Opua

Rest and Relaxation in Opua

One of the places you shouldn't miss visiting when in the Bay of Islands is Opua. Opua means The place of Pua. Quite literally, O (the place of) and Pua (the Pua flower).

This peaceful seaside settlement is the gateway to the Bay of Islands. It is located where the Kawakawa River and Waikeri River meet. Opua is where yachts and boats first arrive in New Zealand after crossing the South Pacific Ocean. It is the perfect place for weary sailors to rest and recuperate. 

Opua's community is small and centered around its international recreational Port, Marina, and Wharf. If you are into fishing, it is permitted here. There's also a good restaurant, a take-away shop and a small convenience store. Opua is really a quaint place to stay and relax. Once in Opua, there are a few places of interest you might want to experience, the Opua-Paihia Coastal Walk, the Harrison Scenic Reserve Walk, the Opua Kauri walk, Twin Coast Cycle Trail and the Opua Marina. 

Opua Kauri Walk

Take a pleasant walk through regenerating forests to a lookout with a stunning view over a valley that's home to kauri trees.

The Opua Kauri walk is a short stroll through groves of kauri trees to an elevated lookout platform. The walk takes about 30 minutes back and forth and covers just around 370 meters of walking distance. The trail starts on Oromahoe Road, Opua.

Opua-Paihia Coastal Walk

The walkway is a well-established track. You can walk safely without any worry since the track has been marked. The distance of the path is around 5.8 kilometers and will take about 3 hours to reach the other point. 

Harrison Scenic Reserve Walk

This walk just takes around 30 minutes and leads you through some of the best native forests in the Bay of Islands. The path takes you from Broadview Road in Opua, down a beautiful valley to join the Paihia-Opua Walkway.

Twin Coast Cycle Trail

This bike trail features scenic coastal views, wetlands, native forests, and rolling farmlands. As the name goes, the trail stretches coast-to-coast, from the Bay of Islands to the peaceful Hokianga Harbor. The Twin Coast Cycle trail is smooth and has dedicated cycling paths and country roads. While on this path, you will have an opportunity to visit historic and cultural sites. The bike path features on-road and off-road riding, generally flat, smooth surfaces and gentle climbs. Perfect for riders of all abilities who ride ate their own pace. 

All in all, Opua is the perfect place to sit back and relax after a long, adventurous day with The Rock Bay of Islands Adventure Cruise. With the relaxing and peaceful ambiance, this quaint seaside town has to offer, it is the perfect way to end the day. If you're planning to visit the Bay of Islands, get the most of your day with our all in overnight and day cruises.