Go no further than Paihia for the definitive New Zealand bucket list. Despite being a small island community, there are plenty of things to do and places to visit. To assist you in organizing your trip, here is a list of the top activities to do in Paihia.
1. Parasailing
Parasailing is one of the nicest things to do in the charming town of Paihia. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a birds-eye perspective of the breathtaking countryside as well as an exhilarating experience that’s ideal for thrill-seekers.
When you go parasailing in Paihia, you will be dragged behind a boat while being harnessed to a parachute and soar through the air. You can see for miles in every direction on a clear day, making it the perfect activity for sightseeing.
Furthermore, if you’re fortunate, you might even see some dolphins or whales swimming below. A thrilling adventure as you soar through the air is in store for you.
2. Use a kayak
At Paihia, kayaking is a must-do activity! One of New Zealand’s most stunning locations in the Bay of Islands, which comprises 144 separate islands. Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the water, and from your kayak, you can get a close-up view of some breathtaking landscapes.
Take a guided trip or go kayaking on your own. You can rent a kayak from one of the many firms in Paihia if you’d rather explore on your own. I advise purchasing a double kayak so you can go with a buddy or family member.
3. Cruise to Hole in the Rock
A trip to Motukokako Island’s famous Hole in the Rock creation is without a doubt, one of the most well-liked attractions in Paihia. Not only is this rock formation magnificent, but there is also nothing quite like viewing Paihia from the deck of a luxurious catamaran while the city is bathed in the most breathtaking blue water.
You’ll get to pass directly through the center of the boat’s hole during the journey, demonstrating your captain’s skillful handling of the wheel. Watch carefully for wildlife in the vicinity, including dolphins!
4. Follow waterfalls
Being near waterfalls offers a unique sense of calm and quiet. Fortunately, some of Paihia’s top sights include some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking waterfalls!
There are several distinct waterfalls close to Paihia. However, some are easier to reach than others. The Kerikeri River walking track ends in Rainbow Falls and Wharepuke Falls, two easy hiking trails. The farthest waterfall, Rainbow Falls, is an eight-and-a-half kilometer (5.1 miles) walk from The Stone Store parking lot in Kerikeri.
Within a short drive from Pahia in the town of Haruru is Haruru Falls, another well-viewed waterfall. There is no need to hike to see this waterfall—just pull into the parking lot and enjoy!
5. Farmer’s Market at the Bay of Islands
More than just a location to buy fresh fruits and veggies may be found at the Bay of Islands Farmers Market. The weekly market features incredible goods manufactured and cultivated by nearby farmers and has that beautiful sense of community.
Include the market on your list of “Things to Do in Paihia” and get lunch while exploring the stalls. While you inhale the aroma of freshly baked bread, purchase a cup of locally roasted coffee or a glass of juice. You’ll be tempted by the selection of homemade candies and delicacies, and the artisan atmosphere will make you wish you had more hands to carry all these treats home.
6. Cape Brett Walkway hiking
In Pahia, one of the most well-liked walks is the Cape Brett Walkway. The 16-kilometer (9.9-mile) moderate hike provides breathtaking views of the Bay of Islands. The walkway passes rocky cliffs, breathtaking ocean vistas, and a variety of luxuriant plants.
It takes about eight hours to complete the hike. Only experienced hikers should attempt it, but if you’re up for the challenge, it’s definitely worth it!
The hike’s culmination, Cape Brett Hut, provides stunning vistas and an opportunity to unwind. During an overnight stay, it is furnished with over 20 bunk beds, restrooms, a water supply, and a cooktop.
7. Russell’s trip for the day
One of the first English settlements in the nation, Russell is full of gorgeous historic buildings and breathtaking scenery. Take the ferry over to Russell, where you may spend the day seeing the charming tiny town. While you meander through the village, you may take in the old architecture, history, and plenty of wildlife.
Among the enjoyable things to do when visiting Russell are eating lunch at the Duke of Marlborough, going to the first church in New Zealand, which still has war damage from Maori and British battles on its walls, and enjoying the hot chocolate.
Russell is a must-visit site because of the Durhamayship Museum, which offers a history education for visitors of all ages on anything from early settlers to contemporary events.
8. SUP on Urupukapuka Island
I adore all kinds of outdoor sports because I consider myself to be an adventurous lady, and stand-up paddleboarding was one of my all-time favorite hobbies in Paihia, New Zealand. Activities for the beach can be found here in a wide variety, and they are all excellent!
If you’ve done any paddle boarding before, you can rent a SUP on your own. If you’re a newbie, another option is to hire a teacher. Each lesson starts at $49 NZD, while SUP rentals cost about $25 NZD per hour. At 9 Marsden Road, Bay of Islands, Paihia, which opens at 9 am, you may find a rental (with optional instruction).
9. Take a trip to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds
A visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is essential if you’re in Paihia. The famous Treaty of Waitangi, which vowed to defend Maori rights and culture in New Zealand, was signed on the Treaty Grounds in 1840. There are many things to see and do at the treaty grounds, which are a well-liked tourist destination today.
You may discover the Treaty of Waitangi’s significance to New Zealand and its history here, take in traditional Maori carving and pou (pole) demonstrations and engage in a variety of activities like kayaking, canoeing, and sailing.
Visitors can take part in a traditional Maori welcoming ceremony on the grounds, which also houses a marae (a traditional Maori gathering place). In addition, there are a number of walking paths on the property, and guests can eat at one of the cafes there.
10. Cruise between islands
The name “The Gateway to the Bay of Islands” has been given to the well-known tourist attraction of Paihia. One hundred forty-four lush islands dot this magnificent harbor, which is dominated by oceanic blue hues. Rare bird species, marine life, and other creatures are in great abundance.
Because of this, taking a ride on a contemporary catamaran to participate in one of the primary Paihia activities is the greatest way to completely appreciate the beauty of this bay. This island-hopping cruise will just blow you away, figuratively speaking. Select a 3-hour cruise or a 5-hour cruise for extra time to check out more of the available activities.
11. Watch glow worms
One of the most well-known glow worm caves in the Bay of Islands region and one of the greatest spots to watch glow worms in New Zealand is the Kawiti Caves (also known as the Waiomio Caves). The Waiomio Valley’s terminus cave is renowned for its display of breathtaking glowworms, rock formations, and lush green rainforest.
Kawiti Caves are the ideal location to visit if you enjoy the exploration. A wooden walkway will guide you on a 200-meter underground trip where you can see glowworms in their galaxy habitats.
