Five reasons you should go long lunching in Taitokerau Northland

Long lunching, Northland Style. It's about those days that turn into nights, those long lunches that turn into long weekends, and those fun times that turn into unforgettable memories. We've listed five good reasons why you should go long lunching in Taitokerau Northland this summer (not that you need an excuse!).  

1. We’ve got cool wine varietals

You’ll feel like you're on a worldly expedition as you taste your way around the unique wine varietals in Taitokerau Northland. Chambourcin is a French grape but is found widely through the United States and produces spectacularly good wines in our warm climate vineyards like Marsden Estate and Ake Ake. Dancing Petrel produces a richly tannic red Tanat wine, more commonly found in France and Uruguay, and Pinotage, South Africa’s signature varietal, is the grape used to produce some award-winning wines from Karikari Estate and Marsden Estate. You’ll also find delicious versions of the usual suspects, like Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Syrah almost everywhere you go. Take a tasting world tour, in your own backyard.

2. We’ve got farm to table food

Taitokerau Northland’s subtropical climate produces some of the best produce in the country, and the only place you’ll find bananas, pineapples and other subtropical fruits thriving. You can expect to find local produce and artisan products in almost every cafe, restaurant and even bar you go into, as well as kaimoana straight off the boat! Don’t miss the local brews either, from Ikarus (the only coffee growers in the country), McLeod’s Brewery (award-winning craft beers in Waipu) and tasty local kombucha which you can find at places like the Old Packhouse Markets.

3. We’ve got great views

Feast your eyes as well as your tastebuds almost everywhere you go in Taitokerau Northland. Fancy dining over the water? Try Mangonui Fish Shop, Rāwene’s Boat Shed Cafe, Charlottes Kitchen, or the Quay in Whangārei. After ocean views? Try Sage @ Paroa Bay, the Tavern at Parua Bay, The Cove Cafe at Waipu or The Landing Cafe in Opononi. Vineyard setting? Omata Estate, Ake Ake, Marsden Estate and The Landing have you sorted. It's the insta-perfect backdrop to compliment every mouth-watering bite.

4. We’ve got unique, fun and relaxing activities

When you’re satiated and ready to relax, try soaking in natural geothermal hot springs at Ngawha Springs. Enjoy a sunset sail through the Bay of Islands or jump on a private tour to some of the hidden gems of Taitokerau Northland. Or simply lay back and watch the clouds roll by in one of the hundreds of sheltered coves and bays around the region. You'll find activities to keep the whole crew happy.

5. We’ve got quirky and cool accommodation

When you're ready to rest your head, at whatever hour that may be, you’ll find treehouse bnbs, eco-lux huts, off-grid cabins, super luxury villas, floating glamping arks, riverside cottages, historic homesteads, beachfront resort-style hotels, converted bank buildings, and quintessential kiwi baches. There’s something for every budget, every traveller, and in every location, you can think of!

So, what are you waiting for! Go long lunching, Northland Style, this summer.