Paihia is a small but lively town located in the Bay of Islands, in Northland, New Zealand. Paihia’s wide range of things to do, accomodation and restaurants makes it the perfect place to spend some time on your next trip up north.
Paihia is generally where I stay when come up to Northland. I love that there are so many options of things to do. I always mange to try a few new things each time I am up here, and I am never disappointed.
It may not be as well know as the other tourist hubs in New Zealand such as Queenstown or Rotorua, but this fun little town certainly has everything you could want and more. Adventure filled activities, stunning beaches and relaxing walks, there is something to suit everyone.
Where is Paihia?
Paihia is located in the heart of the Bay of Islands, just over a three hour drive north of Auckland. Its northern location makes it a great summer escape for those looking to escape the city and find some fun things to do.
While it is not the biggest town in Northland, Pahia is certainly one of the most popular due to its ever increasing option for things to do. Near by towns include Whangārei, Kerikeri and of course Russell and Waitangi.
Paihia is also the place to be for those who want to get out and explore some of the 140 subtropical islands in the area, with ferry boats and tours visiting many of the popular islands.
Does Paihia Have a good selection of things to do?
Being the gateway to the Bay of Islands, Paihia is one of the busiest towns in Northland. With such a large number of people visiting the area new tours and things to do are constantly popping up in Paihia to cater to the thousands.
Activities by water, land and air, Paihia has something for everyone.
Not only are the paid activities in Paihia awesome, but so are the many free things to do. You can enjoy one of the local walks, relax at the beach or admire one of the powerful near by waterfalls.
Combining all of this, there will never be a chance of running out of things to do, making Paihia well worth visiting for everyone.
Things to do in and near Paihia
So what are some of the best things to do in Paihia? Do you want to make the most of nature? Maybe explore as much of the area as you can? Or even just take your time and spend your days relaxing?
Check out the incredible options below and start planning your epic trip to Paihia.
A Boat Tour – most family friendly thing to do in Paiha
Exploring the Bay of Islands by boat is one of the best ways to see a whole lot in a small amount of time. There are plenty of options when it comes to boat tours including half day and full day trips.
One of the most popular things to do is a boat tour leaving from Paihia to see dolphins in the wild. Cruising around many of the local islands you will get to see the popular ‘Hole in the Rock’ and Cape Brett Lighthouse.
Look out for local wildlife including dolphins, whales and seals. Bookings for this tour is available through Fullers Great Sites.
Another great option for a good time on the water is booking a sailing tour. Spending the day sailing gives you the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure and lets you get a bit more involved with group.
Barefoot Sailing Adventures is my recommendation for the perfect day out. On this tour you visit a local island where you can enjoy snorkelling paddle boarding or just spend some time exploring the area.
Exploring the Bay of Islands by water is one of the best things to do in Paihia and is something that should not be missed.
Check out Oke Bay
Oke Bay is a bit of a local secret compared to the other things to do in Paihia. While the beach itself isn’t directly in Paihia it is an easy enough drive to get there and is one of the best beaches in the area.
This beach has some of the most stunning coloured water in the area and is a bit more sheltered than some of the other beaches. The water gets deeper quite quickly giving it a glassy green sort of colour.
There is only a small sandy area to lay down on so it is better to check this beach out at low tide if you want a bit more space on the beach
You can get to Oke Bay by catching the 10 minute car ferry from Opua to Okiato then driving for just another 30 minutes. Park up on the side of the road and from there it is just a 5 minute walk over the hill and down to the beach.
Oke Bay is free to visit and and is great for the whole family. The perfect thing to do for anyone wanting a beautiful beach near Paihia.
Explore Urupukapuka Island
Urupukapuka Island is the largest island in the Bay of Islands and is a great place for visit for those looking for things to do in Paihia.
With a relaxed and laid back vibe, visitors to the island can spend their time on the island relaxing on the beach, heading out on a walk or checking out the local wildlife. There is also a restaurant and bar to enjoy and you can hire out a kayak or SUP.
Urupukapuka Island is well known for its crystal clear water, golden sands and lush greenery. It truely is a mini paradise for all who visit and one of the best things to do in Paihia.
