By Air:
Direct flights are available from Auckland (AKL) to Kerikeri Airport (KKE), typically lasting 35-50 minutes. Air New Zealand and Barrier Air operate these routes. Indicative costs for a one-way flight can range from $136 to $187.
Getting There and Away
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The primary transport hub for air travel to the Bay of Islands is Kerikeri Airport (Bay of Islands Airport - KKE). For bus services and local ferry connections, Paihia Wharf serves as a central point, with the vehicle ferry to Russell departing from Opua.
By Bus:
InterCity provides multiple daily bus services from Auckland's SkyCity Terminal to Paihia, arriving at the Maritime Building on Paihia Wharf. The journey generally takes 4-5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from approximately $35 to $60.
By Car:
Driving from Auckland to Paihia typically takes 3-4 hours, with options to use the Northern Gateway Toll Road for a slightly faster route. Car rental services are available at Auckland Airport, Kerikeri Airport, and in Paihia. Russell is accessible by road or via a vehicle ferry from Opua to Okiato.
Local Ferries (within Bay of Islands):
- Paihia to Russell Passenger Ferry:: Regular services connect Paihia Wharf and Russell, with a crossing time of about 15-20 minutes.
- Opua to Okiato (Russell) Vehicle Ferry:: This shuttle service operates frequently, departing approximately every 10-20 minutes and accommodates all types of vehicles.
- Paihia/Russell to Otehei Bay (Urupukapuka Island) Ferry:: Daily transfers are available, taking about 40 minutes each way. An adult fare is currently $65, increasing to $70 from October 2025.
