Paihia Car Tours: Top 5 You Need to Experience

Planning a trip to Paihia, in the Bay of Islands, and thinking about the best way to get around? Well, car tours are a pretty fantastic choice, you know, if you want freedom and the chance to explore at your own pace. Very often, organized tours can feel a bit rushed, but, like, with a car, the Bay of Islands is sort of at your fingertips. And that freedom to choose is a game changer. So, let’s check out some cool options that will make your visit absolutely remarkable! This road trip guide (https://oindcarlenanews.blogspot.nl?id=road-trip) makes seeing it all simpler.

1. The Coastal Cruise: Paihia to Russell

Right, first off, the coastal cruise from Paihia to Russell is, in fact, just a truly lovely introduction to the area. As a matter of fact, this route offers amazing views of the coastline and islands. Driving along the winding roads, that seem to, is that, cling to the edge of the land is quite thrilling! Plus, that ferry trip across to Russell really adds a certain something. Actually, Russell itself has some pretty interesting history, and you, like your, can explore the charming streets and waterfront before heading back. That glimpse of history can be enjoyed even more using this historic destination guide (https://oindcarlenanews.blogspot.nl?id=historic-destinations).

A little stop at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, just a short drive from Paihia, it’s almost a must-do. After all, it’s a super important historical spot. Usually, the views of the bay are stunning, and the guided tour, well, gives you a real feel for the history and significance. It is an emotionally-charged destination for visitors. Make certain not to leave anything to chance and prepare using this heritage guide (https://oindcarlenanews.blogspot.nl?id=heritage-guide).

2. The Northland Explorer: Paihia to Cape Reinga (and back!)

Right, so this trip to Cape Reinga is truly one for the adventurers. Yeah, it’s a lengthy drive from Paihia (it could be a couple of hours from where you set out), but, honestly, the scenery is absolutely worth it. By the way, you will pass through pretty cool places such as Kaitaia and see the vast Ninety Mile Beach. Visiting Ninety Mile Beach does not cost you a dime! It offers hours of endless discovery to experience nature (https://oindcarlenanews.blogspot.nl?id=nature-escapes) in New Zealand. At Cape Reinga, you’ll get a pretty fabulous view where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet. And apparently, that iconic lighthouse, is that, provides some photo opportunities. Actually, this spot has real spiritual importance for Māori, very much making it a powerful place to visit.

While you’re in that region, well, how about taking a detour to see the ancient kauri trees in the Waipoua Forest? They are pretty huge, you know, and the most, almost, famous one, Tāne Mahuta, it’s almost like the “Lord of the Forest,”. Standing beneath those trees, well, it does give you a real sense of just how old and special that New Zealand is. Seeing a few destinations does not necessarily break the bank; it all boils down to choosing wisely, you save money on attractions (https://oindcarlenanews.blogspot.nl?id=budget-friendly).

3. The Bay of Islands Loop: Paihia, Kerikeri, and Kawakawa

Alright, so if you are after a relaxed day trip, then doing the Bay of Islands loop through Kerikeri and Kawakawa is a good pick. As a matter of fact, Kerikeri is well-known for its orchards and arts and crafts scene. Anyway, it’s a nice spot to enjoy a snack or that wine, even, from one of those regional vineyards. The historic Stone Store there is another site worth checking. And usually, as you continue that loop, then, by the way, you get to Kawakawa and its famous Hundertwasser toilets. Yeah, honestly, the place is unusual, but apparently it’s a cool thing to see, you know, if you are in the area. Traveling as a family involves making sure you have plenty of space, so do ensure your accomodations meet your requirements (https://oindcarlenanews.blogspot.nl?id=accommodation-options).

Just a short trip off that main road, and so, you can find the Rainbow Falls close to Kerikeri. Apparently, these falls are spectacular, and by the way, there is a nice little walking track so you can take pictures. Plus, that whole area round Kerikeri has something kind of lush with plantations of orchards and native forest to see.

4. The Scenic Route to Mangonui

Now, here’s a suggestion for you – the drive up north to Mangonui, in a way, is very, very lovely. Typically, you will pass through some quite gorgeous coastal scenery and tiny villages. By the way, Mangonui itself does have a quite historical feel and boasts one or two pretty decent fish and chip shops by the wharf. Eating fresh seafood in that stunning little bay? Yeah, honestly, it is bliss! A guide can, well, make your travel safer and simpler and help prevent losing yourself – learn using a mapping guide (https://oindcarlenanews.blogspot.nl?id=mapping-guide)!

While heading in that direction, well, how about stopping at one of those less-visited beaches? Because in fact places such as Coopers Beach have got beautiful sand and so are ideal, like your, for relaxing, swimming, or even just walking along the beach. Or try something different! A stop on a sandy beach for a stroll doesn’t need a dime! If you are on a trip with smaller monetary limits there is a lot of exploring that you are afford (https://oindcarlenanews.blogspot.nl?id=free-destinations) to do and enjoy.

5. The Hokianga Harbour Discovery

Alright, so heading out towards Hokianga Harbour it is almost like experiencing a slice of real New Zealand that most tourists will miss out on. As a matter of fact, that harbor is magnificent, with a bit of golden sand dunes in Opononi. Apparently, the drive from Paihia does go through some amazing countryside, yet, with lots of nice places to stop. Apparently, taking the ferry over to Rawene does provide an interesting perspective, yeah, on that area and Rawene is in fact the 3rd oldest colonial settlement.

Don’t forget, the big draw here are the gigantic sand dunes over by Opononi. You, like your, can hire a surfboard and actually surf your way down those things. I want to suggest this is a fantastic experience and views out over that harbor are special.