Northland is the perfect place to vacation any time of the year because of its subtropical climate and gorgeous landscapes. Thanks to the variety of experiences on offer, Paihia is known as the “jewel” in this mix of towns and islands. Whether you’re looking for an adventure, a cultural discovery, or golden sands where you can sit back and relax, Paihia has it all.
1. Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Visit one of the most historically significant sights in New Zealand – the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. This is where the first document between Māori and European settlers was signed in 1840. The Treaty of Waitangi holds great significance for its role in defining the rights of Māori and land ownership within New Zealand. This cultural excursion makes a great day trip for residents and tourists alike. Here, you can enjoy two contemporary museums, the Treaty, the traditional waka taua (war canoes), and a range of cultural programs and tours.
2. See Dolphins at The Hole in the Rock
The Hole in the Rock is an island at the end of the Cape Brett Peninsula, named for its 16-metre high hole, eroded over time from the forces of the surrounding wind and waves. The tales of Māori legends remember the warriors who would once canoe beneath this cave before battle, allowing the good omen of the dripping waters to rain down on them. Weather permitting, you can cruise through this hole in the hope of catching a lucky droplet. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the resident dolphins who will happily frolic in the waters surrounding the island.
3. Kayak to the Haruru Falls
If you’re looking for free things to do in Paihia, then walking to Haruru Falls is one of the best. Five minutes from the car park, you’ll be greeted by the powerfully cascading river waters that plunge over a wide shelf into the lagoon below. This spot is perfect for scenic photographers, and if you want to get a little closer to the action, try a kayaking tour. Take a kayak into the river to experience these waters for yourself and get an up-close view of the impressive falls.
4. Explore Urupukapuka Island
Visit the offshore paradise of Urupukapuka Island, a beautifully preserved recreation area with cultural and historical significance. Here, you can hike along one of the well-formed trails to areas of significance such as Pa sites and breath-taking viewpoints. You can also birdwatch in this sanctuary. It’s home to an array of native birds including the tomtit, silvereye, tūī, North Island robin, and pūkeko. The site offers fantastic spots for fishing and other water-based activities too. With so much to do, you won’t want to leave. The good news is that there are a couple of campsites on offer for those wishing to extend their trip; check out Cable Bay or Urupukapuka Bay if you’re looking for somewhere to settle for the night.
5. Walk or Cycle the Coastal Trails
Enjoy a coastal walk that sets a gentle pace and offers a range of striking views. At 5.5km, the coastal walkway takes around two-and-a-half hours to complete, leading you around the coastline and across the river into mangrove estuaries and bush track that leads the way to Opua. You can complete this walk alone or as part of the larger Full Circle Day Walk. The Twin Coast Cycleway offers a coast-to-coast journey from the Bay of Islands to Hokianga Harbour. 84km’s will take you somewhere between one and two days to traverse, but the track offers a flat gradient and several beautiful scenic landscapes along the way.
6. Enjoy Panoramic Views of the Town
To experience the best sweeping landscapes of the town, try the short, steep walk to the Paihia lookout. Here you can enjoy striking views of the Opua Forest and the eastern Bay of Islands. The 1.5km track only takes half an hour to ascend and offers a shady haven during the hot summer months.
7. Dine at one of the Local Eateries
If you’re looking for locally sourced, high-quality cuisine, look no further than Terra restaurant. The menu changes as often as the seasons, and you’ll always find a fresh bite on offer. Try fusing the middle east’s flavours with tantalising treats from south-east Asia at the Tipsy Oyster, where you can pair tapas and oysters with a refreshing cocktail. If you want to dine on the waterfront, visit Charlotte’s Kitchen, where a fine dining smorgasbord of treats await to whet your appetite. Think seafood platters and slow-roasted pork knuckle. To immerse yourself in ocean surroundings, try Zane Grey’s Aquarium, where you can enjoy a saffron risotto or slow braised lamb shank alongside an array of amazing sea creatures.
8. Eat Fish and Chips on the Beach
Enjoy a coastal walk that sets a gentle pace and offers a range of striking views. At 5.5km, the coastal walkway takes around two-and-a-half hours to complete, leading you around the coastline and across the river into mangrove estuaries and bush track that leads the way to Opua. You can complete this walk alone or as part of the larger Full Circle Day Walk. The Twin Coast Cycleway offers a coast-to-coast journey from the Bay of Islands to Hokianga Harbour. 84km’s will take you somewhere between one and two days to traverse, but the track offers a flat gradient and several beautiful scenic landscapes along the way.
