Auckland: 2-Day Bay of Islands Small Group Tour with Cruise

Auckland CBD, Auckland



Experience New Zealand’s birthplace on this 2-day Bay of Islands tour & cruise. Explore Waipoua Forest, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, & cruise to the Hole in the Rock. Culture, nature and adventure in one.

Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour from Auckland

This 2-day small-group tour from Auckland explores Northland’s Bay of Islands with cultural sites, island cruising, and scenic landscapes, ideal for culture and nature enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Guided tour and Māori cultural performance at Waitangi Treaty Grounds
  • 4.5-hour Bay of Islands cruise including Hole in the Rock
  • Free time at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island
  • Optional hotel accommodation in Paihia
  • Small-group setting for a relaxed and personal experience

Description

On day one, travel north from Auckland through rolling farmland and subtropical scenery. Visit the Kauri Museum to learn about New Zealand’s kauri trees and their role in early life.

Explore Waipoua Forest to see Tāne Mahuta, the largest living kauri tree and a Māori cultural treasure. Your guide will explain its ecological and spiritual significance.

Stop at Opononi Beach for harbour views before arriving at the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Experience a fully guided tour including the Treaty House, carved Meeting House, and one of the world’s largest ceremonial waka. Enjoy a Māori cultural performance featuring waiata and haka.

Spend the night in Paihia if accommodation is selected, with an optional single occupancy surcharge for solo travellers.

Day two features a scenic 4.5-hour cruise across the Bay of Islands, navigating past 144 islands, spotting dolphins and marine life. The cruise includes a visit to the Hole in the Rock, conditions permitting.

Take time to relax, swim, or walk the sands of Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island before returning to Auckland. The trip back includes photo stops and local points of interest.

Includes

  • Small-group tour on a premium Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with expert local driver-guide
  • Entry and guided visit to Waitangi Treaty Grounds
  • Māori cultural performance (haka and traditional song)
  • Visit to Waipoua Forest and Tāne Mahuta
  • 4.5-hour Bay of Islands cruise with Hole in the Rock visit (weather permitting) and stop at Otehei Bay
  • Overnight accommodation in Paihia (if selected; $150 NZD single occupancy surcharge applies for solo travellers)

Excludes

  • Accommodation single share upgrade ($150 NZD)
  • Lunch and additional food purchases
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Wet weather clothing, swimwear, and towels

Important Information

  • A $150 NZD surcharge applies for single occupancy if booking accommodation solo; this must be added after booking.
  • Please provide the ages of any children when booking. Child seats are required for children under 7 and available to rent for $20 each or you may supply your own.
  • Pick-up information will be emailed 2 days before departure; please read this email carefully.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations made up to 24 hours before departure receive a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a guided visit to Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a 4.5-hour Bay of Islands cruise featuring the Hole in the Rock, free time at Otehei Bay, and optional hotel accommodation in Paihia.
The cruise departs from Paihia in the Bay of Islands, after the scenic drive north from Auckland.
Hotel accommodation in Paihia is optional and can be included as part of the 2-day tour package.
The tour features small-group sizes to provide a relaxed and personal experience.
The tour includes a guided tour and Māori cultural performance at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Yes, during the free time at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, you can explore the area and enjoy water activities as time allows.
Yes, transportation from Auckland to the Bay of Islands and back is included as part of the 2-day small-group tour.
The tour operates year-round, but check the website for current schedules and availability.
Meals are not specified as included, so check the tour details on the website for information about dining options.
The cruise lasts approximately 4.5 hours and includes sights like the Hole in the Rock and nearby islands.

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