Things to do in Mangawhai
‘Magical Mangawhai’ as the small seaside town has become to be known by, sits an hour north of Auckland just outside of the cities border in Northland. Nestles between Te Arai and Langs Beach, Mangawhai is the perfect getaway destination providing the serenity of a coastal town, but with plenty of cafes and restaurants that you wont be left high and dry without a warm meal and no dishes.
There are plenty of things to do in Mangawhai; rain, hail or shine!
Mangawhai Surf Beach
Mangawhai Heads is home to an extremely popular surf beach, favoured by surfers no matter what the weather. With several walking tracks leading up to different view points along the beach, it’s easy to get lost in the beautiful coastline.
Mangawhai Heads beach has a large carpark and is easy to get to from Mangawhai Heads village. Dogs are welcome during certain hours and they must be on a lead at all times, several bird species nest in the dunes and surrounding hills which are protected by DOC. If you’re dog is caught off lead in a location it shouldn’t be then be prepared to pay a hefty fine.
During the summer an ice cream truck usually sets up camp on the edge of the carpark. The modern changing rooms and showers allow you to freshen up before your drive back, and life guards control the beach during the busy periods. Pay attention to the flags and you’ll no doubt have a great day at Mangawhai beach.
Mangawhai Cliff Walk
The Mangawhai cliff walk is a hike that can’t be missed. The track runs from Mangawhai Heads beach and out towards the point halfway to Langs Beach, the track ends at a rocky bay which features a natural rock arch where waves crash through the key hole. The Mangawhai cliff walk is best done during the early morning or cooler months as there is very little shade along the track, so slip, slop, slap and wrap before embarking on your daily hike.
Accessing the hike is super easy, just make sure you head there and are back before high tide as the access way from Mangawhai heads beach becomes a rocky and very wet trek. Head north from the main carpark and you will come across a sign and clearly laid out path halfway up the beach.
Bennetts Chocolate
Indulge in gooey marshmallow or a mouth watering chocolate selection tray of some of the best and newest Bennetts Chocolates to hit the shelves. Bennetts is one of the biggest draw cards for visitors and locals, offering an incredible selection of fine chocolates and sugary treats, with a cafe serving a menu that’s fit for everyone.
If you’re only ducking in for a quick visit then try out the ‘chocolate shot’ for a few dollars, 30ml of warm liquid chocolate served in a crunchy biscuit cup. A perfect way to curb those sugary cravings.
Bennetts is dedicated into creating delectable morsels from sustainable sources; from hand harvesting their own sea water for their salted products, to partnering with cacao farmers who are paid a fair wage for their work. Bennetts are committed to creating products that not only taste incredible, but are created from ethically sourced ingredients.
Mangawhai Tavern
A weekend away warrants a meal and pint at the pub, you can’t go past enjoying the scenes of a seaside town without downing a glass of your favourite beer and devouring a greasy burger.
The Mangawhai tavern is a favourite for its live music, views across the estuary and dog friendly environment. With plenty of parking and walking distance from Mangawhai village, the tavern serves as a great option for families with picky eaters, or couples who would rather not share their food.
Better yet if you wish to work off your meal with a bit of light exercise, follow the grassy verge along the estuary towards Pearson Street reserve, where you can circle back towards the pub and reward yourself with another pint.
Saturday Markets
The Saturday markets are an awesome opportunity to indulge in the locally made and produced products from around Northland. Hosted at the Mangawhai Tavern, the Mangawhai markets are on every Saturday regardless of the weather and are an awesome location to bring your family or pup.
Pick yourself up a hot coffee and pastry and some snacks for later, then spend some time surveying the creativity of Mangawhai locals, from incredible landscape photography to hand knitted babywear, and home made hot sauces from generation old recipes.
Gringas: Tacos and Tequila
Want something other than pub food? Gringas offers a great range of fresh Mexican dishes and incredible cocktails. Dine in or takeaway there is something for everyone, from gluten free and vegan options, to non-alcoholic cocktails and child friendly dishes.
Gringas is an affordable dinner option if you’re looking for something a little unique in Northland. The burritos are large enough that you will leave the dinner table with a loosened belt, and the street tacos are a great option if there are several of you who are keen to share.
Canopy Camping: The Little Tin Shed
We booked through Canopy Camping Escapes choosing the Little Tin Shed which is a 5 minute drive from Mangawhai village. Located down a dirt road and surrounded by paddocks, the only disturbance you will hear throughout your evenings are cattle being shuffled between paddocks, or turkeys making a nuisance of themselves.
The little tin shed was equipped with everything we needed for a weekend escape, a fully functioning kitchen with a gas stove and whistling tea pot. A shower overlooking the paddock and a outdoor bathtub nestled away among the ferns. A complimentary hot chocolates from Bennetts Chocolates awaits you for those cold nights you might endure.
The wrap around deck provides enough shade during the day, and a perfect spot to nestle in with a good book. A swing hangs from the verandah from those restless moments requiring some serenity.
The Little Tin Shed is perfect for all seasons, with a small wood burner inside and the shed comes stocked up with enough fire wood to last a season. The hosts have made this a truly beautiful retreat for all year round. Apart from Waiheke Island…I think I have found my new paradise!
