l lik Wh A A h d Summer in Northland
Secluded on a peninsula in the northern Bay of Islands, The Landing is a hidden jewel offering a summer wine-tasting or holiday experience with the best of everything New Zealand has to offer
With 1000 rolling acres to explore, you could spend days discovering The Landing The property is home to six beautiful private beaches, 45 heritage sites, restored native bush and wetlands that boast one of the country’s largest populations of kiwi, a boutique vineyard and winery, and four spectacular private Residences that are available as luxury accommodation
A place like no other Where Art, Architecture and Nature Come Together
The Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery at Whangāreis Town Basin is where art architecture and nature exist in perfect harmony
CBut the easiest way to get a taste of the magic of the property – as well as its award-winning wines – is by booking one of The Landing’s wine-tasting experiences
Sited on a hillside, the winery takes in tranquil views of the vineyard, lake and rolling pastures In summer, the downstairs Tasting Room is the ideal place for long lunches and tastings as sea breezes blow through the open-air space If the weather isn’t playing ball, the upstairs Wine Library is a cosy retreat, decorated in rich timbers with fine art pieces and an archive of wines on display
There are a range of food experiences to match the wines, ranging from cheeseboards featuring local artisan products, through a relaxed shared-
platter lunch, to a seasonal two-course cellar door experience, which begins and ends with a ride across the Bay by private boat, and includes a tour of heritage sites on the property
If your wine-tasting experience leaves you wanting more, The Landing team can help you book a bespoke holiday at one of the four Residences, each of which offers a unique and private experience of the property The waterfront Boathouse is ideal for couple retreats, the Vineyard Villa is perfectly sized for families, the hunting lodge-style Gabriel Residence fits extended gatherings, and the Cooper Residence offers everything you could want for a once-in-alifetime escape T +64 9 300 3685 | E info@thelandingnz.com thelandingwine.co.nz | @thelandingwines
elebrating the painter, architect, ecologist and visionary Friedensreich Hundertwasser alongside contemporary Māori artists, the Centre offers visitors an immersive experience
More than just a museum, the Centre provides a window into Hundertwasser’s philosophy of living in tune with nature Known for his visionary architecture, Hundertwasser created buildings that reject straight lines in favour of individuality, colour and organic forms
Housing the largest collection of Hundertwasser’s works outside Vienna, the centre is a must-visit for art lovers, environmentalists, and anyone inspired by bold, visionary design Hundertwassers connection to Aotearoa runs deep After living in Northland and becoming a New Zealand citizen, he gifted the original design for the centre to Whangārei in 1993 Three decades later his vision has been beautifully realised creating a space that reflects his ecological philosophy, including an Afforested Roof, golden onion shaped cupola, trees growing out of windows and spontaneous vegetation integrated throughout the building
Inside, the Hundertwasser in New Zealand 1973–2000 Exhibition showcases paintings, tapestries, architectural models and examples of Hundertwasser’s ecological projects, offering
insight into his journey as an artist, architect and environmental activist Alongside it, the Wairau Māori Art Gallery, New Zealands first public gallery dedicated to contemporary Māori art, presents exhibitions by leading Māori artists
Visitors can access the Afforested Roof and climb to the golden cupola for stunning 360-degree views take a guided tour from Thursday to Sunday at 11am exploring both exhibitions and the roof, then browse the MuseumShop for unique keepsakes to take home The Centre also features a small theatre screening a documentary about Hundertwasser’s life and work
Open7days,10am–4pm|81DentStreet,Town Basin,Whangārei
Tickets:hundertwasserartcentre.co.nz
Summer in Northland
NORTHLAND: The Ultimate HolidayDestination forEveryone
By Grant McCallum, MP for Northland
I take immense pride in my region, Northland This beautiful area of New Zealand has it all for the entire family, and Im here to convince you to come and make it your holiday destination this year You will not be disappointed
From the vast, open landscapes and bountiful marine life to the rich breathtaking cultural heritage, Northland offers a wide array of experiences: rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear beaches for adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment The NZ Herald’s dedicated supplement reveals all that makes this region unique and will inspire you to explore its many wonders
So, Northland is open for business! But what can you expect when you arrive? Smiles
Beyond the spectacular scenery one of the true treasures of Northland lies in the warmth and friendliness of its residents Northlanders are renowned for their welcoming nature and laid-back lifestyle Whether you ’ re visiting our bustling markets enjoying a local festival or just relaxing at a quaint café, you ll immediately
feel the warmth of our community which is a hallmark of life in Northland
Furthermore, we are practical people, always looking for ways to make our region more attractive Northlanders know how vital tourism is to Northland’s economy, and we work hard to promote the most picturesque parts of our region From the breathtaking Ninety Mile Beach to the magical Bay of Islands, the natural beauty is incomparable
And for those who love the water, Northland offers excellent fishing and boating Anglers will find top spots like the Bay of Islands for deep-sea and game fishing, and Ninety Mile Beach for surfcasting along its vast shoreline Boating enthusiasts can enjoy everything from sailing adventures and scenic cruises to dolphinwatching tours and kayaking among our islands
On your visit, don’t miss the delightful Kauri Museum in Matakohe, which celebrates one of the most remarkable tree species in the world, the kauri, and our deep connection with it The museum will tell fascinating stories of courage, determination, and even tragedy that highlights
A short distance away stands Tane Mahuta, the lord of the forest, towering at 50 metres in the beautiful Waipoua Forest A visit to this behemoth of times past is mandatory and an indication of the timeless beauty of the Northland landscape
And don’t forget Dargaville, the heart of the Kaipara district, known for its rich history, stunning river views, and as the kumara capital of New Zealand It’s a great stop for exploring heritage trails and enjoying local hospitality
Further south, Mangawhai is a coastal gem with golden beaches, vibrant cafés, and a thriving arts scene It’s perfect for families and couples alike offering everything from surfing and swimming to boutique shopping and relaxed dining.
