Visit Whangārei for the big game!

Published on 21 May 2025

Kia ora and welcome fellow fans! If you're heading up here for the big game, why not turn it into a proper Northland getaway? Whangārei and nearby Waipū are packed with activities that'll keep rugby lovers, families, and culture fans alike entertained between kick-off and the final whistle.

We asked a local rugby fan to share some of their top tips and favourite spots. From scenic strolls and local brews to Scottish history and glowworm caves, you'll find plenty to explore, eat, and enjoy. It's time to get ready to make a weekend of it!

Whangārei Warm-Up: Culture and Cold Pints

Staying in Whangārei for the game means you'll get a taste of everything this laid-back city has to offer. If you're in the mood for good pub grub or keen to check out some culture before the kick-off, Whangārei's got you covered.

From there, head to the Town Basin, it's Whangārei's waterfront hub. Here you can walk the Hātea Loop - Huarahi o te Whai. It's a nice flat track that's perfect for bringing the kid's bikes along and hitting the BMX track and playground along the way.

You'll spot sculptures, take in harbour views, and see the quirky Camera Obscura installation, and if you time it right, at about 12pm you'll see the iconic Te Matau ā Pohe bridge lifting. The 4.2km walk is a solid way to walk off a big breakfast (or earn yourself a cold one!)

A highlight in the Town Basin is the Hundertwasser Art Centre, where you'll also find the Wairau Māori Art Gallery, New Zealand's first and only public gallery dedicated solely to contemporary Māori art. Spend some time soaking it in before grabbing lunch at Aqua Restaurant, located above the gallery with great food, drinks, and great views over the Town Basin.

Whangārei's CBD is just a short walk away, offering plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs. If you're looking for a good spot to grab a pint and talk tactics, you're spoilt for choice. For sports fans, there's Beer & Loathing - great name, even better beer and American-style bar food.

The Judge House of Ale is another fantastic spot for a local pint with classic pub food before kick-off. Whangārei's CBD is walking distance or a scooter ride away from Semenoff Stadium, so wherever you fuel up in town, you're only a 20-minute walk from the game.

South to Waipū: A Taste of Scotland in the North

You've seen the haka, now it's time to experience the Scottish side of the weekend! If you're a Scots fan, a day trip to Waipū is a must-do. Just a 40-minutes' drive south of Whangārei and steeped in Scottish heritage and small-town charm, this coastal spot is perfect for a day trip. It's a great way to experience the other half of this game's cultural clash and grab a seriously good beer while you're at it!

Visit the Waipū Scottish Heritage Museum to learn more about the settlers who journeyed from Nova Scotia, or follow the Waipū Heritage Trail through historic landmarks. Keen on a bit of adventure? You can't miss the nearby Waipū Caves - a free glowworm cave system and a local favourite (please take note of known hazards).

Cap off your Scottish cultural fix with a visit to McLeod's Pizza Barn & Brewery. Between the woodfired pizza and the locally brewed craft beer, it's an essential stop for any rugby-loving foodie. Find more ways to connect with your Scottish roots in Waipū by reading the guide under the Be Inspired section.

Final Whistle

Whether you're here to cheer on the Māori All Blacks, support the Scots, or just soak in the atmosphere, Northland is delivering a weekend packed with history, hospitality, and culture.

Rugby is the main event, but everything around it? That's what makes the trip unforgettable. 

Bags packed? Make your first stop the Whangārei isite Visitor Information Centre. Conveniently located on State Highway One, the friendly team can help you to make the most of your time in Whangārei. 

See you at the stadium. Ngā mihi and Mar sin leibh (Scots Gaelic for “goodbye”)!

Thank you to our local rugby fan for the recommendations! The Māori All Blacks take on Scotland on 5 July 2025, with an opening game of the Black Ferns vs the Black Ferns XV. Tickets are selling fast so don't miss out! allblacks.com