- Walk the Cape Brett Track along a rugged peninsula to a historic lighthouse with spectacular 360-degree views — hands down the best one-day walk in Northland and one of the best in the country.
- Visit the ruins of a 19th-century whaling station in a picturesque bay accessible only by boat or on foot.
- See rare birds such as the tieke (saddleback) or kakariki (red-crowned parakeet) on pest-free island sanctuaries.
- Island-hop through the three main bush-clad islands, each lovelier than the next, with sublime views and superb walking.
- Zip across the Bay in a water taxi operated by a member of the local iwi (tribe); if conditions allow he’ll take you through the iconic Hole in the Rock or let you try your luck at fishing.
- Explore historic Russell, New Zealand’s first capital, and eat your way around its excellent restaurants.
- Enjoy refreshing swims at pristine white-sand beaches.
- Explore forests of lush tree ferns, crimson-flowered pohutukawa and towering kauri trees.
- Stay five nights at the welcoming Villa Russell, a short stroll from the town centre. Sample fresh oysters and top New Zealand wines and hear kiwi and weka calling at night.
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
With emerald-green islands sprinkled across sparkling water, quaintly historic towns, sheltered white-sand beaches and resurgent wildlife, the Bay of Islands is rightly one of New Zealand’s top tourist destinations. Outside the bustling tourist hub of Paihia and the busy Christmas holidays, it’s still the kind of place you can find a beach or a bushwalk to yourself.
The Bay is gaining a reputation as an active holiday destination with a year-round mild climate and great opportunities for kayaking, sailing, mountain biking and, of course, walking. The Cape Brett Track offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in New Zealand, and that’s saying something. We have pieced together four beautiful walks that allow you to experience the region from both the land and the sea. Private transfers on both land and sea seal this intimate expedition, as you walk and explore the Bay of Islands region.
Russell, your base for the duration of your stay, will offer all the creature comforts you need, from welcoming, well-appointed accommodation to fine restaurants and private transfers by land and water.
During your stay, you’ll also get a sense of the Bay of Islands’ role as the crucible of New Zealand history. The area boasts some of the country’s oldest archaeological sites, its first European settlements and the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, the start of an ongoing experiment to forge a society where Maori and Pakeha (Europeans) live side by side.
Highlights
WALK OVERVIEW
TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDEDTRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Easy to Moderate
Grade 2 - Easy to Moderate
Some uphill sections and occasional steps. Walks are generally shorter and walking experience is not required.PRICE FROM
$ 2295
per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 745
Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.
per person
ITINERARY
WHAT’S INCLUDED
-
Pack-free walking
-
25+ years experience
-
Customised
-
Eco Travel
- 6 day package: 5 nights’ accommodation
- 5 breakfasts and 3 lunches
- 4 great walks in Northland including Cape Brett
- Private transfers from Kerikeri
- All water taxis on the Bay of Islands
- Insulated lunch bag and map case
- National Park fees and walking permit at Cape Brett
- Auswalk authored comprehensive walking notes
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
OVERVIEW
Both accommodations are in the oldest town in New Zealand. Russell is a great place to come not only if you love walking, but also golf, sailing or just to go fishing. Russell’s history is significant, including being a key player in the Maori wars. Its closeness to New Zealand’s first capital Okiato (where the car ferry comes in) also adds to the history.
The accommodations we use have superb views over the Bay. Staying in Russell affords you the opportunity to dine at some excellent eateries. If you have more energy after your walks you can further explore the town including making your way to the flag pole at the top of Russell, famous for being chopped down a number of times in the Maori wars.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMODATION
GENERAL INFO
AVAILABILITY OF THE BAY OF ISLANDS WALK
This trip is almost always available, but we don’t suggest the winter months of June, July and August. We suggest that if you can avoid January and February when the area gets more crowded with holidaymakers. The walking temperatures are also higher but then you can also take a swim. There is a surcharge at this time (as well as during the holiday period of December and of course in January and February). Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are good times to walk.
GETTING THERE AND AWAY
There are two main ways to get to and from the walk.
Travelling to the Start of the walk
You are required to get yourself to the start and from the end of this walk which starts and finishes in Russell. Make sure you have some new Zealand cash it will make things easier and less costly than using your credit card for small purchases.
