We will be spending a few days in Bay of Islands next November. We're weighing accommodation options in Paihia vs. Russell. We will not have a car at our disposal. To get a good overview of the area, we will be arranging some guided touring.

Any insight and suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you.

Hello - you will love New Zealand and especially the Bay of Islands. It is a trememndous place to visit especially to get some added insight into New Zealands's native Maori history and culture. Russell was in fact New Zealand's first capital and the area is also famed for the Waitangi Treaty that was signed between European Settlers and the native Maori. A must see for this reason is the Waitangi Treaty House. The key difference between Russell and Paihia is location. Both are in equally beautiful settings, however Russell is a little more remote and looks back south west over Waitangi and Paihia. The fact that you do not have a car will mean that in Russell you will be a reltively captive audience, save the touring options that are available adnd any transfers that you elect to take advantage of. It can also depend on what type of accomodation you seek. New Zealand is famed for luxury lodges also, and of note in the area is Okiato Lodge or Flagstaff Lodge - both in Russell. A lovely lodge style option in Paihia is the Allure Lodge - a self contained option that is in the heart of Paihia and only a short walk from the waterfront, dining options, activities and beaches.

I think whichever location you decide upon you will not be disappointed, and as the area is so compact getting around really does not pose to much of a challenge, regardless of having access to a vehicle or not. Safe travels. [email protected]

Definitely Pahia, from Pahia it is easy to get to the other areas in the Bay of Island, take a cruise to see/swim with the Dolphins, a day trip to Cape Reinga, etc. I wouldn't stay in Russell without a car.

If it's only a few days it probably doesn't matter but you should be aware that Russell is reached by ferry. Hence if you want to go anywhere else you will also be factoring in the need to catch the ferry.

Thanks to all who responded.

We will be visiting Bay of Islands for 3 or 4 days, prior to a Tauck tour of New Zealand.

Is Russell easily accessible from Kerikeri airport? It appears several tours can be picked up from Russell. I believe the Cape Reinga tour begins in Paihia, and we are able to connect from Russell to Paihia, via ferry, in a short period of time (10 minutes?).

Thanks, again.

New Zealand is well served by shuttle services

I found this one for Kerikeri airport

http://www.dial-a-ride.co.nz/

The Tourism website newzealand.com probably has all you need to know about just about any other subject.