Bay of Islands Craft Beer Brewery Tour and Haruru Falls, Paihia

Bay of Islands Craft Beer Brewery Tour and Haruru Falls, Paihia offers a chance to combine scenic sightseeing with a taste of New Zealand’s thriving craft beer scene. For around $54 per person, you’ll spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring some of the most picturesque spots in North Island’s Bay of Islands region. This tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, taking you from the historic Waitangi area to the stunning Haruru Falls, ending at the family-run PhatHouse Brewery in Haruru.

What we love about this experience is the intimate size of the group, capped at just 9 travelers, which makes for a friendly, personalized atmosphere. The scenic views from Waitangi Golf Course and the close-up look at Haruru Falls are highlights that add genuine value. Plus, the guided behind-the-scenes visit to the brewery gives you insight into New Zealand’s craft beer culture—something beer lovers will appreciate.

A possible consideration is the short duration—some travelers might wish for more time at each stop or additional activities. If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of the area, this tour hits the key spots efficiently. It’s perfect for small groups or first-timers who want a balanced mix of scenery, history, and local flavor without feeling rushed.

This experience suits those who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy scenic drives, and like discovering hidden gems like Haruru Falls. It’s also great for adventurous food and drink enthusiasts wanting to sample craft beer while exploring New Zealand’s beautiful landscape.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personal, engaging experience.
• Beautiful scenic stops like Waitangi and Haruru Falls offer great photo opportunities.
• Insightful guides provide context on the area’s history and natural features.
• Behind-the-scenes brewery tour reveals the craft beer process firsthand.
• Flexible duration allows for a relaxed visit tailored to travelers’ interests.
• Suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly outing.

In-Depth Review of the Bay of Islands Craft Beer Tour and Haruru Falls

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the Bay of Islands region, perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience a blend of natural beauty, local history, and craft beer. Starting in Paihia, you’ll be picked up and driven through some of the most scenic areas of North Island with a friendly guide leading the way. The tour is designed to be intimate, with no more than nine travelers, which means you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

For just over two hours, you’ll explore some iconic sights, learn about their significance, and enjoy a relaxed tasting session at a family-owned brewery. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it a flexible option whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.

Scenic Stops and Natural Beauty

First, you’ll visit Waitangi, the historic site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. From the nearby viewpoint, you’ll get sweeping views of Paihia Harbour and the surrounding bay. Your guide will share a brief overview of the area’s history—helping you appreciate the significance of this place in New Zealand’s story. Expect some great photo opportunities here, as the vistas are truly picturesque.

Next, the tour heads to Haruru, where you’ll see the impressive Haruru Falls. This is a genuine highlight: a waterfall where the Pacific Ocean meets the Waitangi River, creating a powerful spectacle. You’ll have about 20 minutes to take in the view, snap photos, and listen to your guide’s explanation about the falls’ natural and cultural importance. The closeness of the falls makes it a perfect moment to connect with nature and enjoy the lush surroundings.

The Heart of the Tour: PhatHouse Brewing Co

The highlight for many will be the visit to PhatHouse Brewing Co, a family-owned brewery and kitchen located just a short drive from Haruru. Here, you’ll get a fully guided tour of the brewery, seeing how their beers are brewed and learning about their unique approach. The guide, presumably someone knowledgeable and lively, will walk you through the brewing process, giving insight into what makes New Zealand craft beers so distinctive.

After the tour, you’ll be treated to a welcome beer and a full tasting paddle. This is a chance to sample a variety of local brews—each with its own story and flavor profile. The included tasting paddle offers a good value for beer enthusiasts, giving you a chance to compare different styles and find your favorite.

Practical Details and Group Experience

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, which is a thoughtful touch given New Zealand’s often unpredictable weather. The pickup is from the primary meeting point at PhatHouse Brewing Co., and the tour ends back there, making logistics simple. Starting at 3 p.m., it’s a perfect late-afternoon activity that allows you to enjoy the scenery and unwind with some local brews.

At just over $53, this tour offers reasonable value—especially considering the guided experience, the scenic stops, and the brewery visit. However, note that lunch is not included, but you can order food at the brewery’s kitchen, making it a flexible option for a relaxed afternoon meal.

Authenticity and Local Charm

What makes this tour stand out is the authenticity. Visiting a family-run brewery gives you a taste of local craftsmanship and community spirit. The scenic viewpoints and Haruru Falls are genuine highlights, not just tourist spots. From the reviews, we see that the friendly service and knowledgeable guides are appreciated, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the short duration—some travelers might feel it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. While the stops are carefully chosen, those wanting more time at each site or additional activities might find this tour limiting. Also, as the tour is limited to 9 people, it’s small enough to foster camaraderie but might fill up quickly, so booking in advance is advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy scenic drives and authentic local encounters. It’s ideal if you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for an easy, relaxed outing that combines nature with culture. The family-friendly nature makes it suitable for travelers of all ages, including those traveling with children.

The Sum Up

In all, the Bay of Islands Craft Beer Brewery Tour and Haruru Falls offers a charming, manageable way to see some of the North Island’s scenic and cultural highlights without overwhelming your schedule. The combination of stunning vistas, natural waterfalls, and a behind-the-scenes look at craft brewing makes it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers.

If you’re after an authentic local experience with a laid-back vibe, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially great for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and want to get a genuine feel for the region’s natural beauty and community-driven craft beer scene.

While it may not replace a full-day tour for those craving more activity or depth, it offers a nice balance of scenery, history, and local flavor in a short window—making it an excellent choice for a relaxed, engaging afternoon.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, including sightseeing and the brewery visit.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, air-conditioned transportation is included, starting and ending at the brewery in Haruru.

Can I bring kids?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly outing.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended, especially since the tour is limited to 9 travelers, to ensure availability.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can purchase food at the brewery’s kitchen.

What is the cost per person?
The tour is priced at around $53.69 per person, offering good value for the experience.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor sightseeing and walking, and bring layers if the weather changes.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
While most stops are accessible, some natural areas like Haruru Falls might require some walking or uneven paths. It’s best to check with the provider directly if you have specific needs.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this modest yet charming tour is the right fit for your trip to North Island’s Bay of Islands. Whether you’re a craft beer lover, a nature enthusiast, or a curious traveler, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.