There are two main ways to get to and from the walk.
You can fly to Kerikeri from Auckland, where one of our transfer providers will meet you for a 30 min transfer to Paihia, from Paihia you will need to catch a 15-minute ferry to Russell. Your accommodation is a short 200m from the Russell ferry jetty. Please note the ferry is an additional $9 which you will need to pay in cash on the day.
Alternatively, you can self-drive. The drive to Russell is around 3.5 hours from Auckland. The roads from Auckland are excellent and there are ample opportunities to explore on the way by taking the more scenic routes. Your vehicle can be left safely at your accommodation in Russell.
Travelling from the End of the walk
The walk finishes in Russell after breakfast on the last day if you drove.
Or we will transfer you from Paihia to Kerikeri airport. Flights are available back to Auckland from Kerikeri a few times a day.
Try google flights or skyscanner.com.au to book flights
WALKING
The tracks are well-graded, with some ascents and descents. There are some potentially difficult bits if you have a fear of heights. The walk distances average about 15 kms a day allowing you to explore the many isolated beaches. You will also have the option of undertaking additional walks should you wish to further explore the region.
WEATHER
From December through February it is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. You will need to book well in advance for January and February due to the summer school holidays. March through May and September to November is usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking.
See the New Zealand Meteorological Service information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For almost 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.
MAP
DEPARTURE DATES
- DATESAVAILABILITYPRICEPER PERSONSingle OccupancyDETAILS
- 1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom
$2595
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$745 - 1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom
$2295
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$7454 Walkers or more
- 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom
$2695
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$795 - 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom
$2395
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$7954 Walkers or more
SIMILAR TRIPS
7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi
Self-guided
Traverse the world heritage-listed Kumano Kodo, hiking the beautiful Kii Peninsula. Soak in onsens, stay in Japanese accommodation, and savour traditional Japanese meals.
7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi
BACK What's Included- Walk the entire Kumano Kodo Nakahechi from end to end via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
- Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
- 6 nights stay in an intimate family-run or small traditional Japanese lodgings, some with in-house onsens
- Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 4 walkers lunches
- Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding more rest days
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive track notes and maps
- 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground
Blue Mountains Traverse 7 Day
Self-guided
World Heritage Blue Mountains NP. Cliff-top trails, descend into the densely forested Jamison & Waterfall Valleys.
Blue Mountains Traverse 7 Day
BACK What's Included- The best of the Blue Mountains walks
- 6 nights’ accommodation in excellent rooms with ensuites
- Cooked or continental breakfast each morning you are walking, walkers lunches each walking day and select ala carte dinners at local restaurants
- Vehicle transfers and luggage transport
- We shift along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating more time to relax and enjoy the region
- Scenic world Railway, Skyway & Gondola all-day pass & National Park admission
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack
- 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground
Abel Tasman Walk End to End – 6 Days
Self-guided
Abel Tasman Great walk end to end. Stunning views over golden beaches, estuaries, coves & native forest. Unparalleled opportunities to swim.
Abel Tasman Walk End to End – 6 Days
BACK What's Included- Full access to the Abel Tasman National Park and its beauty
- 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodges including 4-star Awaroa lodge
- Walk the entire track end to end pack free
- A la carte meals at Awaroa Lodge including 2-course dinners
- 5 breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches and 3 dinners
- Comprehensive track notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
- Enjoy the 26 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
Queen Charlotte Track – End to End – 6 Days
Self-guided
Glorious views over the magnificent Queen Charlotte Sound, stunning native forest, gourmet Marlborough area as you walk from Ship Cove to Anakiwa in and out of your accommodation
Queen Charlotte Track – End to End – 6 Days
BACK What's Included- Full access to the Queen Charlotte track in superb comfort
- 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodge accommodations – the last walking day can be split into 2 if you wish (adds to the cost)
- Walk the entire track end to end pack free, all transfers on and off the track
- A la carte meals including 2-course dinners on the walk
- 5 daily breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches, 3 dinners
- We look after you before and after the walk
- Comprehensive tracks notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
- Enjoy the nearly 30 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
Overview
SELF GUIDED
6 DAYS
Easy to Moderate
Book now
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
With emerald-green islands sprinkled across sparkling water, quaintly historic towns, sheltered white-sand beaches and resurgent wildlife, the Bay of Islands is rightly one of New Zealand’s top tourist destinations. Outside the bustling tourist hub of Paihia and the busy Christmas holidays, it’s still the kind of place you can find a beach or a bushwalk to yourself.
