New Zealand · Region
Paihia
Paihia sits on the edge of the Bay of Islands, a cluster of beaches, sheltered waters and historic Waitangi grounds that make it the main base for exploring the region. It is a compact, laid-back holiday town built for boat trips, ferries and coastal walks rather than city sightseeing.
Top attractions
attraction Paihia Wharf: Travel Guide (4.6★)
Paihia Wharf is the main boat departure point in Paihia, Bay of Islands: passenger ferries to Russell and most Hole in the Rock, dolphin and island cruises leave from here. 4.6★ (2,609 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
attraction Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Paihia Travel Guide (4.7★)
Waitangi Treaty Grounds is just north of Paihia in the Bay of Islands, about a 30-minute waterfront walk over the Waitangi River bridge. 4.7★ (4,217 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
Top-rated things to do in Paihia
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Where to stay in Paihia
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Plan your trip to Paihia
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Frequently asked questions about Paihia
How do I get to Paihia?
The nearest airport is Kerikeri (KKE), roughly 20 minutes away by taxi or shuttle, while Auckland remains the main international gateway, connected to Paihia by InterCity coaches that take ~4 hours. Many travellers also drive from Auckland via State Highway 1, a trip of around 3 hours.
How many days should I spend in Paihia?
Plan on ~2 to 3 days to cover Paihia's waterfront, a Bay of Islands cruise and a ferry trip across to Russell.
What is Paihia known for?
Paihia sits on the edge of the Bay of Islands, a cluster of beaches, sheltered waters and historic Waitangi grounds that make it the main base for exploring the region. It is a compact, laid-back holiday town built for boat trips, ferries and coastal walks rather than city sightseeing.