Being our free and easy day in Paihia, we were really spoilt for choice. Besides just chilling on the beach …
Chilling out at the beach
… there were plenty of optional trips to explore the fascinating region. One can take the drive to Cape Reinga, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea, sail out with a catamaran and look out for dolphins, paddle through the mangrove forests to Haruru Falls, or hike up to Cape Brett.
Alternatively, we decided to explore the town of Paihia, Jewel of the Bay of Islands. Also, the other interesting fact about Paihia was its the first place in New Zealand to hold the cricket game.
Paihia CBD
We also got the chance to visit Russell (formerly known as Kororareka), the oldest and first European settlement in New Zealand.
Russell township
Pompallier Mission, the historic printery / tannery / storehouse of the early missionaries, can also boast to be the oldest surviving industrial building in New Zealand.
Pompallier Mission
The town also holds Christ Church, the country's oldest surviving church.
New Zealand’s oldest surviving church
On the way back, after hoping off the ferry…
Along our way back
… we took a step back in time and learn a little of the history of New Zealand at the Waitangi Treaty House.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
And just before dinner, we checked out the Haruru Falls Mangrove Track walking through native bushes.
Views along the mangrove tracks
It was a historically-fun-filled day!!
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