Whangarei District - Places To Go

If the idea of a guided tour brings you out in spots, you’ll be wanting to bring yourself to the spots you most want to see. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Matakana coast and country: weekend wonderland

Not that long ago, Matakana was just a bend in the road between Warkworth and Leigh. Now it’s a byword for gourmet food, top-quality wine and arthouse cinema. Read the story . . .

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Activities

Tutukākā and the Poor Knights: national treasure

One of the best places for those who want to experience the full range of watery pastimes is the east coast of Northland and, in particular, Tutukākā, just to the north-east of Whangārei. Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Whangārei Harbour Marine Reserve

In the marine environment of Whangārei Harbour, two areas are set aside for protection: around Motukaroro (Passage) Island and at Waikaraka. Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Off-the-beaten-track day walks

Explore hidden walking gems that require only a map, some sturdy footwear and a strong desire to get out there and explore. Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Mimiwhangata Coastal Park Marine Reserve

Mimiwhangata Coastal Park near Whangārei is home to recovering bird and marine species, lovely coastal walks and lots of opportunities for water activities. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Whangārei: hills and harbours

Whangārei, the northernmost city in New Zealand, lies at the centre of a region of beautiful beaches and rugged hills. It's where Northland truly begins. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Kauri Coast: home again

It is a magical experience to drive the winding highway through Waipōua Forest, past giant trees which encroach onto the asphalt in places. You don’t want to be in a hurry here. Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Our marine reserves: treasures under the sea

In essence, the very simple overriding edict for a marine reserve is no take. Nothing may be removed: not fish, not seaweed, not stones, not feathers or shells off the beach. Read the story . . .

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Road trips

Twin Coast Discovery Highway: Auckland to Cape Rēinga

This epic roadie connects the little coves, beaches and bays of the east and the immense dunes wild coastline and vast, sweeping harbours out west. Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve

The underwater caves, arches and sheer cliffs at the Poor Knights provide diving so good, Jacques Cousteau rated it as one of the top ten dives in the world. Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Of the sea: surfing Aotearoa

When most people imagine their idyllic beach, they think of white sand and sun-dappled water. Surfers focus on wind and swell directions and the hidden bathymetry of the seafloor. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Simple pleasures at Mangawhai

Escape the city for a weekend at a slower pace filled with simple pleasures at Northland's Mangawhai Heads. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Small town treasure: Waipū

Waipū, just an hour and a half north of Auckland, is a small town steeped in Scottish heritage. Read the story . . .

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Road trips

Northland road trip: birds, bikes and bush

We cruise up the Brynderwyns, stately and elevated in our campervan. I am pleased to be fulfilling a childhood dream of travelling like a snail – taking my home with me wherever I go. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Five great days out with kids in Northland

With iconic native forest, cultural heritage and a bounty of beaches to explore, Northland offers a myriad of options for kid-friendly fun. Read the story . . .

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