Whangarei

Whangarei Regional Information

Whangarei is the northernmost city in New Zealand and the main centre within the Northland region. The city and surrounding area enjoy a subtropical climate and over 2,000 hours of sunshine annually.

Explorer Captain Cook first arrived in 1769, at which time Maori were well established in the area. Despite Maori habitation, European settlement began in 1839 with the arrival of William Carruth, and the development of the city began. During the 1840's Europeans fled the area when fighting broke out between Maori and British troops. The city's name means meeting place of the chiefs', referring to its use in the 1800's as a meeting place for all the Maori chiefs of the region.

Whangarei provides ample opportunity to relax and enjoy outdoor activities, shopping and fine food. Quayside at the Town Basin is a popular attraction, set in the heart of the city. This bustling waterfront environment offers galleries, craft shops and a sprinkling of quality cafes and restaurants. Here, you can also visit Clapham's Clocks, a clock museum displaying the largest collection of its kind in the southern hemisphere. For another taste of history, take time to visit the Whangarei Museum, where exhibits tell the stories of both European and Maori culture and history. The museum is situated in a 25 hectare Heritage Park, with bush walks and picnic areas, along with attractions such as the Kiwi House, in which visitors can get up close to a live Kiwi, and historic Clarke homestead, which was constructed in 1886.

If you are interested in getting back to nature, Whangarei can take you there. The area offers a variety of coastal walks with sea and coastline views, and walks through native forest. Just five kilometres from the city, the picturesque Whangarei Falls drop from a height of 25 metres amidst lush native bush. Mount Parihaka is another natural landmark in the area, offering panoramic views from 242 metres above the city. You can reach its peak by road or on foot from Mair Park.

For a wilder nature experience, try the Zion Wildlife Gardens. The park is home to Craig Busch, television's Lionman, and provides a sanctuary for some of the world's most endangered big cats. Guided tours are available, giving you the chance to see Barbary and White Lions, Royal White and Orange Bengal Tigers, Serval cats and Black Leopards.

Navigate with our great Whangarei map to stay on the right track and find what you're looking for when traveling in the region. While you're on the road, be prepared for all seasons with weather forecasts, reports and current information on Whangarei weather.

For further information on Whangarei city and the surrounding area, visit Destination Northland or the Te Ara Encyclopedia.