What to do in Kawakawa

Activities, attractions and tours

Kawakawa
Paihia showing outdoor art
Paihia which includes outdoor art
Paihia showing outdoor art
Kawakawa

Places to Visit in Kawakawa

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Kawakawa, Northland while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Kawakawa attractions from NZ$35, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Kawakawa tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 44 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Kawakawa. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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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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Russell featuring tranquil scenes and a bay or harbour

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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Paihia Beach which includes general coastal views, island images and a 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.
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Paihia Wharf featuring island views and a bay or harbour

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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Russell Beach featuring a pebble beach and a bay or harbour

5. 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.
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Haruru Falls showing a river or creek and a cascade

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.
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Flagstaff Hill featuring a lake or waterhole and a bay or harbour

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.
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Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway

Recommended things to do in Kawakawa

Number of things to do
44
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach: NZ$35
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Kawakawa

Discover the most popular places to visit in Kawakawa

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

Explore areas of Kawakawa

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Waiomio

Waiomio might not have many top sights, but Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Hundertwasser Public Toilets are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Waiomio

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Kawakawa

Opua

Opua

Haruru Falls showing a cascade, a river or creek and kayaking or canoeing

Haruru

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 flavours, 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 neighbourhoods, 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.

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