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Paihia, at the heart of the Bay of Islands, is known for its beaches, forest trails, and island views. But you don’t need to spend much to enjoy it. In fact, there are plenty of free things to do in Paihia that let you explore like a local.
Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or on a budget, this small town offers free activities for every type of traveller. You can swim at sunrise, hike through native forest, or relax on a quiet beach — all without opening your wallet.
This guide highlights the best free activities in Paihia. Some get you moving. Others help you slow down. All of them bring you closer to the real Bay of Islands.
Let’s dive in and discover Paihia without the price tag.
Haruru Falls Walk
If you’re looking for an easy trail with a rewarding finish, Haruru Falls Walk should be your first stop. This free walk takes you through native forest and across a boardwalk above peaceful mangroves. The path follows the Waitangi River and eventually leads to a wide, horseshoe-shaped waterfall.
The full track stretches about 6 kilometers one way, but many visitors walk shorter sections and still enjoy beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for families, casual hikers, and anyone who enjoys a relaxing nature walk.
Along the way, you’ll hear birdsong, see tree ferns, and catch glimpses of the river winding through the forest. Once you reach the falls, you’ll hear the roar of water and feel a cool mist — a refreshing payoff after the walk.
Pro Tip: Wear shoes with good grip, especially after rain. Parts of the trail can get slippery.
Swim at Te Tii Bay and Watch the Sunrise
Not every adventure needs gear or a guide. Sometimes, all you need is the sunrise and a peaceful bay.
Te Tii Bay is one of Paihia’s most accessible beaches. It’s located just north of the main town area and offers calm waters and a long, sandy shoreline. You’ll often see locals walking their dogs, kids building sandcastles, or travellers sitting quietly with a coffee.
The bay faces east, which makes it one of the best sunrise spots in the Bay of Islands. Early in the morning, the sky glows with soft orange and pink hues. The water stays calm, reflecting the colors and creating a peaceful setting for a swim.
There’s no cost to enjoy this — just bring a towel and your favourite morning drink. If you’re staying nearby, you can walk there in minutes.
Long Beach (Russell)
A short ferry ride from Paihia takes you to Russell, where you’ll find Long Beach — a peaceful escape with wide white sand and clear blue water.
While the ferry has a small fee, access to the beach is completely free. You can swim, relax under a pōhutukawa tree, or explore the rocky ends of the beach at low tide.
The beach is about a 15-minute walk from Russell’s town center. It’s popular with locals but never feels crowded. Bring a picnic, a book, or your snorkel and enjoy the day. You can find here the Best Beaches in the Bay of Islands.
Pro Tip: If you’re already in Russell, sunset at Long Beach is calm and colourful — a great way to end your afternoon.
Waitangi Mountain Bike Park (Bring Your Own Bike)
If you’re into biking and have your own gear, Waitangi Mountain Bike Park offers some of the best free riding in Northland. The trails are professionally built and cover over 50 kilometers, ranging from smooth beginner tracks to challenging descents.
While riding is technically free, donations are encouraged to help maintain the park. A suggested $20 donation for adults and $10 for kids supports ongoing improvements. If you’re a frequent rider, the $50 Hivepass gives you full access for a year.
No bike? No problem. You can rent one from Paihia Mountain Bikes and explore the same trails with support from the local team.
Pro Tip: Start early in the day, especially during summer, to avoid the midday heat.
Visit St Paul’s Church in Paihia
Tucked between the road and the sea, St Paul’s Anglican Church is one of Paihia’s oldest and most iconic buildings. The small white structure sits just steps from the beach and offers views over the bay.
You can walk in during daylight hours, admire the wooden interior, and take a quiet moment to rest. The graveyard next door tells stories of early settlers and missionaries, adding to the sense of history.
Whether you’re interested in heritage or simply want a peaceful stop, this church offers a reflective pause during your travels.
Opua Forest – See the Kauri Trees
Looking for a cool, shaded walk just minutes from town? Opua Forest is home to towering Kauri trees and several short trails that are completely free to explore.
The School Road entrance gives you access to a gentle loop through native bush, filled with ferns, birdsong, and ancient trees. The trail is well-maintained and perfect for a peaceful walk, whether you have 30 minutes or two hours.
Pro Tip: Bring insect repellent and a water bottle, especially during warmer months.
Coastal Walk – Paihia to Opua
This coastal walk is one of Paihia’s hidden gems. The Paihia to Opua Coastal Track hugs the shoreline and takes about 90 minutes to complete. Along the way, you’ll pass rocky coves, native bush, and boardwalk sections with water views.
In addition, the well-marked trail features benches and lookout points, allowing you to pause and enjoy the scenery. You can walk one way and return by ferry (for a small fee), or simply turn around whenever you choose. Either way, the journey feels refreshing and rewarding.
Furthermore, it’s a perfect half-day activity for those who want nature, views, and gentle movement — all for free.
Golf Course Lookout
This is one of Paihia’s best-kept secrets. Near the Waitangi Golf Course, there’s a public lookout with panoramic views of the Bay of Islands. You don’t need to play golf to access it — just drive or walk toward the club and follow the signs.
Moreover, the view includes dozens of islands, rolling fairways, and the vast Pacific horizon. It’s especially stunning at golden hour when the light softens and the water reflects shades of gold and blue.
Pro Tip: Bring a camera or binoculars. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the outer islands.
Want to Do More?
Once you’ve explored Paihia for free, you might want to upgrade your experience. Try a glass-bottom boat tour, go parasailing, or take a guided e-bike trip through the forest. These options aren’t free, but they’re unforgettable.
To help you plan your next adventure, check out our most popular guides:
- 👉 Top Things to Do in the Bay of Islands
- 👉 Water Activities in the Bay of Islands
- 👉 Best Day Trips from Paihia
- 👉 Best Restaurants in Paihia
You can also browse and book trusted, local experiences directly from our platform.
