A Few of our Favourite Places
Local Information
The settlement of Matauri Bay is a 30-minute drive north of Kerikeri, off SH10, and sits on a loop road that leads to some of the most beautiful beaches, bays and coves in Northland. Our farm is located on the hilltop overlooking the sacred maunga Whakarara, Motukawanui Island, and Matauri Bay.
Matauri Bay beach is just a 3-minute drive away and offers white sand and gentle surf. Out of season, you may be the first to leave footprints on the beach. Continue along the coastal road to explore more beaches, including Te Ngaere (boat launching), Piapia, Wainui, Mahinepua (great for hiking https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-...), and Tauranga Bay. The road eventually brings you out near Whangaroa Harbour and the historic town of Kaeo (about 20 minutes).
For golfers, spa lovers, or anyone wanting a luxury experience, Kauri Cliffs (https://www.robertsonlodges.co...) is our neighbouring property — less than 5 minutes by car to the restaurant, spa, and world-class golf course. For the more budget conscious northland offers a wealth of beautiful rural golfcourses (https://www.golfnorthland.co.n...).
For divers, kayakers and sea adventures look no further than the Cavalli Islands, dive the Rainbow Warrior or fish the deep ocean (https://divezoneboi.co.nz/char...).
Despite our rural setting, the local Blue Bar (https://www.facebook.com/p/Mat...) — a small bar, dairy, and fish & chip shop — is just a 5-minute walk away and stocks basic essentials. The Matauri Bay Campground by the beach sells basic supplies and fuel (https://matauribayholidaypark....)
To understand our rich history, visit Waitangi https://www.waitangi.org.nz/ & Rangihoua https://rangihouaheritage.co.n....
Puketi Fores https://puketi.org.nz/visit-pu...t, home to the king of the forest the Kauri tree, a short drive away for a beautiful hike in pristine native bush.
This is an excellent base for exploring the Far North:
- Cape Reinga — approx. 2 hours
- Ahipara or the Hokianga — approx. 1.5 hours
- Waitangi, Russell & Paihia — approx. 45 minutes
- Kerikeri & Kaeo (amenities, supermarkets, petrol, markets) — 20–30 minutes