Things To Do
in Whangarei
Whangarei is a city located in the Northland region of New Zealand, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. The city is nestled between forested hills and a picturesque harbor, offering a beautiful setting for visitors to explore. Whangarei is also home to impressive cultural attractions, including art galleries and museums showcasing Maori heritage.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, diving, and exploring nearby beaches while experiencing the relaxed vibe of this charming city.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Whangarei Art Museum, where you can appreciate local artworks. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café to soak in the morning ambiance.
Head to the scenic Whangarei Falls for a leisurely walk and picnic lunch. Take time to explore the surrounding trails and enjoy the lush greenery.
End your day with a sunset view at the Town Basin, and enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Take a stroll along the marina for a peaceful end to your day.
Visit the Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Centre to learn about local bird species. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy the morning sounds of nature.
Explore the stunning landscapes at the Tutukaka Coast, famous for its clear waters and cliffs. Spend some time at Ngunguru Beach for swimming or sunbathing.
Have dinner at a beachside restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood. Take a walk along the shore as the sun sets over the ocean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches, parks, and nature reserves.
- A relaxed lifestyle with a friendly community atmosphere.
- Access to a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and water sports.
- Rich Maori culture and heritage that contributes to local events and traditions.
- Growing arts and crafts scene with local markets and galleries.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities in New Zealand.
- Some amenities and services may be less accessible or have limited hours.
- Public transportation options may be limited, leading to reliance on cars.
- Higher cost of living relative to some other regions in New Zealand.
- Potentially rainy weather, particularly in winter months.
Best Activities in Whangarei
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic walk to see the beautiful Whangarei Falls and surrounding lush forest.
Hike to the top of Parihaka Mountain for stunning views of Whangarei and the surrounding landscapes.
Explore the coastal tracks offering breathtaking views, wildlife spotting, and beautiful beaches.
Take a relaxing walk along the shoreline of Ngunguru estuary with picturesque views of the sandspit and ocean.
Tours
Uncover the best of Whangarei with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Whangarei
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning waterfall located in a picturesque reserve, offering great photo opportunities and views.
Provides panoramic views of Whangarei and the surrounding area, perfect for capturing beautiful landscapes.
Food in Whangarei
Whangarei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maori method of cooking using earth ovens, typically including kumara (sweet potato), potato, chicken, lamb, and pork, resulting in tender, smoky flavors. Can be experienced at Maori cultural centers like Kiwi North or in local festivals and events.
Must-Try!
A delicacy made with local whitebait, eggs, and seasoning, pan-fried to perfection. Best enjoyed at fish and chips shops along the coastal areas like the iconic Marsden Cove Marina or at waterfront restaurants like The Quay.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Whangarei better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local artisanal products, and delectable street food. Visitors can savor diverse treats such as Māori fried bread, Pacific poke bowls, and vegan wraps while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Whangarei, it's important to be aware of traditional Maori greetings such as the hongi (pressing noses together) and the mihi (formal speech) as a sign of respect for Maori culture.
Whangarei is surrounded by natural beauty, so it's essential to show respect for the environment and follow local conservation practices, such as avoiding littering and staying on designated walking tracks.
In New Zealand culture, punctuality is important, and it's considered respectful to arrive on time for appointments and meetings. Politeness and good manners are also highly valued in social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Whangarei with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Whangarei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Whangarei, New Zealand. It is not expected or required in restaurants, bars, or other service industries.
Payment in Whangarei, New Zealand is predominantly done using credit/debit cards, cash, or electronic forms such as mobile payments. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Whangarei.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Whangarei is during the summer, when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities such as beach visits, hiking, and exploring the surrounding areas. This season is also popular for water activities like swimming, diving, and snorkeling with the marine life thriving in the warm waters.
Autumn in Whangarei brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, making it a great time for scenic drives, hiking, and outdoor photography. It's also a quieter time for tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit.
Winter in Whangarei is characterized by cooler and sometimes rainy weather. However, it's still a good time for indoor activities such as visiting museums, art galleries, and enjoying local cuisine. The winter months are also ideal for bird watching and exploring the city's cultural offerings.
Spring brings mild weather and blooming flora, making it an ideal time for nature walks, garden tours, and exploring the city's parks. It's also a great time to witness the reinvigoration of the natural environment, with wildlife becoming more active and visible.
Whangarei at Night
Hiking in Whangarei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area offering stunning views, beaches, and various walking tracks, including the popular Mount Manaia Track.
A unique hiking spot featuring limestone caves and a network of walking tracks through lush native bush.
A prominent hill in Whangarei featuring several trails with panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
Located a bit north of Whangarei, this track offers rugged coastal scenery and is part of the Tutukaka Coast.
A beautiful garden with walking paths, native plants, and art installations, ideal for a leisurely hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Whangarei through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Whangarei by plane.
Located approximately 170 kilometers south of Whangarei, Auckland Airport is the largest and busiest international airport in New Zealand, serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
About 1,000 kilometers south of Whangarei, Christchurch Airport is the second-largest international airport in New Zealand and serves a significant number of international routes.
Located around 700 kilometers south of Whangarei, Wellington Airport is another key international gateway, serving flights to various destinations around the globe.
Approximately 130 kilometers south of Whangarei, Hamilton Airport is a smaller international airport that offers a limited number of international flights along with domestic services.
Roughly 200 kilometers south of Whangarei, Tauranga Airport provides limited international services and is a popular regional airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Whangarei, primarily comprising people of European descent, including those with British ancestry.
A significant demographic group in Whangarei, with a rich cultural heritage and strong community presence.
An increasing demographic group, including individuals of Chinese, Indian, Filipino, and other Asian descents.
Comprising individuals from various Pacific Island nations, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Including individuals from African, Middle Eastern, and South American backgrounds, representing a smaller percentage of the population.
The Soul of Whangarei
Discover the essence of Whangarei through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Whangarei, with a strong local club culture and community engagement.
Cricket has a significant following in Whangarei, with several teams and competitions organized throughout the cricket season.
Netball is widely played among women and girls in Whangarei, with many clubs and schools participating in local leagues.
Football is growing in popularity in Whangarei, with numerous clubs offering opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels.
Rugby league is also popular, with local teams competing in regional competitions and drawing passionate support.
Basketball has a dedicated following, with various clubs and community programs available for youth and adult players.
Given its coastal location, surfing is a popular pastime in Whangarei, attracting enthusiasts to its beaches.
Athletics is supported by local clubs and schools, providing opportunities for competition and participation across a range of track and field events.
Cycling is enjoyed both recreationally and competitively in Whangarei, with scenic routes attracting cyclists of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whangarei.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Whangarei has embraced the vegetarian and vegan food scene, with many restaurants and cafés offering plant-based options. Standout choices include nourishing Buddha bowls at The Wild Tiger and vegan burgers at NOURISH Cafe & Health Food Store.
Travelers with gluten intolerance will find accommodating options at various dining establishments across Whangarei. Notable mentions include the gluten-free pizzas at Port Marsden Cove, and the gluten-free crepes at The Quay.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Whangarei with these cultural adventures.
