northland

Northland & Bay of Islands

Highlights

  • Boat cruises around the Bay of Islands
  • Swimming with dolphins
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Proximity

  • by car:

    3 hours from Auckland

If you want to discover the coves and beaches of the Bay of Islands, Paihia is the perfect place to start. Cruises of all types leave from the wharf daily.

Paihia is an excellent base from which to explore the Bay of Islands. It has an extensive choice of accommodation, delicious dining options and a good-sized town centre. From the wharf you can arrange a trip to the outer islands, hook into a fishing expedition or catch ferry to Russell.

Top local adventures include cruising to the ‘hole in the rock’ at the tip of Cape Brett, finding dolphins (and even swimming with them) and sea kayak tours. Paihia is also just down the road from the historic Treaty House at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, which marks the beginning of New Zealand as a nation. Just west of Paihia is Haruru, where you’ll find an impressive waterfall and a boardwalk.

 

Explore Paihia

Find things to do

Find places to stay

Find transport

Find a multi-day tour

Where to next?