Bay of Isles, New Zealand 

Feel like a seafarer of years gone by – Captain Cook sailed into this famous Bay of 150 islands. This glorious area offers secluded bays and an abundance of marine life and activities. The Bay of Islands is located 140 miles north of Auckland, New Zealand, in the long finger-like stretch that runs from Auckland to Cape Reinga. Geographically speaking, the Bay of Islands is a "drowned river system" - an area where the sea has inundated a series of river valleys.

The Bay of Islands is the finest Maritime Park in New Zealand, with secluded bays and an abundance of marine life. The Bay's three principal towns Waitangi, Paihia and Russell provide excellent tourist facilities while retaining many monuments to their lively histories. Venture ashore to discover the historic Waitangi Treaty House or visit the famous Hole in the Rock. Every imaginable water sport is pursued with big game fishing a particular favorite.

Your P&O ship will drop anchor and the ship’s tender boats will transfer you ashore to Waitangi Wharf.

Taxis are available pier-side. Paihia township is located approximately 3 kilometres from the pier.

The main shopping area is along Williams Road. Shop for souvenir items including bone carvings, leather, local wood crafts, sheepskin, and paua jewellery. Local currency is New Zealand dollars and credit
cards are accepted in most stores.

Enjoy Bay of Island's local cuisine, with fresh local produce, seafood, prime New award winning wines. It is always recommended that you drink bottled water while in port.

You may be surprised to learn that the Bay of Islands has a Mediterranean climate, especially in summer. This is almost as far
north as you can go in New Zealand and in summer it’s often a couple of degrees warmer around the Bay of Islands than in Auckland. Rain is sporadic in summer. Sea breezes and wind can pick up fairly quickly, so be prepared!

Tipping in New Zealand is optional. Tips are usually given only for exceptional service. Between five and ten percent of the bill would be reasonable in a good restaurant if the service has been excellent.

Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted. Automatic teller machines provide currency to foreign card holders.

Public telephones are available along the water-front in Paihia and in Russell.

To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please ensure that you wear comfortable, flat soled shoes and a hat, and bring along some sunscreen and bottled water. It’s also a good idea to bring a warm, waterproof jacket – just in case the wind comes up or it rains.

There are a variety of tours available for you to enjoy during your time in the Bay of Islands. Subject to availability tours may be booked onboard at the Shore Tours Desk.

Passengers will meet at a specific location for each shore tour departure. Please refer to the daily onboard newsletter for the correct place and time. Your friendly Shore Tour staff will be at that location to assist you.