FerryConnect

New Zealand

Opua → Okiato (Russell)

The short vehicle ferry across the Veronica Channel from Opua to Okiato is the quickest road route to Russell, saving the long drive around the Bay of Islands.

⏱ About 10m🚢 1 operator📅 About every 10 minutes, 6:10am – 10:00pm🚗 Vehicles accepted
Book with Northland Ferries→

Opua to Okiato (Russell) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Opua to Okiato (Russell) takes About 10m across the Veronica Channel (Bay of Islands), operated by Northland Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: about every 10 minutes, 6:10am – 10:00pm.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: northlandferries.co.nz · How we verify

Return crossing: Okiato (Russell) to Opua

Northland Ferries also sails Okiato (Russell) to Opua, taking About 15m. From Okiato the first ferry is at 6:00am and the last at 9:50pm.

Paihia to Russell ferry guide →

Opua to Okiato (Russell) ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Departures roughly every 10 minutes during operating hours

Operates 6:10am – 10:00pm from Opua and 6:00am – 9:50pm from Okiato.

Return: From Okiato the first ferry is at 6:00am and the last at 9:50pm.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Northland Ferries timetable →Check prices & book on Northland Ferries →

Source: Northland Ferries Bay of Islands ferry page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Opua and Okiato (Russell)

📐 1 Nautical Miles
Opua⇄Okiato (Russell)
⏱ About 10m · 📐 1 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
🚗 Operator website

Ready to cross from Opua to Okiato (Russell)?

Book your crossing with Northland Ferries: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Book with Northland Ferries→

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Northland Ferries10mVehicle ferry

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

1 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Okiato is a short drive from Russell township.

Related Ferry Crossings

Return crossingPaihia → RussellAbout 15mNearby alternative crossingAuckland → DevonportAbout 12m · Fullers360Nearby alternative crossingAuckland → Half Moon BayAbout 38m · Fullers360More ferries in New ZealandWellington → Picton3h 30m · Interislander, BluebridgeMore ferries in New ZealandAuckland → Waiheke Island40m – 50m · Fullers360More ferries in New ZealandAuckland → Rangitoto IslandAbout 25m · Fullers360More ferries in New ZealandHalf Moon Bay (East Auckland) → Waiheke IslandAbout 50m · SeaLink (New Zealand)
🗺 All ferries in New Zealand🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Opua to Okiato (Russell)?
The crossing typically takes About 10m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Opua to Okiato (Russell) ferry sail?
Departures roughly every 10 minutes during operating hours. Operates 6:10am – 10:00pm from Opua and 6:00am – 9:50pm from Okiato. This is the pattern published in the Northland Ferries Bay of Islands ferry page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Opua to Okiato (Russell)?
Northland Ferries operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Opua to Okiato (Russell) ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Opua to Okiato (Russell) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Opua to Okiato (Russell) ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Opua from Okiato (Russell) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 1 nautical miles (roughly 2 km).