Top things to do in Taitokerau Northland when the weather packs in
Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you have to spend the rest of your holiday playing cards and doing puzzles. There’s loads of great activities in Taitokerau Northland to keep you and the family entertained even when the weather isn’t playing ball.
Check out the local museums
Our top pick is the two world-class museums at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where interactive displays, engaging story-telling and fascinating exhibits will capture your attention. There’s also an on-site café, a gift shop, and a carving studio, all also covered on the grounds.
You’ll also find plenty of other local museums around the small towns and villages of Taitokerau Northland, each with their own interesting histories and stories to share.
Learn about the kauri tree – past, present and future
Although technically a museum, the Kauri Museum gets its own special mention. It’s Taitokerau Northland’s largest undercover attraction, and during school holidays they often have fun family activities like gum polishing or treasure hunts. From a full-size two-story boarding house, to a slow-motion saw mill and some gigantic slabs of kauri timber, there’s lots more to this museum than meets the eye and it’s the perfect rainy day activity for adults and children alike.
Embrace the wet
They say if you can’t beat it, join it and we think that applies to the rain as well! The mild climate in Taitokerau Northland means that even if the skies are grey and the footpath is wet, the temperature and ocean are still often warm. From surf lessons, to snorkelling and diving, swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding, there’s plenty the rain can’t compete with.
Take a tour through a heritage property
There are nine Tohu Whenua sites around Taitokerau Northland and plenty more heritage buildings and attractions. Pompallier Mission and Printery gives a fascinating insight into early printing and bookbinding in Northland, while tours of The Stone Store and Kemp House shares histories of fierce warriors, drunken sailors, and the earnest missionaries.
Meet the locals, Northland Style
Kiwi North in Whangārei is Taitokerau Northland’s only nocturnal kiwi house, where day is night and kiwi forage about their environment as they would do in the wild. The Kiwi House is also home to a tuatara and several species of gecko.
Eat and drink your way around
Watch the rain roll in from a vantage point at a local winery like Paroa Bay, Omata Estate or The Landing while you sip on delicious tipples or hole up in a local café or eatery with a smooth coffee and tasty cabinet treats. While away an evening with a multi-course menu at a cosy restaurant or stock up on artisan foods like fancy chutneys, cured meats, local cheeses and fresh vegetables and make yourself a feast of a platter to enjoy at your accommodation.