EXPERIENCE

Supernatural…flora and fauna, beach, birds and bush…

The park is fringed by 200-year-old Pohutukawas, and pockets of native bush are spread throughout the park. Tuis, fantail, wood pigeons, kingfisher and of course the blue heron all share the peace of our peninsula.

Pods of dolphins are frequent visitors, and killer whales and sea turtles have been spotted from the shoreline.

Because of our unique orientation, enjoy both sunrises and in particular our spectacular sunsets. Even the occasional shower has its upside, as they bring the most beautiful rainbows imaginable!

Stroll along our beach, or relax in the shade a pohutukawa, with its seasonal bright red flowers, and enjoy…

ACTIVITIES

When you arrive, get a copy of Grant & Elaine's "25 Things to Do In Whangarei".  Written by locals, for those wanting to get the flavour of the area, it is the best of Whangarei and area, some touristy, some more of a local treat, but all worthwhile.  There is something here for every age and budget.

Just to whet your appetite, here are a few ideas...

See the local attractions
Dont miss the A H Reed Kauri Park with its treetop walkway giving a good view of its ancient giants, the Whangarei Falls as they tumble over a basalt lava flow, and the Bird Recovery Center and Kiwi House at Heritage Park.

Fishing
Snapper, trevalli, kingfish, kawhai, terakihi - either fish from the shore or take a boat out on the beautiful Whangarei Harbour. Use the boat ramp on site, or the boat launching facilities adjacent. Fish cleaning table on the water's edge.

Kayaking
Bring your own, or allow us to organize a guided kayaking expedition, from an hour to a day, or longer.

Golf
The Pines Golf Course is only 1.5km away. Play eighteen holes on this course with its spectacular harbour views. Enjoy a game of Twilight golf, or a round of mini.

Tennis
Enjoy a game of tennis at the Tamaterau court, a ten-minute walk along the beach.

Surfing
Follow the footbridge to the surf at Pataua, or allow us to organize a day of lessons for you.

Windsurfing
Good conditions for windsurfing, suitable for slalom, longboards and beginners with grass rigging areas. The water is a short chop with a mild current, and the wind is generally NW, N, or NE.

Hiking and Exploring
Hike an hour up Mount Manaia, towering 460 metres above the harbour entrance, and where the Heads got its name. Take a boat or kayak to Matakohe/Limestone Island, and see the thousands of trees planted by volunteers who have made the same journey to re-establish threatened species of fauna and flora. Walk across to Motukiore Island at low tide and visit the well-preserved Pa site.

Horseback Riding
Just five minutes away is a riding centre, with arena, stables, and barn. Enquire about the Horse Club for 8 to 18 year olds during holidays and weekends.

Parua Bay Tavern
Tie up at the wharf, and refresh yourself in this historic pub, originally a dairy factory, and converted to a hotel in the 1940s, or enjoy some of the local catch stone-grilled to perfection. For an evening out, enquire about their shuttle service.

Parua Bay Gallery
Spend some time exploring the exceptional Parua Bay Gallery. Mark and Julie select quality original works from New Zealand artists, showcasing glassware, wood, pottery, jewellery, and Oamaru Stone sculpture.