Top things to do in Whangārei
You won't want to miss the coastal walks, forest adventures, snorkelling trips and historic places that make this part of Northland memorable and unique. Check out our list of top things to do in Whangārei and nearby.
1. Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery
An unforgettable experience of art and architecture in harmony with nature and individual creativity. The Hundertwasser Art Centre is the largest Hundertwasser museum exhibition outside of Vienna with original artworks, architectural models and more. Don't miss the afforested roof and treat yourself at the restaurant and café and MuseumShop.
The world's first Māori dedicated public art gallery, the Wairau Māori Art Gallery, features contemporary artworks of Toi Iho Māori artists, with changing exhibitions a year.
2. Dive or snorkel at the Poor Knights
Legendary explorer and scuba diver Jacques Cousteau rated the Poor Knights Islands in the Top 10 of the world's best dive sites. Boats leave daily from Tutukākā and snorkelling is an option if you don't have scuba experience. If you'd rather stay dry, just sit back and enjoy the cruise.
3. Māori Cultural Tour
Take your knowledge, understanding and connection to the next level with a truly authentic Māori cultural experience. Enjoy genuine hospitality and local knowledge from your friendly, caring Māori hosts who have a deep connection with the land and love hosting their guests.
4. Take a hike
The Mt Manaia Track at Whangārei Heads is a sightseeing walk you'll remember forever. The track has over 1,000 steps and climbs through lush native forest to a summit view that will blow your mind. At the top you'll see the strange volcanic extrusions that give the mountain its distinctive look.
5. Picnic at a waterfall
On the way to the Tutukākā coast, Otuihau -Whangārei Falls is a classic curtain waterfall that's an impressive 26 metres high. Pack a picnic and spend an hour or two soaking up the gorgeous scenery. The 30-minute loop track winds through beautiful native forest and there's the perfect photo opportunity on the bridge at the bottom of the waterfall.
6. Mosey around the market
The Whangārei Growers' Market is the oldest market of its kind in New Zealand and is held every Saturday morning. It's all about local produce, artisan food, live entertainment and good coffee. Expect to leave with a load of delicious seasonal fruit and vegetables as Whangārei has a superb subtropical growing climate.
7. Be awestruck by kauri trees
The AH Reed Memorial Park in Whangārei has a spectacular canopy walk that gets you up close to native kauri trees that are up to 500 years old. A pretty stream runs through the park and there's a 23-metre waterfall to discover as well. Visiting this park is one of the best free things to do in Whangārei.
8. Visit Waitangi
Just an hours drive from Whangārei city, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds you can learn about an important moment in time for New Zealand. Wander the grounds, enjoy the museum and catch a Māori cultural performance. A day pass is valid for two consecutive days. This experience is always winning awards, so expect to be impressed.
9. Cruise the Bay of Islands
Also an hours drive north of Whangārei, from the Paihia village, you can see the beautiful Bay of Islands by cruise boat, sea kayak, yacht or tall ship. Some of the boat trips go out to the Hole in the Rock (Piercy Island), at the tip of Cape Brett. Dolphin sightings are always a possibility during Bay of Islands adventures.