Judy A.'s
Best Accommodation
- 12Pipiroa Bay HomestayRussellThese serviced apartments set overlooking the water with extensive pathways through beautiful and lovingly maintained gardens are sure to be especially fabulous at this time of year. Take the kids swimming, fishing or kayaking right from your base, and with all the fantastic activities of Paihia just over the water, you’re sure not to get bored. The in-house breakfasts are a hit, and Paula and Gary are the perfect hosts.
- 21Fiddler's GreenRussellHome-style accommodation in a sailor’s paradise makes this a fantastic destination for the adventurous, water-loving family. Set out on a chartered sailing trip around the stunning islands on the incredible tall ship Atair for a surely unforgettable experience, and for an educational element, sign up for a navigation course too.
- 32Sandy Bay RetreatMatapouriWith cows, chickens, turkeys, butterflies, tadpoles (and, as it goes, frogs), trees to climb, a tyre swing, pond and water slide, the kids will entertain themselves, leaving you to soak up the relaxed vibes and fresh air. Have a dip in the bush bath and wander around the gardens. An easy-peasy, no-fuss holiday. Sandy Bay also happens to be a great place for a surf (look up Surfari Tours if you’d just be dipping your toes into that exciting sport).
- 42Totara Valley FarmstayOhaeawaiThis would be such a lot of fun for a laidback family getaway. Let the kids run wild in the rural surrounds, get friendly with the animals, enjoy the pool and go exploring around the rugged west coast that is the Hokianga. For a day trip, be sure to venture into Rawene and across the ferry to Kohukohu for a taste of village life.
- 52Pagoda LodgeKerikeriWith whimsical accommodation to suit any budget and all the attractions of Kerikeri nearby, plus bush walks, tree-climbing courses, swimming, and kayaks and bikes for hire, the Pagoda Lodge is sure to delight.
Judy A.'s
Kids activities
- 11Adventure ForestGlenbervieCalling all budding Tarzans and Janes itching for a tree-top adventure. This perfectly safe but thrilling series of courses will put your kids through their paces with flying foxes, spinning balancing beams, slides and more. This seriously looks like such a blast I’d love to tackle it myself. Child’s pass is $27 for access to all circuits, or there are more limited passes available. Get your jungle call on!
- 23Kingdom of ZionKamoTake a mini-adventure to the African savannah for a day and get a good look at the impressive characters of this big cat family. Those inquisitive minds will be able to get all their burning questions answered by the very knowledgeable staff but be sure to book soon because slots are filling up fast.
- 32Rangemore Llama FarmWaipapaLlamas have been experiencing something of a moment with kids since, oh, forever? (Or was it the Emperor’s New Groove?) Either way, take your young ones out to Rangemore to get up close and cuddly with the 40 or so llamas there, and learn all about these gentle and funny animals on the guided tour. Take a packed lunch to enjoy in the dedicated picnic area. Entry is only $5 for adults and $3 for children.
- 41Northland PaddleboardingKerikeriA great way to get out on the water without having to brace for the still-chilly temperature - unless you want to! In one hour kids will learn the basics of this hugely popular sport and get out for a paddle. After enjoying the views from the water and the sun on their faces, I’m sure your young ones will be buzzing from the experience. Northland Paddleboarding are the only ISA-qualified trainers in the area.
- 57Whangarei LibrariesWhangarei CentralWith the Teen Breakfast Club and Let’s Make More school holiday programmes, Whangarei Library has your everyday activities covered. For the younger ones, Tues-Thurs both weeks they’ll be crafting something new each day, including puppets, dioramas, fabric projects and molding with clay. Teens can head along for movies, a photo competition, games, a dance session, craft projects including band bracelets, hair chalking and steampunk creations, and, if the name didn’t give it away, breakfast.
Judy A.'s
Top dessert spots
- 11Peppers Carrington ResortKarikari PeninsulaThe chef at Peppers has award-winning dessert credentials and strives to use fresh produce from the property, meaning the options changes frequently but are always exciting. Currently you’d find the fruit-tastic poached apricot with amoretti biscuits and blueberry coulis, or a chocolate and espresso cake with kahlua icecream for anyone with a rich palate. All served in an exquisite location, naturally.
- 23Come those balmy summer evenings, Cellini’s is perfect for a casual treat eaten strolling along the waterfront. The range of oh-so-delectable icecreams is enormous, as is the number of serving options - so be prepared for a hard time choosing. The coffee, too, is consistently good.
- 34Food at WharepukeKerikeriThe creative use of flavours continues right through to dessert at Wharepuke - evidenced in the award-winning lime and lemongrass pannacotta, or pear and ginger pudding with salted caramel icecream. And how about a Frangelico coffee to finish? Nom.
- 410Bennetts of MangawhaiMangawhaiThe talented team at Bennetts can do no wrong, and the award-winning range of Zest ice cream is proof of that. The classics, such as vanilla or passionfruit, are a safe bet, while the more creative gingernut, pear and chocolate is also winner, or if you’re really feeling adventurous, keep an eye out for appearances from flavours such as bacon and egg or hot smoked salmon (I’m not kidding!)
- 59Makana ConfectionsKerikeriFor the best, easiest after-dinner indulgence at home, stock up from Makana in Kerikeri. The super soft truffles and macadamia brittle are a couple of favourites, but use their samples as inspiration if you’re keen to try something new. Make yourself up a platter with a few pieces of fresh fruit and you’re golden.
