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Weather in Bay of Islands
144 islands of dolphin-filled New Zealand history
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About Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands scatters 144 islands across crystal-blue waters, a playground of history where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and dolphins now glide alongside visiting boats. The Northland coast exudes a slower, more bohemian Aotearoa.
Best months to visit
January, February
Things to do in Bay of Islands
Cruise past pristine islands
Spot bottlenose dolphins
Visit Treaty grounds at Waitangi
Hike Russell Forest trails
Fish for snapper and kingfish
Kayak sheltered coves
Weather by month
Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.
Recommended
January
24C
Mild and comfortable, with occasional showers.
Recommended
February
23C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
March
22C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
April
20C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
May
18C
Mild and comfortable, with occasional showers.
June
16C
Cool, with some rainy days.
July
15C
Cool, with some rainy days.
August
15C
Cool, with some rainy days.
September
17C
Cool, with some rainy days.
October
18C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
November
20C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
December
22C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
The Bay of Islands scatters around 144 islands across a sheltered stretch of Northland coastline, long a playground for sailing, fishing and diving in warm subtropical waters. It's also the birthplace of modern New Zealand, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, and the historic town of Russell offers a glimpse of the country's earliest European settlement.
Best areas to stay in Bay of Islands
Paihia
The main tourist town, with the wharf for island cruises and ferries across to Russell.
Russell
A historic, relaxed waterfront town reached by ferry, once New Zealand's first capital.
Waitangi
Home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the site of New Zealand's founding document.
Cape Brett & the Hole in the Rock
A dramatic headland and rock formation often visited on full-day island cruises.
Getting to Bay of Islands
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Flights
Fly into Auckland, then drive around 3 hours north or take a connecting flight to Bay of Islands Airport (Kerikeri).
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From London
~26-28 hours from London including connections and the onward drive.
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Getting around
Paihia and Russell are connected by passenger ferry; a hire car helps for exploring the wider Northland region.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit the Bay of Islands?
December to March (summer) offers the warmest weather for swimming and sailing, though the region is pleasant for much of the year given its subtropical climate.
What is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds?
A historic site where the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document, was signed in 1840, now home to a museum, meeting house and cultural performances.
How do I explore the islands?
Cruises and ferries depart from Paihia and Russell, with options ranging from short island-hopping trips to dolphin-watching cruises and sailing charters.
Is Russell worth visiting?
Yes — New Zealand's first permanent European settlement, with a relaxed waterfront, historic buildings and a short ferry ride from Paihia.
What is the 'Hole in the Rock'?
A natural rock formation off Cape Brett that boats can pass through, a popular highlight of island cruises in calm conditions.
Traveler reviews
★★★★★
Took a full-day cruise through the islands including the Hole in the Rock and saw dolphins along the way — a brilliant day on the water.
Maya D. · January 2024
★★★★☆
Waitangi Treaty Grounds was more moving and informative than I expected, with a strong cultural performance included in the visit.
Jack O. · March 2024
★★★★★
Russell felt like stepping back in time — a quick, scenic ferry ride from Paihia and far quieter, with good waterfront cafes.
Lily F. · December 2023
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