What to do in Matauri Bay

Activities, attractions and tours

Rainbow Warrior Memorial sculpture in Matauri Bay, Northland, New Zealand
Rainbow Warrior Memorial sculpture in Matauri Bay, Northland, New Zealand
Campers and beachgoers enjoy a sunny day at the beach. Families relax and play near campsites. MATAURI BAY, NORTHLAND, NZ
Rainbow Warrior Memorial sculpture in Matauri Bay, Northland, New Zealand
A beautiful beach in the north of the country.

Matauri Bay Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Matauri Bay has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Matauri Bay, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Matauri Bay with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Matauri Bay

Matauri Bay is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Matauri Bay, and make it a breeze to explore Matauri Bay and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Matauri Bay to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Matauri Bay, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Matauri Bay.

Matauri Bay attractions

Matauri Bay has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Matauri Bay to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Matauri Bay.

Looking for things to do in Matauri Bay can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Matauri Bay or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Matauri Bay attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

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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 showing a bay or harbour and tranquil scenes

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 which includes 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 bay or harbour and a sunset

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 showing a bay or harbour and a lake or waterhole

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Recommended things to do in Matauri Bay

Number of things to do
3
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Shore Excursion To Historic Kerikeri Including Lunch: £94
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Matauri Bay

Popular places to visit

Rainbow Warrior Memorial

Learn about the local history of Matauri Bay when you spend time at Rainbow Warrior Memorial. Amble around the area's white-sand beaches or visit its spas.

Rainbow Warrior Memorial

 

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.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Matauri Bay worth visiting?
Whether you're here to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Matauri Bay.
How do I spend a day in Matauri Bay?
Start your holiday adventures with a visit to the top attractions. Remember to explore the shopping and dining options in Matauri Bay while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Matauri Bay?
From budget-friendly activities for all types of travellers to in-demand tours and attractions, browse above for a selection of the best things to do in Matauri Bay.
Is three days enough to stay in Matauri Bay?
If you only want to check out the most popular sights, three days is more than enough time for a break in Matauri Bay. Book for seven to ten days for the chance to really appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and discover a few hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Matauri Bay with kids?
Deciding what to do in Matauri Bay with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're travelling with teenagers or toddlers, there are plenty of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone busy here.
What to do in Matauri Bay for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Matauri Bay. Whether you're into local cuisine, nature or just enjoy visiting new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Matauri Bay?
There's a range of free things to do in Matauri Bay. Explore the parks or soak up the vibes at free events and festivals. Matauri Bay offers loads of budget-friendly experiences that let you enjoy the area without spending a lot.