Things to Do in Paihia

• Bay of Islands
  This deeply indented bay of 144 islands forms one of New Zealand's most beautiful areas, renowned for its deep-sea fishing and diving. A range of cruises leave from Paihia Wharf, taking in popular attractions such as Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Fullers Northland offer trips to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock, and tall ship sailing aboard the classic R Tucker Thompson.
• Swimming with the dolphins
  Swimming with the dolphins is one of the bay's most popular attractions. Bottle-nosed and common dolphins frequent the bay, and local operators, including Dolphin Discoveries, King Dolphin Cruises,  and Fullers Northland, offer a range of tours. Other wildlife may be observed en route, including seabirds, seals and whales.
• Fishing
  Cruise boats, charters and fishing trips depart from Paihia Wharf, where the day's catch is weighed in during the early evening.
• Cape Brett
  A rocky headland at the eastern entrance to the Bay of Islands, with a lighthouse at the end. The peninsula is a popular destination for hikers.
• Hole in the Rock
  A large natural rock arch located on Piercy Island, the Hole in the Rock is a key port of call for cruises departing Paihia.  Fullers offer a Cap Brett Hole In The Rock Cruise aboard a luxury catamaran. Or you can enjoy the high speed ½ hour Hole In the Rock adventure aboard the Excitor.
• The Waitangi Treaty Grounds
  This historic 506ha reserve was the site where New Zealand's founding document, The Treaty of Waitangi, was signed on 6 February 1840. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds contain the Treaty House (the former home of British resident James Busby), Whare Runanga (a carved meeting house), and the Maori canoe Ngatokimatawhaorua. A walking track passes through the mangrove forest and leads to nearby Haruru Falls.
• Haruru Falls
  These picturesque falls are known for their unique horseshoe shape. There is good swimming at the foot of the falls, several motor camps and a licensed restaurant.
• Walks
  Opua Forest, behind the town, offers a range of walking tracks from 10min to 3hrs, and there is a short history trail along the town's waterfront. The DOC information centre at Kerikeri has leaflets detailing local walks.
• The Cabbage Tree
  An award-winning shop stocking New Zealand-made products.