Bay & Cape
Start: Auckland
Finish: Anywhere
The Bay of Islands bus pass takes you from Auckland to Paihia in the 'winterless north'. Here you will find the beautiful Bay of Islands, with its 144 islands and amazing beaches. The place has a fantastic selection of water and land-based adventure activities. Take the opportunity to go fishing, sailing, nature walking, or relaxing on one of the great beaches in the area.
Whats Included
- Start Auckland, finish Auckland.
- Minimum of 3 days travel*
- Flexible, easy, stress-free travel with like-minded travellers
- Legendary local Driver Guides
The Extra Bits
- Change travel dates as many times as you like with no fees
- Pre-Book and pay for accommodation online via the Trip Planner (by 7am 2 days before any overnight stop)
- Pre-Book and pay for activities online via the Trip Planner
- Limited departures available in June, July & August (winter schedule)
- *The minimum time is the shortest amount of time you can complete this pass by travelling our standard itinerary and not hopping off the bus. Please note this minimum time can change slightly depending on the season.
To view our current bus timetables, please click here
NZ $280
Auckland to Paihia
Rise and shine! It’s time to depart Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) bright and early to head north to Paihia. Along the way, you’ll make a quick stop at Warkworth for breakfast, and later on to marvel at the Whangārei Falls. By midday, you’ll find yourself in the Bay of Islands, also known as the ‘Winterless North’ – a true paradise waiting to be explored. Home to 144 picturesque islands, the Bay of Islands is known for its pristine beaches and rich historical heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Waitangi, Aotearoa New Zealand’s most historic location– the ‘Birthplace of the Nation.’
If water activities are your thing, this is the place for you! Set sail on a cruise to the renowned Hole in the Rock and discover the hidden treasures of the surrounding islands. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse marine wildlife that calls this area home. If you prefer a more active approach, indulge in sailing, fishing, diving, or parasailing. Alternatively, simply unwind and bask in the sun-kissed glory of the beach.
Accommodation
- Haka House - Not included (book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Whangarei Falls (free)
- Hole in the rock cruise (optional extra)
- Parasailing (optional extra)
- Bay of Islands Skydive (optional extra)
- Horse Trek (optional extra)
- Sailing (optional extra)
Cape Reinga day trip
Today we head up to New Zealand’s Northernmost Point - Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua). Along the way, we make a couple of stops where you will learn more about the history and Māori legends of the area. Uncover the wild beauty of this vast and untouched region rich in Māori culture and tradition. Your driver guide also doubles as a storyteller, sharing the stories of this significant site where, according to Māori legend, spirits depart on their journey home to Hawaiki. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views, visit the iconic lighthouse, and see the point where the Tasman Sea and the mighty Pacific Ocean come crashing together.
Ninety Mile Beach is another tour highlight – you’ll drive along the sand as waves crash beside the custom-built coach. Feel the sand between your toes as you help your driver-guide dig for shellfish (conditions permitting). Don’t be alarmed when your driver takes the bus up Te Paki Stream towards the mountainous sand dunes; it’s all part of the off-road experience. Clambering up and then sandboarding down the enormous dunes (if you dare!) will stretch your legs after the first part of the tour and get your heart pumping with excitement.
Accommodation
- Hake House (not included- book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Most northern point of New Zealand (Included)
- Visit the famouse lighthouse (Included)
- Go sandboarding down dunes (Included)
Paihia to Auckland
Departing mid-afternoon, you have the best part of the day to experience one of the many activities on offer in the Bay, or simply chill on the beach with a good book. The drive back to the “big smoke” is relaxed and we will have you back in time to find some dinner in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) or hit the town.
Accommodation
- LyLo (not included - Book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Auckland Skytower
- Auckland nightlife
- Rangitoto Island
- Mission Bay (free)
