Northland

Even if you think you’ve already been there and done that, the museum at the heart of the stunning Kauri Coast region is constantly evolving, and it’s just had another refresh, as Peta Stavelli discovers
Northland is a wonderful destination at every time of year, but if you plan it right, you’ll find some incredible natural flowering treasures, says Heather Whelan.
It’s hard to resist the lure of the Far North, where pōhutukawa trees hang out gnarly limbs on shady beaches and the sun-winking sea curls onto salt-and-pepper sand. Jill Malcolm finds her happy place in Whananaki.
As the northernmost city in New Zealand, at the centre of the ‘winterless north’, Whangārei is often fine and sunny – but not always. Heather Whelan discovers some northern activities to amuse and delight, no matter what the weather’s doing.
New Zealand is dotted with tiny townships we often drive through on the way to our next adventure. But in doing so, we might just bypass some of our greatest treasures. Each month, MCD highlights one of Aotearoa’s smaller towns so you can plan a stop, show them your support, and discover their hidden gems. This month, we’re checking out Gore.
The township of Opononi is testament to the adage, ‘less is more’. With a population of less than 700 and just a handful of shops, this is a place you can catch your breath, unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy simple pleasures. Claire Smith visits this northern gem.