northland

Northland & Bay of Islands

Highlights

  • Heritage architecture
  • Art and craft shops
  • Fishing and snorkeling

Proximity

  • by car:

    3 hr from Whangarei

  • by car:

    50 min from Kerikeri

Mangonui is a historic fishing village with friendly cafes and a wide range of water-based activities. It's next to several popular holiday beaches.

The fishing village of Mangonui is the main centre of Doubtless Bay. Once a busy whaling and trading town, Mangonui has a collection of charming 150-year-old buildings that now house cafés, art and craft shops and the famous fish and chips shop.

A three-kilometre walk around the village takes in 18 heritage buildings. There are also walks to picturesque Mill Bay and the site of Rangikapiti Pa, an ancient Maori fort with commanding views. Sailing, fishing and dive trips operate from Mangonui Harbour.

To the west of Mangonui village, Coopers beach is home to pohutukawa-lined golden sands, gentle waves and safe swimming. Sample the drippingly delicious ice cream at Cable Bay, known for its pink-sand beach. At Taipa, marvel at the incredible collection of seafaring relics at the whaling museum and the array of unique vintage cars at the Vintage Museum.

Doubtless Bay as a whole is a kiwi holiday paradise with beach after beach inviting you to swim, snorkel, fish, sail and watch the dolphins and the orca out in the Bay. A wide range of accommodation is available, although it pays to book ahead in summer. 

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