Day 1 – Auckland → Whangārei → Kerikeri → Russell
Morning
- Depart Auckland early (around 7:00 am)
- Drive to Whangārei (2.5 hours)
- Stop at the Hundertwasser Art Centre (opens 10:00 am). Explore the unique architecture, rooftop garden, and Wairau Māori Art Gallery
- Optional short detour to Whangārei Falls for a nature walk (20 mins return)
Midday – Kerikeri Stop (1 hr drive from Whangārei)
- Visit the Kerikeri Mission Station
- Explore The Stone Store (NZ’s oldest stone building) and Mission House
- Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Plough & Feather, right beside the historic site, with views over the river and gardens
Afternoon
Continue to Russell via the Opua car ferry (45 mins drive to Opua + 10 min ferry + 10 mins to Russell)
Check in to your accommodation – Arcadia Lodge
- This historic boutique lodge offers a charming atmosphere with suites overlooking the bay. You’ll enjoy a warm welcome from hosts Peter and Greg and wake to a gourmet breakfast. Take an easy walk down through the gardens to Russell township with a wide choice of boutiques, cafes and restaurants.
- Peter and Greg can arrange a days sailing around the beautiful Bay of Islands or simply dinner at a local restaurant; they’re always happy to help
Or, choose to be self-contained at Cloud 9 Luxury Villa – offering panoramic views over the stunning Bay of Islands. Located in a private gated complex just a 5-minute drive from Russell township. In the gourmet kitchen you’ll love the bottle of NZ wine and a cheese platter to enjoy while relaxing on the deck. Together with generous breakfast provisions. Put your chef’s hat on and craft dinner in this wonderful kitchen, or fire up the BBQ on the deck, or choose to dine at a myriad of restaurants in Russell township. Relax in the infinity pool and spa and soak in those fabulous views. As night falls you may just hear the call of the Kiwi
Evening
- Dinner at The Duke of Marlborough – historic pub with waterfront dining
Day 2 – Russell & Bay of Islands Exploration
Morning
- Enjoy a gourmet breakfast with sea views on the deck at Arcadia Lodge or at your luxury villa – Cloud 9.
- Embark on a Bay of Islands cruise (morning departure)
- Visit Hole in the Rock, dolphin spotting, and optional island walk (e.g. Urupukapuka), or choose to be out on the water for a day
Lunch
- Light lunch back in Russell and explore the local boutiques
Afternoon
- Visit Christ Church (NZ’s oldest church), Russell Museum, and Pompallier Mission & Printery
- Walk the Flagstaff Hill track for sweeping views across the Bay of Islands
Evening
- Dinner at The Gables – fine dining in a historic waterfront cottage or a range of casual cafes
Day 3 – Leisure in Russell or Winery Visit
Morning
- Leisurely start with a swim or coffee at Long Beach or a walk to Tapeka Point
- Take the car ferry across to Paihia and drive to Waitangi Treaty Grounds – visit the Treaty House, museum and ceremonial waka – allow at least 2 hours
- Arrange lunch at Omata Estate and relax with a flight tasting overlooking the vines to the bays below. Omata is a 5 minute drive from Russell ferry
- Or – lunch at
- Sage Restaurant @ Paroa Bay Winery – elevated dining with vineyard views (book ahead; they offer transfers to Russell)
Evening
- Final dinner of your choice in Russell – or take the ferry across to Paihia for dinner at a choice of local restaurants
Day 4 – Russell → Auckland
Morning
- Breakfast in Russell, then take the car ferry back to Opua
- Optional stops en route south
- Kawakawa for coffee
- Whangārei Town Basin – riverside cafés or a light gallery walk
Lunch
- Stop in Matakana or Puhoi for a late lunch if taking a scenic route
- Arrive in Auckland by late afternoon or early evening