There are almost endless opportunities for immersing yourself in the blue-green world of island and beach. Charter a yacht or launch. Dive or snorkel. Paddle a sea kayak in and out of the islands' nooks and crannies. Swim with dolphins.
Many people come with marlin in mind.
Zane Grey, the great American western writer and big game fisherman, pitched a tent and caught his first marlin here in 1926. Today enthusiasts come from all over the globe in pursuit of marlin, broad bills and game sharks. You can take part in keenly contested tournaments or hire a boat and fight your own private battles with the denizens of the deep. A quick ferry ride across the water from Paihia is the charming, elegant township of Russell. Russell is still a preference for boaties today who seek safe anchorage and pleasure.