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Best Time to Visit
The Bay of Islands enjoys a favourable subtropical climate year‑round, with average summer highs around 24 °C and winter lows lingering near 16 °C. While summer (December to March) delivers long, warm days ideal for swimming and sailing, autumn (March–May) remains pleasantly mild and less crowded, with temperatures between 11 °C to 21 °C and plenty of sunshine hours.
If you want to aim for ideal beach and outdoor conditions, late January to late March or October to early December are statistically the best windows for settled conditions. Whether you're chasing high‑energy water sports or tranquil coastal hikes, spring and autumn offer a superb balance: warm enough to enjoy the sea, with thinner crowds and a serene pace to suit all travellers.
Top 12 things to do in the Bay of Islands
Whether you're into coastal adventures, natural wonders, local cuisine or thrills, we’ve pulled together a range of activities to ensure your motorhome holiday to the Bay of Islands is unforgettable.
1. Enjoy a coastal hike around Urupukapuka Island
The Bay of Islands region is blessed with abundant secluded beaches, tall cliffs and historic sites. One spot that encompasses them all is Urupukapuka Island, The island is reached by taking a quick ferry from Paihia and offers endless opportunities for exploring, with several walking tracks winding their way through forested areas or along rocky coastal paths. The most popular is the Urupukapuka Island walk. This walk is a 7.3 km return tramp and takes around five hours. This is rated easy and so is suitable for families and older children. Pack lunch, snacks, and plenty of water, and make a day of it!
2. Superb local cuisine at Terra Restaurant
Located in central Paihia, Terra Restaurant offers a refined dining experience that blends contemporary New Zealand cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With menus that change seasonally and a focus on sustainable produce, this modern restaurant is perfect for food lovers seeking a unique culinary highlight in the Bay of Islands.
3. A unique cultural experience at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Come experience the birthplace of the nation at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. This historical hub weaves together the stories of the past with a fusion of local traditional Māori culture. Here you can see the Treaty House - the place where the Treaty of Waitangi (declaration of independence) was signed on 5 February 1840. The Treaty House is a monument to this momentous occasion, a museum that tells visitors about what happened at Waitangi during these events, including how different groups reacted afterwards when they received copies of the final version written in two languages (English & Māori).
4. Take a relaxing cruise around the islands
When exploring the Bay of Islands, there is no better way to experience its abundant beauty than by boat. What better way than by jumping on board one of the many Bay of Islands cruises?
Have an unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful waters and into tranquil bays. You can choose from a range of packages, including Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise, where dolphins swim alongside your vessel, Day in the Bay, which gives a guided tour around historical and geographical sites in the bay, or R. Tucker Thompson Day Sail on the traditional pirate-inspired gaff-rigged schooner. This is a must-do experience and one of the best ways to see the best of The Bay of Islands in New Zealand.
5. Enjoy a scenic bike ride
If you prefer on-land adventures, biking is one of the best ways to explore New Zealand's lush scenery and see the Bay of Islands from a different perspective. You can rent bikes in Paihia or Russell and head out to explore the local trails. One of the best places for biking is at Waitangi Mountain Bike Park, where there are well-marked trails ranging from easy to difficult (and even extra challenging). If you're up for something more challenging, try out the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, an 87 km trail that takes riders through from the Bay of Islands, through farmland and forests, ending in the tranquil Hokianga Harbour.
6. Go scuba diving or snorkelling
Snorkelling is another top thing to do in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, and is a great and affordable way to get a glimpse of the marine life that lives just below the surface. The best time to snorkel is during summer when water temperatures are warmest, and visibility is at its peak.
Opua Beach is a great location for snorkelling in the Bay of Islands, due to it having a reef near shore, which makes it easy to see marine life. If you're looking for something more challenging, then scuba diving might be right up your alley! If so, Paihia Dive offers some great scuba diving tours in the Bay of Islands.
7. Marvel at the magnificent waterfalls
The Bay of Islands region is home to many spectacular waterfalls that are worth adventuring to experience. Rainbow Falls is one of the most popular and accessible waterfalls in the area. It's located in Kerikeri and makes for a pleasant walk; you'll find yourself surrounded by the lush rainforest as you hike through it up to the waterfall itself. Haruru Falls is another great option for those who love hiking: and only a 10 minute drive away from Paihia in your motorhome. The track is around 6 km and will take around 2.5 hours to walk.
