Stay close to the action at Russell – Orongo Bay Holiday Park.  While you can enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature at the park our central location means you are not far from all the activities that Russell and the Bay of Islands offers.  Here are some of the things you can do during your stay: 

See the Dolphins
Spot the dolphins in their natural habitat in the warmest waters in New Zealand.  Talk to us about our recommended experiences.

Fuller’s GreatSights Dolphin Cruise to the Hole in the Rock
Cruise through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands on Dolphin Seeker, our purpose built dolphin and whale watching catamaran. Cruise past many of the 144 islands and take in the sights of the Hole in the Rock and the rich history and scenery that makes up the bay of Islands. As a bonus a free ferry ticket is included to extend your day. Operates Year round daily at 9am and 1:30pm.

Explore the Bay,  its 144 islands and the hole in the rock
See and travel through the Hole in the Rock (weather permitting) Pass by Cape Brett and explore Urapukapuka Island. Some trips include important heritage sites of the Bay of Islands. Alternatively spend the day walking, kayaking or snorkelling on Urapukapuka Island. 

Fuller’s GreatSights: Cream Trip – Day in The Bay
Take part in the Bay of Islands most famous cruise. The “Cream Trip” began in 1927 and remains a popular cruise with tourists today. You will have a full Day in the Bay including dolphin encounters and swimming (additional fees apply), discovering the Hole in the Rock, delivering mail, boom netting , Island stopover for lunch and learning the history of the Bay of Islands through informative and interactive commentary. Operates Oct- April

Day sail in the Bay
Discover bays only accessible by sea, walk secluded beaches and marvel at the prolific wildlife with a Bay of Islands sailing experience.  You can choose to explore the 144 islands on the Vigilant: a 42 foot classic single mast sailing yacht, the Phantom: a 50 foot mono hull or the magnificent tall ship: R Tucker Thompson.   We can also recommend an amazing and very personalised trip out with Kingfisher Yacht Charters and more.

Fuller’s GreatSights: R. Tucker Thompson Full Day Sail
Experience the Bay of Islands the old-fashioned way with a cruise on the R. Tucker Thompson, a traditional gaff-rigged schooner with her own unique history. On the Full Day Sail, be as active as you like – take the helm, help set the sails, ride the bowsprit and climb the rigging – or simply relax while the crew command this impressive ship as she sails across the Bay. Available 30 October 2019 – 30 April 2020. Sundowner sails are available on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Fishing charters
The Bay of Islands is world renowned for it’s calm waters and is a favourite location for light tackle and big game fishing. With over 140 islands there are plenty of fabulous fishing spots that are abundant with sea life.  

We recommend sustainable fishing charters whose policies are to preserve the enjoyment of Bay of Islands fishing for future generations. Sustainable fishing includes catch and release of big fish because they’re important breeding stock, minimum size guidelines which exceed NZ government regulations and per person fish limits. 

Land based fishing can yield a good catch and we can give you tips and suggestions and recommend fishing spots to try. 

Snorkelling and diving
The pristine waters of the Bay of Islands offer a stunning underwater world to be discovered. There are two wonderful wreck diving sites, the Rainbow Warrior and HMNZS Canterbury together with hundreds of reefs and countless aquatic species. 

On the water
The Bay of Islands is known for its calm waters protected from the weather by 144 islands making its varied coastline ideal to explore by kayak, paddle board or jet ski, the choice is yours. Caves, lagoons, islands, deserted beaches and coves make this a stunning slice of paradise just waiting to be explored! There are also fantastic spots within the beautiful warm seas and rugged coastlines to take to a surfboard for a memorable experience.
For the more adventurous you can also view the islands by parasailing or a fantastic skydive.  Book with us today!

Fuller’s GreatSights Cape Reinga Wanderer Day Tour
A visit to New Zealand is not complete without a journey to the very top of the North Island – Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua). Uncover the wild beauty of this vast and untouched region, rich in Maori culture and tradition, on a full-day return tour from Paihia or Kerikeri. Experience the thrill of driving along 90 mile beach and sand boarding on the giant dunes. Operates year round.

Fuller’s GreatSights Great value Combo Tour
Choose your cruise. Book Cape Reinga and either of our half day or full day cruises together and save!

Free tour booking and information service at our park reception
We can save time and hassle by organising and booking your Bay of Islands tours and activities for you! Our knowledgeable team can also provide recommendations should you need them.  Complimentary for all Holiday Park guests.