Bay of Islands Kiwi Bird Sighting Tour from Paihia Morning

See a kiwi bird where it actually lives, not in a zoo

This five-hour tour from Paihia combines kiwi bird sighting in its nocturnal habitat, the only such tour in Northland, with the Whangarei Heritage Museum, Whangarei Falls and Waitangi Lookout. The itinerary is timed to cruise ship schedules, with bottled water, entrance fees and commentary included. Lunch is an additional cost.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time spent at each

1. Whangarei Falls30m · entry included
2. Waitangi20m

Explore Kiwi, Museum, Falls, and Lookout

• Commentary from Waitangi Wharf
• Kiwi sighting and feeding time
• Visit NZ Reptiles and Heritage Museum
• Lunch break and toilet stop
• Commentary en route to Whangarei Falls
• Visit Whangarei Falls
• Drive back to Bay of Islands with commentary
• Panoramic view at Waitangi Lookout

The experience

The tour starts at Waitangi Wharf with commentary on local history as you head to the Kiwi Centre. You'll watch the birds during feeding time with the keepers and also see New Zealand reptiles on display. The center has wheelchair access and a gift shop. From there, the route heads inland toward Whangarei, with the driver pointing out landmarks along the way.

At Whangarei Falls, a 26.3-meter drop, you get time to stand in front of the waterfall and take photographs. The final stop is Waitangi Lookout, where you get a panoramic view of the Bay of Islands. The lookout is positioned so the ship sits in the background of photos. You're dropped at the tender wharf or back in Paihia for shopping, and the tour timing adjusts to match your ship's schedule. Check in 30 minutes before departure.

What’s included

• Entrance fees to the Kiwi Centre and Whangarei Heritage Museum.
• bottled water.
• commentary from a live English-speaking guide.
• transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with stops at Whangarei Falls and Waitangi Lookout.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Sep 2027

Book up to16h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (under 12)

GroupUp to 11

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 7 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendly

Operated by Elite Excursions

Is this one for you?At five hours, this tour fits inside a cruise ship port call and leaves time for shopping in Paihia before you return to the tender wharf. The schedule adjusts to your ship's departure, so you won't miss it.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 12).

Can I see a kiwi bird on this tour from Paihia?

Yes. The Kiwi Centre is the only place in Northland offering kiwi bird sightings in their natural nocturnal habitat, and it's included on this tour. You'll watch them during keeper feeding time.

How long is this tour and will I make it back to my ship on time?

The tour runs five hours total. The operator adjusts the schedule to your cruise ship's departure and guarantees you'll be back at the tender wharf on time. Just check in 30 minutes before the tour starts.

What is Whangarei Falls like?

Whangarei Falls is a 26.3-meter waterfall that you'll see up close during a sightseeing stop. It's a natural setting where you can take photographs and spend time at the site.

What's included in the price of this tour?

Entrance fees to the Kiwi Centre and Heritage Museum, bottled water, commentary from the guide, and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle are all included. Lunch is not included and costs extra.

Do I need to be fit or active for this tour?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Wheelchairs are available at the Kiwi Centre and Heritage Museum. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and booster seats are available on request.