Bay of Islands Short Break Tour
This adventure may be short, but it’s certainly sweet. Think of it as a travel amuse bouche – a taster to inspire further trips to New Zealand. In just 4 days on this NZ holiday you pack in a lot of attractions, from Auckland’s windswept harbour, dotted with yacht sails, to the gem-like Bay of Islands, its archipelago of subtropical islets ideally explored on a cruise. Wherever this NZ tour takes you, expect a dose of heritage and Māori culture. Discover how and where New Zealand became a member of the Commonwealth and explore the streets of the country’s first European settlement and seaport.
Highlights:
- Free day in the Bay of Islands? An optional mini tour of Russell takes you to iconic locations that make it so significant in New Zealand’s early history.
- Meet the artists, makers and producers that call the Bay of Islands home, as well as descendants of Traditional Landowners who signed the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840.
- Take a journey of discovery through New Zealand's most important historic site, with a local guide. Discover the stories, people and events that have shaped the past, present and future.
- Waterfront resort nestled in 60 acres of subtropical gardens within the Waitangi National Trust Reserve, where the golden sands curve to greet the South Pacific Ocean.
What's Included?:
- 3 Nights Accommodation
- 3 Full Breakfasts, 1 Dinner
- Travel by luxury coach
- A specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and a Driver Guide
- Centrally located Premium 4 - 4.5 star hotels
Day 1 – flights to arrive any time into Auckland Airport
Day 4 – flights to depart after 7.00pm from Auckland Airport
Your fare excludes:
- Airfares & Insurance
- Pre/Post Accommodation
- Optional sightseeing
Day 1 - Welcome to Auckland
- Auckland never fails to turn on the charm, as you’ll discover while exploring the city at your leisure before meeting your Travel Director and fellow adventure seekers for a welcome drink tonight.
Day 2 - Auckland - Bay of Islands
Hit the road this morning for a scenic sojourn to the Bay of Islands. This pocket of the country deserves its name – there are more than 140 subtropical islets off the coast here, lined with blissful undeveloped and unpeopled beaches. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical significance; this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, between Captain William Hobson and Māori chiefs, officially denoting New Zealand as a member of the Commonwealth. Your guide, quite possibly a descendant of one of the original signatories, will explain the importance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe and a carved meeting house. These are just some of the Māori artefacts that characterise this part of the north coast.
Day 3 - Bay of Islands – Free Time
- If there’s a travel destination that inspires wanderlust, the Bay of Islands is it. Today, trip the light fantastic and head off on an optional experience in whatever direction you please. Perhaps out onto the water to ride the waves on a Bay of Islands tour aboard a historic tall ship, glass of New Zealand wine in hand. Or maybe on a mini jaunt around the romantic town of Russell, the country’s first permanent European settlement and seaport. Fun fact: the town’s streets retain their original names and layout from 1843. Just ask your Travel Director for touring tips – and places to wine and dine in between. Wherever your NZ holiday takes you today, we recommend finding somewhere special to salute the end of the day – this part of the country was made for blazing sunsets.
Day 4 - Bay of Islands – Auckland
- If you’ve never heard of Whangarei, you’re probably not alone. But today, New Zealand’s most northerly city is well and truly on your radar. A place where waterfalls meet beaches, galleries meet museums, Whangarei is the country in a tantalizing snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure – perhaps pop into a local art gallery or stroll the picturesque Town Basin – before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerizing commute back to Auckland.
**Please note the following itinerary is subject to change without notice.
Departing 18 Oct 2025 / 13 Dec 2025 / 14 Feb 2026 / 7 May 2026 / 4 Apr 2026
- From $1,971 per person twin share*
- From $2,592 per person sole traveler*
Departing 17 Oct 2026 / 12 Dec 2026 / 13 Feb 2027 / 6 Mar 2027 / 3 Apr 2027
- From $2,299 per person twin share*
- From $3,024 per person sole traveler*
Call our team today to find out more on 1300 414 198. We can also assist with booking International flights and accommodation as part of your overall travel plans.
Please note: Exact itineraries may vary slightly depending on the departure date. Your full itinerary will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
During your holiday, you will stay at the following hotel:
- Adina Apartment Hotel Britomart
- Copthorne Hotel and Resort
Need airfares, additional accommodation or sightseeing options before or after your tour? Our friendly travel team can assist you with this. Call today on freecall 1300 414 198 for prices.
Flight Information:
- Day 1 – flights to arrive any time into Auckland Airport
- Day 4 – flights to depart after 7.00pm from Auckland Airport
Fitness Requirements:
- Low level of fitness required
What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- Water bottle
- Warm layers in cooler months
- Camera