Things to do in Paihia

Activities, attractions and tours
Paihia

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Top places to visit

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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Russell which includes a bay or harbour and tranquil scenes

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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Paihia Beach which includes a bay or harbour, a sandy beach and a coastal town

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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Paihia Wharf featuring a coastal town and a bay or harbour

4. 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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Haruru Falls featuring a waterfall and a river or creek

5. 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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Russell Beach showing a bay or harbour, a coastal town and a sandy beach

Popular places to visit

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Paihia Wharf

4.5/5(37 reviews)

Dine on fresh seafood in local restaurants, admire stunning oceanfront views and embark on cruises and fishing excursions from this pretty wharf.

Paihia Wharf
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Makana Chocolate Boutique

Enjoy an outing to Makana Chocolate Boutique during your stay in Te Haumi. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.

Makana Chocolate Boutique
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St Paul’s Church

3/5(2 reviews)

Find out about the history of Paihia with a stop at St Paul’s Church. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.

St Paul’s Church
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Opua Forest

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Opua Forest during your travels in Paihia. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.

Opua Forest
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Action World

Enjoy an outing to Action World during your stay in Paihia. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.

Action World