Waitangi, Bay of Islands

New Zealand

Explore the historic Treaty Grounds where New Zealand's founding document was signed, then cruise through stunning turquoise waters dotted with ancient volcanic islands.

Currency New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Language English, Te Reo Māori

Time Zone NZDT (UTC+13) or NZST (UTC+12)

Best Time to Visit Dec–Feb

Typical Duration 14-65 nights

Price Range From $3,019 pp

Port Type Port of Call

Tender Port Yes

Gateway to the Bay of Islands, one of New Zealand's most scenic coastal regions, featuring pristine beaches, historic sites, and abundant marine wildlife.

Cruises that visit Waitangi, Bay of Islands

Build Your Day in Waitangi, Bay of Islands

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM

Usually about 9 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Zane Grey's Restaurant and Bar Lovely views over the Bay of Islands with fresh food and a lively ambience. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 3k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM

Jimmy Jack's Rib Shack Friendly, great food and a relaxing local vibe. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 2k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM

Charlotte's Kitchen The food was immaculate, the service was amazing and the view was gorgeous! Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 2k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM

GREEN'S Paihia - Thai Cuisine The snapper fillet dish (f13) was generous and really delicious. Thai restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM

Hone's Garden Outdoor seating·Vegan options·High chairs Bar · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM

TIPSY OYSTER Good food and great bar to sit and watch across to the Bay of Islands. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 11 AM

Woolworths Waitangi Good selection of groceries and lovely staff. Grocery store · ★ 4.1 · 1k Open · Closes 9 PM

CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Vegan options Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 1k Closed · Opens 11 AM

BAD HABITS Best food, service and atmosphere we've come across in Paihia. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 11 AM

The Blue Door Paihia Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Vegan options Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 1k Opens soon · 8 AM

Third Wheel Coffee Co. Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Cafe · ★ 4.8 · 1k Opens soon · 8 AM

PhatHouse Brewing Co. Outdoor seating·Fireplace·Great cocktails Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 4 PM

Sage Restaurant A delicious meal in a stunning setting with excellent service! Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 12 PM

Terra Restaurant Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Vegetarian options Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 5:30 PM

Four Square Paihia Clean, well stocked, friendly service 😊 Grocery store · ★ 4.4 · 0k Open · Closes 8 PM

High Tide Cafe & Eatery Friendly, Fresh Food, and good value. Breakfast restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k Open · Closes 2 PM

Monkey Business Intriguing food, unique atmosphere, and personalized service. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Paihia Sports Bar Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Live music Sports bar · ★ 4 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM

Holy Guaca-Moly | Mexican Fireplace·Great cocktails·Vegan options Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 12 PM

LATTE LAB CAFE & EATERY Beautiful little spot with amazing tasting food, portions are generous. Cafe · ★ 4.8 · 0k Opens soon · 8 AM

Glasshouse Kitchen and Bar Outdoor seating·Kids' menu·Wi-Fi Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k Open · Closes 10 AM

Nauti Penguin Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Live music Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM

The Wave - Kitchen & Bar Great service, delicious food and a lovely atmosphere. European restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 12 PM

Sandwich Craft Both were insanely good and easily the best lunch we have had on our trip. Sandwich shop · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM

Twin Pines Manor Outdoor seating·Live music·Dogs allowed inside Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 12 PM

Kindred Spirits Mobile bar Great cocktails Bar · ★ 5 · 0k

Jimmy Cooks Kiwi Kitchen Bay of Islands Great food cooked well friendly staff nice variety Western restaurant · ★ 3.8 · 0k Open 24 hours

Selwyn Mall Some nice quaint random shops with friendly and helpful staff Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Flying Fish Design Store Well presented store that has such a variety of gifts. Gift shop · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Kebab North Fresh ingredients, generous portions, and friendly staff. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM

The Cabbage Tree Goods sold especially clothing line are quality. Gift shop · ★ 4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM

Paihia Bookshop In-store shopping·In-store pickup Book store · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

The Saltwater Cafe & Bar Lodge · ★ 4.1 · 0k

Maritime Building Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 0k

The Bay of Islands Trading Company Outstanding range of quality products.Something for everyone. Store · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM

Ella & Co Great service and you can even taste before you buy. Gift shop · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Paihia Trading Co. Shopping mall · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Waitangi, Bay of Islands

About Waitangi, Bay of Islands

Waitangi, nestled in the stunning Bay of Islands, serves as a port of call for cruise travelers exploring the South Pacific and Australasian regions. Two established cruise lines—Holland America Line and Viking Ocean Cruises—regularly call here, offering passengers a taste of New Zealand's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Most cruises visiting Waitangi are part of longer 14-night itineraries that connect to major destinations like Sydney, Auckland, and Cairns, making this a popular stop during the peak seasons of December through February and September through October.

During your time ashore, you'll discover why the Bay of Islands has captivated visitors for generations. The region's pristine waters and lush landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for exploring New Zealand's rich Maori heritage and colonial history. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Waitangi offers cruise passengers an authentic slice of Kiwi life in one of the country's most picturesque corners.

Explore Historic Treaty Grounds

Visit the iconic Treaty House at Waitangi, where New Zealand's founding document was signed in 1840. Walk through beautifully preserved gardens, view the impressive Māori meeting house (wharenui), and learn about the nation's pivotal history through engaging museum exhibits and cultural demonstrations that bring this significant site to life.

Taste Fresh Bay of Islands Seafood

Savor locally caught snapper, kingfish, and green-lipped mussels at waterfront restaurants overlooking the sparkling bay. The region's seafood is exceptionally fresh, often caught that morning, and prepared with contemporary New Zealand flair. Pair your meal with local wines from nearby vineyards for an authentic culinary experience.

Cruise the Stunning Bay of Islands

Embark on a scenic boat tour through the Bay of Islands' 144 islands, discovering hidden coves, dramatic rock formations, and pristine beaches. Watch for dolphins and penguins in their natural habitat while enjoying panoramic views of lush coastal landscapes that showcase New Zealand's raw natural beauty.

Browse Haruru Falls Market & Shops

Explore charming local boutiques and craft markets near Haruru Falls, featuring handmade Māori art, jade carvings, and artisan goods. The area's galleries showcase talented local artists, and you'll find unique souvenirs impossible to find elsewhere—perfect mementos of your New Zealand adventure.

Experience Māori Cultural Performances

Witness traditional haka dances, hear haunting waiata (songs), and learn about Māori customs through cultural performances at local venues. These authentic experiences offer profound insight into indigenous New Zealand heritage, complete with explanations of ceremonial significance and the stories behind ancient traditions.