Opua

If you are travelling by boat, the chances are that Opua will be your first port of call in New Zealand.

Opua is mainly a marine commercial town, and well worth a visit to get a feel of what it’s like to live and work in the area. There are local boaties and seasonal cruisers galore. Here you will find all the marine engineers, chandleries and sailmakers you could wish for.

Just cruising through the marina, looking at the boats and drinking in the maritime atmosphere is a great way to pass a couple of hours.

The coastal walk between Opua and Paihia is an enjoyable and not-too-strenuous way to find some wonderful views and also to help put the geography of the inner bay into context.