The Bay is gaining a reputation as an active holiday destination with a year-round mild climate and great opportunities for kayaking, sailing, mountain biking and, of course, walking. The Cape Brett Track offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in New Zealand, and that’s saying something. We have pieced together four beautiful walks that allow you to experience the region from both the land and the sea. Private transfers on both land and sea seal this intimate expedition, as you walk and explore the Bay of Islands region.
Russell, your base for the duration of your stay, will offer all the creature comforts you need, from welcoming, well-appointed accommodation to fine restaurants and private transfers by land and water.
During your stay, you’ll also get a sense of the Bay of Islands’ role as the crucible of New Zealand history. The area boasts some of the country’s oldest archaeological sites, its first European settlements and the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, the start of an ongoing experiment to forge a society where Maori and Pakeha (Europeans) live side by side.
Highlights
- Walk the Cape Brett Track along a rugged peninsula to a historic lighthouse with spectacular 360-degree views — hands down the best one-day walk in Northland and one of the best in the country.
- Visit the ruins of a 19th-century whaling station in a picturesque bay accessible only by boat or on foot.
- See rare birds such as the tieke (saddleback) or kakariki (red-crowned parakeet) on pest-free island sanctuaries.
- Island-hop through the three main bush-clad islands, each lovelier than the next, with sublime views and superb walking.
- Zip across the Bay in a water taxi operated by a member of the local iwi (tribe); if conditions allow he’ll take you through the iconic Hole in the Rock or let you try your luck at fishing.
- Explore historic Russell, New Zealand’s first capital, and eat your way around its excellent restaurants.
- Enjoy refreshing swims at pristine white-sand beaches.
- Explore forests of lush tree ferns, crimson-flowered pohutukawa and towering kauri trees.
- Stay five nights at the welcoming Villa Russell, a short stroll from the town centre. Sample fresh oysters and top New Zealand wines and hear kiwi and weka calling at night.
WALK OVERVIEW
TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDEDTRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Easy to ModerateGrade 2 - Easy to Moderate
Some uphill sections and occasional steps. Walks are generally shorter and walking experience is not required.PRICE FROM
$ 2295
per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 745
Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.
per person
Itinerary
ITINERARY
What’s Included
WHAT’S INCLUDED
-
Pack-free walking
-
25+ years experience
-
Customised
-
Eco Travel
- 6 day package: 5 nights’ accommodation
- 5 breakfasts and 3 lunches
- 4 great walks in Northland including Cape Brett
- Private transfers from Kerikeri
- All water taxis on the Bay of Islands
- Insulated lunch bag and map case
- National Park fees and walking permit at Cape Brett
- Auswalk authored comprehensive walking notes
Accommodation & Dining
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
OVERVIEW
Both accommodations are in the oldest town in New Zealand. Russell is a great place to come not only if you love walking, but also golf, sailing or just to go fishing. Russell’s history is significant, including being a key player in the Maori wars. Its closeness to New Zealand’s first capital Okiato (where the car ferry comes in) also adds to the history.
The accommodations we use have superb views over the Bay. Staying in Russell affords you the opportunity to dine at some excellent eateries. If you have more energy after your walks you can further explore the town including making your way to the flag pole at the top of Russell, famous for being chopped down a number of times in the Maori wars.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMODATION
General Info
GENERAL INFO
AVAILABILITY OF THE BAY OF ISLANDS WALK
This trip is almost always available, but we don’t suggest the winter months of June, July and August. We suggest that if you can avoid January and February when the area gets more crowded with holidaymakers. The walking temperatures are also higher but then you can also take a swim. There is a surcharge at this time (as well as during the holiday period of December and of course in January and February). Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are good times to walk.
GETTING THERE AND AWAY
There are two main ways to get to and from the walk.
Travelling to the Start of the walk
You are required to get yourself to the start and from the end of this walk which starts and finishes in Russell. Make sure you have some new Zealand cash it will make things easier and less costly than using your credit card for small purchases.
