Art and history form a vital part of the Whangarei community, and the array of art galleries, studios and museums here is just excellent.
Annual art festivals such as the summer 'Art Beat' attract visitors from around New Zealand and the world to experience the variety, originality and quality of Whangarei artisans.
At the Whangarei Town Basin, you can watch internationally-celebrated glass blowing in action, or browse a number of art and craft galleries. Pick up a copy of the Northland Visitor Guide from our office and head off on a full-day arts trail, visiting private studios and cooperative artists galleries. Or for a comprehensive art experience in one place, stop by Northland's only public gallery, the Whangarei Art Museum. This is the permanent home of the city's art collection (with both historic and contemporary works on display) and the venue for nationally-touring exhibitions. Northland inspires thousands of talented artists of all mediums, and their art will inspire you.
The Whangarei Museum & Heritage Park has a live Kiwi encounter (New Zealand's endangered iconic bird), historic buildings including a magnificent Kauri homestead dating back to 1886, vintage vehicles and machinery, beautiful bush walks to enjoy and much more. A fun place for the whole family.
Right next to the Whangarei Museum & Heritage Park is the Native Bird Recovery Centre. Admission is free, and here you can see the injured and endangered birds who are visiting this unique aviary - from magnificent albatross to the cheeky New Zealand fantail.
Claphams Clocks (at the Town Basin) has the Southern Hemisphere's largest collection of clocks and timepieces, with tours always available, and promises to entertain young and old.
If time is on your side, pack a picnic and head to the celebrated Kauri Museum at Matakohe, a scenic 1 hour drive from our holiday park. This fabulous museum steps you back in time, to the days where forests of giant Kauri dominated Northland. Peek into the daily lives of an early 1900's family, learn about the fascinating milling process, see priceless Kauri heirlooms, Kauri gum displays, amazing carvings and much, much more.