This sailing voyage takes us from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour to the breathtaking Bay of Islands, a 140nm journey along New Zealand’s northeast coast. This expedition is the perfect mix of cruising, exploring, and relaxing, with stopovers in scenic anchorages along the way.
Sailing past the Hauraki Gulf and Northland’s remote coastline, we’ll experience rugged headlands, sheltered bays, and wildlife-rich waters home to dolphins, seabirds, and marine life. The journey offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and exploring ashore, with time to unwind and enjoy barbeques and sunset dinners at anchor.
Our final stretch takes us past Cape Brett and through the iconic Hole in the Rock, before navigating the narrow Albert Channel into the heart of the Bay of Islands. This voyage is an unforgettable coastal adventure, offering a unique way to experience New Zealand’s stunning maritime landscapes.
Depart from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour
Begin your journey from the heart of Auckland’s vibrant waterfront district, cruising under the Harbour Bridge and out into the Hauraki Gulf, an iconic Kiwi sailing gateway.
Scenic cruising through the Hauraki Gulf
Navigate past historic islands like Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi, and Kawau, with stunning views of forested shorelines, rocky headlands, and sparkling blue waters.
Wildlife encounters along the northeast coast
Keep watch for pods of dolphins riding the bow, seabirds wheeling overhead, and possible sightings of whales (during migration season) surfacing along the route.
Sheltered anchorages & coastal stopovers
Drop anchor in peaceful bays along the Northland coast. Go ashore for short bush walks, beach walks, and swimming, or stay aboard and enjoy the tranquillity.
Alfresco dining & sunset drinks
Savour freshly prepared meals in the open air, with a glass of wine in hand as the sun sets over the water. The spacious deck is perfect for long, relaxed evenings.
Sail Aboard Te Kaihōpara
Experience the thrill of coastal cruising aboard Te Kaihōpara, a powerful expedition yacht built for performance, comfort, and adventure on the open sea.
Cruise past Cape Brett & Hole in the Rock
On the final leg, pass the towering cliffs of Cape Brett and sail through the legendary Hole in the Rock at Motukōkako—a dramatic geological feature and cultural landmark.
Arrive in Opua, Bay of Islands
Conclude your voyage in the sheltered, yacht-filled harbour of Opua, surrounded by the natural beauty and historic charm of the Bay of Islands.
Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Buzzing hub for superyachts and America’s Cup boats, right in the heart of Auckland.
Waterfront lined with award-winning restaurants, rooftop bars, and great people-watching.
Stroll to Wynyard Quarter for food trucks, silo art, and lively public spaces.
Whangamumu Harbour, Northland
Walk to the eerie ruins of NZ’s only land-based whaling station, hidden in the bush.
Sheltered, glassy anchorage ideal for an off-grid overnight stop.
Kawau Island, Hauraki Gulf
Mansion House, built in 1845 and expanded by Governor Sir George Grey, blends Victorian grandeur with colonial history and overlooks a scenic bay.
Heritage-listed rooms, original furniture, and landscaped gardens offer a rare glimpse into 19th-century New Zealand aristocratic life.
Nearby, forest trails lead to copper mine ruins and secluded coves.
Poor Knights Islands, Northland
Explore sea caves. Rikoriko Cave is vast enough to have reportedly sheltered a WWII-era Japanese sub.
One of Jacques Cousteau’s top 10 dive sites, thanks to warm currents and volcanic arches.
Swim and snorkel in fully protected marine reserve teeming with untouched marine life.
Opua Marina, Bay of Islands
First port of entry for yachts arriving from Pacific crossings in the heart of the Bay of Islands.
Social hub for global cruisers, with weather briefings and stories at the Opua Cruising Club.
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Step aboard Te Kaihopara, a purpose-built South Pacific cruising ketch designed for modern explorers seeking connection, challenge, and discovery at sea. From remote coastlines to open ocean passages, Te Kaihopara delivers comfort, capability, and adventure in equal measure. With a strong, ocean-tested build, hands-on sailing opportunities, and space to relax and reflect, every voyage is a chance to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean and the raw beauty of the natural world.
With $1m spent on a refit, new electronics, a full rewire and the latest safety equipment in 2023, the yacht meets the highest safety standards.
With a generous galley, 4 fridges and a freezer, the yacht is able to be well provisioned for long distance cruising.
With a saloon and wheelhouse that seat up to 16 people, there are ample indoor and outdoor seating choices.
Berth and Cabin and options available
Moana: Aft Stateroom - includes 3 berths (2 + 1) and private ensuite. Available as private or shared cabin. USB 12v / 240v power outlets.
Tiritiri: mid cabin - includes 3 berths (2 + 1) and private ensuite. Available as private or shared cabin. USB 12v / 240v power outlets.
Mokohinau: Forward cabin - includes 4 berths (4 x 1 ) and private ensuite. Available shared cabin. USB 12v / 240v power outlets.
29 Nov 2025
Fly into Auckland Airport
Arrive at the vessel at Gulf Harbour Marina by 10am (or stay onboard the night prior).
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Depart Gulf Harbour Marina around 11am
29 Nov - 3 Dec 2025
Stop at 4-5 islands / bays on the passage to Opua based on weather
3 Dec 2025
Arrive in Opua by 2pm
Depart by air Keri Keri Airport after 4pm or by bus from Opua
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Auckland and Opua, accommodation onboard, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear.
Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.