Beautiful Wave at Ocean Beach – Photography by Gyles Dyer
Walking
Numerous walks for all abilities exist in the Whangarei Heads area. Visit the Department of Conservation website for details.
Beaches
There are a large number of beaches all within a short drive of Cliff House offering a variety of environments from surfing conditions to gentle estuary lagoons.
Shops
Parua Bay Village is a short 8 minute drive from Cliff House and now boasts a good range of convenient stores. Along with the excellent Newday Café, there is a well-stocked food store, wine shop, and an artisan breads and gourmet delicatessen.
Dining
Newday Café at the Parua Bay Village is open Tues – Fri 8am – 3.30pm and Sat-Sun 9am – 3.30pm and offers are good variety of breakfast and lunch dishes along with excellent coffee. Ph: (09) 436 0184
Parua Bay Tavern is located on the water’s edge with views across the bay – open Tuesday – Sunday from 11.30am till late for lunch and dinner. Ph: (09) 436 5856
Topsail a la carte restaurant is located in Onerahi (approx. 23km back towards Whangarei) and is open Wed – Saturday evenings for dinner. Ph: (09) 436 2985
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Blue Glass Art Quayside Town Basin
Art Galleries
Whangarei Heads is a haven for residential artists and many welcome visitors, especially if booked in advance.
The Whangarei Heads Arts Trail is held each Easter Saturday and Sunday when a number of artists open their studios and workshops to the public.
Kayaking
Bring your own and explore the surrounding estuaries and harbours, or go on an organised half or full day kayaking adventure with Pacific Coast Kayaks. Ph: (09) 436 1947
Mountain Biking
Whangarei boasts two mountainbike parks (Glenbervie and Parihaka) which cater for all levels of ability.
Horse Riding
Avalon Farm in Parua Bay offers riding lessons or horse treks by appointment. Ph: (09) 436 3570
Golf
The Pines Golf Club at Parua Bay offers an 18 hole course with a par of 71 and a medium degree of difficulty. Located just a 15 minute drive from Cliff House, The Pines welcomes casual players all year round. Ph: (09) 436 2246
Surfing
Bring your board and head to Ocean Beach at Whangarei Heads (approx. 20km) or head down to Pataua South (approx. 12km) and cross the footbridge to Pataua North where you’ll find Surfpad who can hire you a surfboard and have a surfing lesson on the beautiful Pataua North beach or try a Stand Up Paddle Board on the Pataua Estuary. Ph: (09) 436 2794,
