3-Day Auckland to Bay of Islands Return Tour

Auckland, New Zealand

This 3-day small group tour offers an adventurous insight into the upper North Island's truly beautiful sub-tropical region. Departing from Auckland this return trip loops up through Paihia and Opononi showcasing beautiful swimming beaches, exotic native forests, historical sites where New Zealand's Treaty was signed. Sand board down rolling dunes and get insights into the local myths and legends that surround Tane Mahuta "God of the Forest". 

Day 1: Auckland to Paihia
Today we head north to the seaside town of Paihia stopping en-route to hug some of the world’s mightiest trees, the native Kauri. We will also take a hike to visit a beautiful waterfall and stop for lunch and a swim at the scenic Waipu Cove. We'll visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds (own expense), before settling into our accommodation where you are free to relax with one of the best views in town.
Accommodation: Beachfront hostel
Activities included: Visit to Parry Kauri Forest, Waipu Cove beach walk or swim
Optional activities: Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Day 2: Paihia to Opononi
This morning we board a wildlife cruise around the beautiful Bay of Islands, a collection of 144 islands bursting with marine life. In the afternoon it’s off to Opononi and Hokianga on the West Coast, where we will be greeted by a local Maori guide who will give a traditional welcome to the area. You have the option to take part in a Maori guided twilight encounter, where you’ll visit the Waipoua Forest, learn about Maori legends and the spiritual inhabitants of the forest.
Accommodation: Comfortable quality lodge
Activities: Wild life boat trip, visit the sand dunes, traditional Maori welcome
Meals: Breakfast + Dinner

Day 3: Opononi to Auckland
The day starts with a ferry ride across the Hokianga Harbour to go sand boarding down massive dunes (weather dependent); before a stop off to visit the mighty Waipoua Forest to admire NZ’s largest Kauri trees 'Tane Mahuta'. On route back to Auckland we will visit the idyllic Kai Iwi Lakes for a swim in the beautiful crystal clear waters that are surrounded by white sandy beach.
Activities included: Hokianga Ferry ride, sand boarding, visit Waipoua Forest and Tane Mahuta, swim in the Kai Iwi Lakes