Tourist information -
Whangarei
New Zealand’s warmest city knows how to show you an easy-going good time. The centre of a district famous for its superb beaches and romantic countryside, Whangarei enjoys more than 2,000 hours of sunshine a year, and there’s rainfall enough to keep surroundings lush, green and attractively semi-tropical.
An easy drive or flight from Auckland, the city sits at the western end of a large, unspoilt harbour. In and around the houses and buildings are pockets of native bush and beautifully landscaped parks.
Translated from Maori, Whangarei means "cherished harbour". It certainly is cherished by the keen fisherman and sailors who use the town basin marina as a base for their expeditions, by the surfers who can put themselves on a drop-dead-gorgeous surf beach within half an hour, and by the visitors who find the city’s relaxing ambience the perfect antidote to an over-stressed life.
Because of its abundant sea life and semi-tropical growing climate, Whangarei has always been a popular place to live. Maori populations were well established when the first European visitor to the country, Captain James Cook, arrived in 1796. In fact, Mount Parahaki the highest point in the city - was once the site of the largest Maori Pa (fortified village) in New Zealand. The excavations are still visible and interpretation of the area is provided at the site, which can be accessed by a pleasant walk through native forest from the summit. Take a picnic with you and spend a few hours soaking up the panorama.
In the heart of the city, Quayside at the Town Basin is a sophisticated, yet leisurely centre for eating and entertainment. Modern landscaping blends perfectly with colonial architecture to create a gathering place for locals, visiting travellers and yachties from all over the world. As well as stylish cafés and restaurants, there are museums, art galleries and specialty shops. The Clock Museum is a must see event.
A short walk from the Town Basin finds you in the central city shopping area, home to a delightful new retail centre called Quality Street. Behind the eye-catching turn of the century facades is a collection of shops, cafés and night spots. The atmosphere of this trendy precinct is often enhanced with live music.
Other options for evening entertainment include a night at the movies (Whangarei has a modern cinema complex) or live theatre staged by a local drama group.
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