Just 1.5 hours drive north of Auckland on Northland's east coast lies Mangawhai; a quiet, family oriented beachside resort blessed with a magnificent golden sand surf beach, picturesque harbour and wetlands, lush countryside, lively cafes and restaurants and a thriving arts community.
The historic development of Mangawhai Village was based around the Mangawhai Wharf; an arrival and departure point for early settlers using the Mangawhai harbour for shipbuilding, kauri milling and farming. While the wharf no longer exists, Mangawhai Village has retained much of the charm of those early days, evident in the many public and private colonial style timber houses and buildings.
Mangawhai's subtropical climate provides perfect growing conditions for gourmet and fine foods much of which finds its way into the weekend Farmers Market and local restaurant kitchens such as Smashed Pipi Gallery and Cafe. Popular for its relaxed style, big breakfasts and seafood cuisine, this cafe has its own gallery featuring the art and fine craft of the local Hockenhull family. Locals rate their pipi fritters as a "must try" dish and a delicious yet inventive way to enjoy the bounty this town has to offer.
With more than 40 artists in residence in Mangawhai, local art and crafts can be seen in many eateries throughout Mangawhai Village. For great coffee, visit Quattro Cafe and while you're there take a few minutes to view the beautiful wood carvings by local carver, Aaron Ellis-Smith, which are on permanent exhibition there.
Bennetts of Mangawhai is a must visit for their "to die for" handcrafted chocolates, made from the finest ingredients and pure chocolate and like Smashed Pipi and Quattro, regularly stage art exhibitions by local artists in their premises.
If you are looking for that special meal, then head to fine dining restaurant, the Frog and Kiwi. Here high quality French cuisine and seasonal specials are married with local and French wines for an outstanding culinary experience.
If you'd like to sit back, relax and soak in the seaside atmosphere of Mangawhai Village, then Mangawhai Tavern is a great place to start. Established in 1865, this historic 2 storey hotel is adjacent to the old wharf area and was the watering hole for early settlers, kauri bushmen and port workers. Today the tavern is the local live music venue and regularly features live gigs from NZ's top bands and entertainers. It also plays a central role in the community as a base for local events, festivals and Mangawhai's summertime fun and event programme.
If you're interested in the history of the Mangawhai district, the Mangawhai Village Museum is the place to visit. One of the wonderful things about Mangawhai is that many descendants of early pioneers and settlers still live in the area and their stories, photos and memorabilia have made a major contribution to the museum.
Finally, eating fish and chips outdoors is a quintessential NZ pastime and Blue Marlin Takeaways produce the best fish and chips and takeaway food in the Village. Head to the local domain or find a scenic spot near the harbour and enjoy your feast of local fish and chips in the peace and serenity that is Mangawhai Village.