How to Plan Your Late Afternoon Ship Sailing Tour in Paihia, Bay of Islands

If you’re planning a trip to Paihia, you can’t afford to miss out on the Late Afternoon Ship Sailing in the Bay of Islands. Experience a 2-hour sail on the inner bay, explore the beauty of traditionally rigged vessel under sail and also indulge in an appetizer platter with a cold drink. The tour includes ferry tickets to Russell, where you can spend an exciting afternoon exploring the historic village or dine in one of the many excellent restaurants after your sail. The ship is operated as a not-for-profit charitable trust with proceeds from sailing activities used to support youth sail training programs over the New Zealand winter.

Highlights

• Experience a 2-hour sail on the inner bay
• Get involved and help hoist the sails or sit back and relax and indulge in an appetizer platter
• Enjoy a drink from the cash bar
• Explore the beauty of traditionally rigged vessel under sail
• Ferry tickets to Russell are included in the tour price
• Support youth sail training programs over the New Zealand winter

How to Get There

The Late Afternoon Ship Sailing tour starts at 4:00 PM from the Paihia Wharf, Marsden Road, Paihia 0247, New Zealand. You can reach Paihia by car or by bus. From Auckland, it will take you around 3 hours to reach Paihia by car. If you’re traveling by bus, take the Intercity Bus from Auckland to Paihia. Once you arrive in Paihia, you can easily walk to the Paihia Wharf or hire a taxi.

What to Bring

It is recommended to bring a warm jacket, non-slip shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you’re planning to spend some time in Russell, carry some extra cash as many restaurants and cafes only accept cash.

What to Expect

On the day of the tour, arrive at the Paihia Wharf at least 15 minutes before the tour starts. The friendly crew members will greet you and explain the safety instructions. Once on board R. Tucker Thompson, the crew members will give a quick briefing about what to expect during the tour. You can either get involved and help hoist sails or simply relax and take in the scenic beauty of the Bay of Islands. The shared appetizer platter and drinks will be served during the tour.

Cost

The Late Afternoon Ship Sailing in the Bay of Islands tour is priced at 105.59 NZD per person. The tour includes ferry tickets to Russell, where you can spend some extra time exploring the village or dining in a restaurant.

How to Book

To book the tour, visit this link and follow the simple steps. Make sure to book in advance as the tour tends to sell out quickly.

Book Your Tour Now

The Late Afternoon Ship Sailing in the Bay of Islands tour is a perfect way to explore the beauty of the Bay of Islands while indulging in delicious appetizers and drinks. The tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of traditionally rigged vessels under sail and support youth sail training programs over the New Zealand winter. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

FAQ About Paihia

Paihia is a beautiful and popular town in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. It is a gorgeous place to visit and explore for all kinds of travelers. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to help you plan your perfect trip to Paihia.

1. Where is Paihia?

Paihia is located in the North Island of New Zealand. It is situated in the Bay of Islands and is approximately 220 km north of Auckland, 80 km north of Whangarei, and 20 km west of Russell.

2. How do I get to Paihia?

You can get to Paihia by plane, car, or bus. The nearest airport is Kerikeri Airport, which is approximately 23 km from Paihia. You can also drive to Paihia from Auckland, which would take around 3 hours. There are also intercity buses that operate between Auckland and Paihia.

3. What is there to do in Paihia?

There are plenty of things to do in Paihia, including:

i. Explore the Bay of Islands

Paihia is a gateway for exploring the Bay of Islands, which is home to 144 islands. You can take a boat tour to explore the bay, swim with dolphins, fish, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.

ii. Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a historic site where the treaty between the British Crown and Maori chiefs was signed in 1840. You can learn about the history of the treaty, watch a cultural performance, and enjoy the beautiful gardens.

iii. Go on a hiking trail

There are plenty of hiking trails around Paihia, including the Opua to Paihia Coastal Walk, which offers stunning views of the bay. You can also hike up the Flagstaff Hill to get panoramic views of the area.

iv. Discover local arts and crafts

Paihia is home to several art galleries and studios where you can see and buy beautiful local arts and crafts.

4. What is the weather like in Paihia?

Paihia has a subtropical climate, which means it has warm and humid summers and mild winters. The average temperature during summer is around 25°C (77°F), while in winter, it is around 16°C (61°F). It is advised to pack light clothes during the summer and warm clothes during the winter.

5. What are the best accommodation options in Paihia?

There are many accommodation options available in Paihia, including hotels, motels, backpacker hostels, bed, and breakfasts, and holiday parks. Some popular accommodation options are:

i. Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands

This hotel is located in the heart of Paihia and offers beautiful views of the bay.

ii. Paihia Beach Resort and Spa

This beautiful resort is situated on the waterfront and offers luxurious rooms and spa treatments.

iii. YHA Bay of Islands Paihia

This backpacker hostel is located in the town center and is perfect for budget travelers.

