Things To Do
in Whangarei
Whangārei sits at the heart of Northland as a coastal city that blends harbour views, waterfalls, and a gateway to the region’s rugged scenery. The city pairs a relaxed Pacific vibe with convenient access to nature, from lush forests to dramatic headlands. Its waterfront and markets foster a friendly, easygoing atmosphere perfect for day trips and outdoor adventures.
Surrounded by kauri forests, caves, and islands, Whangārei is a practical base for exploring Northland’s diverse landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Whangarei Art Museum, where you can admire contemporary artworks that reflect the local culture. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Town Basin, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and scenic views of the marina. Don’t forget to stop by the local cafés for a delicious breakfast featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
In the afternoon, explore the heritage buildings along the Whangarei Historic Walk, where informative plaques tell the stories of the city's past. Visit the Claphams National Clock Museum, home to an impressive collection of timepieces from around the world. As you continue, enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while gazing at the boats bobbing in the harbor.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local pubs or eateries in the Town Basin for a taste of New Zealand craft beers and local wines. Join in on a live music event if available, enjoying the lively atmosphere with both locals and visitors. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the water, basking in the tranquil ambiance of the marina.
Begin your day at the beautiful Whangarei Heads, where you can enjoy a beachside breakfast with views of the ocean. Spend the morning at Ocean Beach, swimming, sunbathing, or trying your hand at surfing with a local instructor. The fresh sea breeze and stunning coastal scenery will invigorate your spirit as you embrace the beach vibes.
In the afternoon, partake in thrilling water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding at the idyllic Whangarei Harbour. Rent equipment from a local provider and explore the calm waters while taking in the native wildlife and stunning landscapes. Afterward, stop for a quick bite at a beachside café, refueling for the rest of the day.
As evening approaches, make your way to the nearby Whangarei Heads for a scenic sunset viewing. Capture the breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant colors across the sky. Conclude your beach day with a seafood dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the fresh catch of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧥Clothing item | $25-60 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastal setting with easy access to nature
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Smaller city with fewer international flight options
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Kia ora" - Hello / thank you
- "Tēnā koe" - Hello (formal)
- "Ka pai" - Good / well done
- "Kei te pēhea koe?" - How are you?
- "Aroha" - Love / compassion
- "Ngā mihi" - Greetings / thanks
Places to Visit in Whangarei
Visit one of these nice places.
Short, well-signposted track leads to a tall, picturesque waterfall—great for close-up and landscape shots.
Waterfront at golden hour with boats, sculptures, and reflections for creative travel photography.
Panoramic view over the city and coast; ideal for sunset panoramas and cityscapes.
Rugged coastal cliffs and lighthouse viewpoints offering dramatic seascapes.
Food in Whangarei
Whangarei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Maori slow-cooked meat and vegetables baked in an underground oven for a tender, smoky flavor.
Must-Try!
Fritter made with abalone, often served as a seaside snack or light meal.
Seasonal fritter featuring small whitebait fish—popular during their northern season.
Creamy chowder packed with local fish, shellfish, and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturday market offering fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and local crafts at the heart of the city.
Casual eateries and food trucks around the CBD providing quick, delicious bites and seafood options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect; greet with a friendly 'Kia ora,' be mindful around marae, and ask permission before entering sacred spaces.
Queue politely, keep noise down in residential areas, and be considerate of local residents and wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Whangarei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in New Zealand; rounding up or 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.
Most places accept EFTPOS, debit/credit cards, and contactless payments; some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes; stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and enjoy water-based activities along the coast.
Mild temperatures with fewer crowds; great for hiking and city strolls, plus autumn light for photography.
Typically mild and wetter; layer clothing and plan indoor stops or sheltered outdoor activities.
Cool mornings warming to sunny days; blooming flora and longer daylight hours—perfect for outdoor adventures.
Whangarei at Night
Hiking in Whangarei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular, easy to moderate loop leading to a scenic waterfall.
A challenging ascent with expansive coastal and island views at the top.
Cave system with glow-worms; a fun cave walk for families and adventurous hikers.
Coastal path with cliff views, seals, and lighthouse vantage points.
Lush forest trails and quiet birdlife within the regional forest area.
Airports
How to reach Whangarei by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights and occasional connections to Auckland.
New Zealand’s largest international hub; about 2.5–3 hours by road from Whangārei.
Small regional airport near Kerikeri for light aircraft and regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Culturally significant presence with strong community events and contributions to local life.
The largest demographic group shaping services, culture, and daily life.
Growing communities contributing to the region’s cultural mix.
International residents and visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local clubs and weekend matches.
Summer leagues and recreational play across parks and clubs.
Surfing, kayaking, and boating common along the coast.
Community leagues and casual pickup games throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whangarei.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafes and restaurants offer veggie options; ask for plant-based dishes or dairy-free substitutions, and look for fresh salads, grain bowls, and roasted veg dishes.