Paihia: Bay of Islands Trike Tour Experience

Imagine cruising along the winding roads of North Island, New Zealand, on a powerful V8 Chev Trike, taking in stunning coastal scenery and iconic sights. That’s exactly what the Paihia Bay of Islands Trike Tour offers. With a near-perfect rating of 4.9 from 150 reviews, this adventure combines scenic beauty, adrenaline, and a dash of fun—all in one exhilarating ride.

What makes this tour stand out? It’s the unique open-road experience on a custom-built, eye-catching three-wheeled machine; the knowledgeable guides who share insights and local tips; and the spectacular views of Haruru Falls and the Bay of Islands from high vantage points. One thing to keep in mind is that if you’re not comfortable with speed or open-air rides, this might not be your perfect match. But for those craving a dose of adventure with a scenic backdrop, this tour hits the spot.

This experience suits adventure-seekers, photography lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable, active way to explore Paihia and its surrounds. Whether you’re after a quick thrill or a more relaxed scenic cruise, there’s a tour option that fits your style.

Key Points

• Powerful Ride: The V8 Chev Trike is impressive, offering a thrilling drive that’s safe yet exciting.
• Variety of Tours: Options range from a short 30-minute scenic ride to a full hour of adrenaline and sights.
• Unmatched Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Haruru Falls, Waitangi Lookout, and the coast.
• Informed Guides: Guides like Mark and Steve are praised for their friendly, informative commentary.
• Photo Opportunities: Capture memorable shots behind the handlebars and at scenic stops.
• Accessible and Private: Suitable for all ages and mobility levels, with private group options.

The Paihia Trike Tour is designed to give you a taste of New Zealand’s stunning coastlines and lush hills, all while riding in style. The variety of options means you can tailor your experience based on how long and how intense you want it to be.

Starting Point and Meeting
You’ll meet outside the i-Site Visitor Center in central Paihia, right next to the Maritime Building. From there, your guides—friendly, knowledgeable, and often lively—will brief you on safety and what to expect. No helmets are required, but full seatbelts are mandatory, ensuring safety without sacrificing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Scenic Tour (30 minutes)

This is the perfect introduction if you’re new to triking or short on time. It takes you out onto the open road, heading towards Haruru Falls, a striking half-moon-shaped waterfall that’s particularly photogenic. Expect a brief but exhilarating ride, with plenty of chances to snap photos of the falls and the gorgeous coastline. The highlight for many is the Waitangi Lookout, where you’ll enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the Bay of Islands—ideal for photos and simply soaking in the scenery.

The Thriller Tour (30 minutes)

For adrenaline junkies, this option amps up the excitement. The Thriller Tour accelerates the pace and includes a fast, winding cruise along the coast, with strong opinions from guides like Steve, who is known for his humor and local insights. Reviewers mention the “power of acceleration” and the “g-force thrill” as particular highlights. It’s a fun way to combine sightseeing with a bit of a rush.

The Combo Tour (1 hour)

This is the best choice if you’re after a more comprehensive experience. It combines the scenic stops with a longer, more engaging ride. You’ll explore Haruru Falls, enjoy the panoramic views at Waitangi, and wind through the hills of Opua—a quaint village and marina that’s often praised for its charm. Guests describe it as a “great ride” that “felt like seeing more of Paihia than most travelers.” With a full hour, you’ll savor the power of the trike and see more of the area’s beauty.

The Adrenaline Junkie Tour

A one-hour adrenaline ride with more speed and thrill, perfect if you want a high-energy experience. Reviewers highlight that guides like Mark and Steve make the rides safe and fun, with some noting they “felt safe from start to finish despite the weather.”

Haruru Falls
One of the most photographed spots on the tour, these falls are known for their distinctive half-moon shape. The short stop allows for photos and appreciation of this natural wonder.

Waitangi Lookout
Offering 360-degree views, this lookout is a favorite for capturing the expansive beauty of the Bay of Islands. The panoramic vistas are often described as breathtaking, and guides are praised for their informative commentary.

Opua Village and Marina
A charming stop that gives guests a taste of local life, with scenic views of boats and the coast. Reviewers mention it as a delightful addition, especially for photography and leisurely walks.

Photo Opportunities
Many travelers find the chance to have their photo taken “behind the handlebars” or at scenic stops as a memorable highlight. Guests often mention they appreciated the friendly guides who make these moments fun and relaxed.

Open Road Riding
The thrill of feeling the engine power under you, especially during the faster sections of the Thriller or Combo tours, creates an authentic sense of adventure that can be hard to match with other sightseeing options.

The trike itself is a real head-turner—big, shiny, and unmistakably American with its V8 engine roaring beneath you. Reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness, local knowledge, and professionalism. Guests note guides like Mark, Steve, and Daz as being both approachable and well-informed, making the ride feel safe and fun.

Safety and Accessibility
Despite the adrenaline, safety is a priority. Seatbelts are mandatory, helmets are not required, and the trikes are suitable for all ages and mobility levels. The small step-up makes boarding easier than you might expect, and guides are happy to assist if needed.

Timing and Group Size
Tours usually run in the morning and afternoon, lasting from 30 minutes up to an hour. The private group setup means you won’t be sharing your adventure with strangers—adding a personal touch that many reviewers found especially enjoyable.

Price and Value
At $73 per person, this experience falls into the mid-range category for outdoor activities, but the value is high considering the quality of the ride, the stunning views, and the expert guides. As one reviewer noted, “it’s a bit pricey but worth every penny,” especially when you consider the thrill factor and photo opportunities.

Weather Considerations
While the ride is designed to be comfortable and safe, weather can impact the experience. Guests mention that rain only briefly affected their rides, and clothes dried quickly afterward. Since the trikes are open-air, a jacket and sunglasses are recommended for comfort and sun protection.

This trike experience is more than just a scenic drive; it’s a fun, adrenaline-filled adventure with stunning vistas, lively guides, and memorable photos. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to add some excitement to their trip to Paihia.

If you’re after a fast-paced ride with spectacular views and engaging commentary, this tour checks all the boxes. The private group setting allows for flexibility and personal attention, making it ideal for those who prefer an intimate experience rather than large tour groups.

However, if you’re not comfortable with open rides or high speeds, you might find the thrill tours a bit too intense. But for most, the balance of scenic sightseeing and adrenaline makes this a standout activity in the Bay of Islands.

The Paihia Bay of Islands Trike Tour offers a distinct blend of raw power, scenic exploration, and expert guidance that appeals to adventure lovers and sightseers alike. The opportunity to ride a V8 Chev Trike along coastal roads and enjoy panoramic views makes it a memorable experience.

The mix of stunning natural sights, like Haruru Falls and the lookout, paired with the exhilaration of high-speed cruising, ensures you’ll leave with both great photos and a big smile. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge enhance the experience, adding insights and making you feel safe at every turn.

This tour is best suited for those craving a fun, active way to see Paihia and the Bay of Islands, especially if you love a bit of a rush. It’s a fantastic choice for celebrating a special occasion or simply spicing up your trip with a unique adventure.

If you’re after a combination of thrill, scenery, and local charm, this trike ride will likely become one of your travel highlights.

How long does the tour last?
Tour durations vary from 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the option you choose.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You’ll meet outside the i-Site Visitor Center in central Paihia, next to the Maritime Building.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the trikes are suitable for all ages and levels of mobility. The activity is designed to be accessible.

Do I need to bring anything?
Sunglasses and a jacket are recommended for comfort and sun protection.

Are helmets provided?
Helmets are not required, but full seatbelts must be worn at all times for safety.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: