Things to do in Paihia and the Bay of Islands

My first visit to Paihia didn’t leave much of an impression. It was rainy, grey, and I missed the famous boat ride to the Hole in the Rock. I left feeling, well, unimpressed—like it was just another small coastal town with a pretty beach and a little bit more history than what you’re used to in New Zealand. But boy, was I wrong!

It wasn’t until my second visit, when I finally experienced the Bay of Islands under a patchwork of blue skies, seeing the islands from above and getting out on the water, that I truly started to understand its magic. 

Paihia and the Bay of Islands deserve more than a quick glance. And to help you make the most of it, here are some of the best things to do, from iconic highlights to hidden gems that made me fall in love with this little slice of paradise.

Where to stay in Bay of Islands

Paihia and Russell are the main hubs, each offering its own unique vibe, while nearby Kerikeri provides a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experience. 

For first-time visitors, I’d go with Paihia—it’s close to everything, has the most accommodation choices, and is perfect for exploring the bay’s best activities.

Cruise around the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a breathtaking natural playground, home to 144 islands scattered across turquoise waters. The best way to explore this iconic New Zealand destination? By boat, of course! A cruise offers not only stunning views but also access to some of the area’s most incredible highlights.

One must-see is the famous Hole in the Rock at Piercy Island. A natural wonder sculpted by the sea, this formation is a true geological marvel. If conditions are just right, your boat may even navigate through the hole itself – a thrilling moment and a great photo op!

Next, dive into underwater beauty with a snorkel session at Roberton Island (Motuarohia). Known for its crystal-clear waters, this site is perfect for spotting vibrant marine life. The island also holds historical significance, with Maori rock carvings that tell stories of the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Add Urupukapuka Island to your adventure. The largest in the Bay, it’s an ideal spot for hiking, swimming, or simply soaking in the spectacular scenery. Whether you opt to paddleboard into secluded bays or relax on its pristine beaches, you’ll see why this island is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Ready to explore? I highly recommend you book the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour for a 4.5-hour high-energy cruise. It includes two island stopovers, visits to the Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett Lighthouse, plus snorkeling gear and wildlife spotting. Perfect for packing maximum adventure into less time.

Or even better, join this Island Hopper Day Cruise for a relaxed 6-hour sailing trip on a comfortable catamaran. Enjoy a 2-hour stop at a wildlife sanctuary, snorkel, paddleboard, hike, and complimentary lunch, tea, and coffee. Great if you love a laid-back, scenic vibe.

Book your cruise:
Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour
Island Hopper Day Cruise

Visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, located just minutes from Paihia, are one of New Zealand’s most historically significant sites. This is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840—an agreement between the Māori chiefs and the British Crown that laid the foundation for modern New Zealand.

The treaty was intended to establish a partnership and set guidelines for governance, although it remains a source of debate due to differing interpretations between Māori and British perspectives.

A visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds includes highlights like the carved Māori meeting house (wharenui), which showcases traditional craftsmanship, and the Ngātokimatawhaorua, the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe. The onsite museum offers valuable context about the treaty’s impact and its ongoing significance.

This Waitangi Treaty Grounds Day Pass includes a guided tour rich with insights about the Treaty’s importance, plus time to explore the museum and grounds at your own pace.

For a deeper dive into Māori culture, upgrade to a Maori experience to include a hangi dinner and concert on top of the guided tour and access to the grounds. You’ll enjoy a traditional feast cooked underground and a cultural performance, complete with a powerful haka.

Deep dive into Maori culture:
Waitangi Treaty Grounds Day Pass
Waitangi Treaty Grounds Combo Pass w. Maori experience

See dolphins in their natural habitat

The Bay of Islands is one of the best places in New Zealand to encounter dolphins in the wild. These waters are home to an abundance of marine life, including the lovable bottlenose and common dolphins that sometimes approach boats with curiosity, leaping out of the water in acrobatic displays.

There’s no better way to experience it than aboard the Bay of Islands Day Wildlife Cruise, the only licensed dolphin-watching yacht in the Bay. This family-owned and operated tour prioritizes marine conservation, with a portion of every fare supporting dolphin protection and children’s marine education programs.

Sail aboard a 50-foot catamaran, and help hoist the sails or simply relax as you glide across turquoise waters. Watch wild dolphins in their natural habitat, knowing that all interactions are on the dolphins’ terms to respect and preserve their environment.

Along the way you might also spot little blue penguins, diving gannets, and other sea birds. The journey also includes a stop at a scenic island, where you can snorkel, explore, or simply soak in the views.

Book your dolphin encounter:
Bay of Islands Day Wildlife Cruise

Try Skydiving and see the bay from above

If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush, skydiving over the Bay of Islands is an adventure like no other. With breathtaking views of turquoise waters, hidden coves, and lush islands, this is your chance to see the North Island’s stunning coastline from a completely unique perspective — while freefalling at speeds of up to 200 km/h!

You can customize your experience by choosing from four altitudes:

• 9,000ft – 20 seconds of freefall: Perfect for first-time jumpers who want a shorter but thrilling introduction to skydiving.
• 12,000ft – 40 seconds of freefall: For those ready to level up their adrenaline while enjoying an extended flight experience.
• 16,000ft – 70 seconds of freefall: A fantastic option for thrill-seekers wanting maximum time in freefall.
• 18,000ft – 75 seconds of freefall: This is the highest skydive on the North Island, offering unmatched views and adrenaline.

All jumps are tandem, so you’ll be securely attached to a highly experienced instructor who ensures your dive is smooth, safe, and stress-free. Take a deep breath, leap from the plane, and ride the adrenaline. But keep your eyes open, the view is worth it!

Book your sky jump:
9,000ft sky jump
12,000ft sky jump
16,000ft sky jump
18,000ft sky jump

Take a scenic helicopter ride over the bay

If you’d prefer aerial views without the adrenaline of a skydive, this scenic helicopter ride over the Bay of Islands is the perfect choice. This relaxing yet exhilarating experience offers unbeatable views of the Bay’s turquoise waters, scattered islands, and endless coastline.

It’s a fantastic way to photograph the area’s beauty from a unique, bird’s-eye perspective – perfect if you want the views without the jump. Plus, you can opt for a landing at the famous Hole in the rock!

Book your scenic ride:
Scenic Helicopter ride over the Bay 

Enjoy water sports

What better way to experience the Bay of Islands than diving into its water-based activities? Paihia is a hub for adventure, so make sure to take advantage of all the fun.

Try parasailing to get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Bay of Islands or book this jet boat ride that takes you zipping around the bay at breakneck speeds. 

Don’t forget calm-water adventures, like paddleboarding or kayaking, which allow you to explore the bay at your own pace. 

Book your adventure:
Parasailing
Jet Boat Ride

Visit Russell, New Zealand’s first capital

Russell is a quaint seaside town just a short ferry ride from Paihia. Known as New Zealand’s first capital and one of its earliest European settlements, Russell offers a charming blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty.

Its preserved 19th-century buildings lend it an old-world charm, making it feel like you’ve wandered into the pages of a history book.

A must-see is the Pompallier Mission, a French Catholic mission established in 1842, where you can learn about early printing and interaction between European settlers and Māori. For panoramic views and a taste of history, head to Flagstaff Hill, the site of significant struggles over sovereignty during the early days of European settlement.

Want a deeper dive into Russell’s rich heritage? Join this Historic Russell Tour and visit its fascinating landmarks with expert commentary to bring the history of this once-rowdy port town to life.

Book your tour:
Historic Russell Tour

Sample local wines & beers

Raise your glass and dive into the Bay of Islands’ thriving wine and craft beer scene with this small-group wine tasting tour! This delightful day out combines picturesque venues, top-notch local flavors, and fascinating stories about the winemakers and brewers who make the magic happen.

You’ll start at Fat Pig Vineyard, one of the oldest vineyards in the Kerikeri area. Their cheeky name matches their playful lineup of wines, including the sparkling Fat Pig Bubbles and the refreshing Fat Pig Rosé – perfect for a summer sip.

Next, the tour takes you to the elegant Marsden Estate, where you’ll sample six different wines and enjoy a curated platter lunch in their stunning garden courtyard, overlooking the lake and rows of vines.

The grand finale is a stop at Phat House Brewery in Haruru Falls, known for their naturally crafted, preservative-free beers. Owners Caroline and Rob are passionate about brewing and will guide you through their diverse range, offering up to four samples of their best creations.

Book your tour:
Bay of Islands Wine Tasting Tour

Take a day trip to the Far North

Head to New Zealand’s Northland for an unforgettable day trip to Cape Reinga, Ninety Mile Beach, and Te Paki Sand Dunes. I highly recommend you book this guided tour to enjoy the highlights without worrying about long drives or logistics.

Spoiler alert, Ninety Mile Beach isn’t actually 90 miles long, but still an impressive 88 kilometers (around 55 miles) and doubles as a sandy highway. While it might seem tempting to tackle it in your rental car – don’t. Many have tried, and rising tides and soft sand have claimed more than their fair share of victims. But if you join the tour, the bus will take you on this sandy adventure.

Known as the “end of the road,” Cape Reinga offers breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean colliding. It’s also a deeply spiritual place for the Māori, where spirits are said to begin their journey home via a legendary 800-year-old pohutukawa tree.

