Bay of Islands: V8 Trike Ride to Opua, Haruru Falls & Lookout

Summary

V8 trike adventure through Paihia Opua Haruru Falls lookout

You’ll buckle into a V8 trike in Paihia and ride out with your local guide through Opua marina village, past Haruru Falls’ misty spray, and up to Waitangi Lookout for those wide-open Bay of Islands views. Expect salty air, friendly locals waving you by, and a bit of an adrenaline rush that lingers longer than you’d think.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the start — my sunglasses slipped off my head right as we were about to climb onto the V8 trike in Paihia. Our guide, Dave, just grinned and said, “Don’t worry, you’ll need those.” He was right. That first blast of wind when we pulled out was colder than I expected for summer, even with the sun out. No helmets, just seatbelts and that low engine rumble under us. I could smell salt and sunscreen mixed together — maybe from the last passengers? Or maybe just this whole place.

We zipped past the marina at Opua, and I tried waving at a couple of folks fixing their boats — one waved back with a wrench in hand. Dave kept up a running commentary about the Bay of Islands but not in that rehearsed way; he pointed out some old Māori carvings near the water and told us how his dad used to fish there for snapper. At Haruru Falls we stopped long enough to feel spray on our faces — it’s not huge but it’s got this horseshoe shape that makes it look like it’s curling in on itself. There was a family having lunch nearby and their little boy kept staring at our trike like it was a spaceship.

The ride up to Waitangi Lookout was quieter, except for the engine (which is never really quiet). The view from up there — honestly, I didn’t expect to feel much but something about seeing all those islands scattered across blue water hit me weirdly hard. Maybe because you can see so far or maybe because Dave went silent too for a second. On the way back he asked if we wanted music and then laughed when I requested Fleetwood Mac — apparently that’s his go-to too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bay Combo Tour highlights

• View majestic Opua
• Visit unique Haruru Falls
• Enjoy 360 degree Bay views

Top questions

Is this Bay of Islands trike tour suitable for kids?

Yes, children as young as 3 can join with specialized infant or booster seats pre-booked.

How long does the V8 trike ride last?

The full tour lasts approximately 60 minutes from Paihia.

Are helmets required on this tour?

No helmets are needed; full seatbelts are provided for safety.

Where does the Bay Combo Tour start?

The tour starts beside the bus stop and I-Site information center in Paihia.

Is pickup included for cruise ship passengers?

No pickup is included, but cruise passengers can take a free shuttle bus into Paihia (about 5 minutes).

Is this private or shared?

This is a private trike tour for your group only (minimum two people per booking).

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

What should I bring for the ride?

Bring sunglasses and a light sweater in summer; jacket or beanie in winter plus your camera.

What’s included

Your day includes a private V8 trike ride with a local guide starting from Paihia, all GST taxes covered, full seatbelt safety (no helmet needed), stops at Opua marina village, Haruru Falls for photos or just feeling the mist on your face, and panoramic views from Waitangi Lookout before heading back—plus everything’s wheelchair accessible if you need it.