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Our Top 10 Must Do Attractions in Paihia

It can be overwhelming when trying to select what to do when you visit a new place. We have chosen our favourite must-do Bay of Islands activities and attractions to help you out.

1. Cruise the Bay of Islands and visit the Hole in the Rock

There are a number of different options to suit all tastes – half day, full day, the iconic Cream Trip, dolphin watching and swim with the dolphin options. Our two key operators, Explore and Fullers Great Sights provide equally fantastic experiences.

2. Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach

Visit the top of the New Zealand, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific. Experience the wild beauty of a region rich in Maori culture. Explore the giant Kauri, drive along the beach and score free fish and chips for lunch!

3. Dive Rainbow Warrior

Dive one of New Zealand’s premier wreck dives. The Rainbow Warrior was Greenpeace’s flagship vessel sunk by French saboteurs in Auckland Harbour in 1985. Now she is located just off the stunning Cavalli Islands.

4. Bay of Islands Parasail

Bay of Islands Parasail offers New Zealand’s Highest and Longest parasail flights. Parasailing with us from Paihia is the ultimate way to see the spectacular island paradise of the Bay of Islands.

5. Paddle your own Waka

Take a voyage with Taiamai Tours aboard the 50ft Waka Taua (Maori War Canoe) on the tidal estuaries of the Waitangi River. Paddle together to experience a rare and unique insight into Maori customs, rituals and traditions.

6. Discover Historic Russell

Take a passenger ferry to Historic Russell, visit Pompallier House, Russell Museum and see the musket holes in the old church! Finish up with a sunset glass of wine at the Duke of Marlborough, New Zealand’s first licensed hotel.

7. Sail Tall Ship R Tucker Thompson

View the Bay of the Islands the old way, under sail on the beautiful Gaff-rigged Topsail Schooner, R Tucker Thompson. Day sail includes stopover in a bay for lunch, swimming and island walks. Get involved and help the ship sail or relax while cruising, enjoying the stunning scenery.

8. Twin Coast Discovery Route

Take a tiki tour to Matauri Bay and Te Ngaere Bay to enjoy the natural beauty of the Northland coast. Take a surf board or try body surfing in the clear waters at Matauri. Be sure to pack a picnic! Or go west and visit the majestic Tane Mahuta, Lord of the Forest – the largest kauri tree in New Zealand.

9. Top Trail Cycle Tour

Pou Herenga Tai is a beautiful and scenic cycle trail through Northland’s rural heart. The Kaikohe-Okaihau section of the trail takes you on a gentle tour of rural Northland, over good terrain and with no steep gradients. The Twin Coast Cycle Trail joins the Hokianga and the Bay of Islands. We can arrange bike hire and transport with Paihia Mountain Bike Rentals. Look at our package for accommodation and bike hire!

10. Fishing the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands has a world-wide reputation as an anglers Eldorado. All World and National Records for Striped Marlin, Yellowtail Kingfish and Snapper are held on this coast. Day fishing is a popular activity, explore Blue Sea Charters or Angler’s Anonymous for a great day on the water.

What our guests say

"New owners Yang and Lee very welcoming to us on arrival for our stay at Outrigger Motel. The motel is very central in Paihia and we had a great weekend."

Sam March 2018