Don’t miss the enormous Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes, soaring up to 150 meters high. Climb to the top for desert-like views, then tackle the descent with a sandboard – expect laughs, a tumble or two and maybe some sand in your teeth!

Book your day tour:
Cape Reinga, 90 Mile Beach & Te Paki Sand Dunes Day Trip

Hike to Cape Brett Lighthouse

If you’d like to pair stunning vistas with a leg workout, the hike to Cape Brett Lighthouse is a must-do. This 16.5-kilometer trail (one way!) is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of jagged cliffs, turquoise waters, and remote islands.

If you’re not keen on the return hike, you can book a water taxi back to Paihia – perfect for soaking in the magic of Cape Brett from the sea. Or, just do the return trip by boat and save your legs – I won’t judge.

The trail passes through lush native bush, dotted with birdsong and occasional grazing goats and ends at Cape Brett Lighthouse. If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or even whales in the distance as you trek along the coast.

Built in 1910, the lighthouse itself is a historic gem perched at the peninsula’s tip, standing guard over the bay’s waters. You’ll feel like you’re on the edge of the world – because you almost are.

Enjoy Paihia’s beautiful beaches

No trip to Paihia is complete without spending time on its stunning beaches. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, water activities, or secluded escapes, the beaches here have something for everyone.

Head to Long Beach (Oneroa Bay) for a peaceful escape. Take the ferry to Russell and head to Long Beach. Often less crowded, this stretch of golden sand is surrounded by greenery and crystal-clear waters – perfect for swimming or simply unwinding. It feels like your own private beach and makes the short ferry trip well worth it.

Paihia Beach is located right in the heart of town and perfect for an easy day by the water. Calm and inviting, it’s ideal for swimming or paddleboarding. With shops, cafes, and fish-and-chip stands just steps away, this beach is a hub of convenience and fun.

Te Ti Bay is just a short walk from the center of town and is quieter than Paihia Beach but equally picturesque. Its calm waters are great for kayaking, and the Maori-carved pou (totem poles) along the shore offer a meaningful connection to the region’s culture.

Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant

Paihia’s waterfront dining scene is a feast for the senses, offering not just mouth-watering dishes but also some of the best views in the Bay of Islands.

Seafood here is as fresh as it gets – often caught that very morning, with flavors reflecting both local and international culinary flair.

These are my favorite restaurants in the Bay that I highly recommend:

• Charlotte’s Kitchen: Perched at the end of Paihia Wharf, this popular spot combines fabulous food with killer views. Their seafood platter for two is a showstopper, featuring oysters, prawns, mussels, and other fresh delights. For something more fun, try their wood-fired seafood pizza.
• Alongside: A dreamy waterfront bar with a casual vibe, Alongside delivers big flavors. Their crispy fish tacos pack a punch with zesty ingredients, and the salt-and-pepper calamari is perfect for sharing. Pair it with one of their local craft beers or cocktails while you enjoy the sea breeze.
• The Gables Restaurant: For a more upscale experience, The Gables in nearby Russell (just a quick ferry ride away) is the oldest restaurant in New Zealand. Their scallops and black tiger prawns are a must-try, served in buttery, indulgent combinations that highlight the region’s pristine seafood. Finish with a dessert and a glass of New Zealand wine while soaking in the historic charm and waterfront setting.

Have a fun night out in Paihia

When the sun sets over the Bay of Islands it’s time to raise your glass. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a craft beer or sip on a cocktail, there’s a spot for you:

• Thirty30 Craft Beer Bar: For beer enthusiasts, Thirty30 is a must-visit. Known for its rotating taps of New Zealand craft beers, excellent pizza, and regular live music, this is the spot to catch a chill vibe while enjoying the local brew scene.
• The Paihia Ex-Serviceman’s Club (The Ex-Serviceman’s Bar): A laid-back, no-frills watering hole where locals and travelers mingle to enjoy budget-friendly drinks and pool tables in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Charlotte’s Kitchen Bar: Not just for dining, Charlotte’s Kitchen also has a lively bar area. Their creative cocktails, like their signature Spicy Margarita, are a hit, and the ambiance with its waterfront views makes it an excellent spot to kick off your night.

Stop at Haruru Falls

Just a short drive from Paihia, Haruru Falls is a tranquil and picturesque waterfall perfect for a quick detour. This waterfall, shaped like a horseshoe, is smaller in height but big on charm, surrounded by lush greenery.

You can simply admire its beauty from the viewing platform on the top or take a short walking trail along the Waitangi River for another perspective from the bottom.

