By bus: InterCity and other coach companies run daily services from Auckland to Paihia, a journey of approximately 3–3.5 hours. This is the standard option for travellers without a car and the most convenient way to arrive from Auckland Airport.
By car: Paihia is about 240km north of Auckland, roughly 3 hours on State Highway 1 and then SH11. The drive through Northland is pleasant. Parking in Paihia can be tight in peak summer season.
Northland Explorer bus: A hop-on/hop-off bus service connects the Bay of Islands with Whangarei and Auckland, useful for multi-stop itineraries through Northland.
By air: Kerikeri Airport, about 25km from Paihia, has daily connections to Auckland (about 35 minutes). Air New Zealand and some smaller carriers operate the route. Transfer to Paihia requires a taxi or shuttle.