attractions in matakana & beyond
OUR TOP PICKS
Perhaps it’s the fresh country air, the artisanal food and award-winning wine, or the stylish boutiques and galleries you simply won’t find in the city. Whether you’re catching up with friends in one of our eateries, meeting the makers at the famous Matakana Village Farmers’ Market or watching an arthouse film in the magnificent cinema, a visit to Matakana comes with memories to treasure. From the cascading cherry blossoms of spring to the riches of autumn leaves, you’ll find something to savour in every season. Just 45 minutes from the Auckland Harbour Bridge, yet a world away – there’s so much to love in Matakana Village.
Located an hour north of Auckland and just outside Matakana is Sculptureum, a world-class tourist attraction. With three sculpture-filled gardens, six art galleries, a vineyard, Rothko restaurant, Freddie's Outdoor Kitchen and The Terrace Lawn Bar, there's something for everyone.
Brick Bay presents an exhibition of contemporary sculpture by New Zealand’s leading contemporary artists. Discover a dynamic exhibition of large-scale sculpture set in a stunning natural environment of native bush, wildlife and ponds bursting with waterlilies. Along with offering a unique opportunity for visitors to experience art and nature, Brick Bay is a trusted art consultant specialising in the commission and sale of New Zealand sculpture for public and private settings.
Using clay harvested from the banks of the Matakana river, Morris & James creates a vast selection of colourful ceramics, pots, home décor and gardenware, all created on-site in expansive buildings that house the showroom and pottery factory. A Matakana institution, Morris & James was established in 1977 by Ant Morris, and today is run by over 15 artisans and crafts people, who continue Ant’s legacy, whilst exploring new creative directions and uses for clay.
We are situated in the heart of Matakana, a hidden gem of a wine region, less than an hour’s drive north of Auckland. Matakana Coast is a must-visit destination for a holiday in New Zealand, with fine wines, local foods, busy markets and stunning beaches. Matakana Estate is the largest winery in the region, spanning 35 hectares of land. Our boutique-style wines are available to taste at our cellar door, a luxury lodge can be booked for holiday stays and vacations.
This marine reserve is named after the little island (Goat Island or Motu Hawere) that sits just 100 metres off the beach and protects it from Pacific Ocean swells. The island is a nature reserve and no landing is permitted. Goat Island Beach, a short walk down the hill from the carpark, is the setting off point for diving, snorkelling, kayaking and glass bottom boat tours.
Whether it is a ‘learn to dive’ class or a charter for a more experienced diver or maybe a days fishing in the Hauraki Gulf, the team at Warkworth Dive Centre cover it all. Departing daily for Sandspit, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Let us create a day trip with a difference and guide you on a journey to discover local artisan producers and growers by solving clues and riddles along the way. At each stop you will stop and admire the scenery and/or collect delicious, gourmet picnic food to enjoy at your final picnic destination! This is a great option for a Corporate Team building, romantic proposals, hen parties, baby showers, birthday parties etc. Includes a 4-5 hour self drive scavenger hunt. A food and adventure day out in the Matakana Coast region. Winery visit included and clues and questions tailored to your occasion, taste and hobbies. Everything is prepaid, just bring your brain!
BEACHES AND REGIONAL PARKS
The Matakana region and Kowhai coast boasts some of the best regional parks and beaches in New Zealand. The Tawharanui Peninsula is a protected national reserve where you can enjoy the soft white sands of Anchor Bay and walk through the dense native bush, enjoying the sights and sounds of the many species of native birds.
The region has something for everyone. Explore small sheltered coves for swimming, large open surf beaches such as Omaha or Pakiri or visit the Goat Island Marine Reserve.