Paihia Accommodation NZD | Pioneer Waterfront Apartments
With 144 islands to explore, the Bay of Islands has plenty of opportunities for great times. If you’re planning a trip there with your children, it’s time to dive into the litany of activities that people of all ages can enjoy.
Bay of Islands Scuba Diving
Image credit: Backpacker Travel Guide NZ
With subtropical waters and a plethora of unique species such as Lord Howe Coralfish, you simply can’t go past this underwater adventure. The encrusting life is vibrantly colourful with a jewel-like feel to it, making it ideal for underwater photography.
Best of all Paihia Dive is only a short 5-minute walk from Pioneer Waterfront Apartments. Suitable for all skill levels, their scuba diving day trips start from just $299. They do have a minimum age requirement of 10 years old.
Rainbow Falls walk
Image credit: DoC NZ
Located in Kerikeri its an easy walk that’s suitable for buggies, Rainbow Falls is one of the few hiking trails in New Zealand that can easily accommodate very young visitors. Once you reach the waterfalls, you can immerse yourself in the stunning surrounds. It’s a truly magical experience not to be missed.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Image credit: Bay of Islands Education
The Museum of Waitangi offers fascinating learning opportunities for both locals and international travellers alike. From ceremonial war canoes to Hobson’s Beach, it’s an ideal setting for walking through each period that shaped New Zealand into becoming the country it is today. There’s a lot to see and do at the Waitangi Treaty grounds so allow a minimum of two and a half to three hours when visiting.
The Parrot Place
Image credit: TripAdvisor
With an abundance of sub-tropical fauna and blooming foliage that boasts every colour under the sun, The Parrot Place often leaves its visitors feeling as though they’ve stepped into another world.
The parrots themselves are incredibly entertaining, especially when they execute their funny antics for a captivated audience. After you've spent a while exploring, seize the opportunity to grab a photo with one of the birds. Located at Kerikeri just 35 minutes drive from the Pioneer apartments.
Waitangi Mountain Bike Park
Image credit: Visit BOI
For a fun family day out, strap on your helmets, gather your cycling crew and head to the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park. It features a broad selection of biking trails, which means it lends itself well to people of all cycling tastes and abilities. From easy, scenic trails to the adrenaline-pumping downhill riding and jumping trails, there something for the whole family to enjoy.
Bike hire is available. Families can get a day pass but the yearly pass also gives you some great discounts at local Paihia businesses and activities.
Action World
Image credit: Visit New Zealand
From trapezing through to giant slides you can tumble down safely, Action World is the perfect location for creating fun-filled memories. If you’ve ever wanted to try jousting and wall climbing in a safe and well-cushioned environment, Action World is the perfect place to do so.
Just a 4 - minute drive from Pioneer Waterfront Apartments, Action World is a surefire hit for both the kids and the kids at heart! Check for opening times … Daily through the summer months and most school holidays.
Oneroa Bay - Long Beach
Image credit: Trip Advisor
As a curving beach that provides lots of chances to surf, Oneroa Bay, known locally as Long Beach, is picturesque and ideal for relaxing. The distance from the shoreline to the sea is short, making it ideal if you’re trying to keep a close eye on young children.As the surf is gentle compared to other areas of New Zealand, it's also perfect for those who are new to the sport. A tip, if travelling with the family it's worth using the car Ferry from Opua to Okaito … as it's a half hour walk to Long Beach from Russell.
Bay of Islands Farmers Market
Image credit: Dolphin Cruises
On Saturday morning, the Bay of Islands Farmers Market is a great place to see, hear and taste Bay of Island’s best, all in one place. Tempting smells of local and international gastronomic delights and fresh produce fill the air at Bay of Islands Farmers Market. Here you’ll find artisan stalls selling local delicacies and one-of-a-kind handmade trinkets for you to take home. There’s ample shade beneath the nearby trees, too, giving you the chance to take a refreshing rest between bursts of shopping.
The markets are located just a short 25-minute drive from Pioneer Waterfront Apartments.
The Strand Beach - Russell
Image credit: The Painted Globe
The Strand Beach across the bay from Paihia in Russell, rests adjacent to a stretch of delectable coffee shops, making it a location that caters to the needs of children and adults alike. Although the beach itself is primarily made from pebbles, its gentle shoreline is ideal for those who don’t want to worry about big waves.
The Landing
Image Credit: The Landing Facebook
This is a one of kind luxury wine estate situated in the Bay of Islands overlooking Wairoa Bay. Due to its outstanding seaside location and cultivation on the hillsides, there is a microclimate that imparts minerals into the wine, in turn producing some of the highest quality and uniquely flavoured tasting wines never seen before. You can spend a romantic few days in this truly amazing accommodation or take a day tour to the Landing Estate. There are a range of award-winning wines to taste and some stunning views to take in. This is certainly a must for any wine lovers travelling through the Northland region or those looking for a special getaway, you won’t be disappointed.
