14 of the Best Things to do in Paihia (2026 Guide)
Paihia is a small but super lively town in the Bay of Islands, up in Northland. With heaps of things to do, plenty of places to stay, and more restaurants than you’d expect for its size, it’s such an easy spot to base yourself on a trip up north.
It’s usually where I stay whenever I’m in Northland. There’s always something new to check out and I’ve never had a bad time here.
Every visit ends up with a little surprise, a new activity, a new beach, a new walk, and it keeps me coming back.
It might not get the same hype as places like Queenstown or Rotorua, but Paihia is awesome in its own way. It’s laid-back, easy to explore, and packed with hidden gems, from calm bays to fun activities and some seriously good beach time.
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.
Best Things to do in Paihia
1. 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.
The cruise with Island Getaway Tours is one of the most popular trips. 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.
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. My friend and I booked this boat trip and we both absolutely loved it. 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.
2. Check out Oke Bay
Oke Bay is a bit of a local secret. 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.
I was blown away by this spot. While I did have high expectations, Oke Bay was so much more stunning than I thought it was going to be.
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 activity for anyone wanting a beautiful beach near Paihia.
3. Explore Urupukapuka Island
Urupukapuka Island is the largest island in the Bay of Islands and is a great place to 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 one of the beaches, 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.
4. 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 the water 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 Flagstaff Hill 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.
5. 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 includes access to all facilities and activities including heritage buildings, museums, carving studios and tours.
If you want more out of your experience, make sure to book the combo pass. This includes a delicious Hangi.
6. Visit the Waterfalls near Paihia – best free thing to do
There are two well known waterfalls you can visit near Paihia. 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 things do do if you don’t mind a bit of a drive from Paihia to get there.
This 27 metre high waterfall has three awesome viewing platforms to enjoy the falls from a few different spots.
What I love most about this waterfalls is the large cave behind the waterfall you can climb into. It had been quite dry when I was there but it was still a cool experience.
7. Day trip to Cape Reinga
Cape Reinga is the northern most point in New Zealand and only a 3 hour drive from Paihia and makes for a great day trip.
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. On this trip you also get to drive on Ninety Mile Beach and to see the Te Paki Sand Dunes.
It does take a bit of effort to get up to Cape Reinga, but the rugged, classic Kiwi scenery makes it totally worth it. As a day trip from Paihia, it’s easily one of the biggest highlights.
8. Rock Adventure Overnight Cruise
If you’ve got a night to spare, the Rock Adventure Overnight Cruise is honestly such a fun way to experience the Bay of Islands.
You jump aboard in the evening and spend 22 hours doing all the classic on-the-water stuff you never quite get around to on a normal trip. Kayaking, target shooting, fishing, snorkeling, and even night kayaking where the water literally glows around you.
The boat itself is social, with shared cabins (you can upgrade if you want more privacy), and all your meals are sorted, so you don’t have to think about a thing.
What I love most is how relaxed the whole experience feels. It’s not rushed, it’s not “touristy,” it just feels like you’re hanging out on a big floating lodge with a bunch of people who are all there for a good time.
On the second day you wake up on the water, go for a morning swim, explore a quiet beach and collect fresh seafood straight from the ocean.
It’s such a cool mix of adventure and chill time, and it gives you a completely different perspective of the Bay of Islands that you just don’t get from land.
If you want something a bit more unique than the usual day activities in Paihia, this one is such a winner.
9. 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.
The hiring of 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 water in the bay makes 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.
If you prefer a guided tour then you can book onto this Kayaking trip which takes you up the estuary to the waterfall. No experience required as staff can help you with everything. Tours leave a few times throughout the day.
10. Hike the Cape Brett Walkway
The Cape Brett Walkway is an epic 16-kilometre track that winds its way along the coast, climbing over rugged headlands and through pockets of native bush.
It’s definitely not for everyone, but if you’re into hiking and want something memorable to do near Paihia, this one is hard to beat.
All along the trail you’ll get those classic Bay of Islands views, turquoise water, steep cliffs, and long stretches of untouched coastline.
There are a couple of bays along the way where you can stop for a swim or even snorkel if the weather’s good, which is the perfect excuse to cool off before carrying on.
It’s a full day adventure, taking around eight hours and packing in some steep, challenging sections. A decent level of fitness is a must, and you’ll want to go prepared with plenty of water, food and a good pai of shoes.
11. 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 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 (I had the BEST fish tacos here) are both great spots for a good craft beer but are not brewery’s.
12. Go Parasailing
If you’re after a small hit of adventure while you’re in Paihia, Bay of Islands Parasail is such a fun option. You can head up solo, in a pair, or sometimes even as a trio, perfect whether you’re travelling with mates or just doing your own thing.
You’ll get picked up by boat in Paihia and taken out into the bay, where they get you all set up before lifting you into the air. The 360-degree views from up there are unreal, and there’s just enough of an adrenaline rush to make it exciting without being scary.
It’s also a great activity for families. The minimum weight is 20kg, and anyone who doesn’t feel brave enough to go up can usually tag along on the boat and watch.
There’s only one operator in town, so make sure you book ahead with Bay of Islands Parasail to lock in your spot and get ready for an awesome experience.
13. V8 trike tour
If you want a fun and slightly quirky way to see the Bay of Islands, the V8 trike tour from Paihia is a great option. You jump onto a three wheeled V8 Chevy trike, it looks like a mix between a motorbike and a classic hot rod, and your guide takes you on a cruise around some of the best local viewpoints.
Depending on the route, you’ll check out spots like Haruru Falls, the Waitangi Lookout, and the marina at Opua, all while soaking in those big coastal views.
The best part is that you don’t have to think or do anything except sit back and enjoy the ride. It’s half sightseeing, half adrenaline, and a really entertaining way to break up your day in Paihia.
The one hour Bay Combo tour is a great pick because it squeezes in a lot without feeling rushed.
It’s perfect if you want something a little different from the usual water based activities and it’s one of those experiences that leaves you grinning like a kid at the end.
14. Try Sky Diving
Sky diving is by far the most intense, adrenaline filled things you can do. If it is something you have always wanted to try, 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, then 12,000 feet and the largest is a massive 18,000 feet.
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.
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?
