Paihia

Paihia is a well-loved holiday resort within the Bay of Islands, a beautiful area with much scope for water sports, cruises, fishing and diving. Paihia is home to both Bottlenose and common dolphins, making it the ideal place to experience swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat. Whether walking the length of its sandy beach or taking a dip in its blue waters, Paihia, the jewel of the Bay of Islands, is a great base from which to explore the region.

To understand more about New Zealand's most significant historical event, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the site where Maori and European parties signed the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6th, 1840. This place is central to New Zealand nationhood and the lives of all New Zealanders. The grounds feature an historic Treaty House; a Maori meeting house, complete with decorative carvings; and an impressive Maori ceremonial war canoe. Guided tours and cultural performances will add another dimension to your experience of this historical site.

For more information on Paihia, visit Destination Northland or the Te Ara Encyclopedia.