Guide to the Bay of Islands. Regardless of where in the world you live, flying or docking into New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is a truly impressive sight. Surrounded by 144 islands, quaint seaside towns, and white sandy beaches, the Bay of Islands has a way of instantly relaxing people and reassures them, yes, coming here was an excellent idea!
Approximately 64 cruise ships will enter the Bay of Islands this season. The majority of cruise ships dock at Waitangi Wharf, where the famous treaty was signed between the British Crown and Maori Chiefs back in 1840.
Your cruise operator will then transport you to Paihia (the largest Bay of Islands township), only a few kilometres away. Paihia offers all the amenities you need and the perfect starting point for visiting Kerikeri, Russell, Opua, Waitangi and the outer islands.
If you’re entering New Zealand from an overseas flight, Auckland (New Zealand’s largest city) offers four connecting flights to Kerikeri every week day. Some travellers choose to weave their way North by rental car to the Bay of Islands, while other prefer to fly straight there taking the short 50-minute flight. Either way, Far North Rentals will happily have a rental car waiting for you at Auckland or Kerikeri Airport so you can start your holiday the easy way.
Expansion to the Bay of Islands Marina at Opua over recent years was great news for local boaties, accommodating thousands of holidaymakers from December to March, New Zealand’s summer season. Berths are available for both short and long term leasing. Every possible marine service is within walking distance from the marina, including WIFI, postal services, riggers, boat builders, refrigeration, catamaran haul-out, pump out facilities, fuel dock, cafe – even a hairdresser. And there’s plenty more besides.
If you’re an international cruiser, perhaps sailing from Australia or the Pacific Islands – welcome! The immigration information found here will put you in the right place.
Being in, on and close to water is part of New Zealand’s lifestyle and charm. If it’s your first time here, rest assure the services, car hire, accommodation, and restaurants in the beautiful Bay of Islands will make your stay enjoyable and certainly one to remember.
If you are a cruise ship passenger looking for shore based tours around the Bay of Islands then we suggest that you check those being offered by our associate company, Bay of Islands Shuttles and Tours. They have a wide range of tours available for cruise ship passengers landing in the Bay of Islands.
See Far North Rentals range of reliable, fully serviced rental vehicles at fantastic prices.
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