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Paihia is a gateway to much more than the Bay of Islands. If you’re based here and ready to explore further, Northland offers some of the most rewarding day trips in Aotearoa.
Within just a few hours, you can walk through ancient forests, visit historic landmarks, slide down giant sand dunes, or relax on hidden beaches. Whether you’re after nature, culture, surf, or good food — there’s a spot waiting for you.
In this guide, we highlight the best day trips from Paihia, each handpicked for its beauty, vibe, and how easy it is to reach. So fill your tank, charge your camera, and hit the road.
1. Kerikeri – History, Gardens, and Craft Beer
Just 25 minutes from Paihia, Kerikeri is an easy and rewarding day trip. This town mixes heritage, gardens, and a growing food scene. It’s great for couples, families, or solo explorers looking to slow down.
Start your visit at the Stone Store and Kemp House. These are the oldest stone and wooden buildings in New Zealand. They sit beside the Kerikeri River, surrounded by heritage trees and native birdsong.
While you’re there, walk through the gardens or follow the riverside path to Rainbow Falls. The short walk is scenic and peaceful, especially in the morning.
After exploring, head over to the Plough & Feather, a local gastropub just steps away. It serves seasonal dishes made with regional ingredients. You can also try craft beers from Kainui Brew Co., one of the best breweries in Northland.
Want to take a piece of Kerikeri home? Check out the Kerikeri Farmers’ Market on Sundays. Or visit one of the many art galleries and boutique shops in the town center.
Kerikeri has charm, history, and great taste. It’s a local favourite — and a must-do while you’re based in Paihia.
2. Matauri Bay – Scenic Views and Local History
Just an hour north of Paihia, Matauri Bay welcomes you with open skies, soft sand, and powerful silence. It’s one of the most scenic beaches in Northland — and still feels like a secret.
To start your visit, head straight to the lookout. From there, you’ll get a wide view of the Cavalli Islands, the Pacific, and the long curve of the bay. The colours shift with the light — blue, green, golden — and it’s easy to spend a quiet hour just taking it all in.
Down on the beach, the vibe is calm and local. The waves are great for bodyboarding, while the far end of the bay is perfect for long walks or a picnic. Since there aren’t cafés or stores nearby, make sure you bring water and snacks.
Before leaving, walk up to the Rainbow Warrior Memorial. This sculpture honours the Greenpeace ship sunk in 1985. It now rests below the waves, forming a protected dive site just offshore. Even if you stay dry, the memorial spot offers reflection, history, and a stunning photo op.
All in all, Matauri Bay gives you beauty, space, and meaning — without crowds or noise. It’s wild, peaceful, and unforgettable.
3. Taupo Bay – Hidden Gem for a Peaceful Beach Day
Taupo Bay is one of Northland’s quiet treasures. Tucked between green hills and open water, it offers a peaceful beach vibe that feels worlds away from the busier spots. From Paihia, the drive takes just over an hour, and it’s worth every bend in the road.
When you arrive, you’ll find a long, golden-sand beach with calm surf and hardly any crowds. There’s space to swim, sunbathe, or walk the shoreline for as long as you like. If you enjoy slower moments, this is your place.
What makes Taupo Bay special is its relaxed energy. There are no big resorts, no tour buses — just a few holiday homes, some locals, and the sound of the sea. The water is usually clear, and the waves are gentle enough for a family dip or a float in the shallows.
There’s a small campsite and a general store, but we recommend packing a picnic and a beach towel. You’ll want to stay a while.
4. Ahipara & Shipwreck Bay – Surf, Sand, and Local Vibes
If you’re craving adventure with a local twist, Ahipara is calling. Located at the southern end of the legendary 90 Mile Beach, it’s just over two hours from Paihia — perfect for a full-day trip packed with surf, scenery, and stories.
Start your day by heading to Shipwreck Bay. The name says it all — during low tide, you can spot the rusty remains of ships once wrecked along the coast. It’s a surreal and photo-worthy spot, especially with the backdrop of crashing waves and distant dunes.
Beyond the history, Shipwreck Bay is a well-known surf spot. The waves here are long, clean, and great for intermediate riders. Even if you’re not surfing, watching locals carve the waves is worth the trip alone.
Next, explore the stretch of 90 Mile Beach. You can drive parts of it (with a suitable vehicle), walk barefoot for miles, or simply enjoy the endless horizon. It’s wild, open, and feels like another world.
Hungry? Head into Ahipara township, where you’ll find a few small cafés and takeaway spots. It’s a laid-back area with a strong community feel — the kind of place where everyone still waves as you drive by.
In short, Ahipara and Shipwreck Bay offer a raw, authentic slice of Northland. Come for the surf, stay for the energy, and leave with sand in your shoes and a grin on your face.
5. Cape Reinga & Te Paki Sand Dunes – The Far North Experience
If there’s one place in Northland that feels truly sacred, it’s Cape Reinga. Located at the very tip of Aotearoa’s North Island, this is where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet in a dramatic clash of currents.
From Paihia, the drive takes about three and a half hours — so it’s best to start early. However, the journey is part of the experience. You’ll pass forests, farmland, and coastal views that shift as you head north.
Once you arrive, follow the short path to the iconic white lighthouse. The view is stunning, but the meaning is even deeper. According to Māori tradition, Cape Reinga is where spirits depart to their ancestral homeland. You’ll feel that weight and wonder as you stand at the edge of the land.
Not far from the cape, you’ll find the massive Te Paki Sand Dunes. These golden giants are perfect for some unexpected fun. Rent a board on-site and try sandboarding down the slopes — it’s fast, soft, and wildly addictive.
For a full-day loop, you can combine Cape Reinga, Te Paki, and a section of 90 Mile Beach. Some travelers book a guided day tour from Paihia to make the most of it without driving.
Bring water, sun protection, and respect for the land. In the end, this is more than a destination — it’s a powerful, grounding experience you’ll never forget.
Ready to Go Beyond Paihia?
Northland is vast, beautiful, and full of surprises — and you’re just getting started. These five day trips offer a taste of what’s waiting beyond the Bay.
If you’re still in planning mode, check out our blog What to Do in Paihia: Top Activities, Hidden Gems, and Local Tips for more inspiration close to home. Or dive into our full regional guide: Top Things to Do in the Bay of Islands.
Ready to hit the road?
Start booking unforgettable adventures with trusted local operators now.
