Your afternoon is free to explore Paihia. Why not venture over to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important historic site. This is an absolute must-do for all visitors to Northland. Discover the story of New Zealand’s history and the story of two people coming together under the Treaty of Waitangi, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, at this award-winning national attraction.
DAY 3 - AT PAIHIA
A visit to New Zealand is not complete without a journey to the very top of the North Island – Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua). Uncover the wild beauty of this vast and untouched region, rich in Māori culture and tradition, on an action-packed full day return tour from Paihia.
As you travel north, enjoy a taste of New Zealand's varying and beautiful landscape: the rolling hills of Northland's rural countryside, breath-taking coastal views and native forest.
Drive along the shores of Ninety Mile Beach as the waves crash beside the custom-built coach. Feel the sand between your toes as you help your driver guide dig for shellfish (conditions permitting). Your off-road journey continues up Te Paki Stream, stopping at the massive sand dunes where you can experience the thrills and spills of sand surfing. Clambering up and surfing down the dunes (if you dare!) is sure to get your heart pumping.
Visit the Puketi Kauri Forest and get up close to ancient and majestic giant kauri trees and native bush. Stroll along an elevated walkway as these graceful giants surround you and learn about conservation efforts to preserve the forest today.
Visit Cape Reinga and hear the stories of this significant site where, according to Māori legend, spirits depart on their journey home to Hawaiki. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views, visit the iconic lighthouse, and see the point where the Tasman Sea and the mighty Pacific Ocean come crashing together.
During your Cape Reinga tour you'll also experience another Kiwi icon: a lunch of delicious fish and chips at the historic Wagener Museum at Houhora. A vegetarian option is available and can be selected when booking.
Your journey home will be equally enjoyable as your tour guide's combination of local insight, extensive historical knowledge and fantastic sense of humour create an unforgettable adventure.
Or you can experience Cape Reigna by Aeroplane on a half day Fly/Drive Tour – renowned as the best way to see Cape Reigna, this is a must do and can be swapped for this full day tour (at an extra cost of $300 per person). The day begins with a 45 minute flight up to Cape Reigna via Northlands’ spectacular beaches and harbours. This is followed by a 2.5 hour vehicle tour around the top of New Zealand including Cape Reigna lighthouse, Te Paki stream and sand dunes. Return to Paihia by flight over incredible scenery.
DAY 4 - DEPART PAIHIA
Check out of your accommodation and depart the Bay of Islands today.
Your accommodation
SEA SPRAY SUITES
Sea Spray Suites in Paihia is located on the famous Te Ti Beach, halfway between the town centre and historic Waitangi, and only a three-hour drive north of Auckland. With the beach directly across the road, exploring Paihia's beautiful waters and wildlife is as easy as stepping out the door. For guests interested in experiencing and exploring New Zealand's heritage, the Waitangi Treaty House is only 1km from the hotel.
