About Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a warm, subtropical inlet on Northland's east coast, scattered with around 144 islands and edged by golden coves, native bush and clear turquoise water. It is one of New Zealand's most historically significant places: at Waitangi in 1840 Maori chiefs and the British Crown signed the Treaty of Waitangi, the nation's founding document. Today it is best known for marine life - dolphins are frequently seen - and the iconic Hole in the Rock at Motukokako. The three main bases are Paihia (the cruise gateway), Russell (a quieter historic village a short ferry ride away) and Kerikeri (an inland town of orchards, wineries and the country's oldest European buildings).
Where ships dock
Overview
Cruise ships calling at the Bay of Islands drop anchor in the sheltered waters off Paihia and Waitangi, and tenders shuttle guests ashore to Waitangi Wharf beside the historic Treaty Grounds. From there a free shuttle carries independent passengers the short hop into Paihia, the compact seaside town that launches dolphin cruises, the Hole in the Rock, and the ferry across to old-world Russell.
Wharves & berths
TENDER / ANCHORAGE port — there is no cruise berth. Ships anchor in the bay off Paihia and Waitangi and tenders (about a 15-20 minute scenic ride) land passengers at Waitangi Wharf beside the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Some cruise lines state 'Paihia' and the exact drop point can vary by ship on the day.
Getting to the city
A complimentary shuttle bus runs continuously between Waitangi Wharf and Paihia (about 5 minutes), stopping at the Treaty Grounds; it is also a scenic 20-25 minute waterfront walk (Waitangi is ~2 km north of Paihia). A passenger ferry to Russell leaves Paihia roughly every 20 minutes (~15-min crossing). Taxis, coach tours (Kerikeri, Cape Reinga) and boat cruises depart Paihia.
Parking
Standard public parking around Paihia (waterfront and town car parks) and at the Treaty Grounds; people meeting passengers generally wait in Paihia rather than the working tender pier.
Amenities
The Bay of Islands Yacht Club at Waitangi Wharf opens to cruise visitors (toilets, small cafe, views of the anchored ship). The main Paihia i-SITE is on the waterfront (~2 km) with tour bookings, toilets and Wi-Fi; Paihia town has ATMs, cafes, shops and taxi/tour desks.
Cruise season
October to April, peaking Dec-Feb. The subtropical 'Winterless North' suits early and late calls; summer highs around 20-25 C. Ships anchor and tender.
Getting around & practical
Getting around
Distances are short but you'll want a boat or wheels beyond Paihia/Waitangi. Free cruise shuttles cover Waitangi-Paihia; the Paihia-Russell ferry is frequent and cheap. Kerikeri is ~20-25 min drive, Haruru Falls ~5 km. ATMs in Paihia and Kerikeri.
Practical info
Currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD); driving is on the left. Most attractions are outdoors with strong sun even on cool days - book popular boat cruises ahead on busy cruise days.
Attractions
Top attractions
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Points of interest
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Family & kids
visitboi.co.nz; waitangi.org.nz; newzealand.com; en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bay_of_Islands