What to do in Opua

Activities, attractions and tours

Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Panoramic view of yachts moored off the coast at Opua
Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Panoramic view of yachts moored off the coast at Opua
New Zealand, Bay of Islands, Opua, aerial view over yachts and liner
Car ferry crossing in Opua, Northland, New Zealand. 6 January 2024
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Places to Visit in Opua

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Opua, 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 Opua 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 Opua tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 60 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 Opua. 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 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 a bay or harbour and a coastal town

3. 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 featuring a pebble beach 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 which includes a sunset 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

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. Russell Christ Church

Russell Christ Church is one of the oldest standing churches in New Zealand. Originally built by European settlers in the Bay of Islands, the historic building has been wonderfully restored and is fully operational. Attend a Sunday service here and admire the attractive interior.
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Russell Christ Church featuring a church or cathedral

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Recommended things to do in Opua

Number of things to do
60
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 Opua

Discover the most popular places to visit in Opua

Bay of Islands Marina

4.5/5(70 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Opua with a trip to Bay of Islands Marina. You can enjoy the restaurants while in the area.

Bay of Islands Marina

 

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 Opua

Paihia showing a bay or harbour, tranquil scenes and a sunset

Paihia

Okiato which includes a bay or harbour

Okiato

Sunny day aerial view of people fishing on Coromandel Wharf and relaxing on the beach in Waitawa Regional Park, Kawakawa, Auckland, New Zealand

Kawakawa

#Springfun great place to stay

Te Haumi

Frequently asked questions

Is Opua worth visiting?
Whether you plan to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or sample unique foods and explore the outdoors, there are many things to do in Opua.
How do I spend a day in Opua?
Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Action World are two excellent places to start your getaway adventures. Remember to check out the shopping and dining options in Opua while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Opua?
Action World is one of the top tourist attractions in Opua and deserves a spot on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Opua?
Three days is plenty for a quick escape to Opua — you'll hit the main spots and get a good idea of the local vibe. But if you want to truly soak it all in, visit for at least a week to explore the surrounding areas too.
Is Opua a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Opua, like Action World and Bay of Islands Marina, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometres from central Opua is Te Haumi and Te Wahapu is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Opua with kids?
If you are after tours and attractions for all of your group, take a look at these fabulous ideas for what to do in Opua with kids.

What to do in Opua for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Opua, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Hundertwasser Public Toilets.
Are there free things to do in Opua?
One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Opua is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. Bay of Islands Marina is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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