Paroa bay Winery
Image Credit: Paroa Bay Facebook
This boutique wine estate combines luxury with traditional wine making techniques. Situated in the Bay of Islands, Paroa Bay this estate is highly regarded by the locals. With a range of award winning wines and fine dining options you to indulge in. The estate covers 24 acres of rolling hills and provides stunning views over the Bay of Islands. The perfect location for a day out or even a romantic weekend stop over.
Omata Estate Vineyard & Kitchen
Image Credit: Omata Estate Vineyard & Kitchen Facebook
Situated on the sunny peninsular near Russell, in the Bay of Islands this boutique estate is home some amazing wines. There are 5 different varieties of wine grown in the estate and are all worth tasting. There are wine tasting tours for you to come spend a day out with friends and family. There is also grazing tables displaying an array of locally produced meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables. Whilst you are here you can dine in for something a little more formal at the Omata Kitchen with its rustic charm and modern touch of delicious gourmet meals. Definitely worth the day trip to Russell Island to check out this beauty and soak up the surreal sweeping island views over the Bay of Islands.
Marsden Estate Limited
Image Credit: Marsden Estate Facebook
Packed full of history this estate has been around for over two centuries now. Just down the road from Kerikeri this is the ideal place for the avid wine drinker. Known for its delicious cuisines that incorporate the award-winning wine selections you are in for a treat. With over 10 acres of vineyards and a selection of outstanding wines to choose from your time will be well spent at the Marsden Estate.
Cottle Hill Winery, Kerikeri
Image Credit: Cottle Hill Winery
If you are looking for a casual and relaxed winery experience this family owned business is ideal. There are award-winning wines for sampling for the novice wine drinker and the connoisseur. Topping off experience you can relax wine in hand whilst you take in the stunning views from the ultimate vantage point in Kerikeri area.
So you’ve arrived in the Bay of Islands with adventure on your mind? You’re in luck! From high-adrenaline activities to natural wonders, here are 10 things to do to make your Bay of Islands experience an exciting one.
Hole in the Rock Cruise
Motukokako is a Pacific Ocean island with staggeringly high cliffs, and its iconic hole is large enough to cruise through on a boat. In the Bay of Islands, you can find cruises dedicated to seeing this famous natural formation, such as Fullers GreatSights Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise or the Explore Group’s Discover the Bay Tour.
Cliffs and Caves Cruise
Spend two hours sightseeing landmarks like Urupukapuka and Black Rocks on the Island Cliffs and Caves Adventure Tour or visit the lagoons and caves on Robertson Island on Shore Excursions’ Cliffs and Caves Cruise. With so many stunning cliffs and caves in the Bay to choose from, a tour will help make sure you don’t miss some of the best.
Scuba Diving
Source: Paihia Dive
Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or want to take your first trip, Paihia Dive will help you explore a world of shipwrecks and sea creatures, with dives to the HMNZS Canterbury, the Rainbow Warrior and the reef.
Sky Diving
Source: Skydive Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands has some breath-taking scenery and views: clear blue skies and oceans, long stretches of sandy beach. And what better way to see it than an adrenaline-pumping free-fall from 16,500 feet – the highest skydive in the North Island! Don’t worry, you’ll be strapped in tandem with a pro who knows exactly what they’re doing, and it’s a Bay of Islands sightsee you won’t forget!
Dolphin Spotting and Swimming
Source: Dolphin Cruises
The Bay of Islands has tours like the Fullers GreatSights Dolphin Eco Experience, which let you jump in the water if the weather is fine and swim with the dolphins.
Tane Mahuta, the Lord of the Forest
Source: Dolphin Cruises
Tane Mahuta is NZ’s largest living kauri tree and you can take a guided tour there with a local Maori guide or take your own easy self-directed trek through the Waipoua Forest.
Cape Reinga
Source: Destination NZ
Cape Reinga is the most spiritually important location for the Maori in New Zealand. It’s a place where, after death, Maori spirits slide down a root of the pohutukawa tree into the sea and onward to the land of their ancestors. It’s also a place where a lighthouse on the headland overlooks the point where two oceans meet. Of course, there are tours that take you to this special place like Awesome NZ’s Cape Reinga and 90 Mile Beach Tour.
