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Bay of Islands 2-Day Tour & Cruise from Auckland (hotel included)

Offered by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

From

$899.00 per person

4.9 (24 reviews)

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Booking handled by our partner, Viator

36 hours (approx.)Pickup Available Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey from the bustling streets of Auckland to the tranquil shores of Paihia, experiencing the essence of New Zealand's cultural and natural splendor. This meticulously crafted tour offers an insightful exploration that begins with a scenic drive out of Auckland, during which your knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the region's landmarks and history.

Your adventure leads you to the Kauri Museum in Dargaville, where you delve into the fascinating story of New Zealand’s iconic kauri trees. This visit sets a reflective tone as you journey through the verdant Waipoua Forest. Although the Tāne Mahuta Walk is temporarily closed for preservation, the drive through the forest remains a serene encounter with ancient nature, underscored by discussions on conservation efforts.

In Opononi, enjoy a lunch break with panoramic views of Hokianga Harbour, a place once charmed by Opo, a famously friendly dolphin. The narrative continues northward to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a pivotal site in New Zealand's history. Here, engaging guides and dynamic cultural performances enrich your understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi's significance, complemented by tours of the historic Treaty House and the intricately carved Whare Rūnanga.

The expedition extends with an overnight stay in Paihia, followed by a morning cruise through the Bay of Islands. This cruise not only promises breathtaking views along the Cape Brett Peninsula but also the thrill of marine wildlife sightings. Anchoring at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, you have the freedom to swim, hike, or simply unwind at the beachside café.

This tour, rich in history and natural beauty, concludes with a leisurely return to Auckland, making thoughtful stops that enhance your experience of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and stories.

What's Included

  • Small Group and Fully Guided Tour
  • 1 night twin share in a 3 star hotel
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entry to Kauri Museum, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Cruise tickets
  • Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person

Not Included:

  • Dinner
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Restroom on board

What To Expect

  1. 1

    Auckland Central

    Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

    Pass by without stopping

  2. 2

    The Kauri Museum

    Exiting Auckland, we travel west and follow the road through the kumara capital of New Zealand, Dargaville. Our first stop sees us visiting the Kauri Museum, to understand the remarkable story of New Zealand’s largest and most famous native tree.

    30 minutes

    Admission: Included

  3. 3

    Tane Mahuta Walk

    Due to exciting preservation efforts, access to Tāne Mahuta, the world’s largest living kauri tree, will be temporarily closed from September 30 for approximately 8 weeks. This is part of a vital project to protect the tree and surrounding area from the risk of kauri dieback. While the Tāne Mahuta Walk will be closed, we will still pass through the breathtaking Waipoua Forest, where you can enjoy its serene beauty and learn about the ongoing efforts to protect these natural wonders for future generations.

    15 minutes

  4. 4

    Opononi

    Enjoy a lunch break at your own cost in the beachside settlement of Opononi with views over the Hokianga Harbour. Opononi was made famous in the mid 1950s by the tame dolphin Opo, who delighted visitors with its friendly antics.

    30 minutes

  5. 5

    Waitangi Treaty Grounds

    After enjoying the Hokianga Harbour, we journey further north towards the ‘birthplace of our nation’, Waitangi, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Here we will be treated to a complete guided tour and cultural performance at Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important historic site. Explore New Zealand’s Māori heritage through interactive museums, traditional performances and historic buildings, including the Treaty House and the beautifully carved Whare Rūnanga.

    1 hour 30 minutes

    Admission: Included

  6. 6

    Paihia

    Arrive in the beachside town of Paihia and check into your hotel, before taking a relaxing walk along the beach and ending the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

    8 hours

  7. 7

    Bay of Islands

    After breakfast, we embark on a magical cruise to explore the area’s extensive islands. During the cruise, the guides will share the rich history and natural beauty of the Bay of Islands while we search for the marine life that makes these cruises so famous. With a bit of luck, we might spot some playful doplphins and whales for you to enjoy! The cruise runs for 4.5 hours, taking your on a scenic journey through the Bay of Islands and along the Cape Brett Peninsula.

    4 hours

  8. 8

    Urupukapuka Island

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

    1 hour

  9. 9

    Paihia

    Sadly after this day in paradise we must start to head south again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland with secret stops along the way.

    5 hours

  10. 10

    Auckland

    As we arrive back into Auckland, our guide will drop you off to your hotel, marking the end of your Bay of Islands tour with us.

    Pass by without stopping

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup available

Please select your preferred pickup location when booking through Viator.

Pickup details

- Enjoy the convenience of pick-ups from selected hotels. If your location isn’t listed, simply choose the nearest available option & meet us there! - Pick-ups begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside by this time....

Important Information

Hotel Pick ups start 15 minutes before the tour time. Please check your pick up time in tour information to ensure you do not miss your pickup. You will be picked up in a minibus with Cheeky Kiwi Travel sign-writing on it. No refunds given for no show passengers.

Additional Info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have a car seat one can be provided (with 24 hours’ notice).
  • Solo travellers will be required to pay a Solo Surcharge for Accommodation (+$150 NZD)
  • Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties

Cancellation Policy

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