Whangaroa Activities & Far North Day Trips
Whangaroa Village
Whangaroa Village is small, scenic, and full of character, set beneath steep, bush-clad hills that rise dramatically above the harbour. Clustered along the waterfront, the village centres around the marina, fishing boats, and a handful of historic buildings that reflect Whangaroa’s long maritime history. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, shaped by tides, weather, and the rhythm of the sea rather than schedules.
The village has a working-harbour feel, with game-fishing boats, local residents, and visiting yachts sharing the water. A short stroll takes you past the wharf, waterfront homes, and quiet lookouts with ever-changing views across Whangaroa Harbour.
Whangaroa Village appeals to visitors seeking world-class fishing, natural beauty, and genuine quiet — a place where the scenery speaks louder than the signage.
Whangaroa Marina
The marina is the heart of Whangaroa Village, where daily life naturally gathers around the water. Set within the sheltered waters of Whangaroa Harbour, it’s a working marina that reflects the village’s strong connection to the sea. Game-fishing boats, cruising yachts, and local vessels share the berths, creating an ever-changing waterfront scene.
This is where visitors and locals cross paths — walking the wharf, watching boats come and go, or simply pausing to take in the views framed by steep, bush-covered hills. The marina anchors the village both practically and socially, linking Whangaroa’s fishing heritage with its relaxed, present-day rhythm.
Unpretentious and scenic, the marina embodies what Whangaroa is about: maritime tradition, community, and a pace of life shaped by tides rather than timetables
Whangaroa Sport Fishing Club
Whangaroa’s Sport Fishing Club is a central part of Whangaroa’s fishing heritage and village life, with a long history of notable record catches that reflect the quality of the surrounding waters and the experience of local and visiting anglers. The club is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community.
Visitors can become temporary or visiting members for a modest fee, allowing access to the club bar, a relaxed place to enjoy a drink, swap fishing stories, and watch activity on the harbour. The adjoining Hooked On Café is open to everyone and does not require membership, making it a popular spot for casual meals and coffee with views across the marina.
Together, the club and café offer visitors an easy way to experience Whangaroa’s fishing culture, whether staying for a few days or longer.
Northland Beaches
Northland is known for its beaches, and staying in Whangaroa puts several of the region’s best within easy reach — without the crowds of more built-up areas. One of the standouts is Matauri Bay, around 30 minutes from Kings View Lodge. With golden sand, clear water, and the dramatic Cavalli Islands offshore, it’s ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxed beach days. The bay also offers an iconic coastal walk and sweeping views.
Closer still are Tauranga Bay, popular for surfing and coastal scenery, and Mahinepua Beach, known for calm waters, rock pools, and sheltered swimming. These beaches are perfect for unhurried outings — a morning swim, a picnic, or a quiet walk — before returning to the peace of Whangaroa Harbour by evening.
Walking & Hiking in Far North
The Far North offers a wide variety of walking and hiking tracks, making Whangaroa an excellent base for guests who enjoy getting outdoors. At the doorstep of King’s View Lodge, St Pauls Rock is a short but steep climb that rewards confident walkers with panoramic views over Whangaroa Harbour. Also nearby, Duke’s Nose (Kairara Rock) offers another dramatic viewpoint and is popular for photography.
Within 45–60 minutes’ drive, walkers can explore the Rainbow Falls Track, an easy bush walk with waterfall lookouts, or the Manginangina Kauri Walk, a flat, accessible track through towering kauri trees. For coastal scenery, the Rangikapiti Pa Walk offers expansive ocean views and historical interest.
Together, these tracks showcase the Far North’s mix of harbour, forest, waterfall, and coastal landscapes — with options ranging from gentle walks to more challenging climbs.
Mangonui & Doubtless Bay
Mangōnui is a charming seaside town known for its heritage waterfront, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent food. Set along a sheltered harbour, Mangōnui’s historic wooden buildings and narrow streets reflect its early trading and fishing history, giving the town a distinctive character.
Visitors enjoy strolling along the waterfront, browsing small galleries and local shops, and lingering over coffee or lunch with views across the harbour. Mangōnui is also well known for its fish and chips, making it a popular stop for both locals and visitors. Nearby swimming spots, short coastal walks, and scenic lookouts add to the appeal.
Located around 40 minutes’ drive from Kings View Lodge, Mangōnui and the neighbouring community of Doubtless Bay are easy and rewarding day trips.
Kerikeri
Kerikeri is the Far North’s main hub and offers a lively contrast to the quiet of Whangaroa. Around 45 minutes’ driveaway, it’s an easy day trip with plenty to see and do. One of the highlights is Rainbow Falls, a scenic waterfall set among native bush, with walking tracks and lookouts suitable for most fitness levels.
Kerikeri is also home to the historic Stone Store and Mission House, among New Zealand’s oldest buildings, offering insight into the country’s early European and Māori history. On weekends, the Kerikeri Packhouse Market is a popular stop for fresh local produce, artisan foods, and crafts.
The town has a wide range of cafés, restaurants, boutique shops, and galleries, and nearby wineries, making it a relaxed and rewarding outing before returning to the peace of Whangaroa Harbour.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are one of New Zealand’s most significant historic and cultural sites, marking the place where Te Tiriti o Waitangi was first signed in 1840. Set overlooking the Bay of Islands, the grounds offer a powerful insight into the country’s history through well-curated exhibits, guided tours, and beautifully maintained grounds.
Visitors can explore the Treaty House, the carved Māori meeting house, and the world’s largest ceremonial waka, gaining a deeper understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand’s shared past. Cultural performances and interactive displays bring the story to life for visitors of all ages.
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are approximately 1 to 1¼ hours’ drive from Kings View Lodge, making them a very achievable day trip. Many guests enjoy combining a visit to Waitangi with time in nearby Paihia or Kerikeri before returning to the peace and quiet of Whangaroa in the evening.
Cape Reinga
Cape Reinga is one of New Zealand’s most iconic and culturally significant destinations, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. The dramatic lighthouse, sweeping ocean views, and sense of remoteness make it a highlight of any Far North visit. For Māori, Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua) is a sacred place, believed to be where spirits begin their journey home.
Cape Reinga is approximately 3 to 3½ hours each way from Kings View Lodge, making it a full but very achievable day trip for confident drivers who start early. After a day exploring the Far North, guests can return to the peace and comfort of Kings View Lodge overlooking Whangaroa Harbour.