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Bay of Islands 3-Day Explorer

144 pristine islands, dolphin cruises, Cape Reinga, and golden Northland beaches -the ultimate North Island long-weekend escape.

3 Days / 2 Nights Adults 18+ North Island 4.8 228 reviews

Tour Overview

Escape Auckland for three days of Northland magic. The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand's most iconic destinations -a subtropical paradise of 144 islands, white sandy beaches, and azure water teeming with marine life.

This fully guided 3-day tour takes you from Auckland up through the Far North, stopping at Pahia, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and the dramatic dunes of Te Paki before reaching the spiritually significant Cape Reinga -where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean.

A dolphin cruise through the islands rounds off a tour that perfectly balances scenic beauty, New Zealand history, and relaxed coastal exploration.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1 -Auckland to Paihia

7:00am

Depart Auckland CBD

Coach departs from central Auckland. Relax as we head north through the Kaipara region.

10:30am

Whangarei & Morning Tea Stop

Short break in Northland's largest city before continuing north.

1:00pm

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Explore the site where New Zealand's founding document was signed in 1840. Guided tour of the grounds and museum.

3:30pm

Check in -Paihia

Settle into your waterfront accommodation in Paihia. Explore the town at leisure. Dinner on own account.

Day 2 -Dolphin Cruise & Cape Reinga

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a full breakfast included at your accommodation.

10:00am

Dolphin Cruise -Bay of Islands

A 3-hour boat cruise through the 144 islands. Spot dolphins, seal colonies, and seabirds. Stop at Hole in the Rock (Motukokako Island).

2:00pm

Cape Reinga

Drive to the tip of New Zealand. Stand at the lighthouse where two oceans meet. A deeply spiritual site for Mori -the departure point for spirits journeying to the ancestral homeland.

4:30pm

Te Paki Sand Dunes

Optional sandboarding on the massive coastal dunes (boards available on site). Stunning sunset views over Ninety Mile Beach.

Day 3 -Return to Auckland

8:00am

Breakfast & Check Out

Final breakfast at the hotel. Check out and load bags.

9:30am

Kerikeri & Puketi Forest

Morning stop at historic Kerikeri (New Zealand's oldest town). Optional walk through Puketi kauri forest.

5:30pm

Return to Auckland CBD

Arrive back at Auckland CBD. Approximate arrival -may vary by traffic.

What's Included

2 nights waterfront accommodation
Breakfasts daily (2 included)
Dolphin cruise -Bay of Islands
Cape Reinga visit
Waitangi Treaty Grounds entry
All transport -luxury coach
Expert local guide throughout
Luggage handling
Lunches & dinners
Sandboard hire (available on site)
Travel insurance
Personal expenses

Good to Know

DepartureAuckland CBD -7:00am Day 1
ReturnAuckland CBD -approx. 5:30pm Day 3
Min. group size10 passengers
Suitable forAdults 18+ (no upper age limit)
Fitness levelEasy -suitable for all fitness levels
CancellationFree cancellation up to 14 days before departure
PaymentSecure online via Stripe (card, Apple Pay, Google Pay)

Traveller Reviews

"Absolutely stunning three days. The dolphin cruise was the highlight -we had a pod swimming right alongside the boat. The guide was knowledgeable and fun. Would do it again in a heartbeat."
-Rachel T., Wellington March 2026
"Cape Reinga is one of those places that stops you in your tracks. Worth the drive just for that view. Skymate made the whole thing effortless -transport, accommodation, everything sorted."
-Marcus L., Australia January 2026
"Did this as a 40th birthday trip with friends. Perfect balance of scenery, history, and downtime. The Paihia waterfront at sunset was unforgettable."
-Jess & crew, Auckland February 2026
$499 / person

3 days 2 nights all transport included

Book Now Enquire About This Tour
Free cancellation up to 14 days before
Instant booking confirmation by email
Secure payment via Stripe
Small group -maximum 20 passengers

Need help

022 160 2606

info@skymate.co.nz

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