OVERVIEW

With emerald-green islands sprinkled across sparkling water, quaint 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 Cape Brett Track offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in New Zealand, and that's saying something! This walk allows you to experience the region from both the land and the sea, with both land and sea transfers.

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. During your stay, you'll also get a sense of the Bay of Islands' role as the crucible of New Zealand history.

Highlights

  • Walk the Cape Brett Track along a rugged peninsula to a historic lighthouse with spectacular 360-degree views
  • Spot rare birds such as the tieke (saddleback) or kakariki (red-crowned parakeet)
  • 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; if conditions allow go through the iconic Hole in the Rock or 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

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Distances are longer up to 20 plus km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.

PRICE FROM
$ 1895

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 695

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

Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
Travel to Kerikeri/Russell

Your holiday starts in Russell.  We pick you up at Kerikeri airport or you can drive directly to Russell from Auckland. There is no walking scheduled for today leaving you free to explore your surroundings. Enjoy a stroll around the foreshore or spend the day relaxing in your centrally located accommodation.

Enjoying dining at one of the many fantastic restaurants in Russell in the evening.

Accommodation: Russell in ensuited rooms

DAY 2
Bay of Islands Loop (Russell-Opua-Paihia-Russell)

This might not be a wilderness experience but it’s a great introduction to the inner Bay of Islands, a 19km flat to gently undulating loop trail which takes you through small towns and native bush, along beaches and over boardwalks through mangrove forests, rarely more than a stone’s throw from the sea. You’ll have opportunities to stop for fish and chips or fresh oysters; you’ll also take two ferries (incurring an additional $1 per journey, that can be paid by cash only), making for a varied and scenically rewarding day. Walk in and out of your accommodation today.

Walking: Moderate / 19kms / 6-7hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast

Accommodation: Russell in ensuited rooms

DAY 3
The 3 Islands: Motuarohia, Moturua and Urupukapuka.

It wouldn’t be a trip to the Bay of Islands without a bit of island hopping. A private water taxi will whisk you between these three islands, each with its own distinct character and history. What they all have in common is great views and resurgent wildlife, thanks to a 10-year-long project to eradicate pests and bring back native birdsong. Highlights include the view from the top of Motuarohia; the bird-filled bush and beaches (bring your swimsuit!) of Moturua; and the rugged, cliff-edge scenery of Urupukapuka. Your water taxi driver, Bob, is an added bonus. Let’s just say you won’t be short of stories. Once again walk in and out of of your accommodation today.

Walking: Moderate / 9kms / 3-4hrs plus about 2hrs by boat

Meals: Cooked breakfast and lunch pack provided

Accommodation: Russell in ensuited rooms

DAY 4
Cape Brett Walk

We’ve saved the best for last. The Cape Brett Track, easily the best one-day walk in Northland, follows a rugged peninsula jutting into the Pacific with jaw-dropping views on all sides. You’ll start off in shady coastal bush which gradually gives way to wind-swept scrub and finally an exposed rocky ridge. Don’t be fooled by the relatively short distance – a lot of up and down makes this a challenging day. When you crest the final hill and a panorama of ocean, sheer-sided islands and a historic lighthouse opens up before you, you’ll realise it’s been more than worth it. To cap it all off, Bob, your water taxi driver, will pick you up from the rocks below the old lighthouse keeper’s cottage (conditions permitting and you’ll need a reasonable sense of balance) and take you through the iconic Hole in the Rock by boat before returning you to Russell.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 16kms / 6-8hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and lunch pack provided

Accommodation: Russell in ensuited rooms

DAY 5
Onward journey after breakfast

A relaxed morning which may include a walk on the beach.  After a delicious cooked breakfast, you will be transferred back to Kerikeri airport; that’s if you flew in. A scenic drive back to Auckland or elsewhere awaits you if you drove.

Meals: Cooked breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 5-day package: 4 nights’ accommodation
  • 4 breakfasts and 2 lunches
  • 3 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

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs. If you do not have access to hills, it it essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible via a treadmill or stair climber. Prioritizing resistance training assumes heightened significance in this context, emphasizing the incorporation of stair climbing whenever feasible. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills, boring as that sounds, is incredibly useful. Elevation is the chief walk killer, not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles. If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels ( this may not be possible). Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MIXED TERRAIN

UNEVEN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a nuanced blend of physical and mental readiness. Commence your regimen with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a foundational groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is pivotal, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups to enhance both stability and power. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement. The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritize options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

MOUNTAINOUS

As terrain associated with Mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and or rocky balancing and core exercises are vital. Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills or up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills, boring as that sounds, is incredibly useful. Elevation is often the chief walk killer, not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles. So concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

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 16 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

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $695
  • 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1895

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $695

    4 Walkers or more

  • 1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2295

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $735
  • 1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1995

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $735

    4 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.

Self-guided 7 Days From $2595 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

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.

Self-guided 7 Days From $2455 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

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.

