Things to do in Kawakawa

Activities, attractions and tours

An aerial view of a coastal area with a pier extending into turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green hills and a clear sky.
A coastal landscape with a lighthouse on a cliff during sunset.
A coastal landscape with a beach, parking area, and surrounding hills.
A brick wall with colorful mosaic tiles and a sign for a railway station cafe.
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Things to do

Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands

Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands

P5,496
per adult
Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands
Paihia/Russell: Hole in the Rock & Bay of Islands Cruise

From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour

P5,142
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour
Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch

Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch

P6,738
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch
Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission

P2,624
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission
Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

P6,915
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia
Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop

Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop

P6,206
per adult
Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop
Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

P6,028
per adult
Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop
Picture 1 for Activity Bay of Islands: Parasail, Paihia and Russell

Paihia: Bay of Islands Parasailing Flight

P5,496
per adult
Paihia: Bay of Islands Parasailing Flight
Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach

Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach

P1,241
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach
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Top places to visit

1. Bay of Islands

Visit the stunning Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island and enjoy the many water-based tours, from discovering uninhabited islands dotted around the cold, blue waters to watching dolphins leap around the boat. Enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere in the bay’s towns or retreat to the ancient native forests to be at one with nature.
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A coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters, dense green foliage, and rolling hills in the background.

2. Paihia Beach

Enjoy fishing, swimming, picnicking and many other outdoor activities at Paihia Town Beach. The main beach is lined with several cafés and restaurants serving international cuisine and fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. Book a sea kayaking adventure or a big game fishing charter and set out into the sea.
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A calm beach with pebbles, a small island, and a boat in the distance.

3. Paihia Wharf

Paihia Wharf is the departure point for some of the best fishing charters and boat trips in the Bay of Islands. Take a scenic cruise up Waitangi River or go on a dolphin-watching tour. A passenger ferry to Russell, one of the first European settlements in New Zealand, also leaves from the wharf.
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A waterfront pier with buildings and a boat docked.

4. Russell Beach

Russell Beach is the hub of the town and a popular place to swim, relax and fish. Stroll along the main beach, which is also known as Kororareka, and survey the restaurants, cafés and lodges that line the adjoining walkway.
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A pier extending into calm waters at sunset.

5. Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway

The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway trains depart from Kawakawa on New Zealand’s North Island and run right through the middle of the charming main street before taking you across several bridges to a picnic area by the river at Taumarere.
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A vintage train with a black and yellow locomotive and green passenger cars parked on tracks.

What to do in Kawakawa

Stay near popular Kawakawa attractions

A vintage train with a black and yellow locomotive and green passenger cars parked on tracks.
Photo by BOIVR ALeitch
Open Photo by BOIVR ALeitch

Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway

10.0/5 (1 review)
All aboard! This classic train ride in Kawakawa takes you back in time and provides a memorable experience for the whole family.
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Where to stay in Kawakawa

Find the best Kawakawa areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Waiomio

Though Waiomio might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Hundertwasser Public Toilets.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kawakawa worth visiting?
Kawakawa has an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or local culinary flavors, there's a lot to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Kawakawa?
After you've visited major attractions like Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Action World, spend some time exploring Kawakawa's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kawakawa?
You can't leave without exploring Action World, rated the top tourist attraction in Kawakawa.
Is three days enough to stay in Kawakawa?
Three days will give you time to check out many city sights, like Kawiti Caves, Bay of Islands Marina and Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway. The average stay in Kawakawa is two days. If you have the time to extend your adventure, Paihia isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Kawakawa with kids?
Deciding what to do in Kawakawa with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions to keep them busy here.
What to do in Kawakawa for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Kawakawa, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Hundertwasser Public Toilets.
Are there free things to do in Kawakawa?
In Kawakawa, Bay of Islands Marina is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a top way to find out about the best free things to do in Kawakawa.