Paihia: Gateway to New Zealand’s Bay of Islands
A trip to New Zealand is always an epic adventure and your portal to its spectacular beauty is Paihia, known as the jewel of the Bay of Islands in the country’s North. Paihia, New Zealand has everything, from great accommodations, to delightful restaurants and to a town center. From the wharf, you can hie off on a cruise to experience more adventures. What’s more, it is near the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, New Zealand’s most important historic site.
Best Time to Visit
There is never a bad time to go to Paihia and being located in the north of the North Island it has a sub-tropical weather thus it's pleasant even in winter. Tourists flock to Paihia mostly in the summer months of January and February and in June. Spring is considered a shoulder season so tourist arrivals are up but you're sure to get excellent deals on flights and Paihia, New Zealand hotel accommodations if you book early. Tourists also gather in October for the Bay of Islands Wine and Food Festival at the Village Green.Paihia Summer Festival in January is a whole week’s worth of events for everyone. Not to be missed is the Paihia Matariki Festival, the Maori New Year in late May/ early June and is marked by kite and hot-air balloon flying plus fireworks display.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Begin your escapade at the Paihia Wharf and go on acruise, swim with dolphins, and scuba diving. Do not forget to swing by Paihia Beach to swim, sunbathe or have a picnic. Accommodations near the scenic waterfront and beach are aplenty like Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia and the Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel.