A Travel Price Comparison for New Zealand Paihia vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Paihia and Mount Aspiring National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Paihia

Paihia is a relaxing, fun-filled, and beautiful coastal town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking, undeveloped, and remote national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Paihia and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paihia than Mount Aspiring National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paihia is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Paihia is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its warm year round climate, impressive beaches, and world class snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Paihia is famous for the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Paihia different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Paihia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Paihia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Paihia. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Paihia. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Paihia to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Beaches?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is very popular for the beache. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Paihia are among the best in the world. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Mount Aspiring National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Paihia. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

Is the Shopping Better in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Paihia offers some nice shopping areas. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Paihia is an amazing family-friendly coastal town to visit. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mount Aspiring National Park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for couples.

Paihia has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Mount Aspiring National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Paihia is a very popular coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.


Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Paihia has a few public transit options. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Paihia
Mount Aspiring National Park

Paihia and Mount Aspiring National Park are notable when it comes to walkability.

Paihia is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable coastal town. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Paihia Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Paihia?

How long in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paihia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paihia than Mount Aspiring National Park . In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paihia, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Paihia than Mount Aspiring National Park . Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paihia, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paihia than Mount Aspiring National Park . You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paihia that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paihia than Mount Aspiring National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paihia.


  • How many days in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paihia 3-5 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The beautiful destination of Paihia offers nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paihia. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Paihia is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paihia has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful coastal town of Paihia. Most people come for the beaches. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Paihia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Paihia is $80, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $110. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Paihia and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paihia $34
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paihia $68
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
Compare Hotels in Paihia and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Paihia


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Paihia Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paihia $12
    Mount Aspiring National Park $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Paihia or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Paihia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Paihia $28
    Mount Aspiring National Park $19

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paihia $35
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Tours and Activities in Paihia

For Paihia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Bay of Islands 2-Hour Sundowner Evening Sailing Cruise: $48
  • Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 hour evening sailing cruise with swim stop: $49
  • Bay of Islands Trike Tour Experience: $53
  • Bay of Islands 30-minute Adventure Jet Boat Trip: $53
  • Bay of Islands: Late Afternoon Sailing Cruise: $59
  • Bay of Islands Waterfall Explorer Kayaking Tour: $60
  • Bay of islands Waterfall Cruise Kayaking Tour: $60
  • Thriller Tour - Bay of Islands, 30 mins (min 2): $61
  • Scenic Tour - Bay of Islands, 30 mins (min2): $61
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tour to the Hole in the Rock: $69
  • Parasailing Adventure Over the Bay of Islands: $70
  • From Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paihia $22
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paihia

Also in Paihia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bay of Islands Wine Tour with Lunch: $101
  • Private Tour: Bay of Islands Tour with Wine Tasting: $291
  • Private Shore Excursion: Bay of Islands Tour with Wine Tasting: $291


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paihia and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Paihia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Paihia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Paihia and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park than you might in Paihia.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paihia Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.