Judy A.'s
Gifts for dad
- 11Captain BuckoPaihiaTo thoroughly spoil dad, send him out on a fishing trip with the highly experienced, friendly and funny Captain Bucko, who has been in business for more than 25 years. Setting off from the Bay of Islands, charter options start at $98pp for four hours, with a decent catch and a good feed pretty much guaranteed! As Bucko himself says: "Fast boat, more fishing." This is a shared charter, so it would be super-fun to pitch in as family for dad’s ticket and pay your own way to enjoy some awesome quality time together.
- 21Innate HealthWhangarei CentralDads’ bodies are often under a lot of physical stress, but we tend not to think of pampering them like we do mums. A sports massage would be a great way to target aches and pains and are perfectly suited to treating active bodies - just adjust the length of time to match your budget.
- 31Toll StadiumWhangarei CentralGet dad to the game. The Taniwha face off against Hawke’s Bay this Friday (September 5) at Toll Stadium, Whangarei. Tickets start from $12 dollars, so get a crowd together and your face paint on to cheer on the roaring home team - coming off the back of a spectacular win against Wellington, hopes will be high for a good match.
- 44Jimmy Jack's Rib ShackPaihiaQuality time (with zero dishes) is the best a dad can ask for, so for a slurpy, sticky, finger-lickin’ evening, chow down at the laidback and casual Jimmy Jack’s in Paihia. This place is a favourite with locals for good reason - the meals are hearty and generous, steak perfectly cooked, ribs fall off the bone and the staff are fun and helpful.
- 56Brauhaus Frings BreweryWhangarei CentralTreat your old man to locally brewed hops from Brauhaus Frings - the draught, old ale and lager are all available in 2L take-home flagons ($14ea, refills $12), or for a fun time bring him in on the day to enjoy Carver’s Sunday, with a DJ playing good sing-a-long stuff. I’m told the guitars often come out later in the evening.
Judy A.'s
Great ideas for spring
- 12Mangonui Craft MarketMangonuiWhat better way to start the weekend than by taking in sweet Mangonui with a trip to the craft market (Saturday, 10am-2pm) in the community hall. You’ll find fresh produce, authentic NZ greenstone, artisan products, home baking and much more. Before or after, there’s a decent choice of harbourside cafes from which to grab a coffee or brunch.
- 21Mangawhai DeliMangawhaiPicnic season is here and this family store, famous for its cheese sticks and deli sandwiches, will be your best friend. Pick up a satisfying selection of treats - the pasta salad and bread pies also come highly recommended - and take a drive out to one of the many beautiful spots around Mangawhai for a tasty lunch and good dose of fresh air.
- 32Botanica WhangareiAvenuesIn the heart of the city lies a lush escape from the hustle and bustle. Now will be the perfect time to enjoy the carefully maintained gardens in full bloom. Be sure to cross the bridge over the river, where you’ll also find a fernery and cactus house for something different.
- 41The Sound CaveTutukakaFor families, this Thursday night screening (August 28) of Pitch Perfect in the Tutukaka Marine Reserve would be a fun and exciting way to break up the week. Park up, tune in your radio and sing along. To complete the retro throw-back, waitresses scoot around on roller skates with snacks, including popcorn and pizza. ”Finish that like a cheesecake.
- 51Ahipara Horse TreksAhiparaExperience Northland’s own wild west with a trek along the rugged Ninety Mile Beach before that sun gets too fierce. The locally run tour through true horse-country is perfectly catered for novices but can happily adapt to suit more experienced riders too. But for the love of healthy skin, don’t forget a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Judy A.'s
Where to shop for spring
- 14Kerikeri Farmers' MarketKerikeriIf you’re at all like me, it’s about now you’ll feel inspired to pack more fresh fruit and vegetables into your day. Kerikeri Farmer’s Market, one of the largest in the country, is the ideal place to get your fill of the juiciest, crunchiest produce, and makes a lovely Sunday morning of strolling through the stalls, sampling the treats and inevitably having a tough time of choosing just which tasty breakfast option is the one for you.
- 22Northland PlantsMaungatapereThe vege garden beckons. It’s time to plant sweetcorn, beans and asparagus, and - the beacon of a nearing summer - sow your tomato seeds. Northland Plants, 15 minutes out of Whangarei, is a great place to arm yourself. The open-air gardens make a beautiful setting to wander around in, so take your time and get full advantage of the knowledgable staff. Opening hours are limited (Thurs-Sat), but it’s worth working around.
- 31High Voltage SurfKerikeriIf you ever got out of your jandals, about now is the time to slip back into them, and shorts, T-shirts and hat too. High Voltage has the sweet threads and accessories to help you get stylishly prepared for the brighter sun and all those beautiful beach days just around the corner.
- 40Bunnings KerikeriKerikeriWith the lengthening daylight hours, outdoor DIY projects come on to the agenda. Whether you’re out to create a path, edge gardens, build a retaining wall, lay a patio or just spruce things up for those upcoming BBQs, Bunnings has all you could need from start to finish. The staff are friendly and eager to help, and opening hours are generous.
- 52Kerikeri Daffodil WorldKerikeriThere’s nothing like those spunky little bursts of yellow to get you in the spring-time mood, so stop by Daffodil World, any time in August-September, and pick up a nice big bunch for home to put a smile on your face every time you walk by. Only $5 for 25 blooms.