

The Bay of Islands
Travel Guide
The Jewel of Northland
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s premier coastal destinations, famous for its turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and 144 picturesque islands. Visitors come for sailing, dolphin encounters, fishing, and rich history, including the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. The region’s subtropical climate and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for year-round exploration.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Discover New Zealand's most significant historic site, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Explore interactive museums, traditional Māori cultural performances, historic buildings, and powerful stories that shaped the nation.

Hole in the Rock Cruise
Cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands, home to more than 140 subtropical islands, secluded beaches, and abundant marine life. Many tours visit the famous Hole in the Rock and offer opportunities to spot dolphins.

Paihia & Russell
Explore the charming waterfront towns of Paihia and historic Russell, connected by a short ferry ride. Enjoy boutique shops, waterfront cafés, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by spectacular coastal scenery.
Weather
The Bay of Islands Weather
The Bay of Islands enjoys a warm subtropical climate with mild winters and sunny summers. With over 140 islands, sheltered bays, and beautiful beaches, it's a year-round destination for boating, relaxation, and outdoor adventures.
Summer
22°C - 28°C
December - February
Warm sunny days are perfect for sailing, swimming, island cruises, snorkelling, and dolphin watching.
Autumn
16°C - 24°C
March - May
Pleasant temperatures and calm seas make autumn ideal for fishing, coastal walks, historic sites, and scenic cruises.
Winter
10°C - 18°C
June - August
Mild winters offer peaceful beaches, quieter attractions, and comfortable conditions for exploring Waitangi and Russell.
Spring
14°C - 22°C
September - November
Blooming coastal landscapes and warming weather make spring perfect for kayaking, wildlife encounters, and island adventures.
Wild Kiwi Tours
How we explore The Bay of Islands
Where to Eat
Best Local Eats in The Bay of Islands
Reviews
What Travellers Say
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about The Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is famous for its 144 islands, sheltered turquoise waters, dolphin cruises, sailing, fishing, beaches, and rich Māori and European history. It is also home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where Te Tiriti o Waitangi / the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.
The best things to do in the Bay of Islands include taking a boat cruise to the Hole in the Rock, visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, exploring Paihia, Russell, and Kerikeri, going dolphin watching, kayaking, sailing, fishing, and relaxing on island beaches.
Yes, the Bay of Islands is worth visiting for travellers who enjoy beaches, history, wildlife, and water-based activities. It offers a mix of scenic island cruises, cultural experiences, coastal walks, historic towns, and relaxed seaside holidays, making it one of Northland’s most popular destinations.
The best time to visit the Bay of Islands is during summer, from December to February, when the weather is warm and ideal for swimming, sailing, cruises, and beach activities. Spring and autumn are also great options, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and good conditions for sightseeing.
Most visitors need 2 to 3 days in the Bay of Islands to experience the main highlights, including Paihia, Russell, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a harbour cruise, and nearby beaches. A longer stay allows time for sailing, fishing, island hopping, and exploring Kerikeri or Cape Reinga.
Explore More
Other Locations
Nearby destinations on the same island, worth pairing with this trip.

























































