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Paihia and the Bay of Islands sit at the very top of New Zealandโs North Island and are often overlooked on travel itineraries, with many visitors choosing to head straight south from Auckland instead. This is likely because visiting the region requires a return journey from Auckland. But skipping it would be a huge mistake. The Bay of Islands was one of my favourite places I visited in New Zealand. Once you discover what to do in Paihia, youโll quickly see why it deserves a place on your itinerary.
How to get to Paihia
As mentioned, Paihia and the Bay of Islands are most easily reached from Auckland, which is the nearest big city. There are a few ways to travel there.
By Car
Having a car is undoubtedly the easiest way to travel around New Zealand and get to Paihia. It is a little over a three-hour drive from Auckland, and there are plenty of gorgeous stops along the way, such as Whangerai Falls. This is another great addition to what to do in Paihia. There is a lot of parking around the town, and the convenience of having a car makes it easier to get to some of the attractions.
I use Discover Cars, which has great options all over New Zealand.
By Public Transport
Alternatively, you can get the Intercity Bus and still make it to Paihai. It leaves from Auckland and takes just over four hours to get there.
Bus Tours and Experiences
Kiwi Experience
I travelled to Paihai from Auckland on the Kiwi Experience bus (you can read all about this way of travelling here: Kiwi Experience review: what it is really like to travel around New Zealand with Kiwi Experience). However, I then decided to hire a car when I arrived, to ensure I had maximum flexibility to get around and see the places on this list of what to do in Paihia.
Organised Tour
If you are short of time, there are also one- or two-day organised tours from Auckland. These are a convenient way to experience what to do in Paihia and the highlights of the Bay of Islands.
This one-day tour from Auckland includes a Hole in the Rock tour (which is a MUST DO), with some time to chill on Urupukapuka Island before returning to the city.
There is also this option of a day trip to visit the Waitangi Treaty Ground from Auckland, which is such an important part of Mฤori history.
Alternatively, this two-day tour includes both a visit to the Waitangi Treaty ground and a hole in the rock tour, with an overnight stay. When it comes to what to do in Paihia, both of these activities are not to be missed.
How to get around Paihia
Paihia is a small town and very easy to get around, making it a relaxed base for exploring the Bay of Islands. Much of the town can be explored on foot, but if you want to see more and make the most of what to do in Paihia and the surrounding area, having a car is essential.
If you choose not to hire a car, there are still ways to explore further:
- There is a regular ferry between Paihia and Russell. Meaning you can easily head over to the other side of the bay to explore Russellโs historic streets, waterfront and beaches.
- A Hole in the Rock tour is a must-do in Paihia, and is boarded from the wharf in Paihia, as well as a pick up from Russell. You can even start from one stop and end at the other, and then get the ferry back. A good chance to get out into the bay.
- There are also day trips to Cape Reigna from Paihia.
What to do in Paihia
There is so much to do in Paihia and the surrounding Bay of Islands. Hereโs a complete guide to what to do in Paihia.
Hole in the Rock Tour – What to do in Paihia
A Hole in the Rock Tour is one of the must-do things in Paihia. If you only do one thing, make it this one! Island Getaway offer two departures a day from the wharf in Paihia. The crew are fantastic, so helpful and informative. And the boat is comfy, you even get blankets if it is cold. You cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands before heading to the Hole in the Rock. Where, if the weather allows it, you actually go through it! Quite an amazing experience.
Plus, there is a high chance of seeing dolphins and other marine animals, which makes it such an incredible experience.
Included in the tour are two island stop-offs, both of which are must-sees:
Urupukapuka Island
The first stop on the Hole in the Rock tour is Urupukapuka Island. This is the largest island in the Bay of Islands, and is known for its golden beaches and clear waters. It also has lots of walking tracks, allowing you to explore the island and see some views.
It also has a cafe/bar on the island, with plenty of picnic benches. A perfect spot to relax and even keep an eye out for dolphins.
Motuarohia Island
The Island Getaway Hole in the Rock tour also stops at Motuarohia Island, which has one of my favourite views over the Bay of Islands. Follow the track as it climbs up the hill and admire the beautiful scenery, including the islandโs famous twin-lagoon view.
Waitangi Treaty Ground – What to do in Paihia
No trip should come without a trip to the Waitangi Treaty Ground. When considering what to do in Paihai, this must be one of the most important places to visit. I loved that this was one of the first places that I visited in New Zealand. As I felt it really helped me understand the country and Mฤori culture further. If you have a car, this is just a 5-minute drive from the tour, or a beautiful 30-minute stroll along the coast.
