Things to do in Kawakawa

Activities, attractions and tours
Kawakawa
Paihia showing outdoor art
Paihia featuring outdoor art
Paihia showing outdoor art
Kawakawa

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

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.
Learn more
Russell featuring a bay or harbor and tranquil scenes

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.
Learn more
Paihia Beach featuring a coastal town, a bay or harbor and a sandy beach

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.
Learn more
Paihia Wharf featuring a bay or harbor and a coastal town

4. Haruru Falls

Haruru Falls is steeped in Māori history and famous for its striking waterfall. Find great views of the falls and embark on a nature walk that leads through the nearby mangrove forest. Alternatively, approach the falls by kayak.
Learn more
Walk along the banks of the scenic Waitangi River and admire this beautiful horseshoe-shaped waterfall. Continue on the trail to the famous Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

5. 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.
Learn more
Russell Beach which includes a bay or harbor, a beach and a coastal town

6. Flagstaff Hill

Flagstaff Hill, or Te Maiki in Māori, has been an important vantage point for centuries. It remains popular today for those same views and its historical significance. Enjoy the 360-degree vistas of the Bay of Islands and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on the horizon.
Learn more
Flagstaff Hill showing a bay or harbor and a lake or waterhole

7. 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.
Learn more
All aboard! This classic train ride in Kawakawa takes you back in time and provides a memorable experience for the whole family.

What to do in Kawakawa

Popular places to visit

Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway

Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway

All aboard! This classic train ride in Kawakawa takes you back in time and provides a memorable experience for the whole family.

Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway
Hundertwasser Public Toilets

Hundertwasser Public Toilets

You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Hundertwasser Public Toilets in Kawakawa. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Hundertwasser Public Toilets

Kawiti Caves

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Kawiti Caves during your travels in Kawakawa. Visit the area's spas or amble around its beautiful beaches.

Kawiti Caves

Areas of Kawakawa

Default Image

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.

Waiomio