Come up for a day

36°4'52.744''S 174°35'56.036''E

Mangawhai Heads Beach

Sunrise to Sunset - aN unforgettable one day adventure

Spend a nature-filled day in Kaipara starting with a sunrise walk at Mangawhai Heads and coffee from Brewed As or Bennetts café. Kayak the serene Kaipara Harbour, then enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring local produce. Explore ancient native bush in Trounson Kauri Park, then head to Baylys Beach for a windswept beach stroll as the sun starts to set on the west coast. End the day with a sunset picnic or dinner in Taharoa Domain by the crystal-clear Kai Iwi Lakes. This itinerary blends adventure, local flavour, and natural beauty - perfect for those who love the outdoors and good food. Optional stargazing or an overnight stay adds a magical touch to this unforgettable Kaipara escape.

1 day trip

The first option is the ultimate in Kaipara adventures. Are you up for the challenge? Start with the sun rising over Mangawhai Heads beach, explore the harbour, forest and lakes, and end the day with the sun setting over Baylys Beach.

If you prefer a sleep in and a slower pace, spend the day relaxing on our magical east coast, or enjoy a day of adventures on our wild west coast.

  • Sunrise to sunset

    Chase the sun across Kaipara in this not-quite-realistic (but totally epic) one-day itinerary. Begin with a sunrise run along the Mangawhai cliff-top walk, then fuel up with a strong coffee from Brewed As before heading west to kayak the harbour.

    Grab lunch on your way up to explore ancient kauri forest, and dive into the crystal-clear Kai Iwi Lakes. End your day with a sunset swim at Baylys Beach. It’s adventure, nature, and local flavour packed into one unforgettable day.

  • Sun, sea, and small-town charm

    Start your day with a morning stroll or swim at Mangawhai Heads Beach, then explore the cliff-top walk if you're feeling energetic. On Saturdays, the Mangawhai Village markets are buzzing with local produce, art, and good coffee - perfect for picking up something fresh and local.

    Spend the afternoon wandering the shops, relaxing at the estuary, or letting the kids play at the Mangawhai Activity Zone. End your day with classic fish and chips at the boat ramp, watching the tide roll in as the sun begins to set.

  • Heritage, harbour views, and west coast magic

    Grab coffee and lunch on the go from Kaiwaka or Maungatūroto before heading to Pahi, a peaceful harbour village with calm waters and shady spots for a picnic. Soak up the scenery, enjoy a swim, or take a quiet moment under the iconic Moreton Bay fig tree.

    In the afternoon, swing by the Dargaville Museum for a dose of local history, then follow the coastline to Glinks Gully. It's the perfect place to end your day with a beach walk, sunset views, and the wild beauty of the Tasman Sea.