6. What are the best restaurants in Paihia?

There are plenty of great restaurants in Paihia that serve delicious local and international cuisine. Some popular restaurants include:

i. Jimmy Jack’s Rib Shack

This restaurant serves the best ribs in town and is a must-visit for meat lovers.

ii. La Vista

This restaurant offers stunning views of the bay and serves delicious Mediterranean and New Zealand cuisine.

iii. Alongside

This restaurant serves fresh seafood and offers beautiful views of the bay.

7. What are the shopping options in Paihia?

Paihia offers many shopping options, including:

i. Paihia Beachfront

This shopping area has several local shops and boutiques where you can buy unique souvenirs and gifts.

ii. Waitangi Treaty Grounds Souvenir Shop

This shop sells Maori crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.

iii. Paihia Farmer’s Market

This market is held every Thursday and offers fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.

8. Is Paihia a family-friendly destination?

Yes, Paihia is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities and attractions for kids. Families can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, visiting the Hundertwasser Toilets, or just relaxing on the beach.

9. What is the best time to visit Paihia?

The best time to visit Paihia is during the summer months between November and April when the weather is warm and sunny. However, Paihia is beautiful all year round, and each season offers a unique experience.

Book Your Tour Now

Paihia is a stunning and popular destination that offers plenty of activities and attractions for all kinds of travelers. With beautiful beaches, scenic hikes, historic sites, and delicious food, Paihia is a must-visit destination in New Zealand.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Paihia

Paihia, a charming seaside town located in the Bay of Islands of New Zealand, is a popular destination among tourists. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty, Paihia offers visitors numerous opportunities for relaxation and adventure. In this guide, we will provide an itinerary on how to spend your time as a tourist in Paihia so that you can make the most of your trip.

Day 1: Explore the Bay of Islands

1. Take a Boat Tour A lot of visitors come to Paihia to explore the Bay of Islands, and the best way to do so is by taking a boat tour. You can take a half-day or full-day tour, depending on your preference. There are different types of boat tours, including dolphin watching, fishing, and sightseeing tours. 2. Visit the Hole in the Rock One of the highlights of the Bay of Islands is the Hole in the Rock, a natural rock formation that has a hole in the middle. Many boat tours take visitors to see this attraction up close. If you are lucky, you might see dolphins or even whales during your tour. 3. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are of great historical significance to New Zealand. It is where the treaty that made New Zealand a British colony was signed in 1840. Today, visitors can learn about the treaty and its impact on New Zealand’s history, as well as enjoy cultural performances and guided tours.

Day 2: Relax at the Beach

1. Visit Paihia Beach Paihia Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area. With its golden sands and clear water, it is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and playing beach volleyball. There are several cafes and restaurants nearby where you can get refreshments and snacks. 2. Visit Te Ti Beach Te Ti Beach is a smaller and quieter beach than Paihia Beach, making it ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds. It has calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are also several picnic tables and benches where you can enjoy a picnic lunch.

Day 3: Adventure Time

1. Kayak Tour to the Haruru Falls Paddle your way through the peaceful waters of the Waitangi River, surrounded by lush greenery, as you make your way towards the magnificent Haruru Falls. You can take a guided kayak tour that will take you up close to the falls, providing a unique and unforgettable experience. 2. Skydiving Over the Bay of Islands For adrenaline junkies, skydiving over the Bay of Islands is an experience you cannot miss. You will get a bird’s eye view of the beautiful natural landscape as you freefall from the sky. It is an experience that you will never forget.

Day 4: Local Experiences

1. Visit Makana Confections Makana Confections is a local chocolatier that produces delicious handmade chocolates. You can take a tour of their factory and see how they make their chocolates. Don’t forget to try their famous chocolate-covered macadamia nuts! 2. Visit the Farmers’ Market If you happen to be in Paihia on a Thursday, be sure to check out the local Farmers’ Market. You can sample local produce, artisanal cheeses, and other delicacies. It is a great way to support local farmers and try some fresh and delicious food.

Day 5: Hike in the Forest

1. Waitangi Mountain Bike Park The Waitangi Mountain Bike Park offers several hiking trails through lush forest terrain. You can choose from several trails of varying difficulty levels, from easy walks to more challenging treks. The trails offer stunning views of the Bay of Islands and the surrounding landscape. 2. The Puketi Forest If you want to hike in a more rugged and remote setting, then the Puketi Forest is a good option. The forest is home to several rare and endangered species of native plants and animals. You can take a guided tour or explore the forest on your own.

Book Your Tour Now

Paihia offers visitors a wide range of activities and experiences. From exploring the beautiful Bay of Islands to indulging in local food and culture, there is something for everyone. With this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Paihia and create lifelong memories.