Things to do in Kawakawa

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

An aerial view of a coastal area with a pier extending into turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green hills and a clear sky.
A coastal landscape with a lighthouse on a cliff during sunset.
A coastal landscape with a beach, parking area, and surrounding hills.
A brick wall with colorful mosaic tiles and a sign for a railway station cafe.
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Kawakawa Attractions

Smaller cities have a vibe you just don't find in their larger counterparts. Make a list of all the fun things to see and do in Kawakawa before you get there so you can squeeze the most out of your vacation. You'll soon see that bigger doesn't always mean better!

If you're ready to discover the best of Kawakawa, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a friendly expert show you some of the most popular attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {24 fun activities in Kawakawa fun activities in Kawakawa} are also worth a look.

Things to do

Paihia/Russell: Hole in the Rock & Bay of Islands Cruise

From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour

$84
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour
Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop

Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop

$101
per adult
Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop
Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch

Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch

$110
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch
Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves Guided Tour in Bay of Islands

Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves Guided Tour in Bay of Islands

$89
per adult
Kawiti Family Glowworm Caves Guided Tour in Bay of Islands
Picture 1 for Activity Bay of Islands: Parasail, Paihia and Russell

Paihia: Bay of Islands Parasailing Flight

$89
per adult
Paihia: Bay of Islands Parasailing Flight
Bay of Islands, Spirit & Craft Beer Tour with Lunch

Bay of Islands, Wine & Craft Beer Tour with Lunch

$102
per adult
Bay of Islands, Wine & Craft Beer Tour with Lunch
Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

$113
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

$84
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover
Bay of Islands: 4.5 Hour Day Cruise and Island Getaway Tour

Bay of Islands: 4.5 Hour Day Cruise and Island Getaway Tour

$98
per adult
Bay of Islands: 4.5 Hour Day Cruise and Island Getaway Tour
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Kawakawa must see attractions

1. Bay of Islands

Visit the stunning Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island and enjoy the many water-based tours, from discovering uninhabited islands dotted around the cold, blue waters to watching dolphins leap around the boat. Enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere in the bay’s towns or retreat to the ancient native forests to be at one with nature.
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A coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters, dense green foliage, and rolling hills in the background.

2. Paihia Beach

Enjoy fishing, swimming, picnicking and many other outdoor activities at Paihia Town Beach. The main beach is lined with several cafés and restaurants serving international cuisine and fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. Book a sea kayaking adventure or a big game fishing charter and set out into the sea.
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A calm beach with pebbles, a small island, and a boat in the distance.

3. Paihia Wharf

Paihia Wharf is the departure point for some of the best fishing charters and boat trips in the Bay of Islands. Take a scenic cruise up Waitangi River or go on a dolphin-watching tour. A passenger ferry to Russell, one of the first European settlements in New Zealand, also leaves from the wharf.
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A waterfront pier with buildings and a boat docked.

4. Russell Beach

Russell Beach is the hub of the town and a popular place to swim, relax and fish. Stroll along the main beach, which is also known as Kororareka, and survey the restaurants, cafés and lodges that line the adjoining walkway.
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A pier extending into calm waters at sunset.

5. Haruru Falls

Haruru Falls is steeped in Māori history and famous for its striking waterfall. Find great views of the falls and embark on a nature walk that leads through the nearby mangrove forest. Alternatively, approach the falls by kayak.
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A waterfall cascading over rocky terrain with lush greenery around.

6. Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Witness to groundbreaking events that have shaped the nation, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is one of New Zealand’s foremost historical complexes. Tour the museums of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for an in-depth understanding of the relationship between Maoris and Europeans. Watch traditional ceremonies, observe the work of craftspeople and enjoy scenic walks.
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A wooden building with a glass front, surrounded by lush greenery and a pond.

7. Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway

The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway trains depart from Kawakawa on New Zealand’s North Island and run right through the middle of the charming main street before taking you across several bridges to a picnic area by the river at Taumarere.
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A vintage train with a black and yellow locomotive and green passenger cars parked on tracks.

Recommended things to do in Kawakawa

Number of things to do
24
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach: $21
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Kawakawa

Things to Do in Kawakawa with Kids

There's no excuse for the kids to complain they're bored in Kawakawa. Join these family friendly experiences that guarantee a good time for all:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Kawakawa? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Kawakawa attractions

A vintage train with a black and yellow locomotive and green passenger cars parked on tracks.
Photo by BOIVR ALeitch
Open Photo by BOIVR ALeitch

Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway

10.0/10 (1 review)
All aboard! This classic train ride in Kawakawa takes you back in time and provides a memorable experience for the whole family.
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Where to stay in Kawakawa

Find the best Kawakawa areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kawakawa
Learn more about Kawakawa

Waiomio

Though Waiomio might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Hundertwasser Public Toilets.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Kawakawa

A coastal landscape with a beach, turquoise waters, and green hills.

Opua

A coastal landscape with a beach, turquoise waters, and green hills.

Haruru

Frequently asked questions

Is Kawakawa worth visiting?
Whether you plan to enjoy the local charm and cultural highlights or try unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Kawakawa.
How do I spend a day in Kawakawa?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Action World, spend some time discovering the retail and food options in Kawakawa.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kawakawa?
Action World is one of the top tourist attractions in Kawakawa and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Kawakawa?
You can easily enjoy popular sights like Kawiti Caves, Bay of Islands Marina and Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway with a three-day trip to Kawakawa. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so linger longer and check out Paihia.
What are some activities to do in Kawakawa with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Kawakawa with kids.

What to do in Kawakawa for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Kawakawa, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Hundertwasser Public Toilets.
Are there free things to do in Kawakawa?
From enjoying parks to wandering around vibrant neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Kawakawa. If you're in need of ideas, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Bay of Islands Marina is a must for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.

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