Island Getaway Bay of Islands
Explore the Bay of Islands on a scenic cruise, visiting secluded islands, pristine beaches and the iconic Hole in the Rock while enjoying opportunities for snorkelling and wildlife encounters.
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Beyond the Waterfront
Explore the Bay of Islands
Paihia is the perfect base for discovering the Bay of Islands, with a wide range of activities and attractions close by. Enjoy a relaxing day by the water, take a boat trip across the bay, explore historic sites, or head further afield on a scenic Northland adventure.
Paihiagateway to Northland
Experience Menu
Choose your adventure.
Flying Kiwi Parasail
Flying Kiwi Parasail offers an exhilarating flight high above the Bay of Islands, with spectacular aerial views of Paihia, Russell and the surrounding islands. Choose from single, tandem or triple flights and enjoy a unique perspective of the bay from the sky.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Explore New Zealand's history and heritage at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where you can learn about the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and experience Māori culture.
Cape Reinga Tour
Take a full-day guided tour with Fullers to Cape Reinga, visiting the iconic lighthouse at the northern tip of New Zealand and travelling along the spectacular Ninety Mile Beach. Enjoy scenic coastal views, learn about Māori history and traditions, and try sandboarding on the dunes when conditions permit.
Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
Cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands with Fullers, keeping an eye out for dolphins and other marine life as you journey past Cape Brett Lighthouse to the iconic Hole in the Rock. Enjoy a stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach, explore walking tracks or go for a swim.
Sailing
Step aboard the iconic R. Tucker Thompson tall ship for a memorable day sail around the Bay of Islands, where you can help hoist the sails, climb the rigging or simply relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery. The cruise includes morning tea, a barbecue lunch and an island stopover where you can swim or explore the shore.
Visit Otehei Bay
Take a scenic 40-minute ferry ride from Paihia or Russell to Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on sheltered sandy beaches, explore walking tracks and discover native wildlife. Enjoy a swim, hire a kayak or paddleboard in summer, or unwind with food and drinks at the beachfront café.
Custom Tours with Bay Cabs
Enjoy a private custom tour with a local driver-guide, exploring wineries, beaches and scenic highlights at your own pace.
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Fishing Day Trips
Enjoy a personalised Bay of Islands fishing charter for up to four people, targeting snapper and kingfish while combining fishing, sightseeing and island stops.
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Russell
Take a short trip across the bay to historic Russell, a charming seaside town with heritage buildings, cafés, restaurants and beautiful waterfront views.
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Haruru Falls
Visit the picturesque Haruru Falls, a horseshoe-shaped waterfall surrounded by native bush and easily reached from Paihia.
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Dive the Rainbow Warrior
Discover an underwater piece of history by diving the Rainbow Warrior, the famous Greenpeace vessel that now rests on the seabed off the Northland coast.
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Waitangi Mountain Bike Park
Explore over 50 km of family-friendly mountain bike trails at Waitangi Mountain Bike Park, with routes ranging from easy forest tracks to advanced downhill, cross-country and jump trails.
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Walking Tracks
Explore the Bay of Islands on scenic walking tracks ranging from gentle waterfront strolls to challenging coastal and forest trails, with beautiful views, beaches, native wildlife and historic sites along the way.
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Northland Journeys
Discover more of Northland with a collection of scenic journeys that lead you beyond the main tourist routes to hidden gems, local favourites and spectacular coastal landscapes. Choose a route and enjoy a half- or full-day adventure through the region, with plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace.
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Adventures for every kind of stay.
Couples Getaways
Enjoy a romantic escape with waterfront views, scenic cruises, great dining and beautiful places to explore together.
Family Holidays
Spacious family accommodation, nearby beaches and plenty of activities make Paihia an easy choice for a family break.
Weekend Escapes
Make the most of a short stay with the waterfront, wharf, cafés and local attractions all within easy reach.
Northland Touring
Use Bayview Motel as a comfortable base for exploring the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, historic Russell and Northland's scenic attractions.