Things to do in Whangarei

Activities, attractions and tours

A waterfront with boats docked, a pier with a red-roofed building, and greenery along the shore.
A marina with multiple sailboats docked, surrounded by lush greenery and hills in the background.
A close-up of green leaves with visible veins.
A waterfall cascading into a calm pool surrounded by lush greenery.
A rural landscape with a winding road, green fields, a hill with trees, and a small building.

Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Town Basin Marina

If you love the water and art browsing, make a beeline for the Town Basin Marina when you arrive in Whangarei. Browse the shops, restaurants, cafés and docks of the Whangarei Marina, watch boats come and go, then follow the Town Basin Art Trail along the waterfront to be immersed in creativity and culture.
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A marina with several sailboats docked, a small bridge, and a restaurant named "Nevo's Restaurant & Bar" with a red roof.

2. Reyburn House

The Northland Society of Arts (NSA) has been the proud custodian of Reyburn House since 1966. Visit this heritage house in Whangarei’s Town Basin to see an art collection and to enjoy the location of this precious reminder of days gone by. The kids will love the adjacent Town Basin playground.
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A yellow building with a white porch, surrounded by lush gardens and a winding path.

3. Claphams National Clock Museum

See an enormous collection of historic, artistic and antique clocks at Claphams National Clock Museum in Whangarei. The museum’s collection includes approximately 1,500 clocks that range from Victorian cuckoos to small children’s clocks. Timepieces built by famous clockmakers, including London’s Edward John Dent, also feature in the museum’s displays.
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The Clapham National Clock Museum entrance with a mural of clocks and gears.

4. Whangarei Quarry Gardens

Whangarei Quarry Gardens are a community-run project that feature landscaped gardens, a visitor centre and a café. Explore the many gardens that include a collection of camellias and an area with cacti and succulents. Whangarei Quarry Gardens is home to a regenerating forest that is teeming with indigenous plants.
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A garden with a waterfall, red and pink flowers, and a rocky landscape.

5. Botanica & Cafler Park

Visit two of Whangarei’s best green spaces. First, enjoy the landscaped beauty of Cafler Park, then learn about ferns, cacti and other plant species in the green houses and gardens of nearby Botanica Whangarei.
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A greenhouse with a sign that reads "Fernery."

What to do in Whangarei


Stay near popular Whangarei attractions

Where to stay in Whangarei

Find the best Whangarei areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

One Tree Point

While One Tree Point might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Mount Manaia and Mcleod Bay.

Whangarei Central

If you're spending some time in Whangarei Central, Reyburn House and Whangarei Art Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Onerahi

While Onerahi might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Northland Event Centre and Reyburn House.

Marsden Cove

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Marsden Cove and surrounding area, you can visit Mount Manaia and Ruakaka Beach.

Port Whangarei

Though Port Whangarei might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Northland Event Centre and Reyburn House.

Frequently asked questions

Is Whangarei worth visiting?
Whangarei offers a unique mix of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into nature, history or traditional cuisine, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Whangarei?
Kingdom of Zion and Whangarei Art Museum are two great places to start your vacation adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Whangarei while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Whangarei?
The top tourist attraction in Whangarei is Kingdom of Zion, so make sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Whangarei?
Three days will give you time to check out many city highlights, including Town Basin Marina, Whangarei Quarry Gardens and Whangarei Art Museum. The average stay in Whangarei is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Tutukaka isn't far away.
Is Whangarei a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Whangarei, like Town Basin Marina and Whangarei Quarry Gardens, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometers from the city center of Whangarei is Woodhill and Onerahi is 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Whangarei with kids?
What to do in Whangarei for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Whangarei, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Kiwi North: Museum or Claphams Clock Museum.
Are there free things to do in Whangarei?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Whangarei is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Town Basin Marina is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.