Just minutes from the Bay of Islands, Paihia’s lunch experiences stand out for both quality and variety. Instead of typical restaurant meals, the best options combine dining with activities. Wine tours pair local vintages with fresh antipasto platters, while sailing cruises offer intimate picnic lunches against stunning coastal views.
Top picks include the catamaran day sail – perfect for families wanting a relaxed pace with great commentary – and the historically rich Kerikeri excursion featuring a hearty pub lunch. Real food lovers shouldn’t miss the full-day cruise that lets you gather your own seafood.
Check out these excellent lunch tours in Paihia:
Key Points
- The Shore Excursion to Historic Kerikeri includes a lunch at the Plough & Feather pub with a complimentary local beverage.
- The Full-Day Adventure Cruise includes a lunch as part of the tour package.
- The Bay of Islands Wine Tour includes an antipasto platter as part of the wine tasting experience.
- The Island-Hopping Sailing Cruise and Day Sailing Catamaran Charter do not explicitly include lunch, but may offer the opportunity to purchase food during the tour.
- The small group size of the Shore Excursion to Historic Kerikeri and the Full-Day Adventure Cruise can provide a more intimate and personalized lunch experience.
Bay of Islands Wine Tour With Lunch
The Bay of Islands Wine Tour with Lunch offers travelers an immersive experience in the idyllic Bay of Islands region of New Zealand.
Featuring a 100% recommendation from 28 travelers, this tour includes a badge of excellence and an affordable price tag of $110.34 per person.
Highlights include tastings of alcoholic beverages, a delectable antipasto platter for lunch, and knowledgeable guides like Bill who receive high praise.
Wheelchair-accessible and accommodating for most travelers, the tour provides a hassle-free experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Bay of Islands Wine Tour With Lunch Review
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From Paihia: Island-Hopping Sailing Cruise With Picnic Lunch
Embarking from the picturesque town of Paihia, travelers can experience the breathtaking Bay of Islands on an Island-Hopping Sailing Cruise with a delightful picnic lunch.
Priced at €116.13 per person, this 6-hour adventure aboard a 33-foot performance catamaran, Kopiko, offers a diverse range of activities, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, hiking, and swimming.
Guests can relax on bean bags during the return sail and enjoy a morning tea, picnic lunch, and cold beverage.
The tour also provides the opportunity to encounter local wildlife, such as seabirds, stingrays, seals, penguins, and dolphins.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 151 reviews, this cruise promises an unforgettable day of exploration and relaxation in the stunning Bay of Islands.
Read our full review: From Paihia: Island-Hopping Sailing Cruise With Picnic Lunch Review
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Day Sailing Catamaran Charter With Island Stop and Lunch
For travelers seeking a picturesque day on the waters of the Bay of Islands, the Bayscapes Charters Day Sailing Catamaran Charter provides an exceptional experience.
With a maximum of 19 passengers, this 5-star rated tour offers sailing, island exploration, and a delicious catered lunch.
Highlights include scenic commentary from the skipper, a 2-hour stop on a remote island, and access to paddleboards and snorkeling gear.
Reviewers praise the friendly hosts, beautiful scenery, and memorable activities.
At €121.36 per person, this charter delivers outstanding value for a full day on the water, complete with an island stop and lunch.
Read our full review: Day Sailing Catamaran Charter With Island Stop and Lunch Review
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Shore Excursion to Historic Kerikeri Including Lunch
This shore excursion to historic Kerikeri offers travellers a captivating look into the region’s rich heritage.
Starting from Waitangi Wharf, the 4-hour tour takes visitors to iconic sites like the Rainbow Falls, Kerikeri Mission Station, and Makana Chocolate Factory.
Highlights include scenic views, historical insights, and a lunch at the historic Plough & Feather pub with a complimentary glass of local beer or wine.
With a maximum group size of 11 and flexible booking options, this tour provides an intimate and customizable experience.
