The Bay at Your Own Pace
A private Bay of Islands tour dedicates a guide and vehicle (or boat) exclusively to your group — the islands, the cultural sites, the water activities, and the pace are shaped around your interests. The Bay of Islands’ geography (144 islands scattered across a subtropical bay, with the historic towns of Paihia, Russell, and Kerikeri on its shores) means a private guide can combine the water-based experiences (island cruising, dolphin watching, snorkelling) with the land-based attractions (the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the kauri forests, the food and wine stops) in a single, flexible day.
Private tours are particularly valuable for combining the Hole in the Rock cruise with a Waitangi Treaty Grounds visit and a vineyard lunch — a triple combination that standard group tours do not offer in a single day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a private Bay of Islands tour cost?
Private guided day tours typically cost NZD 500–1,200+ depending on the activities, the vehicle/boat, and the group size. The cost is per tour, not per person.
Can a private tour combine boat and land activities?
Yes — the Bay’s compact geography allows a morning cruise (Hole in the Rock, dolphin watching) combined with an afternoon on land (Waitangi, kauri forest, food and wine). The guide manages the logistics.