Auckland - Kaitaia - Auckland

Featured Tourism Operators

Day 2 : Whangarei to Paihia

Travel time is approximate only, based on an average driving speed under normal road conditions.

  Travel time Km (Miles)
Whangarei - Paihia 1 hr 71 44
Totals for Day 1 hr 71 44

Whangarei - Paihia

Whangarei - Paihia

71 km (44 miles)
Approximately 1 hour
Road Conditions: State Highway

Whangarei is a subtropical city on the edge of a beautiful harbour. At the Quayside Town Basin complex you'll find stylish cafes and restaurants, as well as museums, art galleries and shops. Be sure to visit Whangarei Falls.

A series of small settlements will lead you north. Just before Kawakawa, a side road runs to the glow-worm cave at Waiomio. Take a rest stop in Kawakawa, because it has a remarkable public toilet designed by Austrian artist Frederick Hundertwasser.

From here the road to the Bay of Islands becomes quite twisty, but you'll enjoy some delightful scenery along the way. A short detour takes you to the port of Opua, where cruise ships often call.

The resort town of Paihia makes an excellent base for exploring the Bay of Islands.

Catch a cruise to the outer islands or a ferry to the charming township of Russell. The historic Treaty House at Waitangi marks the beginning of New Zealand as a nation.

View more Auckland driving routes.

Directory Information

Whangarei, Northland:
Accommodation, Attractions and Activities, Tours, Transport, Visitor Information

Paihia, Bay of Islands, Northland:
Accommodation, Attractions and Activities, Tours, Transport, Visitor Information

Back to top of page
New Zealand travel competition with great prize worth NZ$1,300