It is New Zealand’s most important historical landmark, and the location where the Waitangi Treaty was signed. This defined New Zealand as we know it. Europeans first settled in the area in the early 19th century, and by 1835, it had become the meeting place for Mฤori rangatira and British representatives to sign the Declaration of Independence.
Just a few years later, on 6 February 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed here, establishing an agreement between Mฤori and the British Crown and shaping the future of the nation. However, differences between the English and Mฤori versions of the treaty led to ongoing disputes and conflict in the decades that followed. These issues were formally acknowledged much later with the passing of the Treaty of Waitangi Act in 1975, which created a framework for addressing historic grievances.
Do not miss the flagpole, which is the location of the signing of the treaty and the world’s largest ceremonial waka. Also, make sure to attend the cultural performance, which is incredible to see.
Top Tip: If you purchase this ticket, it is valid for two days, so you can really make the most of it.
What to do in Paihia Town
When thinking about what to do in Paihia, there are plenty of activities and places to see in the town itself.
Check out the Street Art
Is it technically called street art if it’s by the sea? Sea art? Either way, make sure not to miss this amazing mural painted by Erika Pearce, painted on lava rock on the sea wall. At high tide, the sea laps up right against it, making it feel as though the artwork is part of the landscape itself. It is an easy stop while wandering along the Paihia waterfront.
Have a bite to eat at Charlotte’s Kitchen
Charlotte’s Kitchen might have one of the best views in any restaurant in Paihia. Located right at the end of Paihia Wharf, it is the perfect place to unwind. It does great pizzas and delicious margaritas. What more could you want?
Chill on the Beach
Paihia is right on the waterfront, and on a lovely sunny day, there is no better way to pass the time than relaxing on the beach. The water here is typically calm and clear, ideal for a swim on a warm day, and the atmosphere is relaxed without feeling sleepy. With cafรฉs and the town just steps away, itโs an easy addition to any day in Paihia, whether you stay for ten minutes or a few hours
Head to William Street
The main street in Paihia is William Street. This is where youโll find a good mix of shops, cafรฉs and restaurants, as well as supermarkets for picking up essentials. Itโs a convenient place to wander through, whether youโre looking for souvenirs, planning your next activity, or simply deciding where to eat.
Paihia to Opua Walkway
The Paihia to Opua Walkway is a beautiful coastal walk that links the two towns. The track passes through native bush and along the shoreline, offering occasional viewpoints that look out over the bay.
Go Parasailing
If you are more of a thrill seeker and want a completely different view of the Bay of Islands, then don’t miss a chance to sail. Bay of Islands Parasail offers the chance to take to the air and see the bay from above, with sweeping views across the islands, coastline and open water below. Being dipped into the water is optional! The staff are friendly, which makes for a fun afternoon out.
View from Waitangi Golf Club
For a peaceful view over the Bay of Islands, head to the Waitangi Golf Club. Even if youโre not playing a round, the elevated position offers wide views across the water and surrounding coastline, making it a quiet spot to pause and take in the scenery.
Things to do in the Bay of Islands
When planning what to do in Paihia, itโs worth remembering that the surrounding Bay of Islands is full of activities and sights that shouldnโt be missed. Most of these spots are a short drive away, so having a car will make it much easier to explore the wider area.
Haruru Falls
A 15-minute drive from Paihia, you will find Haruru Falls. A unique, horseshoe-shaped waterfall, which, while not the tallest, is wide, so it creates a huge thundering sound.
It’s incredibly easy to access from the car park, only 50 M away. Or, if you want to be a little more adventurous, you can choose to kayak. Startingย from the mouth of the Waitangi Inlet up to the base of the Haruru Waterfall.
Top Tip: If you are looking to visit Haruru Falls, why not try this popular nature tour, which also includes a visit to a glowworm cave and a stunning forest.
Stone Store and Kemp House
Kemp House is New Zealand’s oldest building, built in the 1820s under the protection of the local Mฤori chiefs. Originally, it was home to the British missionaries. You can now take a guided tour, which gives you insight into the history of the time, and a chance to see some of the beautifully preserved rooms.
Next door, the Stone Store is New Zealand’s oldest surviving stone building. Arriving, you feel like you step into a quintessential English village. There are other cottages, one of which now houses a cafe. And there is also a beautiful garden with a bridge. Stone House is now a gift shop, with a small museum upstairs, which is well worth a visit. Admission to this is included if you visit Kemp House.