Self-guided 6 Days From $2595 Moderate What's Included

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

Self-guided 6 Days From $2045 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

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

OVERVIEW

With emerald-green islands sprinkled across sparkling water, quaint 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 Cape Brett Track offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in New Zealand, and that's saying something! This walk allows you to experience the region from both the land and the sea, with both land and sea transfers.

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. During your stay, you'll also get a sense of the Bay of Islands' role as the crucible of New Zealand history.

Highlights

  • Walk the Cape Brett Track along a rugged peninsula to a historic lighthouse with spectacular 360-degree views
  • Spot rare birds such as the tieke (saddleback) or kakariki (red-crowned parakeet)
  • 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; if conditions allow go through the iconic Hole in the Rock or 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

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Distances are longer up to 20 plus km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.

PRICE FROM
$ 1895

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 695

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

Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
Travel to Kerikeri/Russell

Your holiday starts in Russell.  We pick you up at Kerikeri airport or you can drive directly to Russell from Auckland. There is no walking scheduled for today leaving you free to explore your surroundings. Enjoy a stroll around the foreshore or spend the day relaxing in your centrally located accommodation.

Enjoying dining at one of the many fantastic restaurants in Russell in the evening.

Accommodation: Russell in ensuited rooms

DAY 2
Bay of Islands Loop (Russell-Opua-Paihia-Russell)

This might not be a wilderness experience but it’s a great introduction to the inner Bay of Islands, a 19km flat to gently undulating loop trail which takes you through small towns and native bush, along beaches and over boardwalks through mangrove forests, rarely more than a stone’s throw from the sea. You’ll have opportunities to stop for fish and chips or fresh oysters; you’ll also take two ferries (incurring an additional $1 per journey, that can be paid by cash only), making for a varied and scenically rewarding day. Walk in and out of your accommodation today.

Walking: Moderate / 19kms / 6-7hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast

Accommodation: Russell in ensuited rooms

DAY 3
The 3 Islands: Motuarohia, Moturua and Urupukapuka.

It wouldn’t be a trip to the Bay of Islands without a bit of island hopping. A private water taxi will whisk you between these three islands, each with its own distinct character and history. What they all have in common is great views and resurgent wildlife, thanks to a 10-year-long project to eradicate pests and bring back native birdsong. Highlights include the view from the top of Motuarohia; the bird-filled bush and beaches (bring your swimsuit!) of Moturua; and the rugged, cliff-edge scenery of Urupukapuka. Your water taxi driver, Bob, is an added bonus. Let’s just say you won’t be short of stories. Once again walk in and out of of your accommodation today.

Walking: Moderate / 9kms / 3-4hrs plus about 2hrs by boat

Meals: Cooked breakfast and lunch pack provided

Accommodation: Russell in ensuited rooms

DAY 4
Cape Brett Walk

We’ve saved the best for last. The Cape Brett Track, easily the best one-day walk in Northland, follows a rugged peninsula jutting into the Pacific with jaw-dropping views on all sides. You’ll start off in shady coastal bush which gradually gives way to wind-swept scrub and finally an exposed rocky ridge. Don’t be fooled by the relatively short distance – a lot of up and down makes this a challenging day. When you crest the final hill and a panorama of ocean, sheer-sided islands and a historic lighthouse opens up before you, you’ll realise it’s been more than worth it. To cap it all off, Bob, your water taxi driver, will pick you up from the rocks below the old lighthouse keeper’s cottage (conditions permitting and you’ll need a reasonable sense of balance) and take you through the iconic Hole in the Rock by boat before returning you to Russell.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 16kms / 6-8hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and lunch pack provided

Accommodation: Russell in ensuited rooms

DAY 5
Onward journey after breakfast

A relaxed morning which may include a walk on the beach.  After a delicious cooked breakfast, you will be transferred back to Kerikeri airport; that’s if you flew in. A scenic drive back to Auckland or elsewhere awaits you if you drove.

Meals: Cooked breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 5-day package: 4 nights’ accommodation
  • 4 breakfasts and 2 lunches
  • 3 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

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs. If you do not have access to hills, it it essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible via a treadmill or stair climber. Prioritizing resistance training assumes heightened significance in this context, emphasizing the incorporation of stair climbing whenever feasible. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills, boring as that sounds, is incredibly useful. Elevation is the chief walk killer, not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles. If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels ( this may not be possible). Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MIXED TERRAIN

UNEVEN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a nuanced blend of physical and mental readiness. Commence your regimen with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a foundational groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is pivotal, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups to enhance both stability and power. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement. The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritize options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

MOUNTAINOUS

As terrain associated with Mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and or rocky balancing and core exercises are vital. Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills or up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills, boring as that sounds, is incredibly useful. Elevation is often the chief walk killer, not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles. So concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

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 16 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

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $695
  • 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1895

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $695
  • 1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2295

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $735
  • 1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1995

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $735
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.

Self-guided 7 Days From $2595 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

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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.

Self-guided 7 Days From $2455 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Blue Mountains Traverse 7 Day

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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.

Self-guided 6 Days From $2595 Moderate What's Included

Abel Tasman Walk End to End – 6 Days

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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

Self-guided 6 Days From $2045 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

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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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.

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