Described as the Jewel of the Bay of Islands, Paihia is fondly known as the tourist capital of Northland. Paihia is an excellent base to explore the surrounding areas of The North Island’s most picturesque coastline . From here, the sun soaked settlements of Waitangi, Russell & Kerikeri are easily accessible. Small islands snooze in the sun, just a short boat trip away. For those who love spending time in and around the water, Paihia and the surrounding area is not to be missed.

Experience the hustle and bustle of the Water front from one of the many cafes lining the Bay . Vessels depart continuously providing a wide array of attractions including the ferry ride to Russell and specialised dolphin watching tours , while accommodation and hotels near Paihia choices are wide and varied ensuring relative ease of booking even during seasonal times.

A short walk around the northern point of Paihia brings you to the pretty pohutukawa tree lined shores of Tetii Bay, the perfect spot for a swim or a picnic of fish and chips by the water’s edge. Explore the “Tui” Shipwreck museum, including a wide variety of underwater treasures before a quiet stroll in the Waitangi reserve.

Paihia provides the perfect platform to discover the history behind the Treaty of Waitangi. From the shipwreck museum, it is a short drive or a 30 minute walk across a single lane bridge to arrive at Waitangi. This is your chance to get close to the great Waka “Ngatokimatawhaorua” and experience the live theatre production of the Cultural Show taking you on a journey back to the days of formidable warriors and fierce wars.

Return to Paihia to discuss the next day’s activities over a meal at a selection of restaurants which dot the waterfront and offer a selection of New Zealand cuisine, specialising in locally caught seafood. The well established Town centre offers an extensive choice of activities from recreational to high octane adventure. Haruru Falls, meaning “Loud thundery noise” is a concave waterfall accessible by the Haruru Falls track or by boat. Tall ships used to sail up the falls to trade with local Maori and some stands of the mighty Kauri tree still remain to remind you of imposing forests that touched the sky.

Pahia offers a selection of activities including sailing charters, coastal and bush walks, paragliding, kayaking, paintballing and mini golf. Annual events include The annual Matariki (Maori New Year) in May/June and The Bay of Islands Jazz festival held in August. If country music is your thing The Paihia Country Music Festival is also held every August in Paihia, Russell, Waitangi and Haruru Falls.