Ngawha Springs
Ngawha Hot Springs is a natural hot pool that, throughout the centuries, people have travelled to for its healing powers. The people of Ngapuhi have attended the natural springs to replenish their wairua (spirit), alleviate the sensation of pain and repair common ailments.
Matauri Bay
Matauri Bay is a beautiful, stunning bay known for its stunning white sand beach, clear turquoise water, and excellent surfing, swimming, fishing, and diving. It is also famous for being the final resting place of the Rainbow Warrior, which was a Greenpeace ship that was involved in campaigns against whaling, seal hunting, nuclear testing and nuclear waste dumping during the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was sabotaged, bombed and sunk in 1985. Now it is a popular diving spot.
Duke’s Nose
One of the best views in the Bay of Islands can be found at Duke’s Nose. From here, you have unparalleled views of the bay and its many islands. However, you do have to earn this reward. The final 2KM if this trail involves two big rock scrambles.
Oke Bay
Head to Oke Bay to find a beautiful, scheduled crescent-shaped bay. To access the beach, head down the slope from the road. On a calm day, the water is ideal for swimming, and the open setting makes it a great spot to linger for a while before heading back.
Cape Brett Track
One of the best overnight hikes, the Cape Brett Track is just over 16 KM long and takes you to the Cape Brett Lighthouse. Starting at Oke Bay, the track follows a rugged ridgeline, with sweeping views over the ocean and back across the Bay of Islands for much of the walk. Many hikers choose to stay overnight at the Cape Brett Lighthouse, which makes for an incredibly unique hike.
Elliot Bay
A more rugged and natural beach compared to some of the other bays in the area. When the conditions are right, it is the perfect place for surfing or bodyboarding. It is a wide beach, so there is plenty of space for some privacy. You can also walk over the headline for beautiful views and a scheduled spot.
Whangamumu
The bay is peaceful and unspoilt, making it a rewarding destination for those keen to explore a lesser-visited corner of the Bay of Islands. Whangamumu is a historic spot in the Bay of Islands, as the site of a former whaling station. You can still explore the remains of the buildings.
Getting to the bay requires a 45-minute walk from the road, along part of the Cape Brett Track.
Omata Estate Vineyard
Make sure not to miss a visit to the beautiful Omata Estate Vineyard, one of the most scenic spots in the Bay of Islands. Set among rolling vines with views stretching across the countryside, itโs an ideal place to spend a relaxed afternoon. Sip locally produced, award-winning wines while enjoying the vineyard setting and the warm, welcoming atmosphere, whether you choose a tasting or simply settle in with a glass and take in the views.
Take a Trip to Cape Regina – What to do in Paihia
What to do in Paihia also needs to include a visit to Cape Regina, the northernmost point in New Zealand. It is quite a distance from Paihia, but definitely worth it. There are a couple of different tours you can join from Paihia if you can’t or don’t want to drive there yourself.
Coach trip to Cape Regina
The more popular way to visit Cape Regina is to take a coach trip from Paihia. It is a long day, as it is nearly a 200 KM drive each way; however, it is the most cost-effective way to get there. The day includes a morning and afternoon stop, as well as lunch.
90 Mile Beach
One of the reasons to choose a coach trip to visit Cape Regina is the stop along the way at 90 Mile Beach. Which, despite the name, is actually only 55 miles long. This beach is a legal highway, but is only suitable for 4WD vehicles, and only when it is safe due to the tide.
As part of the trip, you stop on the beach and enjoy some sandboarding down the dunes.
Note – if you are driving to Cape Reigna, rental companies don’t allow their cars to be taken on the beach, so you won’t be able to drive along it.
Cape Reigna Flight
If your budget allows it, I cannot recommend taking a flight up to Cape Reigna. This will be an ultimate, life-changing experience. You get to see the most breathtaking views you can imagine from the plane. The colour of the water, and seeing all of the beautiful islands from up above, is a core memory. One of the most incredible things to do in New Zealand.
After landing, you jump in a vehicle to take you the rest of the way to the Lighthouse. And of course, there are a couple of lovely stops along the way.
Tapotupotu Bay
Tapotupotu Bay is a quiet, curved stretch of sand tucked beneath rolling green hills. With its clear water and open shoreline, it feels wonderfully remote and untouched, a peaceful contrast to the dramatic landscapes further north. The stop here involves a hot drink and a homemade biscuit, and it is perfect.
Te Paki Sand Dunes
Not far from Cape Reigna are the Te Paki Sand Dunes, which are the second stop on the flight tour. They are a series of giant dunes, around 150 m high and are a spectacular sight. Hiking up them is an effort, but running down is worth it! You can also sandboard on the dunes. They really are incredible to see.
