Must Do Activities
Sailing – Day Sails, Sunset Sails & Heritage Tall Ships
Location: Departures from Russell or Paihia; private pick-ups by arrangement
Travel time from Oke: ~30 min by boat / ~40 min by car
Sailing is the Bay of Islands at its purest: quiet reaches, turquoise anchorages, and time measured by the wind, not the watch. Choose a chilled day sail with island stops, a golden-hour sunset cruise, or go classic on a heritage tall ship for the romance of canvas and timber.
Diving – Reefs, Wrecks & Marine Sanctuaries
Location: Trips with Dive NZ from Paihia
Travel time from Oke: ~30 min by boat / ~40 min by car
Diving in the Bay of Islands is world-class — dramatic volcanic reefs, schooling fish, and the famous HMNZS Canterbury wreck drawing in curious marine life from every angle. With Dive NZ, beginners and seasoned divers alike can explore sheltered coves or drift the deeper walls where blue water meets wild adventure. It’s the ocean at its most alive.
Fishing – Snapper, Kingfish & Big Game Charters
Location: Departures from Paihia (Target Charters)
Travel time from Oke: ~30 min by boat / ~40 min by car
Fishing off the Bay of Islands is pure salty soul-food: vibrant reefs, offshore drop-offs and the high-stakes lure of marlin for the daring. With Target Charters, you can choose a relaxed half-day chasing snapper, a power-fight with kingfish, or go all-in for an epic marlin excursion. All gear, bait and expert local crew included — just bring your sunblock, camera and appetite for action.
Fishing – Prime Charter with Big Fish Bay of Islands
Location: Departures from Paihia, Russell or Waitangi
Travel time from Oke: ~30 min by boat / ~40 min by car
Fishing in the Bay of Islands reaches its peak with Big Fish: intimate, private and tailored for up to four anglers on a high-spec Surtees 650 Gamefisher. Choose from bottom-bashing snapper trips, high-adrenaline kingfish hunts, or full-day custom charters mixing fishing and island stops. All gear, expert tuition and local-knowledge lead you to memorable catches — and even better stories.
Bay of Islands Kayaking
Kayak, paddleboard or snorkel in the breathtaking Bay of Islands, one of New Zealand’s true marine playgrounds. Based at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, right in the heart of the Bay, this experience offers crystal-clear waters, secluded bays, white-sand beaches and abundant marine life — all just a short boat trip away. With small groups, quality gear and knowledgeable local guides, it’s an authentic adventure that showcases the very best of the Bay of Islands.
Jet Skiing – Guided Tours & Thrill Rides
Location: Departures from Paihia, Bay of Islands
Travel time from Oke: ~30 min by boat / ~40 min by car
Experience the Bay of Islands at full throttle with Tango Jet Ski Tours: your guided adventure includes roaring the twin-engine skis across open sea, weaving through scenic islands, exploring hidden coves and stopping for a cool swim or cliff-jump. Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned rider, the expert guides keep things safe, slick and memorable.
Walks
The Headland Walk
Starting and finishing from the back deck of the Beach House, the Headland Walk is a stunning 2.2 km loop showcasing some of the Bay of Islands’ most spectacular coastal views.
Along the way, you’ll reach the fabulous rock pools — perfect for a safe swim at low tide and a guaranteed hit with kids (and kids-at-heart).
The track is usually mown and suitable for children aged 5+, though there are a few gentle hills. After heavy rain, some sections can become slippery, so sensible footwear is recommended.
It’s a brilliant way to start the day — coffee first, camera second, worries nowhere to be seen.
The Cape Brett Walk
The Cape Brett Walkway is a challenging and rewarding coastal tramp in the Bay of Islands, starting right from our doorstep and stretching 16.3 km one way to the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse. The track winds through native bush and along dramatic clifftops, with stunning ocean views and regular sightings of seals, dolphins, and seabirds.
Most walkers allow 8–10 hours one way and choose to stay overnight at the DOC Cape Brett Hut. Water is limited and unreliable, so carrying sufficient supplies is essential. The track is undulating with steep sections and is best suited to fit, experienced hikers.
For a shorter option, water taxis can drop you at Deep Water Cove, reducing the walk to around 2–3 hours to the hut. Hut bookings, track fees, and local parking arrangements are required.
This is one of Northland’s most iconic walks — tough, beautiful, and absolutely worth the effort.
Health & Fitness
Russell Strength Studio
Located in the heart of Russell, Russell Strength Studio is a welcoming community gym focused on strength, conditioning, and moving well. Whether you’re a regular gym-goer or just looking to stay active while on holiday, Russell Strength Studio offers structured, small-group classes with a friendly, no-ego vibe.
Classes include Strength & Conditioning, Sweat Cave, and W.O.D sessions, with options suitable for all fitness levels. Holiday drop-ins are welcome, making it easy to keep your routine going or try something new while in town.
The studio is known for its supportive community, great energy, and quality coaching — a place where locals and visitors train together and leave feeling better than when they arrived.