Go mountain biking in Waitangi MTB park

The Waitangi Mountain Bike Park offers a network of well-maintained trails, from leisurely Grade 2 rides to thrilling Grade 5 downhill tracks. There are 40+ trails in total, spread across diverse terrain.

The longest loops, like the Puketi and Weka Trail, offer a combination of fast descents, climbs, and sweeping corners over several kilometers, while shorter trails like the Playground Loop are great for kids or those just starting out.

Even if you’re new to mountain biking or not that fit, you can rent an electric bike which makes exploring the park a breeze, letting you tackle hills with ease while enjoying the stunning forest scenery.

Book your bike:
Rent a mountain bike
Rent an electric bike

Explore Kerikeri’s historic sites

Just 20 minutes from Paihia, Kerikeri is home to some of the country’s most significant heritage landmarks.

• Kemp House (1821/1822): As the oldest surviving European building in New Zealand, Kemp House offers a fascinating window into early settler life. Built by the Church Missionary Society, this Georgian-style house was home to Reverend John Butler before being passed to the Kemp family, who lived here for over 150 years. A guided tour through its creaky wooden floors will take you right back to the 19th century, showing furniture and artifacts from this pivotal time. It’s not just a house—it’s a story of survival, resilience, and relationships between Māori and Europeans.
• The Stone Store (1832): Just a short stroll from Kemp House lies the Stone Store, New Zealand’s oldest stone building. Initially built as a mission supply store, it’s now a functioning shop and museum. The building’s robust basalt structure is as striking today as it was nearly 200 years ago. Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing trade history between settlers and Māori, as well as unique souvenirs to take home.
• Kororipo Heritage Park: Anchoring these two iconic buildings is Kororipo Heritage Park, which offers a deeper dive into the region’s history. It was once a Māori pā (fortified village) and is thought to have been the home of the famous chief Hongi Hika, who played a critical role in both diplomacy and conflict during New Zealand’s early colonial period. Take a riverside walk and imagine what life was like when European settlers and Māori lived, worked, and traded in these very surroundings.

Kerikeri isn’t all history. Pop into its artisan markets or explore its thriving wineries for a taste of contemporary Kiwi culture, but more on this in a sec.

Taste delicious chocolates at Makana Confections

A stop at Makana Confections is a must for chocoholics. Specializing in handcrafted treats, they’re famous for creations like the Macadamia Butter Toffee Crunch and Fruit & Nut Chocolate Barks.

You can watch chocolatiers in action through their glass kitchen and enjoy free samples before you inevitably leave with a gift box (or two).

Discover unique art galleries in Kerikeri

Kerikeri isn’t just a historic gem—it’s also a thriving creative hub that showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople. If you’re an art lover make sure to check some of them out. Here are my favorites:

• The Art Upstairs Gallery: Features a dynamic mix of contemporary and traditional art, with nature-inspired works by local artists like Jane Riwa. A great spot to connect with the creative community.
• Kaan Zamaan Gallery: Known for its innovative and abstract contemporary art, featuring work by artists such as Mark Graver, whose award-winning prints captivate art enthusiasts.
• The Little Black Gallery: Specializes in fine art photography, with pieces from prominent local photographers like Laurence Aberhart, creating a unique space for photo art appreciation.

Find the cave behind Rainbow Falls

While Rainbow Falls is well-known for its spectacular beauty—a stunning 27-meter cascade surrounded by lush greenery—its best-kept secret is the hidden cave tucked behind the waterfall.

Start your adventure with a short, easy walk along the paved Rainbow Falls Track, which takes just 10-15 minutes from the car park. Once you arrive, the thundering falls and misty rainbows will captivate you. But for a little extra thrill, cross the rocks and head toward the back of the falls, where you’ll discover a natural cave hidden by the curtain of water.

Entering the cave involves a bit of scrambling over slippery rocks, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to get wet (it’s part of the fun!). Once inside, the view is magical—looking out through the rushing water.

Hike up Mount Bledisloe for panoramic views of the bay

The hike to Mount Bledisloe Lookout is a hidden gem that offers incredible views over the Bay.

Located just a short drive from Paihia town center, this hike takes you through lush native bush with a well-maintained trail that’s accessible to most fitness levels. The walk itself is approximately 2.5 kilometers each way, with an elevation gain of around 300 meters, making it moderately challenging but entirely worth it.

Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Bay of Islands, with turquoise waters and islands stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect spot for photography, a picnic, or just soaking in the breathtaking scenery. The trail is relatively uncrowded, so it’s an excellent choice for a peaceful hike with a spectacular payoff.

New Zealand travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

ACC in New Zealand covers you for accidents but if you get sick or loose your luggage you’ll need a good insurance to cover it for you.

We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here