Cape Regina Lighthouse
Both of the trips above include a visit to the Cape Regina lighthouse, located on the northernmost tip of New Zealand. Cape Reinga is where the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea dramatically collide.
The lighthouse stands on the edge of the cliff above the sea. First lit in 1941, the lighthouse has long served as an important navigation point for ships sailing past. Today, itโs fully automated, but remains an iconic landmark, its white tower set against the vast blue of the ocean and sky.
The point is also steeped in Mฤori legend. It is believed that spirits journey north to the lone pลhutukawa tree clinging to the cliffs at Te Rerenga Wairua, which is their final departure point from this world.
Ferry to Russell – What to do in Paihia
If youโre planning what to do in Paihia, hopping on the ferry to Russell is a simple addition to your itinerary and well worth the time. The crossing takes just a few minutes and offers lovely views back across the water towards Paihia and the surrounding coastline.
Russell itself is one of the best things to do when staying in Paihia. It is rich in history and charm, with heritage buildings, quiet streets and a relaxed waterfront that feels distinctly different from Paihia. Itโs an easy half-day trip and a great way to experience another side of the Bay of Islands without needing a car.
When in Russell, don’t miss the following:
Duke of Marlborough Hotel
In keeping with the historical nature of Russell as a town, the Duke of Marlborough Hotel is the oldest licensed hotel in New Zealand. It sits on the waterfront and is the perfect place to sit back and relax and watch the world go by.
Flagstaff Hill
Hiking up to Flagstaff Hill is a must-do in Russell. It takes around 45 minutes to reach the top, with the path winding through nature on the way up.
The views from the top are amazing, and it is another significant historical site. In 1840, there was a Union Jack flag flying here, which Ngฤpuhi chief Hลne Heke cut down four times between 1844 and 1845 in protest against British sovereignty. This eventually led to the Flagstaff War.
Long Beach
Long Beach is a kilometre-long stretch of white sand and Russell’s favourite beach. It has a good view of the bay and is perfect for relaxing on.
Christ Church
Another important piece of history can be found at Christ Church in Russell. It is New Zealandโs oldest surviving church and is believed to be the countryโs oldest building still in use for the purpose it was originally built for. It originally held services in both English and Mฤori, and was sometimes used as the courthouse. You can take guided tours of the cemetery as well.
Where to stay in Paihia
There are plenty of accommodation options in Paihia to suit all budgets, making it easy to choose a base while you explore what to do in Paihia. Here are three of the best:
Budget: Palm Tree – Known for its relaxed, social atmosphere. It has dorms and private rooms, shared kitchen facilities and a pool. And is close to the waterfront.
Mid-range: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands – A comfortable mid-range hotel located near the Paihia waterfront. With well-appointed rooms, an on-site restaurant and easy access to tours, cafรฉs and the wharf.
Luxury: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa – A luxury beachfront resort offering spacious apartments, a swimming pool, on-site spa and beautiful coastal views. Ideal if youโre looking to treat. Just a short walk from the centre of town.
How long to stay in Paihia
You should spend at least 2-3 days in Paihia, which would give you a hance to see the main sites – Hole in the Rock tour, trip to Cape Reigna and the Waitangi Treaty Ground.
But if you have the time, spending 4โ7 days will give you the chance to fully explore what to do in Paihia, as well as the surrounding Bay of Islands. I spent six days here and honestly wished Iโd had much longer.
Useful travel tools and links
To help you plan your trip, here are some of my favourite useful travel tools and links I use on a daily basis to travel:
- Hostelworld: The place to book hostels and cheaper accommodation. Perfect for backpacking trips. With 24 hour cancellation options, and easy to manage from your account.
- Booking.com: One of the largest places to search for hotels around the world. Often with free cancellation options.
- Hotels.com: Also a fantastic place to source hotels, and they offer a loyalty programme.
- Expedia: Another option for hotels as well as a great place to search for flights, car hire and more.
- Skyscanner: The best place to search for flights to find the best rates.
- GetYourGuide: Easy access to book a wide range of curated tours, activities, and experiences around the world.
- Viator: A great place to search for group tours and day trips. Part of the TripAdvisor brand.
- KnowRoaming: eSIMs are a game changer for travel. Purchase before you go and be connected as soon as you land. KnowRoaming eSIM plans keep you and your devices seamlessly connected in 200+ international destinations.
- G Adventures: The ‘go to’ for all group travel tour adventures. Perfect for solo travellers.
- Amazon: Link to my storefront with ALL the useful gadgets and items I couldn’t travel without.
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