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Links & Information
(1) Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Gifted to the Nation by Lord and Lady Bledisloe in 1932, The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a unique and fascinating insight into New Zealand's historic past. New Zealand's most significant document, The Treaty of Waitangi, first signed here in 1840 between Maori Chiefs and the British Crown became the basis for life in NZ as we know it today. The Waitangi National Trust Treaty Grounds houses the historic Treaty House, a fully carved Maori Meeting House, Maori War Canoe and Exhibitions, with extensive park-like grounds with abundant native bird life, heritage trees and wonderful Bay views.
(2) Fullers Ferries
Cape Brett Hole in the Rock
Board a luxury catamaran for the most popular cruise in the Bay of Islands. A high speed vessel will whisk you on a comfortable journey out through game fishing waters to the Cape Brett Lighthouse. Next is Motukokako Island and the famous "Hole in the Rock"; the excitement grows as we make a passage through the Hole and on to the majestic Grand Cathedral Cave. On the return journey you meander through the inner islands. View sandy beaches, beautiful bays and marine wildlife as your skipper gives an informative commentary. Only Fullers includes an island stopover on beautiful Urupukapuka Island where there are numerous activities. Enjoy one of the scenic walks, a swim or ride the Subsea Adventure. Browse through the Maori Arts and Crafts centre or relax in the cafe. Enjoy the magic that is the Bay of Islands.
Supercruise - Cream trip & Hole in the Rock
If you want to see all the highlights of the magnificent Bay of Islands in one day then this is the cruise for you. On board our new state of the art cruising catamaran "Tangaroa III" you'll do the original Cream Trip, take in the awesome "Hole in the Rock" and go ashore to explore one of the most beautiful islands. You'll see the spectacular Black Rocks - unusual volcanic formations found in only two places in the world. Meander in and out of the many picturesque bays calling on the locals, delivering their stores and mail as Fullers has done for over 100 years. The leisurely pace means you'll get up close to wildlife. You may see seals, dolphins or even whales and endless bird and fish life. Our underwater camera is designed to give you stunning views of the marine life - school fish, eagle rays and at times dolphins. During your extended visit to Urupukapuka Island you can enjoy the scenic walks, swim, take a Subsea Adventure or relax in the cafe.
Tall Ship Sailing - R.Tucker Thompson
Catch the breeze and set sail for the day on board the unique tall ship "R. Tucker Thompson", built in the tradition of 100 year old schooners by local Northlanders. She has sailed the world but today will explore the somewhat calmer seas of the Bay of Islands with you on board. Help set the sails, take the helm or just lie back on deck and relax. Hear tales of the ship's exploits from the crew. Enjoy the Devonshire tea freshly baked and brewed in the galley each morning. At lunchtime the vessel anchors in a secluded bay. Step ashore, take a swim or try swinging from the yardarm. With all this sea air and activity you'll have a hearty appetite - taken care of by a tasty barbecue lunch cooked on board.
Dolphin Adventures - Swim with the Dolphins
Dolphins are one of earth's most fascinating creatures and few other areas are blessed with their presence all year round, as is the Bay of Islands. On this the ultimate marine adventure you'll get right up close to the dolphins. Watch their antics and get fantastic photos. Conditions permitting go swimming with them. The Bay has the warmest waters in New Zealand for swimming with dolphins. Our staff have years of experience in the Bay and an intimate knowledge of marine mammal behaviour. They not only know where to find them, they're able to tell you all about them. We get you to the dolphins fast in our water-jet powered catamaran. It's the best vessel in the Bay for dolphin viewing with large deck areas and plenty of room to move around. It's not just dolphins we'll show you - at times you'll see orcas, whales, seals, penguins and other wildlife. After your Dolphin Encounter you'll have the added bonus of stopping off on beautiful Urupukapuka Island. If you wish, stay for the day at no extra cost. Enjoy the coastal walks and magnificent beaches. Browse through the Maori Arts and Crafts centre or relax in the cafe.
Island Time
Spend the day on Urupukapuka Island, one of the most beautiful in the Maritime Park. There are several stunning small bays with white sandy beaches, clear water and safe swimming. There are a range of island walks (see map below) all offering spectacular coastal scenery and points of interest. Ask for the detailed guide brochure on board the vessel. Otehei Bay itself is a great place to spend the day. It offers excellent safe swimming, kayaking, the Nautilus Subsea Adventure and Zane Grey cafe.
Nautilus Subsea Adventure
Enjoy a bit of fun whilst you are at Otehei Bay and join us on a Nautilus Subsea Adventure. We don't pretend to be the Great Barrier Reef but you'll see the many varieties of fish and other marine life that inhabit the underwater world of the Bay of Islands. Commonly seen species include eagle rays, snapper, trevally, kingfish, spotty and sea urchins. There are a few surprises along the way and lots of action at the fish feeding station. Nautilus is a specially designed semi-submarine vessel that allows for the best viewing of the seabed and its inhabitants in their natural setting. It is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. All aboard for a journey to the bottom of the sea.