Customer reviews praise the informative guides, beautiful locations, and overall enjoyment, making it a recommended choice for couples and families seeking an authentic Kiwi experience.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion to Historic Kerikeri Including Lunch Review
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Island Explorer Day Cruise – With Island Stop and Lunch
The Island Explorer Day Cruise offers travellers a chance to venture beyond the shores of Paihia and discover the captivating islands within the Bay of Islands.
At $134.20 per person, this small-group cruise takes you on an island exploration with a lunch stop. Onboard, you’ll enjoy coffee, tea, a freshly prepared lunch, and a refreshing drink.
Explore the island at your leisure, with access to beach games, paddleboards, and snorkelling equipment. Though not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is suitable for most travellers.
With a 4.5-star rating from 3 reviews, it’s a popular option for those seeking a unique lunchtime experience in the Bay of Islands.
Read our full review: Island Explorer Day Cruise – With Island Stop and Lunch Review
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Bay of Islands: Sailing Catamaran Charter With Lunch
Seeking a captivating way to experience the Bay of Islands? Consider a 6-hour sailing catamaran charter from Paihia.
This scenic boat cruise includes a 2-hour island stop for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxation, along with a tasty catered lunch. Priced from $125.55 per person, the tour provides snorkeling gear and paddleboards.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 56 reviews, this experience offers stunning views and welcoming hosts. Guests must remove their shoes before boarding and bring warm jackets due to breezes.
A minimum of 4 passengers is required for the tour to operate. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Bay of Islands: Sailing Catamaran Charter With Lunch Review
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Full-Day Adventure Cruise With Lunch in Bay of Islands
Explore the Bay of Islands on a captivating full-day adventure cruise that offers an array of engaging activities.
Kayak, snorkel, gather seafood, trek to ancient Maori fortifications, and relax on a secluded beach. Along the way, marvel at the scenic photo opportunities.
The cruise includes lunch, local guide, transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Children are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult. A moderate fitness level is required.
Priced at $171.77 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, the cruise has an overall rating of 4.5 stars based on 9 reviews.
Read our full review: Full-Day Adventure Cruise With Lunch in Bay of Islands Review
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Shore Excursion To Historic Kerikeri Including Lunch
Aboard a cruise ship in the picturesque Bay of Islands, travelers can embark on a captivating half-day shore excursion to the historic town of Kerikeri.
Designed for cruise passengers, this tour features air-conditioned minivan transportation, a visit to the iconic Rainbow Falls, and a lunch at a local kiwi gastro-pub.
Guests can also explore the Stone Store and Kemp House, the oldest building in New Zealand.
With a maximum of 11 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
While the lunch quality and transport comfort have received some criticism, the overall experience is highly rated, showcasing the region’s natural, cultural, and culinary highlights.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion to Historic Kerikeri Including Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Lunch Experiences?
Most lunch experiences in Paihia don’t have strict dress codes. Casual, comfortable attire is generally acceptable. Some upscale restaurants may prefer smart casual, but guests are usually welcome in a range of clothing styles.
What Are the Vegetarian/Dietary Options Available?
Most Paihia lunch spots offer a range of vegetarian and dietary-friendly options, catering to diverse preferences. Customers can typically find meatless dishes, gluten-free choices, and accommodations for other special diets when dining in the area.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tours?
Bringing your own alcohol on tours is generally not allowed. Most tour operators have strict policies prohibiting outside alcohol to maintain safety and control. Guests should respect these guidelines and purchase any desired beverages from the tour provider.
Are the Lunch Locations Wheelchair Accessible?
The lunch locations in Paihia are generally wheelchair accessible, with ramps and wide doorways. However, it’s best to check with individual establishments to ensure they can accommodate a visitor’s specific needs.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Lunch Experiences?
The cancellation policy varies by provider, but most offer flexible options. Customers should check the specific terms when booking to ensure they understand the cancellation guidelines.
The Sum Up
Paihia offers a variety of memorable lunch experiences. Visitors can tour the Bay of Islands’ wineries, sail on island-hopping cruises, and explore historic Kerikeri, all while enjoying delicious local cuisine. Whether it’s a picnic lunch, a catamaran charter, or a full-day adventure cruise, Paihia provides ample opportunities to savor the region’s flavors and stunning natural beauty.