8. Relax at Matauri Bay
A short drive north of Kerikeri, Matauri Bay is a breathtaking stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkelling, or simply soaking up the sun. Framed by rolling green hills, it’s also home to the striking Rainbow Warrior Memorial, making it both a place of natural beauty and historic significance.
9. Enjoy the view from above
If you want to see the Bay of Islands from a bird's eye view, Flying Kiwi Parasail is the way to do it! Located at Paihia Wharf, these tours operate daily, so you can easily book a session for yourself or your group. The staff have been doing this for years and will help ensure that you have an amazing time during your parasailing adventure. Choose to sail solo or go in tandem or in a triple parasail flight with your friends and family. They also offer a great family deal for 2 adults and 2 children, so this is perfect for a family fun day out!
10. Discover the giant trees in Puketi Forest
There are few places in the world where you can find a forest as vast and beautiful as Puketi Forest. The name Puketi comes from the Māori words for "many" and "trees," which gives us a clear indication of what we should expect when visiting this beautiful place. Located just outside of Opua on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island, this area offers visitors plenty of things to do. From hiking through native forests to exploring underground caves with glow worms, there's something for everyone here! To fully capture the experience of this stunning forest, take a stroll along the easy one-hour walking loop through the forest, marvelling at the local plant and wildlife and getting up close to the ancient kauri trees along the way.
11. Explore the Bay Of Islands region on horseback
If you are an avid horse rider or just curious to try, don’t miss a chance to join a Horse Trek'n Tour. These are great for families, as the horses are well-trained and very docile. If you have never ridden a horse before, this is your chance to try all while learning about the local area. The tour guides are friendly and knowledgeable and give great insight into the wildlife and culture of the surrounding Waitangi area as you trot along the countryside.
12. Take a day trip to Cape Reinga
Cape Reinga is the most northern point of New Zealand's Northern Island and is a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty. The Māori name for this cape is "Te Pounga" or "The End of the Land." It was here that the spirits of native peoples were believed to depart for their afterlife. Located three-and-a-half hours from the Bay of Islands, you can choose to explore Cape Reinga on your own with its walking trails or take one of many tours offered by tour operators in Paihia and Russell.
One of the best things to do is the climb up to Cape Reinga Lighthouse, which houses an interesting display of history and local lore. When you’re done, you can enjoy panoramic views of the area with the Cape Reinga Lighthouse walk. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, be sure to check out the Te Paki Coastal Track or get a thrill and go for a sandboard on Te Paki Sand Dunes.
Where To Stay In The Bay Of Islands
1. Bay of Islands Campervan Park
Location: 52 Puketona Road, Paihia
Tucked among mature olive groves just a short stroll or drive from Paihia Beach and the town centre, this pet‑friendly park offers both powered and unpowered sites, free Wi‑Fi, BBQ facilities, showers, and easy access to local shops and activities.
2. Russell TOP 10 Holiday Park
Location: 1 James Street, Russell
Russell TOP 10 Holiday Park is the only caravan park centrally located in Russell, New Zealand’s first capital and European settlement, within easy walking distance to the historic village of Russell. The Holiday Park offers a fantastic range of accommodation all within easy walking distance to great restaurants, heritage buildings, walks, beaches and cruise departures, along with the perfect location and a relaxed holiday atmosphere.
3. Matauri Bay Holiday Park
Location: Matauri Bay Road, Matauri Bay
Located 30 km northeast of Kerikeri township in the Bay of Islands, Matauri Bay Holiday Park is one of New Zealand’s most idyllic holiday destinations. With its stunning white sandy beach, surf, excellent snorkelling and diving, world-class fishing opportunities, and breathtaking views, there’s something here for every traveller.
Ready for Your Bay of Islands Road Trip?
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most enchanting destinations, offering a perfect mix of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural history, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re exploring its 144 islands by boat, unwinding on golden beaches, or enjoying world-class dining and fresh seafood, this subtropical paradise has something for every traveller. With the freedom of a motorhome, you can discover hidden gems at your own pace and wake up to new views each day, making the Bay of Islands an unforgettable highlight of any New Zealand road trip.
So book your motorhome from our Auckland branch, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip filled with five star beaches, natural beauty and countless adventures.