All around Whangārei
This two-night itinerary is the perfect getaway, blending Whangārei icons, the spectacular Tūtūkākā Coast, and classic rural courses into one fun-filled weekend.
Just two and a half hours from Auckland or ninety minutes from the Bay of Islands and nestled in a peaceful rural valley, Northland Golf Club is a classic inland course with tree-lined fairways and impeccable greens. As you play, enjoy sweeping views of Mt Parakiore and Mt Hurupaki, along with pockets of native forest that provide sanctuary for tūī, kererū, and other native birdlife.
After your round, head to the tranquil Quail Café, located in the stunning Whangārei Quarry Gardens. This licensed café serves up decadent sweet treats and a tasty breakfast and lunch menu, perfect for a post-game refuel. Take time to wander the lush subtropical gardens, where winding trails lead past waterfalls, exotic plants and remnants of the former quarry. For a deeper experience, consider a guided tour to uncover the gardens' fascinating history.
No visit to Whangārei is complete without exploring the Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery in the Whangārei Town Basin. This architectural masterpiece, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, features an afforested rooftop, and a striking mosaiced exterior. Inside, a permanent gallery displays over 80 original Hundertwasser artworks as well as living examples of Hundertwasser’s ecological practises while the Wairau Māori Art Gallery showcases contemporary Māori artists. For the full story behind Hundertwasser’s vision, book an affordable private guided tour.
As the day winds down, make your way to the Tūtūkākā Coast, where you’ll find a range of accommodation options from the luxurious Lodge 9, to the family-friendly Pacific Rendezvous, or a cozy holiday home or bach. For dinner, Schnappa Rock serves up a seasonal, locally inspired menu, featuring line-caught fish, their own spray-free produce, and free-range eggs and chicken, all in a relaxed, marina-side setting.
Northland Golf Club
Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery
Wake up on the Tūtūkākā Coast and start the day with an oceanside breakfast—either at your accommodation or at Te Akau Roa, a locally owned and operated restaurant located under Quality Hotel Oceans Resort.
Today’s experience is unmissable for any visitor to this area - a full-day trip to the Poor Knights Islands aboard the Perfect Day Cruise. Departing from Tūtūkākā Marina, this excursion takes you one hour offshore to one of the world’s most pristine marine reserves, rated among the top diving and snorkeling locations on the planet. Expect crystal-clear waters, dramatic volcanic rock formations, and a marine ecosystem teeming with wildlife from colorful fish and rays to unique birdlife. The trip includes snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and guided commentary, so you can soak up the magic of this protected paradise from every perspective.
After an unforgettable day at sea, return to the Tūtūkākā Coast and enjoy a casual evening meal. Head to Marina Pizzeria for authentic woodfired pizza or soak up the laid-back atmosphere at the Whangārei Deep Sea Anglers Club, where casual dining pairs perfectly with a sunset view over the marina.
Stay another night along the Tūtūkākā Coast, resting up before your final day of golf and coastal exploration.
The Perfect Day Cruise
The Perfect Day Cruise
It’s just a short drive to Ngunguru Golf Course, a classic, low cost 9-hole course (play it twice for a full 18) that is close enough to the coast to have a links feel, combined with a taste of rural NZ. Though small in scale, this scenic course makes up for it with its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty, ideal for a final round before heading back to Whangārei.
For lunch, keep it simple with classic fish and chips by the estuary in Ngunguru, enjoying the seaside setting. Alternatively, stop by Mrs Kwackas on your way back to Whangārei for an outrageously good sweet treat.
If time allows, there’s plenty more to explore around here. Unwind on the pristine sands of Whale Bay or Matapōuri, enjoy extensive coastal view from the Tūtūkākā Lighthouse Walk or venture further south to Whangārei Heads for more spectacular hikes and picturesque beaches.
Connect this itinerary with the Coastlines, Cliffs and Championship Courses golf itinerary, the Northland Journeys, or one of the four food and beverage itineraries to explore even more of this wonderful region.
Smugglers Bay, Whangārei Heads
