Paihia
Rich in culture, history and natural resources, Paihia is the place of friendly locals, happy cafes and people enjoying life whether it is swimming with dolphins, taking in a spot of retail therapy, bush walking or just lazing on the beach. Known as the jewel of the magnificent Bay of Islands, with shimmering safe waters and superb beaches, there are plenty of recreational activities in among the 144 islands: sail, fish, swim, dive, snorkel, charter a launch or paddle a sea kayak around the islands. Paihia is the perfect stepping stone into the Bay of Islands, and a wonderful place for people of all ages to visit.
Paihia is a short 3 hour drive from downtown Auckland or a direct 4-hour coach journey. By air you arrive at Kerikeri Bay of Islands Airport and there is a 30 minute shuttle transfer into Paihia. The ship departs from Russell Wharf so we provide a free return ferry transfer across from Paihia. Please be at Paihia Wharf no later than 0925 to catch the 0930 Bay Bell. Many accommodation options are walking distance from the CBD. All day Pay & Display parking is available off Williams Road. There are plenty of restaurants and bars as well as golden swimming beaches. Te Tii Beach is a short 15 minutes walk from town around the bluff and Waitangi is a further 10 minutes beyond.
Places to stay include:
Admirals View Lodge
Alfa Motel
Allegra House self contained apartment
Allure Lodge
Austria Motel
Days in the Bay – Family holiday homes and Bach rentals
Craicor Luxury appartments
CentabayLodge
Club Paihia Luxury timeshare
Decks of Paihia Bed and Breakfast
Edgewater Palms Waterfront apartments
Kingsgate Autolodge Paihia, convenient and central
Marlin Court Motel
Paihia Star Motel
Pioneer Apartments, on the waterfront
Saltwater Lodge
Swiss Chalet
The Mousetrap Backpackers
The Rock – Bay of Islands overnight cruise & accommodation
Windemere
