Arno K
The Universal Hikes app was most helpful. The entire walk went very well.
30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
Established by 30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
Read More Reviews
Bravo!
Auswalk Walking Holiday rated "excellent" by232 travellers
-
SELF-GUIDED
-
5 DAYS
-
Easyto
Moderate
PRICE FROM
$ 1,135 per person
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
$ 415 per person
WALK MENU
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
ITINERARY
DAY one
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 ensuite rooms
DAY two
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 ensuite rooms
DAY three
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 ensuite rooms
DAY four
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 ensuite rooms
DAY five
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
- 5 day 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
- National Park fees and walking permit at Cape Brett
- Stroll comprehensive walking notes
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
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 ACCOMMODATION
The Bed and Breakfast is run by the former owners of Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte walk. Villa Russell has only 2 rooms, both with stunning views that overlook the bay. Villa Russell is a beautiful old-world, quite luxurious, Bed and Breakfast. The accommodation itself has a long history dating back to 1910. It is just a couple of minutes walk from the village, waterfront and restaurants yet totally private and secluded. The bed and breakfast is on the hill which affords you great views of the Bay. Your host Sue has a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATION
The Bed and Breakfast is run by the former owners of Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte walk. Villa Russell has only 2 rooms, both with stunning views that overlook the bay. Villa Russell is a beautiful old-world, quite luxurious, Bed and Breakfast. The accommodation itself has a long history dating back to 1910. It is just a couple of minutes walk from the village, waterfront and restaurants yet totally private and secluded. The bed and breakfast is on the hill which affords you great views of the Bay. Your host Sue has a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATION
The Bed and Breakfast is run by the former owners of Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte walk. Villa Russell has only 2 rooms, both with stunning views that overlook the bay. Villa Russell is a beautiful old-world, quite luxurious, Bed and Breakfast. The accommodation itself has a long history dating back to 1910. It is just a couple of minutes walk from the village, waterfront and restaurants yet totally private and secluded. The bed and breakfast is on the hill which affords you great views of the Bay. Your host Sue has a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATION
The Bed and Breakfast is run by the former owners of Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte walk. Villa Russell has only 2 rooms, both with stunning views that overlook the bay. Villa Russell is a beautiful old-world, quite luxurious, Bed and Breakfast. The accommodation itself has a long history dating back to 1910. It is just a couple of minutes walk from the village, waterfront and restaurants yet totally private and secluded. The bed and breakfast is on the hill which affords you great views of the Bay. Your host Sue has a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
The Duke of Marlborough is an institution in Russell. The hotel rooms have been renovated recently, but the rest of the hotel was left in its original form to maintain the old worldly style that is impossible to replicate. Gorgeous views over the bay. This hotel is located right at the jetty for the passenger ferry to Paihia. The hotel has beautiful facilities, a full-service restaurant right on the bay and a bar. It is both the first and original hotel that stands here in Russell with a long and fascinating history. The rooms are all fitted ensuites and to ensure walkers can comfortably rest.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
The Duke of Marlborough is an institution in Russell. The hotel rooms have been renovated recently, but the rest of the hotel was left in its original form to maintain the old worldly style that is impossible to replicate. Gorgeous views over the bay. This hotel is located right at the jetty for the passenger ferry to Paihia. The hotel has beautiful facilities, a full-service restaurant right on the bay and a bar. It is both the first and original hotel that stands here in Russell with a long and fascinating history. The rooms are all fitted ensuites and to ensure walkers can comfortably rest.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
The Duke of Marlborough is an institution in Russell. The hotel rooms have been renovated recently, but the rest of the hotel was left in its original form to maintain the old worldly style that is impossible to replicate. Gorgeous views over the bay. This hotel is located right at the jetty for the passenger ferry to Paihia. The hotel has beautiful facilities, a full-service restaurant right on the bay and a bar. It is both the first and original hotel that stands here in Russell with a long and fascinating history. The rooms are all fitted ensuites and to ensure walkers can comfortably rest.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
The Duke of Marlborough is an institution in Russell. The hotel rooms have been renovated recently, but the rest of the hotel was left in its original form to maintain the old worldly style that is impossible to replicate. Gorgeous views over the bay. This hotel is located right at the jetty for the passenger ferry to Paihia. The hotel has beautiful facilities, a full-service restaurant right on the bay and a bar. It is both the first and original hotel that stands here in Russell with a long and fascinating history. The rooms are all fitted ensuites and to ensure walkers can comfortably rest.
GENERAL INFO
AVAILABILITY
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 or email us at info@Stroll.com
MAP
DEPARTURE DATES
-
DATESAVAILABILITYPRICESingle OccupancyDetails
-
1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025AVAILABLE
from $ 1340
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 415 -
1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025AVAILABLE
from $ 1135
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 4154 Walkers or more
-
1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026AVAILABLE
from $ 1395
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 420 -
1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026AVAILABLE
from $ 1185
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 4204 Walkers or more
REVIEWS
Customer Reviews
Leave a Reply
sections
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
Itinerary
DAY one
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 ensuite rooms
DAY two
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 ensuite rooms
DAY three
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 ensuite rooms
DAY four
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 ensuite rooms
DAY five
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
- 5 day 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
- National Park fees and walking permit at Cape Brett
- Stroll comprehensive walking notes
Accommodation & Dining
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 ACCOMMODATION
The Bed and Breakfast is run by the former owners of Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte walk. Villa Russell has only 2 rooms, both with stunning views that overlook the bay. Villa Russell is a beautiful old-world, quite luxurious, Bed and Breakfast. The accommodation itself has a long history dating back to 1910. It is just a couple of minutes walk from the village, waterfront and restaurants yet totally private and secluded. The bed and breakfast is on the hill which affords you great views of the Bay. Your host Sue has a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATION
The Bed and Breakfast is run by the former owners of Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte walk. Villa Russell has only 2 rooms, both with stunning views that overlook the bay. Villa Russell is a beautiful old-world, quite luxurious, Bed and Breakfast. The accommodation itself has a long history dating back to 1910. It is just a couple of minutes walk from the village, waterfront and restaurants yet totally private and secluded. The bed and breakfast is on the hill which affords you great views of the Bay. Your host Sue has a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATION
The Bed and Breakfast is run by the former owners of Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte walk. Villa Russell has only 2 rooms, both with stunning views that overlook the bay. Villa Russell is a beautiful old-world, quite luxurious, Bed and Breakfast. The accommodation itself has a long history dating back to 1910. It is just a couple of minutes walk from the village, waterfront and restaurants yet totally private and secluded. The bed and breakfast is on the hill which affords you great views of the Bay. Your host Sue has a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATION
The Bed and Breakfast is run by the former owners of Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte walk. Villa Russell has only 2 rooms, both with stunning views that overlook the bay. Villa Russell is a beautiful old-world, quite luxurious, Bed and Breakfast. The accommodation itself has a long history dating back to 1910. It is just a couple of minutes walk from the village, waterfront and restaurants yet totally private and secluded. The bed and breakfast is on the hill which affords you great views of the Bay. Your host Sue has a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
The Duke of Marlborough is an institution in Russell. The hotel rooms have been renovated recently, but the rest of the hotel was left in its original form to maintain the old worldly style that is impossible to replicate. Gorgeous views over the bay. This hotel is located right at the jetty for the passenger ferry to Paihia. The hotel has beautiful facilities, a full-service restaurant right on the bay and a bar. It is both the first and original hotel that stands here in Russell with a long and fascinating history. The rooms are all fitted ensuites and to ensure walkers can comfortably rest.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
The Duke of Marlborough is an institution in Russell. The hotel rooms have been renovated recently, but the rest of the hotel was left in its original form to maintain the old worldly style that is impossible to replicate. Gorgeous views over the bay. This hotel is located right at the jetty for the passenger ferry to Paihia. The hotel has beautiful facilities, a full-service restaurant right on the bay and a bar. It is both the first and original hotel that stands here in Russell with a long and fascinating history. The rooms are all fitted ensuites and to ensure walkers can comfortably rest.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
The Duke of Marlborough is an institution in Russell. The hotel rooms have been renovated recently, but the rest of the hotel was left in its original form to maintain the old worldly style that is impossible to replicate. Gorgeous views over the bay. This hotel is located right at the jetty for the passenger ferry to Paihia. The hotel has beautiful facilities, a full-service restaurant right on the bay and a bar. It is both the first and original hotel that stands here in Russell with a long and fascinating history. The rooms are all fitted ensuites and to ensure walkers can comfortably rest.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
The Duke of Marlborough is an institution in Russell. The hotel rooms have been renovated recently, but the rest of the hotel was left in its original form to maintain the old worldly style that is impossible to replicate. Gorgeous views over the bay. This hotel is located right at the jetty for the passenger ferry to Paihia. The hotel has beautiful facilities, a full-service restaurant right on the bay and a bar. It is both the first and original hotel that stands here in Russell with a long and fascinating history. The rooms are all fitted ensuites and to ensure walkers can comfortably rest.
General Info
AVAILABILITY
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 or email us at info@Stroll.com
Departure Dates
-
DATESAVAILABILITYPRICESingle OccupancyDETAILS
-
Date1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025AVAILIBILITYAVAILABLEPRICEfrom $ 1340SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 415DETAILS
-
Date1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025AVAILIBILITYAVAILABLEPRICEfrom $ 1135SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 415DETAILS
4 Walkers or more
-
Date1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026AVAILIBILITYAVAILABLEPRICEfrom $ 1395SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 420DETAILS
-
Date1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026AVAILIBILITYAVAILABLEPRICEfrom $ 1185SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 420DETAILS
4 Walkers or more
REVIEWS
Customer Reviews
Leave a Reply
-
14 March, 2025 at 12:23 AM -
Feikje L
11 March, 2025 at 12:41 AM The app was really helpful. Absolutely loved the Bay of Islands, such a gorgeous destination, with enormous variety. Russell is very picturesque and the hotel was amazing with great food.
-
Deborah B
3 March, 2025 at 5:57 AM A beautiful part of the world. Walk with nature and culture.
-
David L
11 December, 2024 at 1:34 AM The island hopping day of water taxis and walking was hard to beat on this Bay of Islands holiday.
-
Gwendolin F
2 December, 2024 at 4:39 AM We really enjoyed our Bay of Islands walk. The accommodation and our host Sue were lovely. Our water Taxi and guide Bob was helpful, informative and fun.
-
Richard J
25 November, 2024 at 3:29 AM Our trip of the Bay of Island Walk went very well. All of the transport arrangements worked very well. The airport transfer driver was excellent. The boat transport lads were great. Good sense of humour and informative.
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.
Arno K
The Universal Hikes app was most helpful. The entire walk went very well.
Feikje L
The app was really helpful. Absolutely loved the Bay of Islands, such a gorgeous destination, with enormous variety. Russell is very picturesque and the hotel was amazing with great food.
Deborah B
A beautiful part of the world. Walk with nature and culture.
David L
The island hopping day of water taxis and walking was hard to beat on this Bay of Islands holiday.
Gwendolin F
We really enjoyed our Bay of Islands walk. The accommodation and our host Sue were lovely. Our water Taxi and guide Bob was helpful, informative and fun.
Richard J
Our trip of the Bay of Island Walk went very well. All of the transport arrangements worked very well. The airport transfer driver was excellent. The boat transport lads were great. Good sense of humour and informative.