Urupukapuka Island

Travel Guide

Russell showing a bay or harbor and a sandy beach
Bay of Islands featuring a beach, a bay or harbor and tranquil scenes
Russell which includes a bay or harbor, tranquil scenes and rocky coastline
Russell which includes a bay or harbor, a sandy beach and forest scenes
Russell featuring sailing and a bay or harbor

With golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant reef life, this beautiful island is perfect for camping, hiking, snorkelling and kayaking.

The largest island in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands, Urupukapuka Island is bliss for active travellers, with sea kayaking, camping and outdoor activities aplenty. Hike around this secluded island for outstanding views of the coastline and Pacific Ocean and book a dolphin-watching charter to get out onto the sea.

The island is a place of exceeding natural beauty and tranquillity. Explore a stunning pohutukawa forest and vast kikuyu grasslands. Look for a large wetland habitat, fascinating archaeological sites and the island’s major bays: Entico, Otehei and Urupukapuka.

Launch a sea kayak or paddleboard from Otehei Bay and explore this beautiful island by water. Rent snorkel equipment and dive below the surface to witness the bay’s extensive reef life. Otehei Bay is home to an open-air restaurant where visitors can dine in a peaceful outdoor setting.

Follow the Urupukapuka Island Walk around the outer edge of the island and take in great views of the bays and jagged coastline. The walk is just over 7 kilometres (4 miles) long and takes about 5 hours to complete. Be on alert for different species of birds, such as oystercatchers and dotterels. Dolphin and whale sightings are also common on the island. Bring along your swimsuit for a refreshing post-hike dip in one of the island’s swimming bays.

The striking Urupukapuka Island is about 240 kilometres (150 miles) from Auckland and can only be reached by boat. Water taxis run from Paihia and Russell. During summer, boats depart several times daily, making it possible to enjoy a daytrip to the pretty island. If you want to camp overnight, bear in mind that campsite bookings are essential. Some, though not all campsites feature shower facilities.

Spend a day relaxing on Urupukapuka Island’s quiet, uncrowded beaches or stay and camp for a few nights to fully experience the island’s many natural wonders.

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands

4 out of 5
1 Tau Henare Drive, Waitangi
The price is ¥11,169 per night from Sep 28 to Sep 29
¥11,169
¥12,844 total
Sep 28 - Sep 29
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Waitangi. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
7.6/10 Good! (998 reviews)
"The buffet breakfast is awful. Except that, the hotel is clean and quiet."

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2025

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands
Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia

Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia

3.5 out of 5
104 Marsden Road, Paihia
The price is ¥10,787 per night from Sep 28 to Sep 29
¥10,787
¥12,405 total
Sep 28 - Sep 29
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star eco-certified hotel in Paihia. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
"Convenience"

Reviewed on Sep 22, 2025

Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

4.5 out of 5
35 The Strand, Bay of Islands, Russell
The price is ¥11,677 per night from Oct 5 to Oct 6
¥11,677
¥13,502 total
Oct 5 - Oct 6
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (838 reviews)
"Heritage style property in a beautiful location"

Reviewed on Sep 10, 2025

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Sea Spray Suites

Sea Spray Suites

4 out of 5
138 Marsden Road, Bay of Islands, Paihia
Stay at this 4-star beach aparthotel in Paihia. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Te Ti Bay and Paihia Wharf are located ...
9/10 Wonderful! (702 reviews)
"Really liked the 2 bedroom apartment. Had a view out the front to the sea. There was plenty of space and loved having 2 couches. Enjoyed the little touches like having plunger coffee. Highly recommend a stay here"

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2025

Sea Spray Suites
Edgewater Palms Apartments

Edgewater Palms Apartments

4 out of 5
8 - 10 Marsden Road, Paihia
Stay at this 4-star luxury aparthotel in Paihia. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Paihia Beach and Paihia Wharf are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (257 reviews)
"Best Apartments in Paihia. Without a doubt"

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Edgewater Palms Apartments
Bay of Islands Holiday Apartments

Bay of Islands Holiday Apartments

3.5 out of 5
52 Puketona Road, Paihia
Stay at this 3.5-star golf apartment in Paihia. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a free airport shuttle. Popular attractions Action World and Te Ti Bay are ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (61 reviews)
"It was very relaxing and peaceful with very comfortable bedding."

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2025

Bay of Islands Holiday Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.