Russell
Source: Russell Mini Tours
With seaside cafes, art galleries and New Zealand’s oldest church, Russell is a town worth spending the day enjoying. It’s only a ferry ride away from Paihia too! If you feeling kicking back and enjoying a tour of the town visit Russell Mini Tours.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Source: Destination NZ
The location where the famous Treaty of Waitangi was signed, this award-winning Bay of Islands attraction is where the story of New Zealand began. Now it’s the home of a contemporary museum, a meeting house, a traditional Maori canoe and plenty of forests and gardens. There’s so much to do here be sure to visit whilst on your stay in Paihia.
Source: Destination NZ
Staying in Auckland? Take a trip to the Bay of Islands on a coach tour, stopping at Whangarei and Kawakawa on the way.
More Great Bay of Islands Adventure Tours:
3 Day Bay of Islands Adventure Tour
Beach It Bay of Islands Tour
Bay of Islands Kayaking
Further Reading
10 Things to do on Your Getaway to the Bay of Islands
10 of the top Golf Courses near Paihia
Fancy a round of golf in the land of the long white cloud? Good, because New Zealand’s North Island is a haven for the active golfing enthusiast. Think spectacular clifftop vistas, sweeping manicured greens and a delicious after game lunch at the club. So, without further ado and in no particular order, we give you the ‘Top 10 Golf Courses near Paihia'.
Source: www.newzealand.com
Kauri Cliffs is a par 72 championship golf course with spectacular Pacific Ocean views from 15 holes! Six of these holes are adjacent to sheer cliff peaks that drop directly to the sea to harden up your nerves of steel. This highly regarded course ranks in the world’s top 100 for good reason!
Contact Details: Ph +64 (0)9 407 0010 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Source: Waitangi Golf Club
Where the sea meets the tee. Waitangi Golf Club is a premier 18 hole course located in the Bay of Islands zone and very close to your Pioneer Waterfront Apartments home away from home. This exceptional course offers a challenge to all levels of golfing ability. Visitors welcome!
Contact Details: Ph +64 (0)9 402 7713 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Source: Sherwood Park Golf Course
Take your clubs for a scenic drive and you’ll find the Sherwood Park Golf Course, about an hour south of us at Pioneer Waterfront Apartments. This relaxing course offers a mostly flat but challenging layout. The free draining volcanic soil enables guests to play well even in wet weather. Suits; beginners to intermediate players.
Contact Details: Ph + 64 (0)9 434 6900 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Source: Kaikohe Golf Club
A 40-minute drive inland from Paihia, a course that is full of history and was once rated as one of the best in Northland. Great for all levels of golfers beginners to social players.
Contact Details: Ph +64 (0)9 405 3814
Source: Carrington Golf Course
Karikari Peninsula - a very long course if you play off the Blacks... well worth taking a cart! Some spectacular northerly views from the clubhouse and lounge up the east coast towards the while silica sands towards Houhora. The course is perfect for golfers of all skill levels and offers a great variety of challenges, it is known for the longest Par 5 in New Zealand 569 metres, and the shortest Par 3 over the water 113 metres.
Contact Details: Ph +64 0(9) 408 7222
6. Bay of Islands Golf Club, Kerikeri
Source: Bay of Islands Golf Course, Kerikeri
Close to home and the Bay of Islands Golf Club is a hugely popular course for locals and visitors alike. Hence, booking your tee time on the green ahead of schedule is recommended. The atmosphere on the course and at the clubhouse is welcoming to all. One of the best golf courses near Paihia by a country mile. Surrounded by quite a hilly countryside the course is still designed to be relatively flat.
Contact Details: Ph + 64 (0)9 407 8837 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Source: Okaihau Golf Club, Facebook
This great little 9 hole option is just a thirty-minute drive from Pioneer Waterfront Apartments. Okaihau Golf Club is ultra casual and affordable to all. Great for all ages and skill levels, there are a few tricks around the greens to catch you out. It’s a short and picturesque road trip to the course too, you will enjoy the whole experience from the drive to the course and the tee off.
Contact Details: Ph + 64 (0)9 401 9223
8. Whangarei Golf Course and Country Club
Source: Whangarei Golf and Country Club
A little over an hour drive south of Paihia and you’ll arrive at the Whangarei Golf and Country Club. This quaint destination will deliver a great day on green for everyone involved. Some of the course is set in native bushlands and surrounding by stunning mountain views, which can prove challenging. However, the rewards of a bogie or better are worth it. Tip; casual dress code and tasty counter meal lunches.