Cape Reinga Wanderer - via Ninety Mile Beach
A Cape Reinga tour for those who wish to spend time enjoying the magnificent natural wonders of the North. You will be over-awed by the grandeur of the mighty Kauri trees, the expanse of Ninety Mile Beach and the mystique of Cape Reinga. There are numerous stops for you to take in the scenic highlights and activities. They start with the easy twenty minute boardwalk through the Puketi Kauri Forest. Thunder along Ninety Mile Beach to the top of New Zealand and wander out to the lighthouse. Ride our sand sledges if you dare! Take a swim, dig for shellfish and taste the local fruits of Kerikeri. Visit the picturesque village of Mangonui. Your Coach Captain's local knowledge and informative commentary will make this trip one to remember. It is a day full of activity and yours to enjoy.
(3) Excitor 'Hole in the Rock' Adventure
Your adventure begins in either Paihia or Russell before starting the 18 nautical mile leg to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Stop amongst the islands for great photo and video opportunities along with entertaining commentary from your skipper or crew. Be on the lookout for dolphins, whales, game fish, penguins and much more as you approach the Hole in the Rock. Experience this world famous landmark by passing through the 210 foot 'Hole in the Rock' and explore the spectacular 'cathedral cave' (suitable conditions necessary). On your return leg absorb more stunning coastal scenery with the option of your own 'island experience'. Your Excitor adventure finishes in Paihia or your can choose to depart in Russell and explore New Zealand's first capital, home to historical sights, arts and crafts, cafes and a great museum.
(4) Dolphin Cruises & Tours
Kings Day In The Bay Cruise
Swim with Dolphins & Whale Watching Cream Trip Route Hole In The Rock As the name suggest, this offer ALL major attractions - N.Z's first Boom Netting with Dolphins - (a great advantage for those who cannot swim or are not confident in deep water.) As well as free open ocean swimming with dolphins (conditions permitting). Hole In The Rock - Cathedral Cave - Island Stopover (skippers choice) have your picnic lunch on the beach. Cruise the inner islands and follow the Cream Trip Route. Wet suits and snorkel gear supplied. Kings guarantee that all passengers can have an outside position to view all wildlife.
Hole In The Rock Scenic Cruise plus Dolphin & Whale Watching With a Maori Welcome - (Powhiri)
Kia Ora! Be welcomed aboard Dolphin Seeker by a Maori Powhiri. Cruise through the inner islands and out to the Hole in the Rock and Cathedral Cave along with Dolphin and Whale Watching. Full commentary on the history of the Bay of Islands. Hear Maori myths and legends of Tangaroa - Maori God of the Sea. Passengers can board in Paihia or Russell. If you wish to spend time in historic Russell before or after your cruise, a regular ferry service is available between Paihia and Russell
Kings Cape Reinga Scenic Coach Tour
An exciting day excursion that takes in all Far North has to offer. Departs daily 7.30 am in Kings luxury air conditioned coaches. Stop overs at Puketi Kauri Forest, Ancient Kauri Kingdom, Ninety Mile Beach, digging for shell fish, sand tobogganing at the Te Paki giant sand dunes, Cape Reinga Lighthouse. Returns 5.30pm - 6.30pm approx. The operators reserve the right to substitute vehicles, tour route or departure time as deemed necessary. Pick ups from your accommodation are available in Paihia and Kerikeri area. The times will be advised when you book. Russell pick up is at the Paihia Maritime building. (7am ferry from Russell).
(5) Paihia Dive
The Rainbow Warrior
Explore the historical and controversial Greenpeace flagship, the Rainbow Warrior. Bombed in Auckland Harbour by French Secret Service agents on July 10th 1985, this artificial reef has matured into extraordinary divesite. The wreck is covered with unique jewel anemones in a variety of hues of red, yellow, blue, purple and orange. It is the home to a myriad of fish including Golden Snapper, Kingfish, John Dory, Leather Jackets, Wrasse and Bigeye. Don't miss the opportunity to dive on one of the world's famous wrecks.
The Bay of Islands
Magnificent subtropical diving in the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enter a world of deep canyons, caves and pinnacles. Explore the unique sites of the spectacular Deep Water Cove and dozen of other bays and islands. Experience a multitude of friendly marine life including moray eels, fish, octopus, stingrays, manta rays and the occasional marine mammal. Discover volcanic rock reefs and large kelp forests teeming with fish life. With countless dive sites to choose from we offer you the very best of the Bay of Islands.
(6) Waitangi Golf Course
The Bay of Islands is one of the most beautiful bays in NZ and the Waitangi course overlooks the entire seascape. Its 18 holes is of championship standard and a joy to play. The clubhouse offers 7-day service with both indoor and outdoor setting.
(7) More Links
4x4 Dune-Rider Tours
Paihia Duck - Amphibious Land & Sea Tours
Fastest Hole in the Rock Experience
Hole in the Rock Experience
Fastest Commercial Catamaran in NZ, Explore the Cost Tours
NZ's Highest Parasailing
Quad Bike and Horseriding Adventures
Catch fish with Steve Butler aboard Earl Grey
Northern Exposure Tours - Cape Reinga
Full Bay of Islands Experience
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