Overview
Available languages
3 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
This a very comprehensive tour of the Bay of Islands area and we pack a lot into the 3+ hours.
Visit the Waitangi area, Paihia, the Haruru Falls, Opua, and travel by vehicle ferry to the other side of the bay where we visit historic Russell, Long Beach, and enjoy fabulous views from the top of Flagstaff Hill.
You will get a real feel for the Bay of Islands area. It's geography, history and our way of life.
Benefit from an expert guide and a small group size.
Extensive, detailed commentary, delivered with a dose of humor. Spectacular scenic views. Free time in Russell to enjoy a glass of wine or lunch. Passenger ferry return to Paihia included. Hotel pick-up from the Paihia area or Cruise ship wharf.
Small group size limited to 11 people ensures a personalized
experience
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If you are unwell, please do not travel. I will refund you
What To Expect
Waitangi Golf Club
Following pick-up, there is a short drive to our first stop of the day, close to the Waitangi Golf Course, where we enjoy a fabulous scenic view of the Bay of Islands.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
We drive past the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where our guide explains in detail the history and the importance to New Zealand.
Options
Bay of Islands Scenic Tour
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Passenger ferry from Russell to Paihia
Car Ferry from Opua to Okiato
Air-conditioned vehicle
In-person guide is included which is the driver
Gratutities
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
64 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Beautiful Short Trip
RailOzzie,May 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Great local guide who shared his love of the area with us. We were on a cruise and were in port for the day. The pick up location was very handy and the information provided was spot on. We did a lot of sightseeing in the time we had and it was well worth the price.
A great introduction to the Bay of Islands
Jarrod M,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Michael was the perfect host who accommodated a later arrival (that never happened) from a cruise ship. Our group of 8 was show keys sights with local commentary. Great ending in Russell where additional time could be spent (or alternative dropped off back at Praihai). Highly recommnded tour.
While there are no...
Kim R,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00While there are no dramatic sites the tour does cover the area fairly well. the operator moved the end point to be close to the ship tender for our convenience.
Bay of Islands tour
Karen M,Apr 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour guide was great-took us all over-we got lots of pics and had a wonderful time. Definitely worth it!
An awesome experience in every way!
Carol C,Apr 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was an excellent experience and I highly recommend it! My husband and I were on a cruise and this excursion was perfect for us. The tour guide, Michael, picked us up along with other passengers at the cruise port and made sure we were able to return to the ship in ample time. Michael was a pleasure to explore with. He is so knowledgeable about the country... not only is he so interesting but also amusing. He keeps his tour group to a minimum, so don't hesitate to book with him if you have the opportunity, you'll be so glad you did!
Get amongst the locals in a small group
Erin S,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide took us to many scenic places with great views and used the time wisely we had. We saw Towns, waterfalls, ferry’s and beaches.
Outstanding and beautiful
KenBeck L,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was an excellent tour with many scenic spots with visitors to 3 small but interesting villages. As a bonus, the guide point out an authentic Thai food restaurant in Russel. We are thinking about coming back to the Bay of Islands for a couple months stay.
Great day out
Grant H,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Micheal was very informative of local culture and places to visit .......... ... .............. . ..
Local man with local...
Simon P,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Local man with local knowledge great sense of humour great trip showed the best fresh fish and chip shop in Russel, I agree having had snapper and chips
Great tour.
Melissa P,Feb 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mike was very informative and explained each stop and other points about Paihia and Russell. Mike did not rush us when we stopped at the destinations. Would recommended the tour.
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Operated by Bay of Islands Scenic Tours