If Urupukapuka Island sounds like something you would like to do, you can catch the ferry to the island from Paihia in 40 minutes. In summer, the ferry departs from Paihia five times a day allowing more flexibility with travel times.
Pop over to Russel – most popular thing to do in Paihia
A trip over to Russell is by far the most popular thing to do in Paihia. A short ferry ride across from Paihia this quaint little town was once the capital of New Zealand. Many of the original buildings have been maintained, giving the town its charm.
Start off by checking out all the cool little shops scattered around town followed by a walk up the Flagstaff hill walking track for 360 degree views.
End your day with a drink and some food at the Duke of Marlborough, the oldest pub in New Zealand, and enjoy the sound of the ocean water as the sun sets in the distance.
Russell may be a small town but it does have a uniqueness about it which makes visiting it a great thing to do as a day trip from Paihia.
Experience the Waitangi Treaty grounds
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a very important part in Aotearoa’s history and in how the country came to be the way it is today. This is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 and the site now serves as a museum and education centre.
A trip to the Waitangi Treaty Gounds is the best cultural experience available and a uniquely kiwi thing to do in Paihia. It not only allows you to learn about the significance of the area but also but also gives you an insight in Māori culture.
Just a short drive or walk from Paihia, admission the Waitangi Treaty Grounds includes access to all facilities and activities including heritage buildings, museums, carving studios and tours.
Visit the Waterfalls near Paihia -best free thing to do
There are two well known waterfalls you can visit near Paihia that are both great things to do. They are both very different but still both very popular for varying reasons.
Haruru Falls is the closest to Paihia and can be accessed either by driving or by walking the 5km walkway starting in Waitangi.
The falls are on the smaller side but still worth the visit as coupled with the surrounding area it is a really enjoyable spot. There is a view point about 50 meters from the road where you can take photos and enjoy the power of the waterfall.
The other popular waterfall in the area is Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa) in Kerikeri. Visiting this waterfall is one of the best the best things do do if you don’t mind a bit of a drive from Paihia to get there.
This 27 meter high waterfall has three awesome viewing platforms to enjoy the falls from a few different spots. You can also walk down to the bottom of the falls where there is space to sit and swim. There is a large cave behind the waterfall you can climb into, which is a cool and unique thing to do.
Day trip to Cape Reinga
Cape Reinga is the northern most point in New Zealand and only a 3 hour drive from Paihia. Where the Pacific meets the Tasman, this spot is a great option if you are looking for something to do while in Paihia.
Cape Reinga is quite well built up for visitors to get the best out of the experience. There is a walkway that connects from the large carpark right through to the lighthouse and view point.
If you aren’t able to make the drive up yourself, there is an option to book onto a tour that will take you on a bus there. This tour will also take you onto Ninety Mile Beach and to see the Te Paki Sand Dunes.
It does take a bit of effort to get to Cape Reinga but it is such a rugged kiwi landscape that it makes it a highlight many out of the things to do in and around Paihia.
Hike to the Opua Forest Lookout
The walk up to the Opua Forrest Lookout is a great short walk from Paihia. Taking just over and hour return this walk is great from an early morning or afternoon activity.
To get to the lookout you will follow the Paihia School Road Track all the way up to the top. The walk is almost all uphill and while the track is well maintained it is not recommended for people who may struggle walking.
Once you made it up you will be treated to a stunning view out over Paihia to Russel, Cape Brett and the many islands in the distance. The native trees and wildlife in this area is also a highlight of this walk.
Hire a Kayak or SUP
If you are looking for a cheap but fun thing to do in Paihia then hiring out a kayak or a SUP is the perfect activity for you.
Hire for kayaks and SUPs is available on the beach right beside the information centre in the main township. Timing options range from just one hour right up to the whole day so you can cater to what suits you on the day.
The flat waters in the bay make the conditions perfect for anyone of any skill level to give it a go. You can also take a ride up the estuary and check out Haruru Falls from the water.
Just exploring up the beach a little is great escape from the business of the town and there is no better way to do it than on the water.
