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Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland

25 Reviews 4.88 out of 5 stars Based on 25 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
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Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Auckland, New Zealand
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from US$549.11 per person

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Hole in the Rock - Bay of Islands Cruise
Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland Image 2
Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland Image 3
Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland Image 4
Hole in the Rock

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On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.
1 day 12 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation

Overview

Immerse yourself in New Zealand's natural wonders and rich heritage on this intimate small-group journey from Auckland to Paihia. Led by our passionate guides, you'll explore:

Day 1 (Auckland to Paihia):
• Kauri Museum
• Waipoua Forest & Tāne Mahuta (largest living Kauri tree)
• Opononi Beach for lunch
• Waitangi Treaty Grounds
• Overnight accomodation in Paihia

Day 2 (Cruise & Return to Auckland):
• Bay of Islands Cruise from Paihia wharf
• Iconic Hole in the Rock
• Wildlife spotting opportunities
• Return to Auckland

Tour Highlights:
• Fully-guided small group tour
• Bay of Islands Cruise
• Hotel accommodation in Paihia (twin share, if you would like to upgrade to single share please let us know)
• Expert commentary from knowledgeable guides
• Exclusive stops and hidden gems
• Complimentary refreshments

What's Included

  • 1 night twin share in a 3 star hotel
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entry to Kauri Museum, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Cruise tickets
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Lunch
See 3 moreSee 4 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

- Enjoy the convenience of pick-ups from selected hotels. If your location isn’t listed, simply choose the nearest available option & meet us there!- Pick-ups begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside by this time.- Pick-up locations are carefully planned for each tour and may vary by day. If your pick-up location changes, kindly inform us in advance.- Our guides make multiple stops and may arrive within a 10-minute window. To ensure a timely departure, we recommend being ready 5–10 minutes early, as we are unable to wait for late guests.PICKUP TIMES: Park Hyatt 6:10 AM Swiss Belsuites Victoria Park 6:10 AM Sofitel Viaduct Harbour 6:10 AM Hilton Hotel 6:15 AM M Social 6:15 AM Movenpick Hotel 6:15 AM Adina Apartment Hotel 6:15 AM Copthorne Auckland City 6:15 AM Nesuto Stadium Hotel & Apartments 6:15 AM Pullman Auckland 6:15 AM SO/Auckland 6:15 AM JW Marriott Auckland City 6:20 AM Heritage Auckland 6:20 AM Ibis Budget Auckland Central 6:20 AM Crowne Plaza 6:25 AM Rydges Hotel 6:20 AM AM The Grand By SkyCity 6:25 AM SkyCity Hotel 6:25 AM Four Points by Sheraton 6:25 AM Grand Millennium Auckland 6:30 AM Kiwi International Hotel 6:30 AM Mercure Queen St 6:30 AM VR Auckland City, 188 Hobson Street 6:30 AM Cordis Auckland 6:35 AM

Options & Pricing

What To Expect

Auckland Central (Pass By)

Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.
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The Kauri Museum

Exiting Auckland, we travel west and follow the road through the kumara capital of New Zealand, Dargaville. Our first stop sees us visiting the Kauri Museum, to understand the remarkable story of New Zealand’s largest and most famous native tree.
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30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Tane Mahuta Walk

Due to exciting preservation efforts, access to Tāne Mahuta, the world’s largest living kauri tree, will be temporarily closed from September 30 for approximately 8 weeks. This is part of a vital project to protect the tree and surrounding area from the risk of kauri dieback. While the Tāne Mahuta Walk will be closed, we will still pass through the breathtaking Waipoua Forest, where you can enjoy its serene beauty and learn about the ongoing efforts to protect these natural wonders for future generations.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Opononi

Enjoy a lunch break at your own cost in the beachside settlement of Opononi with views over the Hokianga Harbour.Opononi was made famous in the mid 1950s by the tame dolphin Opo, who delighted visitors with its friendly antics.
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30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

After enjoying the Hokianga Harbour, we journey further north towards the ‘birthplace of our nation’, Waitangi, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840.Here we will be treated to a complete guided tour and cultural performance at Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important historic site.Explore New Zealand’s Māori heritage through interactive museums, traditional performances and historic buildings, including the Treaty House and the beautifully carved Whare Rūnanga.
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1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Paihia

Arrive in the beachside town of Paihia and check into your hotel, before taking a relaxing walk along the beach and ending the day with dinner at a local restaurant.
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8 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Bay of Islands

