Panorama of Whangarei at Bream Head, New Zealand Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bream_Head.JPG Author: Follash
Whangarei is the northernmost city in New Zealand. The regional capital of Northland Region, it has a population of some 52,000 people (2011 estimate). The city is located on the headland on the northwestern part of North Island.
The main feature of the area is Mount Parihaka, which rises to 241 over the northeastern part of downtown Whangerei. Running through the southern part of Whangerei is Hatea River on its way to Whangerei Harbour.
Whangarei experiences an oceanic climate. Warmest month is January, with average high temperature of 24.4°C (75.9°F). Coldest month is July, when the average low drops to 7.2°C (45°F). Whangerei gets plenty of rain across the year, with the heaviest in June, which receives 179 mm (7.05 in) of rain.
Shops in Whangarei Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:New_Zealand_15_212.jpg Author: Kiwi-sonja
Captain James Book and his crew on the Endeavour were the first Europeans to sight the Whangarei Harbour area, when they arrived there in November, 1769. The area was inhabited by Maoris of the Ngapuhi tribe. The first European settler in the area was William Carruth, who arrived in 1839, and was later joined by other settlers.
In the early days, the settlement of Whangarei depended on the trade in timber and kauri gum, with coal mining added later. By the early 20th century, most of the natural resources have been exhausted, and the area turned to agriculture and the raising of cattle. Today the economic activities of the area include oil refinery and timber processing.
Visiting Whangarei
There are bus services from Auckland to Whangarei, a journey of some three hours. If you drive, you can get there in two hours.
Sights & Attractions to visit in Whangarei
Clapham Clock Museum Museum exhibiting some 1,600 time pieces, many made by A Clapham. A giant sundial marks the whereabouts of the museum.
Clarke Homestead A well-preserved homestead built in 1885, providing a glimpse into the lifestyle in the late 19th century.
Kiwi House One of the few places where you can get a chance to see a live kiwi bird as well as learn about its habitat.
Parahaki Scenic Reserve Forest reserve preserving the natural landscape of the Whangarei area, located in the Tikipunga suburb.
Quarry Arts Centre A tourist center for browsing through local arts and crafts.
Whangarei Falls One of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand.
Whangarei Museum Museum displaying a fine collection of Maori artifacts.
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Panorama of Whangarei at Bream Head, New Zealand
Shops in Whangarei
