Bay of Islands incl Russell Trike Tour (2 per trike)

Imagine cruising along New Zealand’s North Island coastline on a stylish, open-air trike, feeling the wind in your hair as you soak up spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. That’s exactly what the Bay of Islands incl Russell Trike Tour offers—an intimate, lively way to see some of the most photographed and beloved spots in this part of Aotearoa. While we haven’t experienced this adventure ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this is a memorable highlight for those who love a mix of natural beauty, history, and a bit of adrenaline.

Two things stand out about this tour: First, how it combines scenic stops like Haruru Falls and the Waitangi Lookout with the thrill of riding a trike—a perfect blend of excitement and sightseeing. Second, the personal guide aspect means you get local insights and a friendly face leading the way. The main consideration? This tour is designed for just two people per trike, so if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group, you might need to consider alternative options or organize multiple bikes.

This experience seems ideal for couples, friends, or anyone craving an active yet relaxed way to explore the Bay of Islands. If you’re a fan of scenic drives, historical spots, and a bit of fun on two wheels, you’re likely to find this tour both enjoyable and worthwhile.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private group, perfect for couples or small friends’ groups.
• Stunning Scenery: Views of waterfalls, coastline, and panoramic vistas.
• Authentic Insights: Knowledgeable guides share local stories and history.
• Active & Relaxed: Combines a gentle ride with sightseeing and photo opportunities.
• Flexible & Convenient: Tour lasts 2.5 hours, with optional return by guide or ferry.
• Great for Nature & History Buffs: Stops at Haruru Falls, Russell’s historic church, and Waitangi Lookout.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at the Bay of Islands i-SITE Visitor Information Centre in Paihia, a central hub for exploring this region. Meeting your guide here, you’re handed the keys to a personalized adventure—a private trike designed for two, which means plenty of space for comfort and a sense of camaraderie with your fellow traveler or partner. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, making it an ideal half-day experience that won’t eat up your entire day but offers enough time to see some key sights.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic beauty and interactive fun. Riding on a trike allows for an open-air experience, giving you a real sense of connection with the landscape. The wind, the smells of the native bush, and the panoramic views all come together to create a memorable sensory experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey kicks off by leaving Paihia, heading toward Haruru Falls, known for their half-moon-shaped waterfalls. The guide helps you appreciate the natural beauty of this spot—an ideal place for photos and taking a moment to marvel at the power of water rushing through the gorge.

Next, the tour takes you to the Waitangi Lookout, a prime spot that offers 360-degree views of the bay, including the historic treaty grounds nearby. The views here are often described as breathtaking, with travelers saying: “Marvel at the breathtaking half-moon shaped waterfalls of Haruru Falls,” and “Take in scenic views of the Bay of Islands coastline while aboard a car ferry.” It’s a chance to appreciate both the natural environment and the significance of the area’s history.

Afterward, your route winds through native bush and local roads toward Opua, where you’ll catch a car ferry across the water to Okiato (the original settlement of Russell). The ferry ride itself provides a different perspective of the bay and coast, adding a sense of adventure and variety to the trip.

Arriving in Russell, you’ll pass the oldest church in New Zealand, notable for its musket holes—a small but charming reminder of the area’s colonial past. From here, the guide takes you to Russell Lookout for more awe-inspiring views over the town and bay.

Highlights That Make the Tour Special

Haruru Falls is a standout, with its distinctive shape and powerful flow. The guide often helps travelers understand the geological and cultural context, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Waitangi Lookout is a true highlight—offering expansive views that are both scenic and historically significant. The combination of natural beauty and heritage sites makes this spot a double draw.

Riding the ferry across the bay is a practical yet scenic part of the journey, giving travelers a fresh perspective on the coastline. The ferry is smooth and efficient, making the crossing enjoyable and adding to the trip’s relaxed rhythm.

Russell itself is charming: an old town with history, character, and enough cafes or shops for a leisurely explore. Its ancient church with musket holes gives a tangible link to New Zealand’s early European days, perfect for those interested in history.

The Guide and Personal Touch

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable and friendly guide. According to one review, the guide was “very local, very informative,” and even helped take photos—adding a personal touch that enhances the experience. This kind of attention makes the ride not just about the sights but about feeling cared for and engaged.

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Value and Practicalities

At $XXX for two people, the cost might seem modest for a private, personalized experience of this quality. The fact that it’s for two passengers per trike means it’s ideal for couples or close friends. The tour’s flexibility—optionally returning on the ferry or with the guide—gives travelers control over their experience.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, travelers should be aware that rain or strong wind could lead to rescheduling or cancellation. The full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance is straightforward and reassuring.

What to Bring

• Sunglasses: The open-air ride can be bright and windy.
• Jacket: Weather can change quickly near the coast, so a layer is smart.

Restrictions and Considerations

• The tour is not suitable for intoxicated individuals.
• Alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle.
• Accessibility might be limited, though the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Authentic, Enjoyable, and Well-Organized

This tour strikes a good balance between fun and informative, natural beauty and local history. The small group size and private setup mean you can tailor the experience a bit—perhaps ask your guide for stories or additional recommendations in Russell.

The tour’s emphasis on scenic views makes it especially appealing for those who want a relaxed way to see the bay’s highlights without the hassle of driving or crowded group tours. Plus, riding a trike adds an element of adventure and cool factor that makes the experience stand out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and a dash of adventure, this tour is a great fit. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking an active yet laid-back exploration of the Bay of Islands. If you’re traveling with family or in a larger party, consider organizing multiple trikes or exploring other options.

This trike tour offers a unique way to explore the stunning surroundings of the Bay of Islands. The combination of scenic stops, personal guide, and the thrill of riding a trike makes for a memorable adventure—one that’s quite different from standard boat cruises or bus tours.

It’s especially valuable for travelers who love natural beauty paired with engaging stories. The views from Haruru Falls, Waitangi Lookout, and Russell Lookout are genuinely breathtaking, and the small-group, private vibe means you aren’t just another face in a crowd.

While the ride’s duration is only 2.5 hours, the experience packs in a good variety of sights and stories, making it excellent value for those seeking both fun and authenticity. If you’re after a relaxed yet exhilarating way to see the Bay of Islands, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of smiles and fantastic photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for couples or small groups who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic drives. It appeals to those curious about local history, as well as travelers wanting a fun, memorable way to see Russell, Haruru Falls, and the surrounding coastline. If you’re comfortable on a motorcycle or trike and crave something different from the usual tours, this might just be your highlight in North Island.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
No, the tour is designed for 2 passengers per trike, so it’s best suited for couples or close friends. Solo travelers might need to book multiple bikes or look for alternative options.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that provides enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Can I return to Paihia on my own?
Yes, you can choose to stay in Russell after the tour and return by passenger ferry or, if you prefer, hop back on the trike with your guide for the return trip.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun and a jacket, as weather can change quickly near the coast. Comfortable clothing suitable for riding is recommended.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is marked as wheelchair accessible, though it’s always wise to confirm specific needs when booking.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled due to weather, but if that happens, you’ll receive a full refund. It’s good to check the forecast and plan accordingly.

Are alcoholic drinks allowed during the tour?
No, alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, and intoxication is prohibited for safety reasons.

This private trike tour combines the charm of scenic beauty, local history, and adventure into a compact package that’s hard to beat in the Bay of Islands. It’s a wonderful way to see key sights without the crowds or the hassle of driving, and the personal guide adds a layer of authenticity and friendliness that makes the experience even better. For travelers craving a fun, memorable, and authentic way to explore this beautiful corner of New Zealand, it’s certainly worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby