Russell, Paihia or Kerikeri
 

Hi, we are a bit confused as to which the best place to stay is of the above places? What are the differences? Also, has anyone stayed at Chalet Romantica or Te Pa Helios? Thanks a lot!

Hi There,

To answer your question about the differences in these locations - not much. All three are top places to visit if you are after a relaxing time. The main differentiator between them would be size.

Kerikeri is the "largest" still only around 4-5,000 people live there though. Paihia would be next around 2,000 and Russell about 1,000 on a good day. Paihia and Russell are opposite each other across an arm of the Bay of Islands. There are frequent passenger ferries during the day to get you across to the other side. It is about a 10 minute trip. If you have a car there is a car ferry from Opua (About 5 minutes drive from Paihia) that takes you across to give you car access to Russell. Russell is an old town. It is one of the first European settlements in New Zealand, though here that still makes it less than 200 years old. It is a very pleasent little place to have a relaxing stay and unwind. There are limited but still good places to eat there, cafe style.

Paihia is larger and is the "jump off" point for boat trips around the Bay of Islands and also for coach trips up to Cape Reinga. It is very much a tourist focused town. Bigger selection of bars and restaurants, all pretty casual dining though.

Kerikeri is only 15 minutes or so from Paihia. Kerikeri is more of a service town for the local fruit growers and farmers. It does have some attractions such as the stone store which are geared for the tourist and the area down by the river is very nice. But the town itself is just another town. It is the area around it that is very nice. (Though if you do get a craving for junk food it does have a McDonalds).

This is just to give you an idea of what is there. Fire away with any other questions. Can't help as regards the accomodation. We usually stay with relatives when we are up there.

Steve

Dear Steve,

Thanks SO much for the descriptions; it helps a lot in making our decision on where to stay.....since we are going to be on our honeymoon, sounds like Russell may be nicer although Paihia sounds lovely also.....thanks again for your advice! :)