Whangarei is a special New Zealand town, well known for its eclectic people and thriving industries. This bustling town only continues to grow and people are moving here in droves to partake of the great economy, beautiful surroundings and unique culture.
Local people produce arts and crafts, mingle together in the Town Basin, and work together to preserve the beauty of the area. As a visitor, you'll be enchanted by the unique New Zealand city with its quirky museums, the volcanic field, epic waterfalls and charming people.
Getting in and around Whangarei
Whangarei Airport
The Whangarei airport offers only domestic flights from Auckland, though it is easy to get connecting flights from other New Zealand cities. Flying is the best way to get to Whangarei unless you drive yourself. Highway 1 will take you through the district by car.
Whangarei Transport
Travellers have a number of choices when selecting the best mode of transportation for getting around Whangarei. Buses are a great way to get around the entire region. There are also taxi services that are great for getting around Whangarei as well as getting to and from the airport. For those that want to get a little bit of exercise and do their part to help the planet, cycling is another popular means of travel in Whangarei.
Whangarei Car Hire
Whangarei car hire is available both at the Whangarei airport and in the centre of town. Car hire is ideal for travellers who want a little bit more liberty in their itinerary.
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Whangarei accommodation
The accommodation situation in Whangarei is somewhat unique in that you can find unique, quality hotels that aren't much more expensive than more budget accommodation. It's a very affordable place to vacation in terms of your accommodation costs.
Luxury
Distinction Whangarei Hotel exudes the quality of the Distinction brand, with an indoor swimming pool, spa and gym. The hotel is situated opposite the stunning Whangarei Town Basin.
Lupton Lodge is a luxury, boutique bed and breakfast where each room has its own unique charm, and you'll feel like you're the guest of honour in a fine home. The Kingsgate Hotel Wharangei exudes the quality of the Millennium brand, with an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a gym, and a beautiful view overlooking the Town Basin.
The Lupton Lodge is a luxury, boutique bed and breakfast where each room has its own unique charm and you'll feel like you're the guest of honour in a fine home.
Mid-range
Comfort Hotel Flames is chic yet rustic and an ideal place to stay while visiting Whangarei. You'll receive tremendous quality without the big price tag.
Chelsea House Bed & Breakfast is opposite the Parihaka Scenic Reserve and you'll get the personal attention that you love about the bed and breakfast experience. The Whangarei Views Bed and Breakfast offers multi room apartments as well as standard rooms for those travelling in larger groups. You'll get the personal attention that you love about the bed and breakfast experience.
The Flames International Hotel is chic yet rustic and an ideal place to stay while visiting Wharangei. You'll receive tremendous quality without the big price tag.
Budget
Discovery Settlers Hotel in Whangarei is elegant enough to be the setting for weddings and other glamorous events, yet maintains a reasonable price for everyone to enjoy. The hotel also has a wonderful restaurant on site.
Stonehaven Motel focuses on comfort and quality, offering clean, comfortable accommodation and reasonable prices. The Settlers Hotel in Wharangei is elegant enough to be the setting for weddings and other glamorous events, yet maintains a reasonable price so everyone can enjoy. Also has a wonderful restaurant on site.
The Stonehaven Motel focuses on comfort and quality, offering clean, comfortable accommodation and reasonable prices.
Backpackers
The Cell Block. You'll feel at home in this unique backpackers located in the city. Whangarei Falls BBH Backpackers is just a few minutes in walking distance from the beautiful Whangarei Falls and also offers camping grounds as well as shared rooms.
YHA Whangarei. This beloved hostel brand continues to make travelling a convenient and pleasant experience for backpackers and budget travellers no matter where they end up.
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Things to do in Whangarei
Museums are in abundance in Whangarei, making it easy to stumble upon interesting local trivia and history. Adventurous types will love the water sports, diving, hiking and other outdoor adventures to be had in Whangarei. The cultural hub in the Town Basin is the perfect end to any long day of sight-seeing.
Claphams National Clock Museum is a fun and unique to-do in Whangarei. Featuring over 400 clocks dating back to the 17th century, Claphams Clock Museum is one of the largest timepiece collections south of the equator.
Whangarei Town Basin is a cultural centre where there are eateries, shops and museums. Some tours also depart from the Town Basin. It's a great place to hang out with the locals.
The Quarry Arts Centre is the centre of the artist world in Whangarei. Here you can actually watch local artists at work as well as see local crafts and art.
Whangarei Falls is one of the most incredible waterfalls in the Whangarei area. Stretching over twenty-four metres, Whangarei Falls is a sight to behold and you can actually hike to the top from the parking lot. However, the path can be uneven in places, so bring your walking shoes.
Whangarei Museum. Discover the history of Whangarei at the amazing Whangarei Museum. The museum features Kiwi House and Heritage Park, as well as numerous displays about the history and culture of the area.
The Whangarei Art Museum is one of the most important art institutions in the area. Conveniently located in the city centre, the Whangarei Art Museum features art from New Zealand and beyond.
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Day trips in and around Whangarei
Mount Parihaka has both natural and historical significance in Whangarei. Mount Parihaka is the area's highest peak and at the top there was once a Maori Pa, or a fortified village. This former Maori village is thought to have been the largest in New Zealand.
Tutukaka Coast. Tutukaka is the ultimate location for all things beachy. At this incredible stretch of coastline, you'll fine diving opportunities, boating and deep sea fishing, not to mention beautiful surroundings ideal for sun bathing.
Poor Knights Islands are located just a few short kilometres off the coast but hold a world of treasures to explore. Home to some of New Zealand's best diving, divers will find underwater caves, colourful marine life and all kinds of fun.
The Kauri Museum is an award-winning exhibit and a favourite stop on the museum trail. The Kauri Museum features background information about Kauri trees and gum.
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