Whangarei, New Zealand: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Whangarei Falls is one of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls, cascading 26 meters (85 feet) into a lush basalt pool? Known as the “City of 100 Beaches,” Whangarei offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures in New Zealand’s subtropical Northland region. Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, ancient kauri forests, or vibrant arts, this coastal gem delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Getting to Whangarei & Planning Your Journey

Located in New Zealand’s Northland region, Whangarei sits approximately 160 km (100 miles) north of Auckland, making it an accessible destination for both domestic and international travelers. As the northernmost city in New Zealand, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the stunning Northland peninsula.

By Air

While Whangarei does have a small regional airport, most international visitors will fly into Auckland International Airport and then make their way north. From Auckland, you have several options to reach Whangarei:

By Road

Driving from Auckland to Whangarei takes approximately 2.5 hours via State Highway 1. The scenic route offers beautiful coastal views and passes through charming small towns. If you’re planning to explore the region’s beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails, having your own vehicle is highly recommended.

Best Time to Visit Whangarei

Whangarei enjoys a subtropical climate with mild winters and warm, humid summers. The region receives more sunshine hours than many other parts of New Zealand, making it a year-round destination. However, certain seasons offer distinct advantages depending on your planned activities.

Ocean Beach near Whangarei is perfect for summer visitors

Weather Tips

Whangarei’s subtropical climate means it can be humid year-round. Even in winter, you’ll often experience pleasant days perfect for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially if you’re planning hikes or coastal activities. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out on adventures.

Getting Around Whangarei

While Whangarei has public transportation options, having your own vehicle provides the most flexibility for exploring the region’s diverse attractions, many of which are spread out across the Northland peninsula.

For attractions outside the city center, such as Whangarei Heads, Tutukaka Coast, or the Poor Knights Islands, having a rental car or joining organized tours is essential. Many of the region’s most beautiful beaches and hiking trails are 20-40 minutes from the city center.

Where to Stay in Whangarei

Whangarei offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. From waterfront hotels to cozy B&Bs and holiday parks, you’ll find comfortable places to rest after your adventures.

Waterfront accommodation at the picturesque Town Basin

Dining & Local Cuisine in Whangarei

Whangarei’s food scene celebrates the bounty of Northland with fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and influences from both Māori and European culinary traditions. The subtropical climate allows for year-round harvests of fruits and vegetables that feature prominently in local dishes.

Must-Try Local Specialties

Top Dining Areas

The Town Basin area offers the highest concentration of restaurants and cafés, with waterfront dining options overlooking the marina. Quality Street in the city center is home to several popular eateries, including the highly recommended Fat Camel Cafe serving Middle Eastern cuisine. For fresh produce and artisanal foods, visit the Whangarei Growers’ Market on Saturday mornings—the oldest growers’ market in New Zealand.

Enjoy waterfront dining with marina views at Town Basin

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Whangarei

Whangarei offers a diverse range of attractions that showcase both natural beauty and cultural heritage. From stunning waterfalls to world-class art centers, here are the must-see sights during your visit.

Whangarei Falls

Often called the “most photogenic waterfall in New Zealand,” Whangarei Falls is a 26-meter (85-foot) curtain waterfall just 10 minutes from the city center. A well-maintained loop track takes you to viewing platforms at the top and base of the falls. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated areas while soaking in the serene forest surroundings.

The impressive Whangarei Falls from the lower viewing platform

Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery

Opened in 2022, this architectural masterpiece is the last project designed by renowned Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The distinctive building features colorful facades, undulating floors, and a living roof with native plants. Inside, you’ll find the largest collection of Hundertwasser’s works outside Vienna, alongside the Wairau Māori Art Gallery—the first public gallery in New Zealand dedicated solely to contemporary Māori art.

The distinctive Hundertwasser Art Centre, a cultural landmark in Whangarei

Town Basin Marina

The heart of Whangarei’s cultural and dining scene, the Town Basin Marina combines a working marina with waterfront restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the Art Trail, which features sculptures by local artists, or simply relax at a café while watching boats come and go. The area is home to several museums, including the fascinating Claphams National Clock Museum with its collection of unique timepieces.

AH Reed Memorial Park

Experience ancient kauri trees up close at this accessible forest park just minutes from the city. A 500-meter elevated canopy walkway takes you through the treetops of kauri trees that are over 500 years old. The park connects to Whangarei Falls via the Sands Road Loop track, making it easy to combine both attractions in one visit.

Outdoor Adventures & Natural Wonders

Whangarei’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From pristine beaches to volcanic peaks and underwater marvels, nature lovers will find plenty to explore in this subtropical paradise.

Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve

Ranked by Jacques Cousteau as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world, the Poor Knights Islands lie 23 km (14 miles) off the coast. This protected marine reserve features underwater caves, tunnels, and arches teeming with colorful fish and marine life. Even if you don’t dive, snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours provide amazing views of this underwater wonderland. Tours depart daily from Tutukaka, a 30-minute drive from Whangarei.

The world-class Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve offers spectacular diving and snorkeling

Whangarei Heads and Mt Manaia

The dramatic volcanic peaks of Whangarei Heads peninsula provide some of the region’s best hiking opportunities. The Mt Manaia Track climbs through native forest to a summit with panoramic views of Whangarei Harbour and the Pacific Ocean. The moderately challenging 3.5 km (2.2 mile) return track takes about 2 hours to complete and rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas. For a longer adventure, the Te Whara Track follows an ancient Māori trail along the ridgeline with coastal views in all directions.

The rewarding panoramic view from Mt Manaia summit

Waipu Caves

Located 30 minutes south of Whangarei, these free-to-visit limestone caves are home to spectacular glowworms. Unlike commercial cave operations, Waipu Caves offer a more adventurous, self-guided experience. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight to navigate the cave interior, where you’ll be rewarded with magical displays of glowworms illuminating the darkness. The caves can get muddy and wet, so appropriate clothing is essential.

Abbey Caves

Just 10 minutes from Whangarei city center, Abbey Caves offer another opportunity to see glowworms in a less-visited setting. The area features three separate caves—Organ, Middle, and Ivy—connected by a scenic walking track through farmland. Each cave has its own character and varying levels of difficulty, making this a great option for those seeking a more accessible glowworm experience close to the city.

Beautiful Beaches Around Whangarei

Whangarei’s nickname as the “City of 100 Beaches” is well-earned, with countless stunning coastal spots within easy reach of the city. From family-friendly swimming beaches to world-class surfing breaks, the region’s coastline offers something for every beach lover.

Sandy Bay offers excellent surfing conditions year-round

Beach Safety Tips

Cultural Experiences & Museums

Whangarei offers rich cultural experiences that showcase both Māori heritage and contemporary New Zealand arts. The city has developed a reputation as a thriving arts hub with numerous galleries, museums, and cultural centers.

Wairau Māori Art Gallery

Located within the Hundertwasser Art Centre, this is New Zealand’s first public gallery dedicated solely to contemporary Māori art. The gallery features rotating exhibitions by established and emerging Māori artists, providing insight into indigenous perspectives through various art forms.

Claphams National Clock Museum

Housing over 1,600 timepieces from around the world, this quirky museum is a fascinating stop for visitors of all ages. From ancient sundials to elaborate modern clocks, the collection includes many rare and unusual examples. Guided tours provide entertaining stories behind the most notable pieces.

The fascinating collection at Claphams National Clock Museum

Whangarei Art Museum

The city’s public art gallery hosts exhibitions of both historical and contemporary works, with a focus on artists from the Northland region. Located in the Town Basin area, the museum offers free entry and regularly changing displays across various media.

Kiwi North

This multi-attraction site combines a kiwi house, museum, and heritage park. Visitors can see live kiwi birds in a specially designed nocturnal house, explore Northland’s history in the museum, and wander through historic buildings in the heritage park. Located 10 minutes from the city center, it’s an excellent option for families.

Whangarei Growers Market

New Zealand’s oldest growers market operates every Saturday morning at the Water Street car park. Beyond fresh produce, the market offers a cultural experience with local artisans, food vendors, and live music creating a vibrant community atmosphere. It’s an excellent place to interact with locals and sample regional specialties.

The vibrant Whangarei Growers Market operates every Saturday morning

Day Trips from Whangarei

Whangarei’s central location in Northland makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region. These popular day trip destinations are all within 1-2 hours’ drive and offer diverse experiences from historic sites to natural wonders.

Bay of Islands

Just an hour’s drive north of Whangarei, the Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most scenic maritime regions. Visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds where New Zealand’s founding document was signed, take a cruise to the famous “Hole in the Rock,” or explore the charming town of Russell, New Zealand’s first European settlement.

A cruise through the Bay of Islands makes for a perfect day trip from Whangarei

Cape Reinga

The northernmost accessible point of New Zealand is where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular swirl of currents. While it’s a longer day trip (about 3 hours each way), the journey takes you past 90 Mile Beach and ancient kauri forests. For Māori, this sacred site is where spirits begin their journey to the afterlife.

Mangawhai

Just 45 minutes south of Whangarei, Mangawhai offers beautiful beaches, a thriving arts scene, and the spectacular Mangawhai Cliff Walk with panoramic coastal views. The area is also known for its boutique wineries, olive groves, and the popular Mangawhai Farmers’ Market (Saturday mornings).

Practical Travel Tips

Safety & Etiquette

Whangarei is generally a safe destination, but standard travel precautions apply. Respect for Māori culture is important throughout New Zealand, particularly when visiting sites of cultural significance.

Practical Information

Ready to Explore Whangarei?

From cascading waterfalls and ancient kauri forests to world-class diving and vibrant cultural experiences, Whangarei offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and Kiwi hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the Tutukaka Coast, cultural immersion at the Hundertwasser Art Centre, or simply relaxing at one of the hundred beaches, this subtropical paradise delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

With its mild climate, stunning landscapes, and central location in Northland, Whangarei makes an ideal base for exploring New Zealand’s northernmost region. Pack your swimsuit, hiking boots, and sense of adventure—the “City of 100 Beaches” awaits!