One of the pleasures of visiting the Bay of Islands is that getting here can be part of the experience. Whether you choose to fly or drive, both have advantages, and the choice usually depends on how much time you have – and how you like to travel.
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
Flying to Kerikeri
Flying is the quickest and easiest way to reach the Bay of Islands, especially for shorter breaks.
Kerikeri Airport is just a few minutes’ drive from Treghan Lodge, making arrivals and departures refreshingly straightforward.
Why flying works well
Around 45 minutes flight time from Auckland
No long motorway stretches or traffic fatigue
Easy car hire on arrival at the Kerikeri airport
Ideal for weekend escapes or shorter stays
Flights run daily, and the airport is small, relaxed, and easy to navigate. Many guests appreciate stepping off the plane and being settled into their guesthouse within minutes.
Driving to Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands
Driving north offers a slower, more scenic approach and suits those who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
From Auckland, the drive to Kerikeri and Bay of Islands typically takes just over 3 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The route takes you through rolling farmland, small towns, and coastal stretches, with plenty of opportunities to pause along the way.
Why driving appeals
Flexibility to stop en route and explore
Ideal for longer stays or extended Northland itineraries
Useful if you plan to visit places like Hokianga, Doubtless Bay, or Mangōnui
Easy to bring bikes, golf clubs, or extra luggage
Many guests turn the drive into a mini road trip, stopping at places like Whangārei, Waipū, or the Matakohe Kauri Museum on the way north.
Which Is Best?
There’s no right or wrong answer – it’s about how you want your holiday to feel.
Short stay or weekend escape: flying and hiring a car at Kerikeri aiport keeps things effortless
Longer break or multi-stop Northland trip: driving gives you freedom
Golf, cycling, or extended exploring: driving often makes sense
Pure relaxation, minimal fuss: flying and hiring wins
Some guests even choose to do both – flying one way and driving the other.
Arriving at Treghan Lodge
Whichever way you arrive, Treghan Lodge is an easy base. We’re close to Kerikeri Airport, town, vineyards, walking tracks, and day-trip routes across the Bay of Islands and Far North.
If you’d like advice on flights, car hire, or planning a Northland loop, we’re always happy to help.