Whangarei

Whangarei is one of the few cities in New Zealand which has retained its Maori name meaning 'Rei's Harbour' or 'Cherished Harbour' (see our information booklet for the legend behind it!).

With a population of 74,500 people, the capital of Northland boasts a semi sub-tropical climate, has a friendly unsophisticated atmosphere and a gentle pace of life with an excellent choice of shops, cafes and galleries. The waterfront development at the Town Basin adds a relaxed ambience to the city and is a haven for yachts, both local and international - so if you are looking to crew to exotic places, this is a good place to start.

Restaurants - You will be spoilt by choice with respect to the local award winning cuisine. We have made up an information booklet with copies of their menus to help guide you.
Entertainment - Sky City Cinema, The Octogon, Whangarei Theatre Company, Forum North and a couple of nightclubs to tempt you!
Aquatic Centre - A good swimming complex complete with sauna and spa facilities.
Fitness Centres - Choice of two - Kensington Sports Stadium and the World Gym.
Vineyard - Longview Estate produces many award winning New Zealand wines and is a must for wine buffs!
Shops - Relax in the Cameron St Mall situated in the centre of the business district. An interesting design featuring a copper tree and a brass time line has been embedded in the cobblestones depicting the history of Northland.

BRING YOUR CAR TO ENJOY FABULOUS BEACHES!

One of the joys of living in Whangarei is the choice of 550km of coastal and harbour beaches. Although we recently acquired a public transport system, it does not extend to the half hour drive neccessary to enjoy the best of them!

Even on a cold wet winter's day our guests have enjoyed the beauty and solitude of walking along the seemingly endless white sandy beaches and paddled in the crystal clear blue water.

Ocean Beach - excellent for surfing and has life guards on duty in weekends and school holidays over summer. Good spots for surfcasting but care needs to be taken with the waves and ocean rips.

Smugglers Cove - a 15 minute walk across the saddle from Urquharts Bay will bring you to a little piece of paradise at the beginning of the 5 hour walking track to Ocean Beach via Peach Cove. There is a trampers hut for those who wish to camp overnight - bookings needed for the key!

Pataua North Beach - stunning, long beach which is a surfers paradise!

Matapouri Bay - absolutely beautiful sheltered bay with a small walk under the rocks to the blowhole. Photos have been taken in winter on a rainy day, spring and summer. The islands in the distance are the Poor Knights which represent a knight lying down - his head to the right, chest, stomach, and legs to the left. Captain Cook named them after an English pudding in his log book! Beautiful coastal walk from Matapouri to Whale Bay (bottom right photo).