This calm coastal town in New Zealand's Bay of Islands has beaches, marine reserves, and the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds where the nation's founding document was signed in 1840.
Paihia sits at the heart of New Zealand's Bay of Islands, where you can watch bottlenose dolphins leap through the waves, kayak to hidden coves, or walk through ancient kauri forests to thundering waterfalls. From the town's wharf, you'll find daily departures to spots like the Hole in the Rock - a 60-foot-high natural archway at Motukokako Island. The beaches and walking trails lead you to significant sites like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, while the three-hour drive from Auckland makes Paihia an ideal base for exploring the region's 144 islands.
Getting to Paihia
Drive three hours north from Auckland on State Highway 1, following signs to the Bay of Islands. Regular bus services connect Auckland to Paihia, and small aircraft land at nearby Kerikeri Airport. You'll find parking spaces near the main beach and wharf.
Water Activities in the Bay
Boats depart regularly from Paihia wharf for dolphin-watching trips, sailing adventures, and fishing expeditions. Take a cruise through the Hole in the Rock, a 60-foot natural stone archway at Motukokako Island. Swim with bottlenose dolphins or paddle a sea kayak around the quieter bays and inlets.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
The main beach runs along the town's waterfront, with gentle waves ideal for swimming and paddling. Te Tii Bay, at the northern end of Paihia, comes alive in November and December with red pohutukawa flowers along the shore. At low tide, walk to Sullivan's Beach, a quiet swimming spot away from the main beach crowds.
Exploring Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Walk to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where Māori chiefs and British representatives signed New Zealand's founding document in 1840. Walk through the Treaty House, step inside the carved meeting house, and see the 35-meter ceremonial war canoe. Watch daily performances of haka (war dance), waiata (songs), and traditional games.
Day Trips to Russell
Cross to Russell on the 15-minute ferry. Walk past colonial buildings on New Zealand's oldest streets, including Christ Church (1836) and the Duke of Marlborough Hotel (1827). The 30-minute climb up Flagstaff Hill rewards you with views across the bay's scattered islands.
Walking Trails and Waterfalls
Walk the one-hour Opua Forest Lookout Track through native bush to see the bay from above. Follow the boardwalk from Waitangi to Haruru Falls - this three-kilometer trail winds through mangrove forests along the Waitangi River before reaching the horseshoe-shaped waterfall.
Adventure Activities
Jump from 16,000 feet on a skydive over the bay's islands, or parasail 1,300 feet above the water. Take a helicopter flight to see remote beaches and hidden coves from above. Cycle the 30 kilometers of trails at Waitangi Mountain Bike Park, with routes ranging from beginner paths to advanced technical tracks. Rent bikes from shops in central Paihia.
