Whangarei

Quayside at the Town Basin is the place to go for stylish cafes and restaurants, art galleries, a glass-blowing studio, specialty shops and the National Clock Musuem.

Call in at LongView, Whangarei's award winning winery, for a taste of fine Northland merlot.

For a unique adventure, visit the Wildlife Gardens. Get up close to big cats and hear New Zealand's very own Lion Man talk passionately about these magnificent, endangered animals.

If you are looking to recharge and relax, there are plenty of back-to-nature attractions around Whangarei. Choose from a variety of coastal walks with outstanding views of the harbour, coastline and offshore islands or tranquil walks through native forest.

There are many beautiful beaches a stone's throw from Whangarei.

The city offers an excellent selection of restaurants and cafés to suit all variety of tastes and budget, as well as all the main chain restaurants and fast food outlets. There is a good selection of night time entertainment with the bars and nightclubs providing DJ's or bands to suit varying tastes in atmosphere and music.

There's accommodation to meet every need and budget from camping grounds to character baches, studio apartments, guest houses, bed & breakfast, luxury lodges, hotels or motels.

Located just 45 minutes drive north of Whangarei City, via the scenic coastal route to Russell, is Whangaruru Harbour and neighbouring Oakura Bay.

Whangarei Falls.

Secluded bays and beaches allow for water skiing in the harbour, exploring beautiful bays, coastal diving and fishing, walking tracks. There's a gallery specialising in Maori and Pacific Art and accommodation in the vicinity ranges from campsites and baches to upmarket studio apartments or lodge.

Scenic highlights