What to do in the Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands has something for everyone and is a great place to just relax and unwind.
To get some ideas on how you can turn your Get Away into a holiday, take a look at Northland NZ's website. And read about the Dolphin Cruise and Cape Reinga options below.
Whether you want to shop, relax, fish, get your adrenaline fix, take in some history or just go to a local café or bar, the Bay of Islands will not disappoint. The Concierge at the Copthorne Hotel and Resort will also be able to give you advice on what do to and is able to book any tours that you would like to do.
Dolphin Cruise to the Hole in the Rock
Cruise through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands on Dolphin Seeker, a purpose built dolphin and whale watching catamaran.
Enjoy the large outdoor viewing decks as you cruise past the islands of the Bay. Keep a look out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales and other marine life as you get up close to the action from the comfort of Dolphin Seeker. This catamaran is licensed by DOC (the Department of Conservation) for dolphin viewing.
Enjoy the views as you cruise past the Cape Brett Lighthouse, before arriving at the majestic Hole in the Rock – hold your breath as the skipper navigates through the narrow space and admire the rock walls which soar above you. Take in the Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the sheltered waters of the Bay and an island stopover at the historic Urapukapuka Island reserve.
Take time to relax on the beautiful sandy beach or broaden your experience of the Bay of Islands with a Te Rawhiti guided walk of the island. Learn about the spirit world of Maori, their values and way of life. Ask the crew for details on how to book this added experience.
Lifetime Dolphin viewing guarantee
In the unlikely event they are unsuccessful in viewing dolphins or whales on your trip, we will offer you a 'go again for free' voucher for another Dolphin Cruise to Hole in the Rock. Subject to availability.
Highlights
- Dolphin viewing
- The largest outdoor viewing and seating decks in the Bay of Islands
- The Hole in the Rock
- Urapukapuka Island Reserve
- Informative commentary
- Cruise past many of the 144 islands
Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach
A visit to New Zealand is not complete without a journey to the top of the North Island – Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua).
Uncover the wild beauty of this vast and untouched region that is rich in Māori culture and tradition.
This journey will take you to Cape Reinga, where according to Māori legend, spirits depart on their journey to the homeland – Hawaiki. On your way, visit the ancient Puketi Kauri Forest, with a 20 minute boardwalk past 1,000 year old Kauri trees and native bush. Stop for morning tea (own expense) then later, enjoy your pre-ordered picnic salad lunch (only $16.00). On arrival at Cape Reinga, stand on the northern most tip of New Zealand and watch the Pacific Ocean collide with the Tasman Sea. Ask your driver guide about planting a native tree at Cape Reinga (additional cost).
Then take the opportunity to try sandboarding down the massive sand dunes on boogie boards at Te Paki Stream – try it if you dare! A fun experience that is available to all passengers. Your journey along the vast and empty Ninety Mile Beach will provide striking contrasts to the busy and populated East Coast. Feel the sand between your toes as you help your driver guide dig for shellfish (conditions permitting) on Ninety Mile Beach.
This is an action-packed day with opportunities to take photos or simply enjoy this unique part of New Zealand.
- Sandboarding down giant sand dunes
- Cape Reinga lighthouse
- Puketi kauri forest
- Historic commentary and Maori legends
- Ninety Mile Beach
- Enjoy a delicious picnic salad lunch (pre-order for $16.00)
- Leave a living legacy by planting a native tree at Cape Reinga. Talk to your driver guide for more information.