With our natural wonders, Northland is rich in colourful history that captivates visitors. It is rich in Māori culture, with many historic sites scattered throughout the region In fact, a visit
to places like Waitangi and its Te Rau Aroha Museum (story of the 28th Māori Battalion) is an invaluable way to delve into New Zealands history and reflect on the events that have shaped our nation. Accommodation options in Northland are diverse and plentiful, suiting every preference and budget From family-friendly B&Bs and campsites to luxury retreats along our coastline, we aim to cater to all preferences and budgets.
Honestly, theres far too much to mention in one column—from hidden waterfalls and coastal walks to vibrant arts communities and unforgettable food experiences.
Admittedly, I am biased, but I strongly recommend experiencing Northland for yourself From the breathtaking scenery of our landscapes, the friendliness of our communities, to the diversity of our cultures, I’m personally convinced that your Northland visit will create lifelong memories.
So pack up the family and come discover one of the many amazing experiences waiting for you in our beautiful region
how early settlers risked their lives in order to harvest kauri timber which was a critical player in shaping this nation.
Your One-Stop Summer Stop Summer in Northland
Make Mitre 10 MEGA Whangārei your first stop on the way to the bach, the beach, or wherever summer takes you. From outdoor furniture and BBQs to garden gear, tools, paint, camping supplies, and beach essentials everything you need for your home, your projects, and your holiday is right here.
OUTDOOR LIVING
Ooni
HOLIDAY HOMES
WATER ENTERTAINING
Summer in Northland
Extend Your Summer Holiday Living
Make Port Nikau in Whangārei Your New Home
But as holidays come to an end and the return to the daily grind looms many find themselves asking: why cant life always feel like this? The answer is simple - it can
Just two hours from Auckland, Whangārei offers everything you love about your summer escapes, all year round Imagine swapping gridlock commutes for coastal drives, concrete jungles for native bush, and weekend warriors for genuine work-life balance The lifestyle you ve been holidaying in could be your everyday reality
Port Nikau is bringing this vision to life This ambitious 100-hectare waterfront community is transforming Whangāreis harbour edge into a modern, connected neighbourhood where relaxed coastal living meets urban convenience Imagine low-maintenance lock-and-leave homes, storage for the caravan, discounted berthage for your boat, with schools, shopping and other amenities all close by
Over the next decade, Port Nikau will grow into a thriving community of 1,200 homes, complete with a bustling town centre that brings retail, dining and services right to your doorstep
Expansive parks and play areas will provide spaces for families to gather, four kilometres of coastline walking and cycling paths offer endless opportunities to connect with nature, and the new recreational marina will become a hub for boating enthusiasts
Port Nikau has taken a fresh approach to make building even easier Every section comes with pre-approved house designs specifically tailored to suit its unique characteristics - removing the hassle of months of planning and approvals House and land packages are available through trusted builders like G J Gardner, Signature Homes and Sentinel Homes offering a seamless building experience, from design planning to ‘ move in’ day Alternatively, buyers can purchase a section and work with their preferred builder on their own custom plans
Port Nikaus dedicated commercial zone also presents opportunities for relocating businesses ready to grow alongside one of New Zealands fastest-expanding regional cities
Whangāreis population has surged 6 8% since 2018, and it’s easy to see why The city - and Port Nikau - offers a new way of living, built around community, connection, a stunning natural environment and genuine quality of life Choose this summer to plan your move
Port Nikau is set to flourish into a vibrant thriving waterfront community surrounded by expansive parks, a modern recreational marina and kilometres of walking and cycling paths and stunning coastline Relocate now and choose a relaxed Northland lifestyle all year round!
