Local activities

Cycling

The Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail spans 87km, and passes through some of New Zealand’s earliest Maori and European settlements in the Far North District. As an official accommodation partner of the NZ Cycle Trail, Marina Cove is located conveniently just a few minutes ride from the Opua start of the trail. We provide secure storage for bikes, wash station and support with planning your ride itinerary.
There are many options for half or multi day rides. For bike hire, shuttle transportation and itinerary planning, contact:
Twin Coast Cycle Transport.

Waitangi Mountain Bike Park has loads of world class trails for a fun day out from Grade 2 to Grade 5. Paihia Mountain Bikes are located at the entrance to the park and offers bike hire and information.

Golf

Nothing beats the Bay of Islands and Northland for combining stunning ocean views with beautiful, elevated golf courses. Make sure to plan ahead, book (and remember the dress code) at the world famous Kauri Cliffs Golf Course, or enjoy local courses such as Waitangi Golf Club , just 5 minutes from Paihia.

In the air

If you love to see views from above, you might be keen to try parasailing or take in a helicopter scenic flight. You’ll get a unique perspective on the local tiny bays, white sand beaches and might even spot Orcas and dolphins.

Exclusive experiences

Enjoy the private use of Cool Change for a day charter sailing adventure you will never forget. Be it a special occasion such as an anniversary or just spoiling yourself, a day on the water with Cool change is highly recommended.

The Tasting Room at The Landing is an elegant space and perfect for a long lunch along with their award winning wines. The Landing offers wine-tasting with superb views, delicious regional food with the bonus of exploring the boutique winery.

Hiking and walks

The Opua to Paihia Coastal Walkway is right on our doorstep at Marina Cove. This 8km walkway provides stunning views of the surrounding area, and is dog-friendly. The Okiato to Russell walk is also easily accessible. Simply take a ride with Northland Ferries ($2 return for a passenger) to Okiato, then enjoy a 3 hour hike to Russell.

The Oromahoe Kauri Stand short walk is a local gem. A newly built DOC track winds down into the bush to a viewing platform opening onto a stunning kauri stand. We can help with directions once you arrive at Marina Cove.

Dolphin Discovery

It is not uncommon to see orcas feeding, dolphins frolicking and seals swimming in the Opua harbour directly below your apartment and we provide binoculars in each apartment for that moment that you see them!  If you’re keen for a close encounter on the water, contact us about a Dolphin Discovery tour

Guided tours and special itineraries

If hassle-free is what you’re after, a guided tour or tailor made itinerary could be the perfect fit for you.

For a special day out, explore glow-worm caves, take in the highlights and scenery of the Bay of Islands or enjoy a ‘taste of the Bay’ tour with Bay of Islands Tours.

For a fun filled, unique itinerary with a variety of incredible experiences we suggest working with Unforgettable Fun. If you are planning a relaxing girls or boys weekend, celebrating a special event or birthday, incentive or corporate escape or just wanting expert local advice in helping to create a personalized itinerary just for you, contact Lesley and the team at Unforgettable Fun.

On the water

There are many fishing charters and boat trips to sights like the Hole in the Rock which depart from Opua, Russell and Paihia.

A ‘must do’ activity while visiting our region is a day cruise with Island Getaway Tours departing daily from Paihia & Russell. This cruise, (4.5 hours) combines remote island stopovers and a range of activities from snorkelling island reefs, stand-up paddle boarding, island walks and lookout points to the chance to spot marine wildlife.

Don’t miss Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island - an island paradise just a short ferry ride from Paihia or Russell. As one of the most accessible islands in the Bay of Islands, Urupukapuka offers a unique destination for visitors to explore the spectacular walks, enjoy a meal at the cafe or relax on the one of many stunning, secluded beaches.

Ask us for suggestions during your trip planning or when you arrive and we can point you in the direction of charter or excursion options for you. If kayaking or snorkeling is your thing, check out Bay of Islands Kayaking or Bay or Islands Snorkelling.