The Story of Paihia — and the Legacy of Zane Grey

Nestled in the heart of the Bay of Islands, Paihia has long been known as the gateway to one of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions — a place of rich history, deep cultural roots, and legendary fishing adventures. It’s only fitting that a restaurant at the centre of this coastal paradise carries the name Zane Grey — a man who helped put the Bay of Islands on the world map.

A Brief History of Paihia

Paihia’s story stretches back nearly two centuries. Originally a quiet coastal settlement, it became one of the earliest mission stations in Aotearoa when Reverend Henry Williams and his family arrived in the 1820s. The sheltered bay made it a natural meeting place for Māori and early European settlers — and soon, it became a hub of trade, culture, and exploration.

Today, Paihia remains the beating heart of the Bay of Islands, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy its calm waters, island cruises, and incredible marine life. Whether you’re swimming with dolphins, sailing across to Russell, or exploring the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Paihia offers the perfect mix of history and adventure.

Enter Zane Grey – The Adventurer Who Fell in Love with the Bay of Islands

The restaurant’s namesake, Zane Grey, wasn’t just a celebrated author — he was also a passionate sportsman and angler. Best known for his adventure novels and tales of the American frontier, Grey travelled the world in search of the ultimate fishing destination.

In the 1920s, his travels brought him to the Bay of Islands, where he found what he called “the angler’s Eldorado.” Grey’s fishing expeditions here became legendary. He wrote vividly about the enormous marlin, swordfish, and tuna that thrived in these waters, and his stories helped establish the Bay of Islands as one of the world’s great big-game fishing destinations.

His influence still lingers — not just in the fishing community, but in the way the region is experienced: adventurous, wild, and deeply connected to the ocean.

How the Legacy Lives On at Zane Grey’s

At Zane Grey’s Restaurant & Bar, that spirit of adventure and appreciation for the Bay’s natural beauty lives on. The venue celebrates everything the region represents — stunning coastal views, a deep respect for the sea, and a shared love of good food and great company.

• The Setting: Built right on the Paihia waterfront, the restaurant overlooks the very waters where Zane Grey once fished.

• The Menu: Fresh, locally sourced seafood pays homage to the abundance of the Bay of Islands.

• The Experience: Whether you’re dining over the water or relaxing at the Dock Bar, you’re part of a story that stretches back a century.

  
  

Where Past and Present Meet

Today’s visitors to Paihia can still sense the same magic that drew early explorers and inspired Zane Grey himself. From sunrise over the bay to cocktails at sunset, every moment here connects you to that legacy.

So next time you’re searching for the best restaurant in Paihia, remember — Zane Grey’s isn’t just a place to eat. It’s part of the story of the Bay of Islands.

Experience the legend. Experience Zane Grey’s.