Whangarei

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Whangarei's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Relaxing in Whangarei
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Nature's Best
morning
:

Visit the Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Centre to learn about local bird species. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy the morning sounds of nature.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

Have dinner at a beachside restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood. Take a walk along the shore as the sun sets over the ocean.

day 3
Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Start early with a visit to the Whangarei Quarry Gardens for a unique gardening experience. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the flora.

afternoon
:

Head to the Whangarei Heads for a hike up Mount Manaia, offering breathtaking views of the area. Pack a hike-friendly lunch to enjoy at the summit.

evening
:

Return and unwind at a local pub with live music. Share stories about your adventures with fellow travelers and locals over a drink.

day 4
Coastal Adventures
morning
:

Catch a morning kayak tour around the stunning Whangarei coastline. Paddle through beautiful bays and spot local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at one of the local cafés in Ngunguru before heading to the Whangarei Marina. Spend the afternoon exploring boutique shops and galleries.

evening
:

Relax with an evening cruise on the water, taking in the views of the cityscape. Conclude the day with a delicious meal at a nearby eatery.

day 5
Eco-Friendly Escape
morning
:

Visit the Whangarei Museum to learn about regional history and culture. Take a walk around the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.

afternoon
:

Volunteer at a local conservation project to contribute to nature preservation. Spend a few hours helping out and enjoy the refreshing outdoor setting.

evening
:

Dine at a sustainable restaurant that focuses on local ingredients. As night falls, walk through the city to admire the lights and ambiance.

day 6
Beach Day
morning
:

Head to Bream Bay for a relaxing beach day and take advantage of the early morning sun. Bring your beach gear for swimming and sunbathing.

afternoon
:

Have a beach picnic with local produce and treats. After lunch, engage in some beach activities like volleyball or frisbee.

evening
:

Wrap up your beach day with an evening beach walk, enjoying the sounds of the waves.

day 7
Fishing Fun
morning
:

Enjoy a peaceful morning fishing at one of Whangarei's many spots, like the Hatea River. Catch your breakfast and indulge in the tranquility.

afternoon
:

Head back to the city for a cooking class on preparing fresh catch from the morning. Learn new recipes and techniques from local chefs.

evening
:

Savor your homemade dinner with a beautiful view of the sunset. Spend the evening relaxing and reflecting on your day’s activities.

day 8
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Claphams National Clock Museum to marvel at unique timepieces and learn about their history. Enjoy a guided tour to really grasp the fascinating stories.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets for authentic handicrafts and fresh produce. Engage with local artisans and discover the culture through their crafts.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance or event if available. Enjoy an evening filled with local dance and music for an immersive experience.

day 9
Active Day Out
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the Hatea Loop, a scenic bike trail around the harbor. This is a refreshing way to witness the city’s natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a café along the loop and take some time to relax. Afterward, head to some local parks for more biking and light hiking.

evening
:

Return your bike and enjoy dinner at a cozy eatery. Spend some time in a local park or green space for a relaxing end to an active day.

day 10
Wine & Dine
morning
:

Start your day by visiting local vineyards for a morning tasting session. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Continue tasting and enjoy a leisurely lunch with wine pairing at one of the estate restaurants. Enjoy the flavors while taking in the landscape.

evening
:

Return to Whangarei for a fine dining experience. Savor a multi-course meal paired with local wines, reflecting on your delicious day.

Discover Whangarei

Read more in our Whangarei 2024 Travel Guide.

Whangarei Travel Guide