The Bay of Islands is one of the most picturesque and popular holiday destinations in New Zealand, combining great outdoor activities, tours and experiences with some of New Zealand's most significant historic sites. With the 144 Islands and secluded bays the Bay of Islands region has the finest maritime park in New Zealand. The Bay has an abundance of marine life, including whales, penguins, dolphins, marlin and many other species.

Explore everything this beautiful area has to offer, with a range of day cruises, overnight boats or guided tours to choose from. If you're feeling adventurous, why not combine scenery and adrenaline on a thrilling tandem skydive or parasailing trip!

Things to do in Bay of Islands New Zealand - Hole in the Rock & Dolphin Cruise

The Bay of Islands was the site at which the earliest contact between the Maori's, the indigenous population, and European settlers took place. Visit Waitangi to see the treaty house, where New Zealand’s founding document was signed by Maori and Pakeha (a Maori term for New Zealanders who are not of Maori blood lines) leaders. Russell, once the rowdy and bustling capital of New Zealand, today maintains a lively and casual island feel due to its isolation from the mainland. Kerikeri, the earliest permanent settlement in New Zealand, houses some of the country’s oldest buildings, bush walks, arts and crafts and local cuisine.

As well as the peace and relaxation of the beaches and fishing and sailing opportunities, you can also cruise with the dolphins, take a boating trip through the Hole in the Rock, enjoy a memorable Bay of Islands overnight cruise or take a diving trip to see the final resting place of the Rainbow Warrior wreck.

The Bay of Islands have an abundance of unique experiences allowing you to connect with the people, culture, ocean and land.

Bay of Islands Activities & Tours

Bay of Islands Activities & Tours

Top experiences

Day in the Bay Full Day Bay of Islands Tour

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Tour & Performance

Fast Boat Ocean Adventure to the Hole in the Rock - 1.5 Hours

Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

Otehei Bay Ferry from Paihia

Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach Tour

Bay of Islands Parasailing

Dolphin Eco Cruise in Bay of Islands

Popular categories

Boat Tours

Sightseeing

Family Friendly Activities

Flights

Cultural

Water Activities

Most Popular

Land Adventures

Under $100

Wildlife

Explore Bay of Islands experiences

Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

Otehei Bay Ferry from Paihia

Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach Tour

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Tour & Performance

Fast Boat Ocean Adventure to the Hole in the Rock - 1.5 Hours

Day in the Bay Full Day Bay of Islands Tour

Bay of Islands Parasailing

Dolphin Eco Cruise in Bay of Islands

Bay of Island Sailing Day Cruise

Overnight Cruise - The Rock

Bay of Island Evening Boat Cruise

Bay of Islands Small Group Day Tour

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Hangi & Concert

Bay of Islands Scenic Flight over Hole in the Rock

Bay of Islands Kayaking Island Discovery

Cape Reinga Scenic Flight & Half Day Tour

Perfect Day - Dive Tutukaka

Scuba Diving - Dive Tutukaka

Other things to do in Bay Of Islands

Inspire your next trip

Bay of Islands Adventure: Exploring the Famous Hole in the Rock

Things To Know About the Bay of Islands Hole in the Rock cruise