Explore the Charm of Coastal Warkworth
Warkworth, nestled in North Auckland, is a captivating town where heritage meets nature. Built around the Mahurangi River, its historic buildings, boutique shops, and riverside cafés offer a relaxed vibe perfect for slow exploration. Whether you're after a scenic stroll along the riverbank or a browse through local galleries, Warkworth blends small-town charm with easy access to nature.
Venture just outside the town and you’ll find wine country delights. The surrounding Matakana Coast is dotted with award-winning vineyards and artisanal food producers. Spend your afternoon wine tasting under the sun or sampling locally made cheeses, before heading to nearby Snells Beach or Omaha for golden sands and safe swimming.
Diving Charters & Courses
Adventures on Land and Sea
For the ocean enthusiasts, Warkworth is a launchpad to some of New Zealand’s best scuba diving experiences. Local dive charters offer trips to world-class spots like Goat Island Marine Reserve and Little Barrier Island. Whether you're a certified diver or keen to learn, local operators run dive courses and guided underwater tours showcasing rich marine life and kelp forests.
Prefer dry land? The nearby Tawharanui Regional Park offers scenic walking and cycling trails with unbeatable coastal views. And don’t miss the Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway—just a short drive away—for sweeping vistas, native bush, and dramatic cliffs. These natural gems are a must for photographers and hikers alike.
Best Things to Do in Warkworth New Zealand
From peaceful riverside rambles to thrilling underwater experiences, Warkworth has something for every traveller:
- Visit the Warkworth Museum for a step back in time
- Sample wines and local produce at nearby Matakana vineyards
- Explore Goat Island Marine Reserve on a dive or snorkel tour
- Book a scuba course or dive charter with a local operator
- Walk the Mangawhai Cliffs Track for incredible coastal views
- Relax at Snells Beach or Omaha with a picnic and a swim
- Browse the Warkworth artisan markets on weekends
- Hike through native bush at Tawharanui Regional Park
- Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants
- Cruise along the Mahurangi River by kayak or paddleboard
Warkworth, at New Zealand's heart, boasts a diverse flora featuring iconic Kauri and Pohutukawa trees. The landscape includes medicinal Manuka and versatile Harakeke. Unique fauna like melodious Tui, graceful Fantails, North Island Kaka, and Morepork owls enrich Warkworth's biodiversity. Exploring Warkworth means immersing in a biodiverse realm that reflects New Zealand's natural beauty and ecological significance.
An hour north of Auckland, Matakana is a beloved retreat near stunning east coast beaches, renowned for home-grown delicacies and acclaimed wines. Experience delightful wine tastings at Matakana's wineries, complemented by gourmet vineyard lunches. Explore the vibrant Matakana Farmers’ Market for fresh produce and indulge in mouthwatering crepes. Discover Matakana Village's charm with galleries, boutiques, and eateries, then take a short drive to the stunning north Auckland beaches like Omaha and Tāwharanui. Don't miss snorkeling at marine reserves like Goat Island for coastal adventures in this paradise.
Welcome to Warkworth Lodge, a boutique motel in a historic villa, offering 12 character-filled suites. Enjoy a sunny atmosphere, pool, BBQ, and fireside lounge, centrally located for Matakana Coast adventures, perfect for families, couples, and groups. Indulge in waterfront luxury at The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, offering city-view studios and one-bedroom suites with sweeping marina and city views, a convenient and stylish retreat in Auckland's CBD. Escape to the tranquillity of Sandspit Country B&B on the enchanting Matakana Coast, a hidden gem on 2 acres with picturesque sunsets, drop-off service to local restaurants, and delightful breakfasts. Discover Mahurangi West Wing, an exclusive bed and breakfast retreat just 40 minutes from Auckland, offering breathtaking views of rural landscapes and the sea on a 7-acre property with a private West Wing featuring a comfortable queen-sized bed and a convertible couch for a flexible coastal retreat.
Travelling from Auckland to Warkworth offers diverse options to suit preferences and needs. Driving, covering about 64 kilometres via State Highway 1, takes around 45 minutes to an hour, providing flexibility for a scenic route at your pace. Intercity buses offer a convenient 1.5 to 2-hour option for those preferring a relaxed journey without driving.
