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.
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
- Enjoy refreshing swims at pristine white-sand beaches
- Explore forests of lush tree ferns, crimson-flowered pohutukawa and towering kauri trees
AT A GLANCE
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Easyto
Moderate PRICE FROM
$ 1300
per person twin/double shareSINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 420
per personITINERARY
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
Whangamumu whaling station
A relaxing, scenically varied day which takes in a stunning, horseshoe-shaped bay, a ruined whaling station, and a stand of kauri, New Zealand’s most famous tree. On your way back you’ll get a preview of tomorrow’s Cape Brett walk and a chance to swim at Oke Bay, one of the Bay of Islands’ most beautiful beaches – and believe us, there’s a lot of competition for that title.
Walking: Easy to moderate / 10kms / 4-5hrs
Meals: Cooked breakfast and lunch pack provided
Accommodation: Russell in ensuite rooms
DAY five
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 six
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 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
- 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 ACCOMODATION
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 hosts Steve and Sue have a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. Steve has his own yachts and offers a day sailing on his charter yachts. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION
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 hosts Steve and Sue have a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. Steve has his own yachts and offers a day sailing on his charter yachts. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION
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 hosts Steve and Sue have a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. Steve has his own yachts and offers a day sailing on his charter yachts. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION
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 hosts Steve and Sue have a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. Steve has his own yachts and offers a day sailing on his charter yachts. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMODATION
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 ACCOMODATION
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 ACCOMODATION
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 ACCOMODATION
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 2023 - 31 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom
$ 1470
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 420 - 1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom
$ 1300
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 4204 Walkers or more
- 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom
$ 1530
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 450 - 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom
$ 1530
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 4504 Walkers or more
AT A GLANCE
6 DAYS
Easyto
Moderate
$ 1300
per person twin/double share
$ 420
per person
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Easyto
Moderate PRICE FROM
$ 1300
per person twin/double shareSINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 420
per person
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.
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
- Enjoy refreshing swims at pristine white-sand beaches
- Explore forests of lush tree ferns, crimson-flowered pohutukawa and towering kauri trees
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
Whangamumu whaling station
A relaxing, scenically varied day which takes in a stunning, horseshoe-shaped bay, a ruined whaling station, and a stand of kauri, New Zealand’s most famous tree. On your way back you’ll get a preview of tomorrow’s Cape Brett walk and a chance to swim at Oke Bay, one of the Bay of Islands’ most beautiful beaches – and believe us, there’s a lot of competition for that title.
Walking: Easy to moderate / 10kms / 4-5hrs
Meals: Cooked breakfast and lunch pack provided
Accommodation: Russell in ensuite rooms
DAY five
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 six
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 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
- 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 ACCOMODATION
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 hosts Steve and Sue have a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. Steve has his own yachts and offers a day sailing on his charter yachts. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION
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 hosts Steve and Sue have a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. Steve has his own yachts and offers a day sailing on his charter yachts. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION
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 hosts Steve and Sue have a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. Steve has his own yachts and offers a day sailing on his charter yachts. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMODATION
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 hosts Steve and Sue have a wealth of information about the area and can provide you with information or assistance if you need it. Steve has his own yachts and offers a day sailing on his charter yachts. The rooms all have ensuites and are extremely comfortable.
OLD WORLD COUNTRY HOTEL ACCOMODATION
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 ACCOMODATION
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 ACCOMODATION
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 ACCOMODATION
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
- 1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom $ 1470SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 420
- 1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom $ 1300SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 420
- 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom $ 1530SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 450
- 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom $ 1530SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 450
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.