Hike the Cape Brett Walkway
The Cape Brett Walkway is an epic 16 kilometre walk that weaves along the coast and over the rugged native coastline. It certainly is not for everyone but it is an amazing thing to do near Paihia if you are into that sort of thing.
Along the walk you will always be treated to an amazing view whether it be in the native bush or views up the coastline. There are also a few bays where you can stop and jump in the water to snorkel or just swim.
This walk does take 8 hours and is quite challenging so having a good level of fitness and coming prepared is very important. Make sure to check the conditions and have a look at the DOC website for any track closures before you go.
Try the local beer at a Brewery
After a busy day exploring Paihia, there is nothing better to do than enjoy a nice cold glass of beer at a nearby brewery. Us Kiwi’s love our beer and certainly appreciate good one.
PhatHouse Brewing Co is by far the most well known brewery in the area and is a pretty busy spot, full with locals and visitors alike. It is located a little drive out of Paihia in Haruru, but is worth the effort to get out there.
There is a large variety of beers available in bottles and on tap to choose from. You can also grab a bite to eat from the selection of wood fire pizzas.
If you are wanting something more local to Paihia, Craft Beer Kitchen in the main town, or Hone’s Garden in Russell are both great spots for a good craft beer but are not brewery’s.
Go Parasailing
If you are looking for a small dose of adventure while you are in Paihia, then parasailing is the thing to do. You are able to book the activity and go up by yourself, in a pair or sometimes as a trio, enable everyone to join in on the fun if you are a in a group or just a solo traveller.
You will be picked up by boat in Paihia and taken out into the bay where you get ready to go and then hoisted up into the air. The 360 degree views from this height are unforgettable and you get the small added adrenaline rush from being up that high.
Another awesome thing about parasailing is that it is something the whole family can enjoy. Minimum weight is 20kgs and those that are a little scared may be able to jump on the boat and observe from there if there is space.
There is only one provider to choose from in Paihia, Flying Kiwi Parasail also known as Bay of Islands Parasail. Bookings are required so mach sure you lock in your spot and get ready to enjoy this awesome experience.
Visit the Parrot place – most unknown thing to do in Paihia
A 30 minute drive out of Paihia and close to Kerikeri, you will find the hidden gem that is The Parrot Place. The walk-in subtropical aviaries house around 300 birds from all over the world. Not only is the Parrot place a bird park but they also have successful breeding programs.
There are larger breeds of parrots that are very inquisitive and love to interact you as well as smaller varieties that you are able to feed and hold.
The Parrot Place is not too well known and is a great thing to do if you are looking to get away from the crowds of tourists for the day and have a fun and unique experience while you are in Paihia.
Check out their website for pricing and opening hours.
Try Sky Diving – most adventurous thing to do in Paihia
Sky diving is by far the most intense, adrenaline filled thing to do in Paihia. If sky diving is something you have always wanted to do, then there is no better place than Paihia.
Skydive Bay of Islands is the local provider and offer. wide range of choices when it come to the different jump heights. The smallest starts of at 9000 feet, with a 20 second free fall and the largest is a massive 20 000 feet, with a 85 second free fall.
Once the parachute has opened you can enjoy the incredible views as you float back down to land.
Photo and video packages are also available so that you can show off to all your friends and family and remember that experience forever.
When is The best time to visit paihia?
Paihia is most popular in the summer as most of the things to do in the area rely on good weather to be more enjoyable. December through to January are the official summer months but the weather generally stays warm all the way through to late April.
Paihia in the summer can sometimes be a bit over crowded, mainly through the Christmas and New Year break. If you can, it is recommended to avoid visiting this time of year and instead try going in February when the crowds have gone.
A lot of the things to do in Paihia are only open in the warmer months, so the town can be quiet once it gets colder again. However, if you are looking for a wintery beach side escape then Paihia could be a good option.
Is Paihia Worth Visiting?
With so many epic things to do, Paihia is a must visit spot for your next trip. No matter what your budget is there will always be something to do the is suited to everyone. So pack your bags and make your way up north!
How many of these activities do you want to tick off?
