Mullarkey Tours offers unforgettable Bay of Islands tours, shore excursions and Northland sightseeing experiences for visitors and cruise ship passengers exploring one of New Zealand’s most iconic regions. Locally owned and operated, Mullarkey Tours specialises in small group tours with experienced local guides, personalised service and flexible itineraries showcasing the very best of the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga and Northland.
Whether you’re arriving by cruise ship at Waitangi Wharf, visiting Paihia, Kerikeri or exploring the Far North, Mullarkey Tours provides comfortable, friendly and informative sightseeing experiences with maximum group sizes of just 11 passengers.
Bay of Islands Shore Excursions for Cruise Ship Passengers
Mullarkey Tours specialises in shore excursions for cruise ship passengers arriving in the Bay of Islands. All tours depart from and return to Waitangi Wharf, with experienced local guides meeting guests directly from the cruise ship terminal.
Small group sizes allow for a more personalised experience while exploring some of Northland’s top attractions, historic sites and scenic locations.
Popular shore excursions include:
- Kawiti Glow Worm Caves/Hundertwasser/Opua Forest Tour
- Historic Kerikeri Tour with Lunch
- Bay of Islands Wine Tours
Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach Tour
Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic journeys with the Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach Tour. Travelling through the stunning Far North region, guests experience beautiful beaches, rural coastal towns and spectacular scenery before reaching the famous Cape Reinga lighthouse where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet.
Tour highlights include:
- Cape Reinga lighthouse
- Ninety Mile Beach
- Te Paki sand dunes
- Mangonui waterfront
- Scenic Northland coastal drives
- Small group touring experience
- Experienced local tour guides
Departures are available from Paihia, Kerikeri, Coopers Beach and Awanui.
Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, Hundertwasser Centre & Opua Forest Tour
Duration: 4 Hours
Explore some of Northland’s most unique natural and cultural attractions on this scenic half-day tour.
Begin with a guided visit to the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, where a local Māori guide leads you through ancient limestone caverns illuminated by thousands of glow worms. Learn about the caves’ history and the fascinating life cycle of New Zealand’s native glow worms.
Next, travel to Kawakawa to see the iconic Hundertwasser Toilets and visit the Hundertwasser Art Centre, showcasing the colourful works of Friedensreich Hundertwasser alongside local Māori arts and crafts.
The final stop is the Opua Forest, home to magnificent kauri trees that have stood for more than 1,000 years. Before returning to the wharf, enjoy panoramic views from the Waitangi Lookout, offering excellent photo opportunities across the Bay of Islands and your cruise ship.
Historic Kerikeri Shore Excursion with Lunch
Duration: 5 Hours
Discover the history, scenery and flavours of Northland on this relaxing shore excursion.
Begin with a visit to Rainbow Falls, one of Kerikeri’s most spectacular waterfalls, offering excellent photo opportunities from several viewing platforms.
Next, enjoy tastings at the Makana Chocolate Factory and browse local crafts and collectibles at the nearby Kauri Workshop.
The tour then visits the historic Kerikeri Mission Station, established in 1819. Explore New Zealand’s oldest surviving buildings, including Kemp House and The Stone Store, with a guided tour sharing the area’s rich Māori and European history.
Lunch is served at the historic Plough & Feather, overlooking the Kerikeri Basin, and includes a meal plus a complimentary glass of locally produced beer or wine.
Before returning to the wharf, enjoy panoramic views over the Bay of Islands from the Waitangi Lookout, the perfect place for a final photo of your cruise ship and the surrounding coastline.
Bay of Islands Wine, Spirit & Craft Beer Tour
Duration: 4 Hours
Discover the flavours of Northland on this relaxed afternoon tour, travelling with a maximum of 11 guests.
Departing from Paihia (1.30pm) with a pickup available in Kerikeri (2.00pm), the tour visits three unique local producers:
- Marsden Estate Winery – Enjoy six wine tastings and a delicious platter lunch overlooking the vineyard and lake.
- Phat House Brewery – Sample up to four handcrafted beers or ciders at this popular Haruru Falls brewery.
- Bad Habits, Paihia – Taste three premium New Zealand spirits, paired with food samples, from one of the largest collections of locally made spirits north of Auckland.
After the tour, guests are returned to their accommodation in Paihia or Kerikeri.
Small Group Bay of Islands Tours
Mullarkey Tours focuses on small group touring experiences with maximum group sizes of 11 passengers. This allows guests to enjoy a more relaxed, friendly and flexible experience while exploring Northland’s beaches, forests, history and cultural attractions.
All guides are locally based and passionate about sharing the stories, history and hidden gems of the Bay of Islands and Far North region.
Why Choose Mullarkey Tours?
- Small group tours (maximum 11 passengers)
- Bay of Islands cruise ship shore excursions
- Experienced local guides
- Flexible cancellation policy
- Full refunds available for travel disruption
- Paihia, Kerikeri and Northland departures
- Comfortable sightseeing tours
- Custom private group tours available
- Department of Conservation accredited operator
Explore the Bay of Islands & Northland
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most popular travel destinations, famous for its beaches, coastal scenery, Māori history and charming towns including Paihia, Russell, Kerikeri and Kawakawa.
Whether you’re visiting Northland for a day trip, cruise ship stop or extended holiday, Mullarkey Tours offers unforgettable sightseeing experiences throughout the Bay of Islands and Far North. Discover more places to visit, attractions and travel inspiration in our Northland Travel Guide.
Book Direct with Confidence
Book direct with Mullarkey Tours for personalised service, flexible cancellation policies and unforgettable small group touring experiences throughout the Bay of Islands and Northland.
FAQs
What tours does Mullarkey Tours offer?
Mullarkey Tours offers Cape Reinga tours, Bay of Islands sightseeing tours, shore excursions, glow worm cave tours, Kerikeri tours and Northland experiences.
Do Mullarkey Tours cater to cruise ship passengers?
Yes, Mullarkey Tours provides shore excursions for cruise ship passengers arriving at Waitangi Wharf in the Bay of Islands.
Where do the Cape Reinga tours depart from?
Cape Reinga tours depart from Paihia, Kerikeri, Coopers Beach and Awanui.
Are Mullarkey Tours small group tours?
Yes, tours operate with a maximum of 11 passengers for a more personalised sightseeing experience.
Can visitors book tours if they are not arriving by cruise ship?
Yes, Mullarkey Tours welcomes all visitors exploring the Bay of Islands and Northland region.
What attractions are included on the Cape Reinga tour?
Tour highlights include Cape Reinga lighthouse, Ninety Mile Beach, Te Paki sand dunes and scenic Far North coastal locations.
Does Mullarkey Tours offer private group tours?
Yes, customised private group tours can be arranged for visitors staying in Paihia, Kerikeri and surrounding Northland areas.
Are refunds available if travel plans change?
Yes, Mullarkey Tours offers flexible cancellation policies and full refunds in the event of travel disruption.
