Discover the thrill of California’s stunning bay with Thunder Trike Tours' Bay Combo Tour. Combining water adventures with land exploration, it’s an unforgettable way to experience this vibrant ecosystem.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition and comfortable in water.
Wildlife
History
The bay has been a hub of maritime activity since the Gold Rush era and played a critical role in California's development.
Conservation
Thunder Trike Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and wildlife-friendly behavior to preserve the bay’s fragile ecosystem.
Thunder Trike Tours
Discover the thrill of California’s stunning bay with Thunder Trike Tours' Bay Combo Tour. Combining water adventures with land exploration, it’s an unforgettable way to experience this vibrant ecosystem.
Thunder Trike Tours operates trike-based sightseeing adventures in the Bay of Islands region of New Zealand. Based in Paihia, Thunder Trike Tours runs a range of short and extended excursions that showcase local highlights including Haruru Falls, Waitangi Lookout, Russell, Opua, Kawakawa and surrounding native bush. The fleet features powerful V8‑powered trikes designed for comfortable, open-air riding and scenic photo stops.
Available trips include short 30-minute rides such as The Thriller Tour from Paihia to Opua and The Scenic Tour from Paihia I-Site to Haruru Falls and Waitangi Lookout; a 60-minute Adrenaline Junkie Tour that travels between Opua and historic Kawakawa with views of the Hundertwasser toilets and vintage train; and the 2.5-hour Ultimate Bay Experience that visits Haruru Falls, Waitangi Lookout and the historic settlement of Russell with optional time to explore Russell further. A Bay Combo Tour is also listed.
Each experience emphasizes panoramic views and photography opportunities along coastal roads, valleys and native bush. Riders will travel on three-wheeled trikes that combine motorcycle dynamics with stable handling and open-air visibility. Many routes depart from or return to central Paihia locations, making them accessible to visitors staying in town.
Thunder Trike Tours positions itself as a provider of adrenaline-friendly sightseeing rides that connect passengers with key Bay of Islands attractions. Trip lengths, recognizable landmarks and motorized trike rides define the operator’s core offerings for visitors seeking scenic, photo-focused excursions. Tours suit solo travellers, couples and small groups, providing memorable photo moments and open-air riding thrills across the Bay.
Tours Offered
5 tours
Range from short to extended rides
Ride Durations
30–150 min
From 30 minutes to 2.5 hours
Key Highlights
Haruru & Waitangi
Scenic lookout and waterfall stops
Vehicle Type
V8 trikes
Powerful, open-air three-wheelers
Select a Paihia departure, pick a tour length, and experience V8 trike sightseeing in the Bay of Islands.
Wear waterproof gear
Bring waterproof clothing and a camera to stay dry and capture the sights.
Check the weather forecast
Weather conditions can change quickly on the water, so dress accordingly.
Book in advance
Seats fill up fast, especially in peak season—reserve your spot early.
Bring binoculars
A good pair enhances wildlife viewing, especially for distant marine animals.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduce glare from the water surface and improve visibility of wildlife.
summer
Sunblock
Protect your skin during long hours under the sun.
spring;summer;fall
Waterproof camera
Capture marine wildlife and scenic views without worry about splashes.
spring;summer;fall;winter
Light jacket or layers
Keep comfortable during cooler weather and wind.
winter