7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Whangarei

As a digital nomad living in Whangarei, you're perfectly positioned to explore some of the North Island's most captivating destinations. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend escape or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, there's something nearby to satisfy your wanderlust. From the stunning coastlines to the tranquil countryside, here are seven fun weekend getaways that offer a mix of popular and hidden gems near Whangarei.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a coastal paradise known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. As a digital nomad, you can unwind on the picturesque beaches, explore the charming towns like Russell and Paihia, or take a boat tour to spot dolphins and whales. The region is also rich in Maori culture and European history, with the Waitangi Treaty Grounds being a must-visit site.

How to Get There: The Bay of Islands is about an hour's drive north of Whangarei. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area at your own pace.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a ferry to the historic town of Russell, New Zealand's first capital, and enjoy a walk on its waterfront promenade.

Where to Stay: The Duke of Marlborough Hotel in Russell offers a blend of history and comfort, with a stunning view of the bay. Alternatively, the Paihia Beach Resort & Spa provides luxury accommodations with ocean views.

Where to Eat: The Duke of Marlborough Hotel's restaurant is not only historic but offers a menu with fresh, local seafood. The Gables Restaurant in Russell is another excellent choice, housed in one of New Zealand's oldest buildings and famous for its fine dining experience.

Tutukaka Coast

The Tutukaka Coast offers some of the best subtropical diving experiences at the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve. The coastline is dotted with secluded bays, white sandy beaches, and clear blue waters, making it a perfect retreat for water sports enthusiasts. On land, you can hike the coastal trails for breathtaking views or relax in the laid-back beach towns.

How to Get There: Tutukaka is a short 30-minute drive from Whangarei, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway destination.

Travel Tip: Dive or snorkel at the Poor Knights Islands to explore a vibrant underwater world that Jacques Cousteau rated as one of the top ten dive sites in the world.

Where to Stay: The Lighthouse Lookout B&B offers a cozy stay with panoramic ocean views, while the Pacific Rendezvous Resort boasts cliff-top accommodations overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Where to Eat: Schnappa Rock in Tutukaka serves up fresh, locally-sourced seafood in a relaxed, beachy atmosphere.

Waipu and Waipu Cove

Waipu and Waipu Cove are charming destinations with a unique Scottish heritage. Waipu is known for its fascinating museum that tells the story of the Nova Scotian settlers, while Waipu Cove offers a serene beach setting ideal for swimming and surfing. The area also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the famous Waipu Highland Games.

How to Get There: Waipu is about a 40-minute drive south of Whangarei. Waipu Cove is just a short drive from the town center.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Waipu Highland Games, usually held in January, to experience traditional Scottish sports, dancing, and music.

Where to Stay: Camp Waipu Cove offers a range of accommodation options from campsites to cabins, right next to the beach. The Waipu Cove Resort provides comfortable self-contained units for a more private stay.

Where to Eat: The Cove Café is a popular spot at Waipu Cove, known for its delicious breakfasts and stunning sea views.

Matakohe

Matakohe is a lesser-known destination that offers a peaceful rural escape. The highlight of this small village is the Kauri Museum, which provides an in-depth look at the region's pioneering history and the significance of the kauri tree in New Zealand's development. The surrounding countryside is also perfect for leisurely drives and picnics amidst rolling hills and farmland.

How to Get There: Matakohe is approximately a 1-hour drive from Whangarei, heading south on State Highway 12.

Travel Tip: Visit the Kauri Museum to learn about the giant kauri trees and the gum-digging era, and take a walk through the nearby Trounson Kauri Park to see these majestic trees up close.

Where to Stay: The Matakohe Holiday Park offers a range of accommodation options, including self-contained units with beautiful rural views. The Old Post Office Guesthouse provides a quaint and historic stay.

Where to Eat: The Gumdiggers Café, located within the Kauri Museum, serves tasty homemade food and is a great spot to relax after exploring the museum.

Bream Head/Te Whara Track

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-track hiking adventure, Bream Head and the Te Whara Track provide a challenging yet rewarding experience. The track takes you through native bush, past historic WWII gun emplacements, and offers panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands. It's a great way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy some solitude away from the crowds.

How to Get There: Bream Head is about a 45-minute drive from Whangarei. The Te Whara Track can be accessed from several points, including Ocean Beach and Urquharts Bay.

Travel Tip: Be prepared for a strenuous hike and start early to make the most of the daylight. The views from the summit are spectacular, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Where to Stay: There are several holiday homes and B&Bs in the Whangarei Heads area, such as the Top Storey B&B, which offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views.

Where to Eat: The Parua Bay Tavern is a great local spot to refuel after your hike, offering hearty meals and a selection of local beers with a view of the bay.

Whangaruru North Head Scenic Reserve

Whangaruru North Head Scenic Reserve is a hidden gem that boasts a beautiful harbor, pristine beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The reserve also has a campground if you wish to stay overnight and enjoy the starry skies and the sound of the ocean.

How to Get There: The scenic reserve is about an hour and a half drive from Whangarei, with the last part of the journey on gravel roads, adding to the off-the-beaten-path feel.

Travel Tip: Bring your own kayak or rent one locally to explore the sheltered waters of the harbor, which are teeming with marine life.

Where to Stay: The Puriri Bay campsite within the reserve offers basic facilities in a stunning location right by the water. For more comfort, try the B&Bs in the nearby Oakura Bay.

Where to Eat: For a true local experience, pack a picnic or catch your own dinner while fishing in the harbor. Otherwise, the nearest cafes and restaurants are a drive away in the town of Russell.

Kawau Island

Kawau Island is an unusual destination that offers a glimpse into New Zealand's colonial history and natural beauty. The island is home to the historic Mansion House, once the residence of Sir George Grey, New Zealand's former Governor. Nature walks, bird watching, and exploring the island's secluded coves and beaches make for a relaxing and educational weekend away.

How to Get There: To reach Kawau Island, drive about an hour and a half south to Sandspit, then take a 30-minute ferry ride to the island.

Travel Tip: Visit Mansion House to learn about the island's history and see the peacocks and wallabies that roam the grounds, introduced by Sir George Grey.

Where to Stay: The Kawau Beach House offers boutique accommodation with stunning sea views and direct beach access. Alternatively, there are several holiday homes available for rent on the island.

Where to Eat: The Kawau Boating Club is a casual and friendly place to enjoy a meal with views of the bay, and it's accessible by boat or a short walk from Mansion House.

Whether you're looking for a quick beach getaway, a historical excursion, or a secluded nature retreat, these destinations around Whangarei offer the perfect escape for digital nomads seeking to balance work and adventure.