Paihia

Get out and about on the water! Paihia is a great hub for the Bay of Islands. There are various boat trips to visit outlying islands (one includes swimming with dolphins), or you can go kayaking or parasailing.

I recommend the Te Waka tour run by a couple of local lads (there are leaflets in the Awesome Adventures office by the waterfront). You paddle around the bay in an outrigger canoe (like the Maoris use – but a modern version :) and visit the Waitangi Treaty grounds, where you can visit the world’s largest Maori war canoe (“waka”).

I lived here in the summer 2005 with the crew; Brian Dabbs, Janice Gaudett, Aryon Marteli and Dave Dankers. Most of us stayed at the Centabay Hostel and worked in exchanged for board. Me & Dave worked at The Cruza Bar, where we were treated like family. So much to do, Russel, fires on the beach, bars, paragliding, water tours, etc. Centabay is the most laidback hostel, not super touristy, sports a diverse group in all ways, kayacks and bikes available. Make sure to check out THE CRUZA BAR, say hello to the owners Bob & Lezzlie, the manager Shelly and all the Locals, Shaq, Snow, Lonnie, etc.

If you make it Paihia, it would be proper to spend some time on the water.

Nice place for the kiwis spend your holidays summer.