Paihia is a fantastic base for exploring the Bay of Islands, but it’s also a prime spot for enjoying memorable lunch experiences. Whether you’re after an active day on the water, a relaxing cruise, or a taste of local history and cuisine, Paihia offers options that suit every taste. We particularly love the Island-Hopper Sailing Cruise with Picnic Lunch for its combination of sailing, wildlife, and a scenic island stop. The relaxed vibe on deck and the chance to snorkel or paddleboard make it a standout. For a more tailored sailing experience, the Day Sailing Charter on a Catamaran with Lunch delivers comfort and versatility, especially with its included vegan and gluten-free options. Then there’s the Discover the Bay Cruise with Island Lunch, a shorter cruise perfect for those who want a scenic, wildlife-rich outing with a delicious meal. Lastly, the Kerikeri historic tour offers a different kind of lunch — one filled with Kiwi history, chocolates, and waterfalls — ideal for history buffs or families.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top lunch experiences, helping you decide which fits your style and schedule best.
1. From Paihia: Island-Hopper Sailing Cruise with Picnic Lunch
At number 1, this 6-hour sailing adventure combines the beauty of the Bay of Islands with the thrill of helping to sail a catamaran. The tour features a 2-hour stopover on a remote island where you can snorkel, paddleboard, hike, or swim. It’s perfect if you want a hands-on experience with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery. The boat’s crew is friendly and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the region’s native bush and birdlife.
What truly sets this tour apart is the balance between active participation and leisure, with morning tea, a picnic lunch, and cold drinks on the return sail. The small-group size (despite the reviews) ensures a personal experience. Many travelers praise the crew’s hospitality and the chance to snorkel off a pristine beach, making it ideal for adventurous spirits or those wanting a true day on the water.
Bottom Line: If you love sailing, wildlife, and a picnic on the beach, this trip offers great value and a memorable day. Book early as it’s very popular.
2. Day Sailing Charter on Catamaran with Lunch
Number 2 on our list is the 6-hour sailing charter departing from Paihia, which focuses on comfort and flexibility. This tour offers a spacious catamaran with beanbags and an indoor saloon, making it perfect for those who prefer relaxing in style. The island stop provides opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, bush walks, or simply soaking up the sun.
What makes this experience stand out is the tasty catered lunch with options for vegan, vegetarian, gluten, and dairy-free diets, meaning everyone will find something to enjoy. The crew’s focus on attentive service and the ability to help sail or just unwind makes it suitable for couples, groups, or families wanting a flexible, scenic day on the water. The reviews highlight the calm atmosphere and the quality of the food, with a guest noting, “The lunch was delicious, and the crew made the day very special.”
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking comfort, good food, and options for water activities, this is a top choice. It’s especially good for those who prefer a more relaxed, social vibe.
3. Bay of Islands: Discover the Bay Cruise with Island Lunch
Number 3 offers a 4.5-hour scenic cruise that hits the highlights of the Bay of Islands, including the famous Hole in the Rock. This tour is a terrific option if you’re short on time but still want a rich experience. The boat’s marine mammal permits mean you’ll have a good chance of seeing dolphins, whales, orcas, and other wildlife along the way, which adds an exciting element to the cruise.
The included lunch on an island stop lets you stretch your legs, explore, or relax on the beach. The lively commentary from the local guide provides context about the islands’ geology, history, and wildlife. The reviews mention the boat’s comfortable setting and the chance to see marine life, making it a popular choice for nature lovers.
Bottom Line: If you want a shorter, wildlife-focused cruise with a scenic island stop and a good lunch, this tour offers solid value and memorable views.
4. Shore Excursion to Historic Kerikeri including Lunch
Finally, number 4 takes you off the water and into Kiwi history with a 4-hour tour of Kerikeri. This experience includes visits to the Stone Store and Mission Station, Rainbow Falls, and a stop for lunch at the Plough & Feather pub. It’s perfect for those interested in the cultural side of New Zealand, as well as food lovers who want to sample local fare in an authentic setting.
What makes this tour special is the combination of natural beauty and historical insights, topped with chocolate tasting at the Makana Chocolate Factory. The scenic views from multiple platforms offer great photo opportunities, and wandering through the Kerikeri Domain adds a relaxed, small-town charm. The reviews praise the delicious handmade chocolates and the knowledgeable guide, making this a good choice for families or history buffs.
Bottom Line: If you prefer exploring land and history over the sea, or want a relaxed lunch with local flavor, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Paihia Lunch Experience
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. If sailing and wildlife are your priorities, the Island-Hopper Sailing Cruise or the Day Sailing Charter provide active, scenic days with plenty of water-based fun. For a shorter, wildlife-focused trip, the Discover the Bay cruise delivers scenic views and marine encounters in under five hours. If history, culture, and local food appeal more, the Kerikeri historic tour offers a different, land-based experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date. Think about your fitness level and what kind of experience will make your trip memorable—active water sports, relaxing sailing, or cultural exploration.
Final Thoughts
Paihia’s lunch experiences range from exhilarating sailing adventures to cultural visits and scenic cruises. For those who love outdoor activities, the Island-Hopper Sailing Cruise and the Day Sailing Charter are hard to beat, offering great value and fun water-based activities. If you prefer a shorter trip with wildlife viewing and a scenic lunch stop, the Discover the Bay cruise suits travelers pressed for time. And if history and local flavors are more your style, the Kerikeri tour provides a lovely mix of culture, nature, and great food.
No matter which you choose, these tours give you a taste of what makes Paihia and the Bay of Islands special. Be sure to book ahead, especially if you’re traveling during busy months, to enjoy a smooth and memorable lunch experience.