Visit my Village: A local's guide to Parua Bay
Published on 03 December 2025
Take the road less travelled this summer! While Whangārei is full of wonderful activities, events and restaurants, there's plenty to discover in the small villages spread throughout our district.
Whangārei Heads local Susanne Olsen shares her personal favourite sips, scenic strolls and secluded spots in Parua Bay.
My three must-do activities in Parua Bay are...
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"A visit to Kauri Mountain Beach is a must-do. It's just the most stunning beach ever! Uncompromised and pure."
Where to find it: Access to Kauri Mountain Beach is via Kauri Mountain Road which has gravel sections, so drive with care. There is a parking lot next to the beach access (Google Maps).
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"A walk around Busby Head has to be at the very top of the list. It's a beautiful walk with amazing views and everyone can do it. Paths are mostly gravelled and there are historic info spots around the place."
Where to find it: Busby Head is part of the Smugglers Bay Loop Track. Park at the end of Urquhart Bay Road.
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"On a sunny summer day you can't beat a cold drink at The Parua Bay Tavern. It's a stunning location right on the water."
Where to find it: 1034 Whangarei Heads Road, Parua Bay.
My favourite cafe is...
"Smith & Local at Parua Bay make the best coffee and brunch to match!"
Where to find it: Unit 4, Parua Bay Village.
You'll find me browsing at...
"Ms. Smith Style Hunter is located opposite the Parua Bay Tavern and is an eclectic gift shop. If you're looking for a unique gift, you are bound to find something interesting here. It's a treasure hunter's paradise."
Where to find it: 1035 Whangarei Heads Road, Parua Bay.
"Parua Bay has a local market every Sunday behind the Parua Bay Community Centre. There's also the Kings Birthday Art and Craft show which is a big event and also takes place at the Parua Bay Community Centre."
Where to find it: The Parua Bay Sunday Market is held every Sunday, 9am – 1pm. 1341 Whangarei Heads Road.
My favourite local artist is...
"There are numerous small artist shops and studios in Whangārei Heads. Most will open their doors to the public, but you will most likely need to call ahead. The Whangarei Arts Trail is held every Easter and will have a list of local artists, including their contact details, on their website."
Where to find it: Easter Weekend, throughout Whangarei Heads.
My favourite family-friendly activity is...
"I recommend heading to Ocean Beach to do some boogie boarding or just playing in the smaller waves. If the kids are on the younger side, then Taurikura Bay or Urquharts Bay are perfect for fossicking for shells."
Where to find it: Taurikura and Urquharts Bay are located on the Whangarei Heads peninsula. It takes approximately 11 minutes to get to Taurikura from Parua Bay, and 15 minutes to Urquharts Bay from Parua Bay. Continue along Whangarei Heads Road to the very end to discover popular Ocean Beach. (Google Maps)
My favourite place to grab a bite is...
"The Parua Bay Tavern makes great pizzas, but they also have a full menu to choose from. Lovely setting on the waterfront with a large lawn area and playground. It's perfect on a warm summer day but on a rainy Sunday there's always fun to be had at the pool tables. It's a very family-friendly place."
Where to find it: 1034 Whangarei Heads Road, Parua Bay.
Some yummy local products are...
"Taihoa Tides make and sell their own olive oil which is an amazing oil. The GAS station usually sells honey and local produce on behalf of locals."
Where to find it: G.A.S Parua Bay, 1373 Whangarei Heads Road, Parua Bay
My perfect weekend looks like...
- "I would start Saturday morning off with a lovely brunch at Smith & Local followed by a drive out to Whangārei Heads for an active afternoon. Mt Manaia offers the most spectacular views from the top so on a clear day, but I also enjoy the Mt Aubrey/Reotahi walk as this is a loop walk with a mix of all aspects of hiking."
- "Either of these walks are followed by the best ice cream at either The Deck Cafe at McLeod Bay or McLeod Bay Fish & Chips. Enjoy stunning views while eating your ice cream."
- "Sunday could be a lazy day, where we head to either Kauri Mountain Beach or Pātaua South for a nice stroll along the beach."
- "Sunday evening takeaways from New Day Cafe in Parua Bay are a definite go to to finish off a great weekend. They do the best Indian food!"
Something I love in Whangārei is...
"If you're looking for the best meal out Topsail's Beach Road Brasserie on the waterfront in Onerahi is a must visit. I believe it's one of the best dining options in the Whangarei District!"
Where to find it: 206 Beach Road, Onerahi.
You should visit my village because...
"There's a happy feel to this community which is easily felt when you visit the area. It's a super friendly place. Anytime you stop by the local grocery store you're bound to run into someone you know. It's healthy for the soul to have all these connections and it provides us all with a great sense of belonging."
Thank you to Suzanne Olsen from Ara Roa Boutique Accommodation for sharing your local tips and insights!