What to do in Paihia

You can find thrilling adventure or perfect peace. The unbelievable natural beauty, amazing beaches and a host of islands make for an idyllic aquatic playground and ultimate retreat.

Paihia is a centrally located base to explore the Bay of Islands. If adventure is what you seek, you can skydive, parasail, scuba dive or go exploring on a sea kayak. For a true Northland cultural experience, you can paddle a waka up the tidal estuaries of the Waitangi River.

The boat trips that depart from Paihia will allow you to fully experience some of the 144 islands just off the coastline of the aptly named Bay of Islands.

The knowledgeable crews will regale you with stories of the rich and vibrant history of the area. Scenic cruises out to the 'hole in the rock' at the tip of Cape Brett, are one of the most popular maritime excursions, along with dinner or overnight cruises.

Just north of Paihia, a visit to Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a must-do for visitors wanting to learn more about the history of New Zealand.

Take a guided walk with one of the descendants of the chiefs who signed the 1840 Treaty between the European and Maori.

Paihia is the place of friendly locals, cafe´s and people enjoying life.

Whether it is swimming with dolphins, taking in a spot of retail therapy or just lazing under a tree, Paihia is the place for it. Outdoor enthusiasts wanting to get some fresh air while drinking in some beautiful sights can don their sneakers and try the Waitangi to Haruru Falls walk.

This is a sheltered 6km tramp from the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi, along the bushclad banks of the Waitangi River to Haruru Falls and can take around 2.5 hours to complete.

The track is suitable for families and offers features such as the boardwalk section which provides an opportunity to pass through the, usually inaccessible, interior of a mature mangrove forest.

As you approach the end of the walk you will hear the thunderous roar of the falls with the name Haruru loosely translated to mean ''big noise''.

The water falls in a horseshoe shape-very rare and quite spectacular- and Maori legend states that a taniwha (water monster) lives in the lagoon below. Head out on the water to enjoy the scenery as you voyage past the Cape Brett Lighthouse and arrive at the impressive Hole in the Rock - hold your breath as the skipper navigates through the narrow space and appreciate the rock walls towering above you.

Be further impressed by the Grand Cathedral Cave before returning to the sheltered waters of the Bay.

Many people come to the Bay of Islands with marlin in mind. Take part in keenly contested tournaments or you can hire a boat and reel in your own private battles with the denizens of the deep.