Location: Whangarei
Top Things to do in Whangarei
What to do and see in Whangarei, North Island: The Best Things to do
Whangarei (/ˌfɒŋəˈreɪ/, or /ˌwɒŋəˈreɪ/; Māori: [faŋaˈɾɛi]) is the northernmost city in New Zealand and the regional capital of Northland Region. It is part of the Whangarei District, a local body created in 1989 to administer both the city proper and its hinterland, from the former Whangarei City, Whangarei County and Hikurangi Town councils. The city population was estimated to be 57,700 in June 2017, up from 47,000 in 2001.
Restaurants in Whangarei
1. Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 196 reviews
World-renowned diver Jacques-Yves Cousteau rated this reserve, notable for its excellent visibility, as one of the top ten places to dive in the world.
Reviewed By erna317 - Whangarei, New Zealand
Great experience! Wide variety of fish, they’re not scared at all, rather inquisitive. Good visibility. Water colder than expected, even in summer so remember full wet suits!
2. Otaika Valley Walk
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.
3. Creative Kiwi Arts And Crafts
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Creative Kiwi Arts and Crafts is both a Gallery and Gift Store and a Working Studio for Artists and Crafts People. A place where visitors young and old can come to interact with artists and crafts people, watch them at work and to learn about the various crafts. Come see glass artists, wood turners, painters, illustrators, clay artists, bone carvers, sculptures and many more. We offer 100% New Zealand made Arts & Crafts made by New Zealand artists.
Reviewed By 1751489Travelbug - Tillsonburg, Canada
Staff was so wonderful and helpful! We got to see the Kiwi close up! The Museum is very interesting.
4. Bream Head Coast Walks
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 277 reviews
We are Northland's first three-day private unguided walk. Situated at Whangarei Heads our boutique walk encompasses private farmland, stunning ocean and harbour beaches, rural roads, recreational reserves and public walkways. Start each day from our immaculately presented lodge and walk through an amazing variety of landscapes. At the end of the day return for a delicious dinner prepared by us and cooked by you. This outstanding natural experience will leave you with lasting memories.
Reviewed By joneschch - Christchurch, New Zealand
A fantastic experience, we went as a group of friends and had the place to our selves. Claire made the whole experience seamless, providing transport, amazing food, and great knowledge of the walks and area. The facilities were clean, welcoming and comfy.
5. Mount Manaia Track
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 217 reviews
Always check the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) website for changes that might affect your trip.
Reviewed By peekaboo19
A nice challenging walk up 420m to the viewpoint looking over the coast. Well worth the sweat up to see the beautiful view. Would recommend walking this if you are in the area but may not be accessible for everyone
6. Parahaki Mountain Bike Park
7. Planetarium North
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
No visit to the southern hemisphere is complete without a tour of the evening sky. We are fortunate to have our closest neighbouring star, and the nearest galaxy, visible to the unaided eye - if you know where to look. Our Planetarium displays the sky perfectly no matter what the weather is doing outside. We have 5000 stars ready to admire and a wealth of knowledge to show you how to find your direction, perhaps even to read the time using the stars above. And visitors to the Planetarium have the added treat of using our telescopes after the main program if weather conditions allow.
8. Burning Issues Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By fandingo - Auckland, New Zealand
We found our anniversary celebration gift at this gallery, and the added bonus was looking around a lovely space, with great energy and beautifully displayed artwork. The owner also gave us a recommendation on where to eat which was brilliant!
