Things To Do In Whangarei

1. Adventure Monster Scooters

HeadsUp is the place to go if you're seeking for the greatest activities in Northland. HeadsUp Adventures is a green sanctuary just 5 minutes from Whangarei Airport and 10 minutes from the city center, waiting to be discovered. Whether you only have a few hours or a whole weekend to spend, our diverse range of activities and breathtaking surroundings will enchant you.

The world's first Monster Scooter Adventure Park is now open in New Zealand, providing family enjoyment in a beautiful outdoor setting with fresh air and local animals. Are you having trouble finding an activity that will appeal to everyone in your family? Well this may just be the solution!

2. Kiwi North Heritage Park

Whangarei's Museum, Kiwi House, and Heritage Park are located in Kiwi North. It is located in Maunu, Whangarei, on a 25-hectare historic farm with views of the harbor and city.

In the purpose-built state-of-the-art cage at Kiwi North, you can learn about the distinctive kiwi and observe natural behavior. Also on display is New Zealand's dinosaur, the Tuatara, an ancient animal that lived over 250 million years ago and is exclusively found in New Zealand. Several species of magnificent local gecko have been cleverly concealed inside their habitats. They are certainly worth the time it takes to locate them.

3. Whangarei Falls

Whangarei Falls, possibly the most visited natural feature in Whangarei, is a must-see on any Northland itinerary! This 26m waterfall, which is only a few minutes' walk from the car lot, is difficult to ignore. Extend your visit by taking a 30-minute circular walk to see different perspectives of the falls, or follow the Hatea River walking pathways for a relaxing bushwalk.

4. Abbey Caves

The Abbey Caves are only a 10-minute drive from Whangarei's city centre! A 2-hour circular hike takes you through farmland and natural forest, passing by intriguing limestone outcroppings and three free caves to explore. Take a look at the glowworm clusters and little stalactites.

5. Mt Manaia

Climb to the top of Mt Manaia for some of the best views in the Whangarei area! This 2-hour return hike is strenuous, but the vistas of the Whangarei Heads and Whangarei Harbor are well worth the effort. You'll also take a walk through a kauri forest and observe the mountain's massive craggy pinnacles.

6. Giant Trees at the AH Reed Kauri Park

If you're searching for a way to get away from it all in Whangarei, this gorgeous forest is a must-see! 500-year-old kauri trees, as well as other native tree species, can be seen in the AH Reed Kauri Park. Take a walk along the Canopy Walkway to get a bird's eye view of the nikau palm trees and to Pukenui Falls, Whangarei's hidden jewel. The Hatea River Walkway or the vehicle park are also good ways to get to Kauri Park from Whangarei Falls.

7. Climb Mt Parihaka

This old volcano, which dominates the Whangarei skyline, is difficult to miss. Hiking up Mt Parihaka will reward you with spectacular views of Whangarei and the Whangarei Harbor. There are three walks from the city to the peak, or you can simply drive there. Additionally, if you're traveling with a mountain bike, there are mountain biking paths on the east side of the mountain that are worth exploring and are free!

8. Hatea Loop Walkway

Hatea Loop is a 4.2-kilometer trail that can be walked or cycled. The walk starts in the Town Basin and proceeds down the waterfront, passing through sculptures created by Maori artisans. See the spectacular Te Matau a Pohe opening bridge by crossing the exquisite "Kotuitui Whitinga" footbridge. Along the walks, there are information panels that teach about the history of the area.

9. Native Bird Recovery Center

At the Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Center, you can see who is currently recovering. This native bird hospital features public aviaries where you can see some of the birds before they are released into the wild, either for free or for a payment. There were kingfishers, morepork, harrier hawks, and other birds to be seen. You could even get to meet the permanent residents, Sparky the kiwi and the talking tui!

10. Bream Head Scenic Reserve

The Bream Head Scenic Reserve, located in Whangarei, offers views of some of New Zealand's most spectacular coasts.

The area's towering ridgeline provides a wonderful view from afar, and it's just as stunning up close. It's fascinating from a historical perspective, as well as from the perspective of an area that was once occupied by Maori, remains of which can still be seen today. The three hikes range in length from 90 minutes to 6 hours and cater to various degrees of physical effort.