After breakfast, we embark on a magical cruise to explore the area’s extensive islands. During the cruise, the guides will share the rich history and natural beauty of the Bay of Islands while we search for the marine life that makes these cruises so famous. With a bit of luck, we might spot some playful doplphins and whales for you to enjoy!The cruise runs for 4.5 hours, taking your on a scenic journey through the Bay of Islands and along the Cape Brett Peninsula.
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4 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Urupukapuka Island

No Bay of Islands cruise is complete without spending some time at the beach on one of the islands. We’ll be stopping at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can swim, stroll along the white sand beach, hike to the top of the hill for scenic views over the entire Bay of Islands, or simply relax at the island’s fully licensed bar and café.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Paihia

Sadly after this day in paradise we must start to head south again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland with secret stops along the way.
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5 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Auckland (Pass By)

As we arrive back into Auckland, our guide will drop you off to your hotel, marking the end of your Bay of Islands tour with us.
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Show 8 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have a car seat one can be provided (with 24 hours’ notice).

Frequently Asked Questions

(8)

Q: Will I get seasick on Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Questions?

Our friendly customer support is here to help.
Activity code: C-56760P28

Traveler Photos

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Reviews

4.88
25 reviews

Average 4.88 out of 5 stars based on 25 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
22
4 stars
3
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: Will I get seasick on Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland?
A:

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

Feb 2023
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZST).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • 1 night twin share in a 3 star hotel.
  • Air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Entry to Kauri Museum, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Cruise tickets.
  • Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person.
  • Small Group and Fully Guided Tour.
The following is NOT included:
  • Breakfast.
  • Dinner.
  • Lunch.
  • Restroom on board.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024

What's Included

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • 1 night twin share in a 3 star hotel
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entry to Kauri Museum, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Cruise tickets
  • Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
  • Small Group and Fully Guided Tour
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Lunch
  • Restroom on board

Additional Info

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have a car seat one can be provided (with 24 hours’ notice).
  • Solo travellers will be required to pay a Solo Surcharge for Accommodation (+$150 NZD)
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

Report Product Issue

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Lowest Price Guarantee

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

We guarantee the lowest price on all the tours available to book on our site. We'll refund the difference if you find the exact tour cheaper online until 48 hours before your tour starts.

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Gather your information

Locate your City Boat Tours Booking Number and the proof of the lower price you found.

Send it to us

Email [email protected] with the documents, your name, and your home address.

We'll review

We'll review your materials and get in touch as soon as possible.

Receive your refund

If everything checks out, we'll refund you the price difference.

Refund Terms & Conditions

The following conditions apply to all lowest price guarantee refund requests:

  • The lowest price guarantee is available to any customer who makes a qualifying purchase through our website. The qualifying purchase must be a minimum of US$20 (or equivalent).
  • The lowest price guarantee covers retail and prepaid rates available to the general public. This does not include discounts or promotions you may receive (or be eligible for) from third-party sites or organizations such as AAA or AARP or special offers made as part of a membership program, corporate discount, daily deal, group, or rewards program.
  • City Boat Tours promotions cannot be combined with the lowest price guarantee.
  • If you find a lower retail or prepaid rate for the same tour, offered on the same date, time and priced in the same currency as your original purchase, on any other website between the time you book on City Boat Tours and 48 hours before your trip starts, we will refund the difference.
  • The lowest price guarantee does not apply where a lower overall price is found by breaking down the purchased tour into one or more parts sold separately.
  • City Boat Tours reserves the right to verify the lower price details. Examples of acceptable forms of verification include a web screenshot or a web address.
  • All refund decisions will be made at the sole discretion of City Boat Tours.

Cancellation Policy

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Free cancellation
100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZST).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

City Boat Tours wants to make your searches as relevant as possible. That's why we offer many ways to help you find the right experiences for you.

On some pages, you can select how to sort the results we display and also use filter options to see only those search results that meet your chosen preferences. You'll see explanations of what those sort options mean when you select them.

If you see a Badge of Excellence label, the award is based on average review ratings, share of bookings with a review, and number of bookings through City Boat Tours over a 12-month period.

The importance of any one factor over any other in a sort order varies, and the balance is constantly being reviewed and adjusted. We're always updating our systems and testing new ways to refine and improve your results to make them as relevant as possible to meet your needs.

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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