Historic Sites • Gardens
Open now
Admission tickets from $60
Top Things to Do in Bay of Islands
Things to Do in Bay of Islands
Popular Cities in Bay of Islands
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Bay of Islands.
Historic Sites
Learn more about this content
Tours, activities and experiences bookable on Tripadvisor, ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, popularity, user preferences, price, and bookings made through Tripadvisor.
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travellers are saying
- Face_The_ElementsEdmonton, Canada281 contributionsThe Waitangi Treaty Grounds is where it all started. The commitment to preserving and sharing the stories of New Zealand's founding is found throughout, creating a memorable and educational visit for all. The two museums on site share insights into the past and require some time to read and understand what really happened here. The cultural performance was also very entertaining and the music was by far the best I’ve seen yet! The highlight of my visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds was undoubtedly the informative tour guided by James, a passionate individual deeply connected to his Maori culture. His wealth of knowledge, delivered with enthusiasm and a genuine love for sharing his heritage, added a layer of authenticity to the experience. His stories breathed life into the site, making it more enjoyable.Written 13 November 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Apolonia70adelaide1,550 contributionsLots of shopping opportunities, travel booking offices, helicopter, Thunder bike - shopping includes pharmacy and great walking. Several impressive restaurants over water. Perfect holiday location and takeoff point for visiting area.Written 13 April 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Meredith CAuckland, New Zealand47 contributionsThese are just a short drive from Kerikeri and well worth visiting especially in this year of such heavy rainfalls. There are three viewing levels through beautiful bush tracks kept in immaculate order. The rainbow added to the beauty.Written 1 July 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- deborahbC3444RB320 contributionsThis was one of the standout of this trip. The guided tour of the printery was amazing and very informative. We were the only two so we were not rushed and had plenty of time to ask questions and view the different parts of the printery. Terri our guide was knowledgeable and had a good sense of humour. The self guided tour of the gardens was a bonus. There is a small gift shop and a lovely French cafe on site. After the tour we had morning tea with fresh produce to accompany our drinks. Service again was friendly and efficient. I would imagine that it would get busy so go early.Written 18 November 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Donna W1 contributionLoved this more than we expected. Lots of beautiful and interesting birds. Fun feeding them and being among them. Definitely pop in if you are in the area after visiting the stone storeWritten 20 November 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- deborahbC3444RB320 contributionsThis walking trail provides great views of the Bay of Islands. There is a lookout where it is possible to drive and taken in the 360 degree views or it is an uphill walk along the side of the road from the town. The 2.5 km loop is a popular loop for hikers.
There are numerous short walks in the area as well.Written 18 November 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - mdc12963Wellington, New Zealand48 contributionsYesterday I went on the great sights boat to Urupukapuka Island for the day and did lots of walking on the diffrent track'sWritten 1 August 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Michael BCambridge, UK38 contributionsAn amazing site that is such a key part of New Zealand's history. And the staff are superb - bending over backwards to tackle my questions! Ten out of ten for customer service!Written 10 April 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- DiscerningDoyenneMelbourne, Australia76 contributionsMy husband and I went on this short walk and enjoyed it very much. It was a rainy but warm day and the trees in fact provided some protection from the rain. And because it is fully a boardwalk, the walking itself was easy and relatively protected i.e. we weren’t walking through mud or puddles etc. The trees were magnificent and the information boards along the walk were informative and helpful to read. This was a delightful little walk.
In terms of access, we drove there from Kaikohe, eventually along Waiare Rd, the last 14 km (approx) of which was dirt/gravel. Despite the rain, the road was in good condition and we’ll graded – we just slowed as we would ordinarily on a gravel road. After we left this area we then travelled along Pungaere Rd, which was bitumen and meant for easier travelling compared with the journey to get there.Written 21 April 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - JoR12 contributionsThey were always very helpful when I'd pop on in to look at tour options, but one particular gentleman went above and beyond to help me board the Russell ferry in time for my tour from Russell in the morning as a cruise liner had arrived that day and the queue for the ferry was incredibly long. Normally the line isn't that long but in this particular instance everyone has arrived to explore so I was very grateful for his assistance.Written 18 May 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- ITRTVirginia38,566 contributionsThe village of Russell was known as Kororareka prior to Captain Cook’s arrival. During its early days, the town was referred to as the “hell hole of the Pacific” because of widespread prostitution. By the 1830s, Russell became a lawless trading center. It attracted all types of misfits including drunks, deserters and escaped convicts because of its good anchorage and whaling industry.
Christ Church was built in 1836 and bears the musket holes from the conflict between the European settlers and the Māori people in 1845. You may have to look closely to see the holes. Limited funds resulted in a very plain church with no steeple being built. In 1840, it was used as a courthouse because it was the only building large enough to accommodate everyone who wanted to attend the murder trial hearing. The Bishop of Auckland presided over a meeting in 1873 when the church was officially named Christ Church. It is open to the public and free to enter. Donations are appreciated.
The cemetery in the church yard was consecrated in 1838 but the first burial was of William Skinner who dies at the age of 43 in 1836. There is a burial ground on the church property that contains the graves of Ngāpuhi chief Tāmati Wāka Nene, early settlers, whalers, and sailors. Some of the gravestones do not have any markings because of their age, some are simply wooden markers, and others are made of sandstone or marble. While the church is Anglican, the cemetery is non-denominational. Christ Church and its graveyard is worth a visit.Written 19 April 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Jennifer P2 contributionsFantastic view and beautiful place for lunch. Food was outstanding and fantastic service Would return again and would recommend to anyone visiting the ateaWritten 17 May 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- HappyjohnnyAuckland, New Zealand402 contributionsWhen you take a trip to the Bay of Islands, do make sure you spend some time in Russell and try to see as many amazing views as you are able to.Written 29 January 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- John bishton1 contributionTake 4ltrs water each bare minimum. Be fit of leg and strong of mind or just train hard.
Having said that its incredibly rewarding and a unique walk.
5 starsWritten 14 March 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Karen FAustralia4 contributionsCannot rave about this place enough - I could spend a year in lockdown here and be extremely happy. They have it all, food, wine, views and beautiful, knowledgeable staff. DE VINE!Written 28 December 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bay of Islands
- The top attractions to visit in Bay of Islands are:
- Barefoot Sailing Adventures
- Bay of Islands Snorkelling Ltd
- Phantom Sailing
- Vigilant Yacht Charters
- Great Escape
- The best outdoor activities in Bay of Islands according to Tripadvisor travellers are: See all outdoor activities in Bay of Islands on Tripadvisor
- The best day trips from Bay of Islands according to Tripadvisor travellers are:
- *Popular Cruise Ship Tour* Bay of Islands and Glow Worm Caves Shore Excursion
- Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters
- Island Hopper Day Cruise - sailing to wildlife sanctuary island - 6 hr cruise
- Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch
- Private Sailing Charter | Bay Of Islands | 16-19 People
- The most popular things to do in Bay of Islands with children according to Tripadvisor travellers are:
- Barefoot Sailing Adventures
- Bay of Islands Snorkelling Ltd
- Phantom Sailing
- Vigilant Yacht Charters
- Great Escape