Bay of Islands Explorer Experience Small Group Tour From Auckland

Auckland , New Zealand

Bay of Islands Explorer Experience Small Group Tour From Auckland

Active

(6 reviews)

13h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us on a small group day tour from Auckland to explore the Bay of Islands. Enjoy the informative commentary as you cross the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge and soak up on New Zealand’s spectacular scenery of rural countryside and sub-tropical bush en route to the beautiful Bay of Islands. Hop on a scenic cruise around the bay to witness some of the incredible 144 islands, get up close to the cliffs at Cape Brett, and travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock. Spot dolphins, whales, and other marine wildlife, and enjoy a 1.5-hour island stop to eat, swim and walk. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to must-dos in the Bay of Islands!

Available options

Bay of Islands Explorer

Pickup included

What's included

Opportunity to view marine mammals including dolphins, whales, seals, birdlife and more

Fully guided return transfers from Auckland

Stop off at Urupukapuka Island and lunch stop at Otehei Bay

Discover self-guided bush walks for spectacular views over the Bay of Islands

Keep a lookout for dolphins, whales, or orcas (at mother nature's discretion)

Listen to entertaining live commentary from your local Nature Guide

Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus

Discover some of the 144 stunning islands in the Bay of Islands on a scenic cruise

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Witness the iconic Hole in the Rock

Engaging and informative commentary in English

Journey by boat across the pristine Islands

Complimentary refreshments and water onboard

WiFi on board

Admission to 4.5 hours Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

Complimentary High-Speed Internet onboard the minibus

A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour

Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD

Enjoy a 1.5-hour island stop-over and walk, swim, paddle board, kayak or relax

Detailed itinerary

We pickup travellers from select locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please meet us at the closest hotel listed for pick-up.

We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Northland region.

We visit one of the main tourist attractions in Kawakawa, the colourful public toilet designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. First visiting New Zealand in the 1970s for an exhibition of his work, he decided to make the country his second home and bought property on the Waikare inlet, east of Kawakawa. In 1998 with the help of the community he transformed the town’s public toilets into a work of art.

The Bay of Islands is a natural playground offering a huge variety of activities to keep you entertained for days. With scenic landscapes to explore by land, sea or sky, abundant wildlife including the playful dolphins, plenty of rich and colourful history and of course water sport opportunities around every corner. Once a booming, bustling and bawdy seafaring centre, it’s now a peaceful and pristine spot, and offers the perfect base for exploring Northland. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to must-dos in the Bay of Islands! Embark on a voyage of discovery and enjoy the beauty of this area when you join a daily cruise to hole in the rock, the most popular dolphin watching cruise in the Bay of Islands.

After an exhilarating fun-filled adventure experience at Paihia, it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland. We can also drop you at your accommodation in Paihia if you are staying locally in the region.

What's not included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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 pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.

Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness. Our scenic walks are short and optional. Please let our guide know at check in if you have any fitness concerns.

A full commentary is provided by your skipper onboard the cruise. A limited number of multi-lingual headsets are available in German, French and Mandarin Chinese.

A portion of your fare contributes to marine mammal research and conservation.

You will be able to purchase lunch or dinner, depending upon the sailing time, from the café at Otehei Bay.

Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase onboard the vessel.

Interacting with common and bottlenose dolphins, orca, whales and other marine mammals is subject to DOC regulations.

You are welcome to bring your own food. There is also hot and cold food available for purchase on board.

Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as this is the perfect place to get some great experiences photos.

Easy and good fitness level required.

You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.

The site is wheelchair accessible but please be prepared for uneven surfaces, which may be difficult for those with limited mobility and wheelchair users.

Meeting point

Our central meeting point in Auckland City is in front of Movenpick Hotel (8 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010). This meeting point is well connected with Auckland's public transport network. Kindly advise us if you will be meeting us at this location.

About Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Auckland Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Architecture 1-2 hours NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump

Auckland War Memorial Museum

This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.

Nature Full day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Adventure Half day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.

Family 2-3 hours NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hāngī

A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.

Dinner Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Gluten-free, can be made vegan

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Skydiving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Maori cultural performances Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center

By train

Auckland Railway Station

By bus

Auckland Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Ponsonby Devonport Mission Bay

Day trips

Waiheke Island

35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Rangitoto Island

25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Hobbiton Movie Set

2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

Festivals

Auckland Arts Festival • March Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November Auckland Pride Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.