A Northland Getaway | Te Whara Track, Mount Manaia, Matauri Bay

White sand beaches, towering peaks and idyllic bays dotted with boats. You would think that I’m talking about the much loved Greek Islands, but on the northern shores of Aotearoa lies our very own slice of sub-tropical paradise.

The Northland district is rich in history, and boasts dense forests as well as beautiful beaches that always top New Zealand’s best beaches lists. We were blessed to have the ultimate tour guide show us around during New Years, and here are the highlights below!

Te Whara Loop Track

This best aspect of this half day walk is the ever changing scenery, and if you complete the track anti-clockwise, you will be treated to a post hike swim at Ocean Beach.

The Whangarei Heads region is incredibly beautiful, and you can catch a 360 degree glimpse of it atop Te Whara at 476m tall. There are bountiful stairs to climb to reach the rocky summit, followed by a relaxing descent to the beach. As you meander towards the main white sand beach, you will spot a secluded beach on your right that is well worth a visit.

Russell

A day trip out to the Bay of Islands is a must, with Russell being accessible via a short 10-minute car ferry from Paihia wharf. Have a drink or a meal in the quaint historic town and make sure to head up to the lookout for epic views.

Matauri Bay

After a delicious lunch and wine tasting at Marsden Estate, we headed north of Kerikeri to Matauri Bay and its glorious stretch of white sand beach.

Mount Manaia

Another short and sweet hike in the Whangarei Heads district is Mount Manaia, a step-laden trail sure to get the heart pumping. It is heavily trafficked by locals and visitors alike compared to Te Whara, and whilst a few kids were doing it in slides, I would suggest some good sneakers or light weight boots. We were in luck having calm and clear conditions early in the morning, but I’m sure it gets dangerous at the look out spots on a blustery day!

Matapouri Bay

Battling with an ever looming set of clouds, we winged it and headed out to Matapouri Bay for some time in the sun. Just south of Matapouri is the Tutukaka coast, a jump off point for various dive and snorkel trips out to the world renowned Poor Knights Islands.

Whangarei Falls & Parihaka Scenic Reserve

For some walks closer to the city centre, check out Whangarei Falls and Mount Parihaka, both of which are connected by a river side walk along the Hatea River.

Whilst we got to explore some beautiful corners of Northland, there is so much more to see that we didn’t have time for, so it’ll be a matter of time before we head back again 🙂 For a video round-up of our week, check out the clip below, enjoy!