North Island · Explorer’s field notes
How to Whangārei
Northland's harbour city — waterfalls in town, a sculptural art museum and the gateway to the Tutukaka coast.
Whangārei videos from the Hôtel du Van founders are coming soon to the Stay Scene channel.
AVOID · Whangārei
What to avoid in Whangārei
- The Brynderwyn Hills on SH1 in heavy rain — check NZTA for closures and slips.
- Leaving valuables visible at trailhead car parks such as Abbey Caves.
- Driving the Whangārei Heads road in a rush — it's narrow and winding.
The top ten
Where to go, eat & take coffee
Places to explore, eat and stock up along the way.
- 1See & do
Hundertwasser Art Centre
Hundertwasser's final design: golden cupola, wavy floors and the Wairau Māori Art Gallery.
91 Dent Street, Whangārei 0110 
2See & doWhangārei Falls
A 26-metre basalt waterfall five minutes from town, with a short loop walk.
Ngunguru Road, Tikipunga, Whangārei 0112
3See & doTown Basin
Marina promenade with galleries, cafés and the Hātea Loop walkway.
Quayside, Whangārei 0110
4See & doMount Manaia
A steep 90-minute climb to rocky pinnacles above the harbour mouth.
Whangārei Heads Road, Whangārei Heads 0174
5See & doTutukaka Coast & Poor Knights
Dive trips to Jacques Cousteau's top-ten subtropical dive site.
Marina Road, Tutukaka 0173
6See & doAbbey Caves
Free glow-worm caves — bring a torch and shoes you don't mind soaking.
Abbey Caves Road, Whangārei 0112
7EatQuay Restaurant
Waterside dining with local seafood right on the marina.
31 Quayside, Town Basin, Whangārei 0110
8Eat
9Coffee
10Coffee
Do not make these mistakes!
1. Exploring Abbey Caves after rain
The caves flood quickly. Only go in dry weather and never alone.
2. Skipping the Hundertwasser booking
Guided tours sell out in summer. Book ahead online.
3. Underestimating Mount Manaia
It's steep steps all the way. Take water and allow two hours return.
Continue the voyage
Photos are AI-generated illustrations. Opening hours and rules change — check before you go.