Plan a CruiseBay of Islands Cruise Port Guide
The Bay of Islands is New Zealand's favorite holiday haven, boasting warm azure waters, golden beaches, and over 150 islands. Cruise ships do not dock here; instead, they anchor in the bay, typically off Russell, and passengers are tendered ashore. Depending on your ship's arrangements, tenders may drop you at the Russell waterfront, near Paihia (a pleasant 25-minute walk along the beach), or at Waitangi Wharf. From Waitangi Wharf, free shuttle buses are provided to Paihia Wharf.
Paihia is considered the hub of the Bay of Islands, offering a modern town experience with numerous shops, restaurants, and accommodation options. Just a short ferry ride across the bay, Russell is a smaller, more tranquil fishing town known for its character, charm, and historic buildings along a delightful waterfront. Nearby Waitangi holds significant historical importance as the site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, a foundational document in New Zealand's history, though with differing interpretations between its English and Maori versions.
Getting Around from the Port
Both Paihia and Russell are small towns that are easily explored on foot.
- From Tender Drop-off:
- If tendered to the Russell waterfront, you are directly in the heart of Russell.
- If tendered near Paihia, the town center is approximately a 25-minute walk along the beach.
- If tendered at Waitangi Wharf (often used for ship-organized tours but also for independents), free shuttle buses will take you directly to Paihia Wharf.
- Inter-town Ferry: A convenient passenger ferry connects Paihia and Russell. Ferries depart every 20 minutes from 7 am to 10 pm daily. A one-way trip costs NZD$7, and a return ticket is NZD$12.
- Local Exploration: From Paihia Wharf, the main shopping area is directly across the road. The Paihia Art and Craft Market is located on the Paihia Village Green on Marsden Rd, featuring 16 stalls of unique local art and crafts, but only operates when cruise ships are in port.
Attractions and Activities
With 8-10 hours in port, you can explore the charming towns or venture out to natural and historical sites.
- Explore Paihia & Russell: Wander through Paihia's shops and craft markets, then take the short ferry ride to Russell to soak in its historic waterfront and charming atmosphere. (Ferry: NZD$7 one-way, NZD$12 return).
- Treaty Grounds at Waitangi: Visit this historic hotbed imbued in Maori myth and legends, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. You can walk to Waitangi from Paihia along the Waitangi walking track or take a free shuttle if your tender arrives at Waitangi Wharf.
- Haruru Falls: Just 3 km from Paihia, these rare horseshoe-shaped falls are easily accessible by driving or walking along the Waitangi walking track. Maori legend suggests a taniwha (water monster) resides in the lagoon below.
- The Hole in The Rock: Experience an exhilarating powerboat tour through this natural passageway, carved by salt, surf, and wind. The opening is around 240 ft wide, offering a thrilling ride.
- Kawiti Caves (Glow Worms): Approximately 20 km from Paihia, journey underground to explore caverns filled with glow worms, including the "Waiomio night sky" chamber where they are incredibly close.
Dining & Shopping
In Paihia, the main shopping area is conveniently located directly across the road from the wharf, offering a range of restaurants and shops. Russell also features a delightful waterfront with various dining options. For unique souvenirs, look for pottery, paintings, and carvings crafted from green stone. The Kerikeri Art and Craft Trail (further afield but representative of local crafts) also offers artisan cheese and chocolate. Be sure to visit the Paihia Art and Craft Market on the Village Green (Marsden Rd) for authentic Northland art and crafts, active only on cruise ship days.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). While some traders in tourist areas may accept foreign currency, it's best to use NZD. An approximate conversion at the time of reference was US$1 = NZD1.30. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs), known locally as 'the hole in the wall,' are widely available in most towns.
English is universally spoken (with Commonwealth spelling), and Maori and New Zealand Sign Language are also official languages. The emergency telephone number in New Zealand is 111. Public libraries often provide public internet access and free WiFi.