Fishing in Mangawhai is great, even in winter! The locals will be more than happy to share spot X, no need to go far.

There are lots of Kahawai, or even Snapper to be caught in the estuary itself.

Bring your boat, hire a kayak or try one of the many professional charters operating from Mangawhai.

Additionally, The beautiful coastline and nearby Hen & Chicken Islands are an ongoing attraction for fishing and diving enthusiasts. Fishing, diving or sight seeing can be arranged from full or half day charters with our local charter boat operators.

Water sports in the Mangawhai Estuary is a safe way to enjoy the day on the water. The speed/ski lane is perfect for towing the kids behind the boat or jet ski.

Even just go for a scenic cruise down the estuary and have a family picnic on the sand dunes.

Remember 5 knots at all time in the estuary between the yellow speed markers.

For something more exhilarating try the Mangawahi Heads Surf Beach.

Kayaking on the estuary or the Harbour can be one of the most relaxing or adventurous things to do in Mangawhai Heads. It really is a great way to spend an afternoon. Bring your kayak or paddle board and enjoy the adventures that the estuary has to offer.

Walking trails in Mangawhai are plentiful. It’s understandable then that walking is one of the most popular things to do in Mangawhai. Whether it is a short walk or something more adventurous, there is something for everyone.

A MUST DO is the Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway, voted one of New Zealand best short walks. you can park your vehicle at our Holiday Park and walk to the beginning of this track.

Playing golf at the Mangawhai Golf Club is a relaxing way to spend the day.

Mangawhai Golf Club is an 18-hole championship course consistently ranked in New Zealand’s top 20.

Only a 3 minute drive away from our park.

You’ll find Glow Worms at Waipu Caves, within the entrance to the caves themselves, you will find stalactites, stalagmites and glow worms.

Located on the estuary, the Mangawhai Tavern Market is a great way to spend a Saturday morning. You’ll find plenty of fresh produce from the area, and you’re sure to pick a bargain or two along the way. You can also listen to the live music while having a coffee or chatting with the locals. There really is something for everyone.

The Community Market also runs on Saturday mornings and is held at the Mangawhai Beach School, within walking distance from the Tavern Market.

The sand dunes at Mangawhai Surf Beach are awesome for the kids to be sliding, rolling, running down, while the parents sit and have a picnic under the trees. This is only a 15 minute walk from the park or an easy 2 minute drive.

For more giant dunes, you can cross the estuary and spend all day exploring the dunes right across from the park. You can go all the way down the estuary and even walk over to the surf beach on the other side.

The Mangawhai Activity Zone (or MAZ as it’s better known) is a great playground for all ages.

It has children’s playground, flying fox, pump track, state-of-the-art skate park, tennis courts, walking tracks and more. There’s even a BBQ area for the parents to enjoy a family picnic while the kids enjoy what this wonderful area has to offer.

Only 20 minutes from the Park, Tomarata Lake is a great spot to enjoy some fresh water and a white sandy beach. The lake is also perfect for wakeboarding, jet skiing and other watersports.

While you’re there, go and explore the Te Arai Forest and the beautiful Te Arai Point. Te Arai Point offers great peaceful beach areas and great surf.

One of the more educational things to do in Mangawhai is the Mangawhai Museum, with lots for you to see and learn. This modern-style museum is an affordable activity to do in Mangawhai. Learn the stories of Mangawhai and the role that the harbour has played on early Maori settlers, European settlers and today’s holidaymakers.

We are spoilt for choice with an amazing array of cafes, eateries and bars.  See our blog post about the Best Places to Eat in Mangawhai for inspiration.

To burn off a bit of energy and enjoy some amazing scenery, why not try one of the many beautiful walks this region has to offer. The famous Mangawhai Cliffs Walk starts at the surf beach up some steps and along the cliff and return along the beach if the tide is right. Fantastic views – allow 3 hours return.