Whangarei’s
Every summer, thousands of Aucklanders make the journey north to Whangārei, trading city stress for coastal calm
Summer in Northland
A Dairy Farm’s Transformation into a Mānuka Powerhouse
extract containing a wide variety of delicate yet powerful healing compounds without the harsh aroma typically associated with Mānuka oil
What was once a degraded dairy farm is now home to Waipu Extracts, a pioneering company that has developed the world’s first full-spectrum Mānuka extract using cutting-edge supercritical extraction technology
Breaking New Ground in Extraction Science
The breakthrough lies in their innovative supercritical extraction technique which uses low heat and high pressure to preserve the delicate bioactive compounds that traditional steam distillation often destroys This revolutionary process harnesses the true potential of Mānuka to create a full-spectrum
“We wanted to harness the true power of Mānuka,” explains Thomas Tesniere of Waipu Extracts “Our supercritical extraction method preserves compounds that are usually destroyed due to high heat, creating something genuinely unique in the global skincare market ”
Regenerative Farming Meets Premium Skincare
The story began four years ago when the land’s new owners chose regeneration over traditional farming Rather than continuing with dairy, they planted 120 acres of Mānuka, prized worldwide for containing high triketone levels The decision has paid dividends both environmentally and commercially What were once bare paddocks are now thriving ecosystems where native birds sing and threatened species like Kauri snails are returning
From Lab to Luxury: Two Product Lines
Their innovation extends beyond farming and extraction to product development
The company operates two brands; Waipu Extracts sells pure full-spectrum Mānuka oil and blends directly from their purpose-built
facilities, while MN8 Skincare has formulated a premium skincare range that combines their FullSpectrum Mānuka Extract with New Zealand’s favourite healing botanicals
Their skincare range represents a new generation of New Zealand-made products that don’t just promise results but deliver them through science-backed formulations rooted in regenerative manufacturing practices
Incredible Results from Eczema Product Trials
The team has just completed an eczema product trial with incredible results They were inspired to pursue this research when Thomas, their production manager, cured hand eczema hed lived with his whole life just by handling their manuka extract during production Since then they’ve witnessed it relieve dandruff and other
skin conditions, so they’re now documenting these transformative outcomes scientifically
Expansion on the Horizon
With their product trial results confirming that Thomas’s hand eczema cure wasn’t a one-off fluke and solidifying the amazing feedback they’ve been receiving from users of their MN8 skincare line, the company is now poised for significant expansion Watch this space, they’ll be looking to release more skincare and bodycare products while reaching global markets
The transformation from dairy farm to full-scale botanical skincare operation demonstrates what’s possible when scientific innovation meets New Zealand’s natural resources, creating products that deliver genuine results through proven efficacy
In the rolling hills of Waipū, Northland, a quiet revolution is transforming both the landscape and New Zealands skincare industry
The Perfect Family Day Trip
One Epic Show Day
9.00am - 4.30pm, Saturday 6th December
Make a day of it and discover the magic of Northland at Whangārei A&P Show! Enjoy a real Kiwi country experience with family fun, animals, entertainment, food and hands-on activities you won’t find in the city
Our 2025 theme,‘Farming Boots & Kauri Roots’, celebrates local heritage and the mighty kauri with a Kauri VR Zone, gum polishing, a microscope station and more. Pack the Kids - Northland’s Biggest Day Out Awaits!
Tickets: $10 per person • FREE for 5yrs & under
FREE ACTIVITIES
GJ Gardner Homes Big Dig Sawdust Treasure Hunt for fabulous prizes, Vintage Tractor Hay Bale Rides, Doug the Digger, Cowleys Farm Yard, Take a photo with Santa and follow the Learning Trail to enter the prize draw for a $250 prezzy card and special merchandise prize pack
COMPETITIONS
Baking, Making and Creating in the Made by Me Home Industries, Dairy and Beef
Cattle, Horses, Ponies, Sheep, Dairy Goats, Pet Lambs and Goats, Highland Dancing, Northland Excavator Competitions, Shearing and Bayleys Speed Shearing!
FREE SHOWS
Fresha Valley Suzie Moo, Billy Black the Woolman, Teach a Townie to Feed a Lamb, Jake Whitaker’s Motorcycle Stunt Show and Live Entertainment & Performances on the centre stage all day.
EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS
Circus Kumarani, Creative Northland - Be Inspired by Natural Fibre, Vintage & New Tractors, Military Vehicles, Classic Cars, Cheerleaders and more.
SHOPPING
Mitre 10 Art and Craft Alley, features some of Northland’s finest artisans selling their innovative and original works. Added to the great lineup of trade exhibitors, there will be bargains and treats for everyone - just in time for Christmas!
Enjoy hassle-free parking right next to the Showgrounds.
PLUS
Great Coffee, Food and Refreshments Plus lots of activities - from oversized Board Games to Kauri Gum Polishing, and other fun activities including Bouncy Castles, Laughing Clowns, Mechanical Bull and loads more!
