Whangarei, nestled in the heart of Northland, beckons travellers with its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Discover its stunning coastal scenery, explore the vibrant Quayside Town Basin, and immerse yourself in the region's Māori heritage. The Hundertwasser Art Centre, a unique architectural masterpiece, stands as a testament to Whangarei's artistic flair. The fastest way to reach this captivating destination from New Plymouth is by air. Direct flights between New Plymouth and Whangarei usually take around 1 hour, although flight times may vary slightly depending on weather conditions and aircraft type. Air New Zealand and Sounds Air are two major airlines offering direct routes with multiple daily or weekly flights, making it a convenient and affordable travel option. For budget-friendly travel, the ideal months to fly are typically the shoulder seasons—spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May)—when airfares tend to be lower. Booking your flight in advance, at least 2-3 months before your planned travel dates, is generally recommended to secure the best deals. Peak season is in the summer (December-February) when the weather is warmest, therefore, you should expect higher prices and more crowded destinations. For a more relaxed holiday, travel during the off-peak season.

Whangarei enjoys a subtropical climate, meaning it offers pleasant weather throughout the year. Summers (December to February) are warm and humid, with temperatures typically ranging from 18°C to 25°C. Winters (June to August) are mild, with average temperatures between 8°C and 15°C. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) provide comfortable temperatures and sunshine, making them ideal times to visit. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, but slightly higher in the winter months. While extreme weather events are rare, occasional strong winds and heavy downpours can occur, especially during winter.

New Plymouth has one major airport that serves commercial flights: New Plymouth Airport.

New Plymouth Airport

New Plymouth Airport is a medium-sized airport serving both domestic flights. It's a modern facility with one terminal and has been recently renovated. Several airlines operate from this airport, offering various flight options to domestic destinations. The airport is easily accessible from New Plymouth city.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Sounds Air

Whangarei has one major airport that is currently operational and serves commercial flights: Whangarei Airport.

Whangarei Airport

Whangarei Airport is a smaller airport that mainly serves domestic flights. It has one terminal and is relatively modern. Several airlines offer flights to and from this airport, connecting Whangarei to other parts of New Zealand. To get from Whangarei Airport to the city centre, you can use public transport, which is infrequent; you can also take a taxi or hire a car.

Whangarei offers a diverse range of attractions, from breathtaking natural landscapes to fascinating cultural experiences.

• Hundertwasser Art Centre: Explore this unique architectural marvel, showcasing the works of Friedensreich Hundertwasser and featuring the Wairau Māori Art Gallery.
• Whangarei Falls: Witness the beauty of Whangarei Falls, a stunning waterfall often hailed as one of the most photogenic in New Zealand.
• Town Basin: Stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of cafes, restaurants, and shops in this charming area.