Region in Northland, New Zealand
Getting around Bay of Islands
How to get around Bay of Islands
A car is the easiest way to see Northland. Paihia is walkable; passenger ferries link Paihia, Russell and Waitangi, and InterCity runs coaches from Auckland.
Ways to get around Bay of Islands
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Paihia–Russell passenger ferry | About NZ$8–15 one-way | Frequent crossings, about 15 min |
| InterCity coach | About NZ$40–80 from Auckland | About 4 hours; fewer services in winter |
| Taxi | About NZ$20–35 locally | Pre-book; limited cabs |
Taxis in Bay of Islands
- No ride-hailing apps operate here. No dependable ride-hailing. Pre-book taxis and shuttles for the airport and evening trips.
Arriving in Bay of Islands
Kerikeri Airport (Bay of Islands) (KKE)
Air New Zealand from Auckland; taxi to Paihia about NZ$40–55, 25 min. Most arrive by car or bus from Auckland.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Not typical; bring or hire a car.
- Driving: on the left. Drive up to 12 months on a valid foreign licence, with an IDP or approved translation if it isn't English.
- Onward travel in New Zealand: Most travelers rent a car or campervan. InterCity coaches link most towns, scenic trains run Auckland–Wellington and across the South Island, and ferries cross Cook Strait.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Bay of Islands?
No ride-hailing apps work here. No dependable ride-hailing. Pre-book taxis and shuttles for the airport and evening trips.
What's the best way to get around Bay of Islands?
A car is the easiest way to see Northland. Paihia is walkable; passenger ferries link Paihia, Russell and Waitangi, and InterCity runs coaches from Auckland.
How do I get from the airport to Bay of Islands?
Air New Zealand from Auckland; taxi to Paihia about NZ$40–55, 25 min. Most arrive by car or bus from Auckland.
Is Bay of Islands walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Bay of Islands
Going to Bay of Islands solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Bay of Islands meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- InterCity coaches
- Great Journeys New Zealand (KiwiRail)
- Interislander ferry
- Bluebridge ferry
- Northland NZ (tourism)
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds
- Department of Conservation
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.