EXPLORE THE LOCAL
AREA
Beautifully tucked away on the North Island of New Zealand, is the Bay of Islands. The small townships of the Bay of Islands are steeped in colonial history, and set against a patchwork of gently rolling farmland and ancient forests of venerable kauri trees. The 144 islands are scattered in the clear Pacific waters, which are abundant with marine wildlife.
Paihia is the centre of all water-based activities in the Bay of Islands. The town is surrounded by three pretty bays and sheltered from the ocean by the historic Russell Peninsula.
We recommend to guests that – either from their apartment or by leaving their campervan – they have a driving- and parking-free experience and enjoy the picturesque walk into town, taking in the stunning views and ambience of the Bay.
Book your activity with Fullers Great Sights before arriving using the book now buttons below or ask our team about assisting with your booking during your stay. 10% discount applies for our guests.
Explore the Bay by land and sea over two days, with a dolphin watching cruise and a trip to Cape Reinga.
Cruise through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands on Dolphin Seeker, our purpose built dolphin and whale watching catamaran.
Take part in the Bay of Islands most famous cruise. The full day “Cream Trip" began in 1927 and remains a popular cruise with tourists today.
Journey into a unique part of New Zealand, first discovered by Kupe the voyager. Visit Waipoua Forest & meet the mighty kauri tree Tāne Mahuta
A visit to New Zealand is not complete without a journey to the very top of the North Island – Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua).
Explore the Bay by land and sea over two days, with a dolphin watching cruise and a trip to Cape Reinga.
EXPLORE THE LOCAL AREA THROUGH THE IMAGES BELOW
Being beside the ocean is just one of the many high points about dining in the Bay. Seafood is a must to try during your stay but dining out is so diverse there is something to suit every taste. From award winning chefs to historic hotels & waterside dining, ask our friendly team for a recommendation or visit the link to Tripadvisor. There is something for all budgets. We also have a wonderful farmers market held on the village green in Paihia each Thursday with local produce.
The area is of great cultural significance and the perfect place to learn some of NZ's rich history. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a must during your stay with a recently opened state of the art museum, cultural show and historic buildings where the treaty was signed. Visit their website for more details. We are a short stroll from the grounds.
Stunning Russell, just a short ferry ride from Paihia, is full of history and charm. NZ's first capital hosts the iconic Duke of Marlborough Hotel, the oldest church in the country, stunning beaches and great walks. We highly recommend a day trip during your stay. Alternatively you can take your vehicle on the car ferry from Opua.
144 islands await exploration in the Bay. Some feature beautiful walks, snorkeling gems and beautiful beaches. Urapukapuka has a cafe run by Explore at Otehei Bay and you can take their ferry direct. Private hire and water taxis are available or check out Fuller Great Sights trips in the Bay. Our staff can help with tour bookings and recommendation.
If you like an adventure then the Bay is the perfect location for you. Parasailing, kayaking, diving, mountain biking, jet skiing.......the list goes on! Book with our staff direct - we are just a few minutes walk from most operators and close to kayak rental where you can visit Haruru Falls by paddling up the river.
Just a 20min drive from us is the main commercial center of the Bay, Kerikeri. With a small but bustling town centre there is plenty to see in the area. The Stone Store (NZ's oldest building), stunning falls, delicious chocolate factory and farmers market to name just a few. We are situated on the road out of Paihia towards Kerikeri so make it your next destination or the perfect day trip.
On the west coast, just over 1 hours drive from Paihia is the breathtaking Hokianga. A stunning harbour with amazing sunsets and a chance to see nature at its best. It is home to the Waipoua Forest where Maori legend Tane Mahuta stands tall, take a walk of the forest at night for the ultimate experience!
Where the 2 oceans meet is a spectacular sight and a must do for many travelers. Cape Reinga is the most northerly point in NZ. Fuller Great Sights run a daily trip where you can experience driving on the sand of 90 mile beach, the huge Te Paki sand dunes that you can body board down and of course the iconic lighthouse at the point.