Contact Details: Ph +64 (0)9 437 0775 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
9. Whangaroa Golf Club, Mangonui
Source: Whangaroa Golf Club
Whangaroa Golf Club, 1 hour north of Paihia a few kilometres east of Doubtless Bay, is a mostly uncrowded course with neatly mown greens and many mature trees. There’s bountiful native bird life on this 18 hole course and although the greens are small the rating is more than 3 shots under 70 par. The club has over 200 members and a strong Junior membership base. After you finish a round of golf step into the clubhouse where you will be made to feel at home with the friendly local club atmosphere.
Contact Details: Ph +64 (0)9 405 1808 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
10. Waipu Golf Club, Bream Bay
Source: http://www.waipugolfclub.org.nz/
We love Waipu! With a reputation for having the best greens in all New Zealand, set on the water's edge of Bream bay with spectacular ocean views from the back and front 9 holes, this terrific course presents the avid golfer with both risky challenges and outstanding scorecard point rewards. It’s a three hour round trip drive North from Paihia to Waipu, so enjoy a full day here and tuck into a tasty feed at Waipu’s aptly named Tee Cafe.
Contact Details: Ph + 64 (0)9 432 0259 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Golf Resources
Map of courses in NZ - North Island
List of courses in NZ - North Island
Further Reading
10 Things to do on Your Getaway to the Bay of Islands
Welcome to Paihia, the gateway to the glorious Bay of Islands. You might be wondering what you can do on these 144 lush green islands surrounded by glistening turquoise waters? What kind of activities can you get up to? From a relaxing cruise to a scuba diving adventure, great food or NZ history, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the Bay of Islands.
1. Check out Paihia
Known as “the jewel of the Bay of Islands”, Paihia has a scenic seaside walking track with views of small islands and safe swimming beaches. It’s also full of businesses – cafes, shops and restaurants – with a local flavour.
2. Go to Urupukapuka
Source: Andy Rogers.
The Bay’s largest island, Urupukapuka has dramatic green hillsides, secluded beaches with sparkling seawater, and deep green forest. Catch a ferry to the jetty of Otehei Bay and you can take a self-guided walk, hire a paddleboard or kayak to explore secluded coves or just chill out on the beach.
3. Visit Waitangi
Source: Sara Orme
Travel back through history to the birthplace of New Zealand as a nation at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Museum of Waitangi. You’ll see the spot where Maori chiefs signed NZ’s most important document with the British crown in 1840. You can also see a carved meeting house and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe, two eye-catching sights in that traditional Maori style.
4. Scuba Dive in Paihia
Source: https://www.facebook.com/pg/PaihiaDive
The Bay of Islands is the ideal place to have a deep-sea adventure, see some eye-catching marine life and become a skilled scuba diver. Paihia Dive has trips and packages to two shipwrecks: HMNZS Canterbury and Rainbow Warrior. You can also see deep underwater caverns, kelp forests and large sea creatures.
5. Check out ‘The Hole in the Rock’
Source: Matt Lemmon
Motu Kōkako, also known as Piercy Island, is a tower of rock jutting out of the ocean with a hole in it large enough to steer a boat through. Take a cruise and make sure you bring your camera.
6. Explore Waipoua Forest
Source: Destination Northland
In NZ’s kauri forests you can stand among trees that were fully grown before any humans arrived. And Waipoua Forest is Northland’s biggest and most famous. Although this forest is full of large trees, the biggest is Tane Mahuta – more than 2,000 years old and 51 metres tall, it’s apparently still growing.
7. Go chasing waterfalls
Source: Gadfium
New Zealand is known for its lovely waterfalls, and here you can wander to Rainbow Falls in Kerikeri or Haruru Falls, recognisable for its short, wide shape. Close to Paihia, Haruru Falls is also one of our most accessible places to visit in the Bay of Islands.
8. Visit Kerikeri Mission Station
Source: PerPlex
Another fascinating piece of NZ history, this station was established in 1819 when Europeans arrived to spread the Christian message among the Maori people. It’s made up of two buildings: the Stone Store, an ex-warehouse turned authentic goods shop, and Kemp House, NZ’s oldest building, and still full of items from missionary families.
9. Bay of Islands dining
Source: https://www.facebook.com/Alfrescos.Paihia
Eating out is one of our less obvious (but no less satisfying) Bay of Islands activities. From waterfront dining in Paihia at a local favourite like Alfresco’s Restaurant and Bar to fine dining in Russell and Kerikeri to fish and chips on the beach, the Bay of Islands caters to all tastes.
10. Skydive
Insert: https://www.facebook.com/skydivebayofislands
What better way to see these magnificent islands than from 16,000 feet up in the air? Book a jump with Skydive Bay of Islands and have an adrenaline-fuelled adventure you’ll be sure to remember.
Further Reading
10 Things to do on Your Getaway to the Bay of Islands
10 Great Bay of Island Adventure Tours