Dolphins, penguins, whales and more!

  • The bay of islands consists of 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula its coastline and inlets are home to abundant marine wildlife including penguins, dolphins, marlin, whales, gannets and more.

The Bay of Islands is a unique location for bottlenose dolphins, as it provides the dolphins with abundant food and security for resting and breeding.

There are two companies based in Paihia that are permitted by Department of Conservation to encounter marine mammals. Carino Wildlife Cruises and Explore/Fullers GreatSights

Guidelines to watching marine mammals in the Bay of Islands