Our walk takes in the architecture of the operatic and dramatic society's theatre and the clock museum mural, depicting time and local history.
Whangarei is a relaxing place to take a weekend break and sightseeing needn't cost a cent. A few minutes' drive from the heart of town will take you to the picturesque Whangarei Falls, 26m high.
In the 1800s this was a popular picnic spot for families arriving in horse-drawn carriages. Saved from being developed as a mill site by a city benefactor, the area has been developed into a park of stone, water and native foliage.
On the way there you can stop at the A. H. Reed Memorial Kauri Park, where a board walk takes you among forest giants. Or you can picnic in Mair Park against the backdrop of historic Parahaki mountain. Half an hour of climbing takes the averagely fit person to the summit, from where the city and countryside becomes a tapestry of greens and browns.
If you're travelling with children you'll want to take them to the town swimming pool where there's also a heated pool and facilities for picnicking. If you have a car, the magnificent beaches of the Whangarei Heads are also accessible.
A visit to Clapham's Clock Museum is sure to interest the young and old, while Forum North offers a variety of crafts and hands-on activities. Check with the Visitors' Information Centre to see what's on during your stay.
Families will enjoy the bronze plaque history walk through the main shopping arcade. This tells the story of the Whangarei district from Maori myths of creation, through the colonial settlement, to the present day. Allow at least 20 minutes.
From here explore Quality St, alongside the Dickens Inn, a reconstruction of a Victorian shopping arcade. When you tire of the shops, retreat to the civic rose garden.
Whangarei is a two-hour drive from Auckland. As you approach Whangarei, there's a magical moment when unfolding hills part and the coastline and offshore islands appear before you.
This is one of the best views on the planet.
