Paihia , New Zealand

Bay of Islands - Mini Tour: (75-90mins)

Active

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the stunning beauty of the Bay of Islands on this scenic mini tour of the Bay of Islands from Paihia. Begin your journey by passing the iconic Stone Church and idyllic beaches before reaching the picturesque Opua Bay and Marina for some memorable photo opportunities. Continue to Haruru Waterfalls, where you can get up close to the cascading water. The tour concludes at Waitangi Lookout, offering breathtaking views of the bay. Perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

- Scenic tour starting from Paihia Town, including iconic landmarks
- Capture beautiful moments at Opua Bay and Marina
- Get close to the stunning Haruru Waterfalls
- End with panoramic views at Waitangi Lookout

Tour runs for 75-90 minutes, giving you a snapshot of the beautiful Bay of Islands.

We also offer complimentary drop off to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds with a free shuttle dropping back into Paihia Town over peak periods.

Available options

Bay of Islands - Mini Tour: (75-90mins)

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Driver & Guide

Detailed itinerary

St. Paul's Anglican Church in Paihia, also known as the Williams Memorial Church, is a notable landmark in the Bay of Islands. Built in 1925 from local Kawakawa stone, it stands on the site of the original mission church established in 1823.

Local beaches in area

Opua Bay & Marina. You will stop at Opua for a few scenic snaps & see the car ferry taking passengers over to Russell. Then head out towards the Marina

Stop 4

Haruru & Haruru Waterfalls. Getting off and getting right up and close to the Waterfalls

Stop 5

Waitangi Lookout and Bay offering stunning photo opportunities and see Waitangi Marae & Maori Carvings.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Opposite I-site Paihia. At Car park

About Paihia

Paihia is a charming coastal town in the Bay of Islands, known for its stunning beaches, rich Māori heritage, and as the departure point for the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. It offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it a popular destination for both local and international travelers.

Top Attractions

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a historic site where the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document, was signed in 1840. It offers a rich cultural experience with guided tours, a museum, and traditional Māori performances.

Historical 2-4 hours Moderate (Entry fees apply)

Paihia Beach

A beautiful, sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing. The beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Beach 1-2 hours or as desired Free

Haruru Falls

A scenic waterfall located just a short drive from Paihia. The falls are easily accessible via a short walk from the car park, making them a popular spot for a quick nature fix.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Russell

A charming historic town across the bay from Paihia, known for its colonial architecture, historic sites, and relaxed atmosphere. Russell is accessible by ferry and offers a glimpse into New Zealand's early history.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (Ferry fare and entry fees to attractions)

Otehei Bay

A stunning beach located on Urupukapuka Island, known for its clear waters, white sand, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Otehei Bay is a popular spot for a day trip or picnic.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate (Boat tour or rental fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fresh Seafood

Paihia is known for its fresh seafood, including fish, mussels, and lobster. Dishes are often prepared with local ingredients and served in a variety of styles.

Lunch/Dinner Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available at many restaurants.

Hāngī

A traditional Māori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Hāngī typically includes meats like pork, chicken, and lamb, as well as kumara (sweet potato) and other vegetables.

Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options may be available upon request.

Kumara Fries

A popular Māori dish made from sweet potato (kumara) that is cut into fries and served with a variety of dipping sauces. It's a delicious and healthy alternative to regular fries.

Snack/Side Dish Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

Paihia Pavlova

A classic New Zealand dessert made with a crisp meringue base, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Paihia's version often features local berries and tropical fruits.

Dessert Gluten-free and can be made vegan with plant-based whipped cream.

Popular Activities

Kayaking Sailing Hiking Snorkeling Scuba diving Beach lounging Picnicking Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to March (Summer)

This is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for water activities. The town is vibrant with festivals and events.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Paihia is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and accommodations
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Kerikeri Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles)
Bay of Islands Airport • 2 km (1.2 miles)

By bus

Kerikeri Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus service is not extensive but can be useful for getting around locally. Schedules are limited, so planning is essential.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi services can be booked by phone.

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Paihia Town Center Waitangi Opua

Day trips

Russell

3 km (1.8 miles) across the bay • Half day to full day

A charming historic town with colonial architecture, historic sites, and a relaxed atmosphere. Russell is accessible by ferry from Paihia and offers a glimpse into New Zealand's early history.

Haruru Falls

5 km (3.1 miles) • Half day

A scenic waterfall located just a short drive from Paihia. The falls are easily accessible via a short walk from the car park, making them a popular spot for a quick nature fix.

Otehei Bay

5 km (3.1 miles) from Paihia (by boat) • Half day to full day

A stunning beach located on Urupukapuka Island, known for its clear waters, white sand, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Otehei Bay is a popular spot for a day trip or picnic.

Festivals

Waitangi Day • February 6th Paihia Seafood Festival • March (dates vary) Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival • January (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performance.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the beautiful beaches and waterways of the Bay of Islands.
Take a ferry to Russell for a scenic journey and to explore the historic town's colonial architecture and museums.
Try the local seafood, including fish and chips, seafood platters, and Māori-inspired dishes like hāngī.
Visit the Chocolate Shop for a sweet treat and to sample some of the town's famous artisanal chocolates.