Bay of Islands Walk - 5 Days

The walk starts and finishes in Russell, in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. The most convenient option is to fly from Auckland to Kerikeri Airport, from where a transfer to Paihia takes around 30 minutes. From Paihia, a short 15-minute ferry crosses to Russell; the ferry fare is payable in cash on the day. Those self-driving from Auckland will find the journey takes around 3 hours 30 minutes, with scenic route options along the way. Vehicles can be left safely at the accommodation in Russell.

The walk ends in Russell. Those who flew in will be transferred from Paihia to Kerikeri Airport, from where flights return to Auckland several times daily. Those who drove can depart directly from Russell.

This walk is available throughout the year, with no fixed start days. Spring and autumn are the finest seasons, with long sunny days, comfortable temperatures and quieter trails. September to November and March to May offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds.

December through February is warm and excellent for swimming, though the Bay of Islands attracts large numbers of summer visitors and early booking is strongly advised. A peak season supplement applies during this period.

June, July and August are the quietest months on the trail, but the weather is cooler and wetter and these months are not recommended for walking.

Pack a light waterproof whatever the month; New Zealand weather can change quickly.

This walk is graded moderate to challenging. Daily walks average 14.7 kilometres with around 672 metres of ascent and descent, and a terrain difficulty rating of 8 out of 10. Tracks are well-graded overall, with some ascents and descents and a few sections that may feel exposed for those with a fear of heights. The Cape Brett walk is the most demanding day on the itinerary and requires solid preparation. A shorter option is available on this day, though an additional water taxi transfer applies and must be paid directly to the operator.

There is also the option to add walks for those who wish to explore further. Sturdy walking boots with good ankle support and grip are essential. A regular training routine of three to four times per week, with hill work incorporated, is recommended in preparation.

Daily walk notes, maps, and GPX tracks are provided.

You must hold adequate travel insurance for your trip, including cover for personal liability and accidental injury and illness. For all trips involving international travel, your policy must also include emergency medical treatment, evacuation and repatriation cover. We strongly recommend your policy also covers trip cancellation and curtailment, and loss of or damage to luggage.

A cancellation fee usually applies if you cancel after your booking is confirmed. Travel insurance with cancellation cover will generally cover this fee, so it's worth arranging your policy at the time of booking.

Full insurance requirements are set out in our booking terms and conditions.

A detailed information pack and itinerary will be sent to you around six weeks before departure, covering everything you need to know for a seamless experience. In the meantime, our team is always on hand to answer any questions.

For your safety and well-being, we are unable to accept bookings for solo walkers on this self-guided trip. The remote nature of some tracks and limited mobile reception mean that walking alone presents a higher risk in case of emergencies.

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are New Zealand's most significant historic site and a short walk from Paihia. A day pass covers two world-class museums: Te Kongahu Museum of Waitangi, tracing the history of the Treaty and the Ngapuhi people, and Te Rau Aroha, commemorating Maori service in the New Zealand armed forces. The pass also includes a guided tour and cultural performance in the carved wharenui.