Things to do in Paihia

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A coastal landscape with boats on calm waters, hills in the background, and a hazy sky.
A street with outdoor seating, a café named 'Letz Café & Fudge', and parked cars.
A large island with a forested peak and a sandy beach surrounded by calm blue waters.
A beach with colorful kayaks lined up and a boat in the water.
A church with a steeple and a stone building with a pointed roof.

Paihia Attractions

It's not surprising that so many tourists head back to Paihia every year. This appealing city is filled with wonderful things to do. Whether you're fond of sightseeing or attempting more thrilling activities, you'll never have a boring moment here.

Learn what makes Paihia tick with the very best tours & day trips. Look into our { fun activities in Paihia fun activities in Paihia}, and book with ease knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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
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
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Paihia 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.

Recommended things to do in Paihia

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

What to do in Paihia

Free Things to Do in Paihia

Leave your wallet in the hotel room. It's easy to have fun in Paihia without paying a penny.

Paihia Wharf - If you'd love to explore some of the more important or unique places in the community, this is a good place to start.

St Paul’s Church - Connect with your spiritual side or just savor the peaceful ambiance at this place of worship.

Paihia Beach - Dive into the latest bestseller or listen to some playlists while getting some sun.

Opua Forest - Kick back and let nature's rugged beauty revitalize your mind.

Things to Do in Paihia with Kids

Paihia is a great place for a family escape. Bring the youngsters along and enjoy these popular family friendly experiences together:

 

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

 

 

Stay near popular Paihia attractions

Paihia Wharf

9.2/10 (1,257 reviews)
Dine on fresh seafood in local restaurants, admire stunning oceanfront views and embark on cruises and fishing excursions from this pretty wharf.
See properties

 

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 Paihia

A river with a waterfall, kayakers, and a rocky riverbank.

Waitangi

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 Paihia worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor activities, there are many interesting things to do in Paihia. Be sure to experience the area's mix of awesome sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Paihia?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Wharepuke Falls, spend some time discovering the food and retail options in Paihia.
What is the top tourist attraction in Paihia?
The top tourist attraction in Paihia is The Parrot Place, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Paihia?
Three days is enough for a short break in Paihia — you'll tick off the main sights and get a feel for the vibe of the place. But if you want to truly experience it all, visit for at least a week or more to check out the nearby areas too.
Is Paihia a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Paihia is a great destination to explore on foot. Wander between Action World and Waitangi Golf Club. Then take a stroll through Te Haumi, located 2 miles from downtown, and Te Wahapu, which is roughly 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Paihia with kids?
Deciding what to do in Paihia with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or little ones, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them happy here.
What to do in Paihia for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Paihia for adults including Cottle Hill Winery and Hundertwasser Public Toilets.
Are there free things to do in Paihia?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Paihia is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on cool neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Bay of Islands Marina is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.

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