Bay of Islands

No Bay of Islands berth can accommodate cruise vessels, so ships anchor near Russell and bring passengers ashore by tender. Most tenders land near Paihia, a pleasant 25-minute waterfront walk away, although arrangements vary by ship and day. Some vessels take independent visitors to Paihia while landing organised tours at Waitangi, where coaches have more space. A passenger ferry makes the brief journey across the bay between Paihia and Russell.

Complimentary shuttle buses carry passengers from Waitangi Wharf to Paihia Wharf.

Russell’s tender wharf sits centrally on the town’s waterfront.

Warm blue water, golden shores and exceptionally clear skies define the Bay of Islands. Around 150 islands—many still secluded—and several coastal settlements form one of New Zealand’s favourite holiday areas. Waitangi is rich in Māori history, myth and legend; Russell is a quiet fishing community; Kerikeri has orchards and wineries; and conveniently placed Paihia makes an excellent base for exploring the region.

Paihia is the Bay of Islands’ main centre, a small modern town whose population rises sharply in summer and which offers dozens of shops, restaurants and motels. A short passenger-ferry crossing leads to Russell, a quieter, characterful settlement with handsome old buildings and a lovely waterfront.

The Treaty of Waitangi created a British Governor for New Zealand, acknowledged Māori ownership of land and other property, and granted Māori the rights of British subjects. Important differences between its English and Māori texts mean there is still no agreement about precisely what was promised.

Paihia and Russell are both compact townships that can be comfortably explored on foot.

Free shuttle services stop at Paihia Wharf and within the town, convenient for browsing its shops and craft markets.

Visit Paihia Art and Craft Market on the Village Green, Marsden Rd.

One of Northland’s best authentic craft markets occupies the Village Green. Across 16 stalls, visitors can meet artists and makers directly and buy distinctive locally created pieces.

The market operates only when a cruise ship is visiting.

Regular ferries from Paihia Wharf make the quick crossing to Russell. A single journey costs NZD$7 and a return is NZD$12, with boats leaving every 20 minutes from 7am until 10pm each day.

For excitement beyond dolphin swimming or fishing, ride a powerboat through The Hole in The Rock. Waves, salt and wind carved this natural channel, whose entrance is roughly 240 ft across despite appearing tiny from afar. Passing through at speed delivers a particularly exhilarating experience.

Haruru means big noise, an apt name for Haruru Falls and its unusual, dramatic horseshoe cascade. Māori tradition says a taniwha, or water monster, inhabits the lagoon below. Reach the falls on foot via the Waitangi track or drive to Haruru Falls township, only 3 km from Paihia. During the 1800s, more than 100 Māori villages stood along the river.

At Kawiti Caves, enter a celebrated underground milky way of glow worms. Stalactite and stalagmite passages open into hidden chambers, including the Waiomio night sky, where the glowing insects appear almost within reach. The caves lie 20 km from Paihia.

Along the Kerikeri Art and Craft Trail, makers sell pottery, paintings, greenstone carvings and other handcrafted work. Artisan cheese and chocolate add tempting edible choices, so arrive with both an appetite and room in your budget.

Paihia’s main shopping area lies directly across the road from the wharf.

New Zealand’s currency is the New Zealand dollar. Some businesses, particularly in visitor areas, accept foreign money. As an approximate guide, US$1=NZD1.30.

Cash machines, often called the hole in the wall locally, can be found in almost every town.

New Zealand officially recognises English, Māori and New Zealand Sign Language. English is used universally and follows Commonwealth, or British, spelling.

Dial 111 for emergency services in New Zealand.

The public library offers internet access and complimentary Wi-Fi.