Brett - The cruise continues with a visit to the iconic Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett (weather permitting). This massive ocean archway has been thrilling guests for decades.

3. Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island - No Bay of Islands cruise is complete without some time at the beach on one of the islands. We'll stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can swim, stroll along the white sand beach, walk to the hilltop for scenic views over the entire Bay of Islands, or simply relax at the island’s fully licensed bar and café.

4. Depart Paihia for Auckland - Sadly, after this day in paradise, we head south again. However, the journey back to Auckland includes secret stops along the way.

5. Auckland - As we arrive back in Auckland, your guide will drop you off at your hotel, marking the end of your Bay of Islands Tour with us.