Bay Of Islands
North Island, New Zealand
Daily Budget
~NZ$137
~US$55 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Tropical / Summer
Vibe
Island paradise
Overview
The Bay of Islands is a subtropical paradise of 144 islands scattered across a sheltered bay in Northland, the warm top of the North Island. Paihia is the main backpacker base, with a waterfront strip of hostels, tour operators, and fish-and-chip shops. The bay offers some of the best marine experiences in New Zealand — dolphins, sailing, diving, and kayaking — alongside deep Maori and colonial history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Editor's Pick
Bay Of Islands stands out for: Swimming with wild dolphins in their natural habitat; Sailing, kayaking, and island-hopping in a stunning subtropical bay; Warmest climate in New Zealand; beach weather from October to April.
Things to Do
View all 8 activitiesTop Hostels
View all 5 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (NZD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | NZ$51 | $21 |
| Food | NZ$37 | $15 |
| Transport | NZ$15 | $6 |
| Activities | NZ$101 | $41 |
| Total | ~NZ$137 | ~$55 |
Hostels
5 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
8 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Bay Of Islands?
- Budget around NZ$137 NZD (~US$55) per day in Bay Of Islands, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Bay Of Islands?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Bay Of Islands are Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Bay Of Islands?
- Top-rated hostels in Bay Of Islands include Haka Lodge Bay of Islands, Pickled Parrot Backpackers, YHA Bay of Islands (Paihia). Prices for a dorm bed typically start from NZ$42 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Bay Of Islands?
- Must-do activities in Bay Of Islands include Go sailing with Barefoot Sailing Adventures, Hike to Oke Bay or explore the islands by water taxi, Kayak to Haruru Falls from Paihia. There are 8 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
