Whangarei
Located on the the North Island of New Zealand, Whangarei is known as the closest departure point for diving and fishing tours to a region once described as one of the top ten dive sites in the world. The Poor Knights and Hen and Chicken group of islands are home to a variety of sea life and underwater caves. It is also known as the perfect place to swim with giant stingrays or view the rare Tuatara. Daily tours leave Tutukaka for both diving and sightseeing tours. Fishing charters and kayak hire are also available from local marinas and boat ramps in the area and swimming and surfing are popular activities along the bays and beaches.
Situated as New Zealand’s northernmost City, Whangarei has a warm climate and is surrounded by a variety of farms, the Bay of Islands, forests and a selection of orchards which provide fresh and delicious fruit year round. The city offers a wide range of Art galleries including the well known Tuatara Art gallery which specialises in cultural art. Whangarei’s craft scene is a hive of activity with regular markets and fairs showcasing the areas talented musicians, artists and foodies. Places of interest to visit include the Fudge farm café, the papermill and Claphams clocks although one of the major attractions would have to be the Whangarei Museum & Kiwi House Heritage Park for a close up and personal view of New Zealand’s wildlife and an insight into the country’s history. The City also has a fantastic Lion Park which offers close interaction with a collection of 37 cats including Barbary and White Lions, Bengal tigers, Cheetahs, Leopards and their offspring. Zion Wildlife Gardens runs guided tours daily.
Whangarei’s forests consist of a mix of the magnificent Kauri and original rainforest. At AH Reed Kauri Park there are walking tracks and a wheelchair friendly boardwalk. The walks are easy and pass by some of the oldest Kauri tree stands in the country. Parihaka scenic reserve is another worthwhile place to visit. The many walkways in this reserve are dominated by Mt Parihaka, a 20 million year old volcano. There are a good choice of helicopter flights, cycle tours and horse riding available throughout the region.
Whangarei has a great selection of Restaurants and cafes including the multi award winning a’Deco fine dining restaurant and Longview estate winery which offers sweeping views across the Whangarei harbour. Accommodation choices include Motels, Hotels and Bed and Breakfasts. There is also a good choice of self contained or hosted luxury places to stay in the area.