There are two main ways to get to and from the walk.
You can fly to Kerikeri from Auckland, where one of our transfer providers will meet you for a 30 min transfer to Paihia, from Paihia you will need to catch a 15-minute ferry to Russell. Your accommodation is a short 200m from the Russell ferry jetty. Please note the ferry is an additional $9 which you will need to pay in cash on the day.
Alternatively, you can self-drive. The drive to Russell is around 3.5 hours from Auckland. The roads from Auckland are excellent and there are ample opportunities to explore on the way by taking the more scenic routes. Your vehicle can be left safely at your accommodation in Russell.
Travelling from the End of the walk
The walk finishes in Russell after breakfast on the last day if you drove.
Or we will transfer you from Paihia to Kerikeri airport. Flights are available back to Auckland from Kerikeri a few times a day.
Try google flights or skyscanner.com.au to book flights
WALKING
The tracks are well-graded, with some ascents and descents. There are some potentially difficult bits if you have a fear of heights. The walk distances average about 15 kms a day allowing you to explore the many isolated beaches. You will also have the option of undertaking additional walks should you wish to further explore the region.
WEATHER
From December through February it is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. You will need to book well in advance for January and February due to the summer school holidays. March through May and September to November is usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking.
See the New Zealand Meteorological Service information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For almost 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.
Map
MAP
Departure Dates
DEPARTURE DATES
- DATESAVAILABILITYPRICEPER PERSONSingle OccupancyDETAILS
- 1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom
$2595
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$745 - 1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom
$2295
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$745 - 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom
$2695
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$795 - 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom
$2395
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$795
Similar Trips
SIMILAR TRIPS
7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi
Self-guided
Traverse the world heritage-listed Kumano Kodo, hiking the beautiful Kii Peninsula. Soak in onsens, stay in Japanese accommodation, and savour traditional Japanese meals.
7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi
BACK What's Included- Walk the entire Kumano Kodo Nakahechi from end to end via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
- Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
- 6 nights stay in an intimate family-run or small traditional Japanese lodgings, some with in-house onsens
- Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 4 walkers lunches
- Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding more rest days
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive track notes and maps
- 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground
Blue Mountains Traverse 7 Day
Self-guided
World Heritage Blue Mountains NP. Cliff-top trails, descend into the densely forested Jamison & Waterfall Valleys.
Blue Mountains Traverse 7 Day
BACK What's Included- The best of the Blue Mountains walks
- 6 nights’ accommodation in excellent rooms with ensuites
- Cooked or continental breakfast each morning you are walking, walkers lunches each walking day and select ala carte dinners at local restaurants
- Vehicle transfers and luggage transport
- We shift along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating more time to relax and enjoy the region
- Scenic world Railway, Skyway & Gondola all-day pass & National Park admission
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack
- 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground
Abel Tasman Walk End to End – 6 Days
Self-guided
Abel Tasman Great walk end to end. Stunning views over golden beaches, estuaries, coves & native forest. Unparalleled opportunities to swim.
Abel Tasman Walk End to End – 6 Days
BACK What's Included- Full access to the Abel Tasman National Park and its beauty
- 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodges including 4-star Awaroa lodge
- Walk the entire track end to end pack free
- A la carte meals at Awaroa Lodge including 2-course dinners
- 5 breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches and 3 dinners
- Comprehensive track notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
- Enjoy the 26 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
Queen Charlotte Track – End to End – 6 Days
Self-guided
Glorious views over the magnificent Queen Charlotte Sound, stunning native forest, gourmet Marlborough area as you walk from Ship Cove to Anakiwa in and out of your accommodation
Queen Charlotte Track – End to End – 6 Days
BACK What's Included- Full access to the Queen Charlotte track in superb comfort
- 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodge accommodations – the last walking day can be split into 2 if you wish (adds to the cost)
- Walk the entire track end to end pack free, all transfers on and off the track
- A la carte meals including 2-course dinners on the walk
- 5 daily breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches, 3 dinners
- We look after you before and after the walk
- Comprehensive tracks notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
- Enjoy the nearly 30 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
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ENQUIRE NOW
If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.