Things to do in Opua

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A calm harbor with multiple sailboats anchored near a hillside with houses and dense greenery.
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Opua Attractions

It's not difficult to find fun things to do in Opua. Familiarize yourself with the local history and check out the best attractions in this charming city. Organize your must-do list now so you're ready to go when you arrive.

If you're ready to hit the streets of Opua, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a local expert show you some of the most popular sites. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our { fun activities in Opua fun activities in Opua} are also worth looking into.

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
Shore Excursion: Hole in the Rock Cruise with Island stopover

Shore Excursion: Hole in the Rock Cruise with Island stopover

$98
per adult
Shore Excursion: Hole in the Rock Cruise with Island stopover
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
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Opua 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. Stone Store

The Stone Store, situated in the scenic Kerikeri Basin Reserve, provides a fascinating insight into early colonial times in New Zealand.
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A stone house with a chimney, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers.

Recommended things to do in Opua

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Opua

Things to Do in Opua with Kids

If you're traveling with the little ones, there's no shortage of fun things to do together in Opua. These family friendly experiences will put big smiles on faces young and old:

 

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

 

 

Stay near popular Opua attractions

Bay of Islands Marina

9.0/10 (107 reviews)
Explore the waterfront in Opua with a trip to Bay of Islands Marina. You can enjoy the restaurants while in the area.
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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 Opua

A coastal landscape with boats on calm waters, hills in the background, and a hazy sky.

Paihia

A lakeside with boats, a tree, and a rocky shoreline.

Okiato

An aerial view of a coastal area with a pier extending into turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green hills and a clear sky.

Kawakawa

Frequently asked questions

Is Opua worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are plenty of fun things to do in Opua. Be sure to experience the area's mix of cool attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Opua?
Once you've checked off leading attractions like Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Action World, spend some time enjoying Opua's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Opua?
Don't go home without checking out Action World, rated the top tourist attraction in Opua.
Is three days enough to stay in Opua?
If you only want to enjoy the most popular attractions, three days is more than enough time for a break in Opua. Book for a week or more for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, tour nearby hotspots and discover a few hidden gems.
Is Opua a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city center, Opua is a good place to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between Action World and Bay of Islands Marina. Then take a stroll through Te Haumi, located 1 mile from the center, and Te Wahapu, which is about 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Opua with kids?
Deciding what to do in Opua with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone busy here.
What to do in Opua for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Opua, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Hundertwasser Public Toilets.
Are there free things to do in Opua?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Opua is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. Bay of Islands Marina is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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