A Taste of Mexico in Matakana
Every Saturday, locals and visitors alike enjoy the inviting atmosphere, quality ingredients, and fresh, zesty flavours of Mexikana.
Mangawhai’s Mobile Seafood Sensation
Born from humble beginnings, Little Red Fish - a beloved seafood concept with deep roots in Mangawhai - is once again swimming upstream, now housed in a custom-built food trailer ready to bring its fresh flavours to new locations.
Crafting Beers and A Greener Future
Sawmill Brewery celebrates its 20th anniversary, reflecting on two decades of growth, sustainability, and local influence.
A New Wave of Mixology
Waipu’s newest hotspot, Vatika Garden Bar at Waipu Eatery, has quickly made an impression with its unique blend of global flavours and innovative cocktails.
Little ‘Lato Have Done It Again
Founded by gelato enthusiast Hannah Wood, Little ‘Lato has taken home the prestigious Supreme Champion Boutique Ice Cream Producer award at the New Zealand Ice Cream Awards for the second time, as well as receiving four additional awards.
Fresh Seafood, Local Vibes
In response to the growing demand for exceptional seafood, Northern Waters - trusted suppliers of kai moana from the Kaipara Harbour - has opened Northern Eats, a delightful dining experience specialising in cooked seafood.
Double Gold For Local Gin
Small-batch gin, Matakana Gin, crafted using only the finest local ingredients, has recently been honoured with a Double Gold award at the 2024 New Zealand Spirits Awards.
A Fresh Take On An Ancient Tradition
Corner Paddock, nestled at the intersection of Mangawhai, Waiteitei, and Silverhill Roads, is home to a carefully nurtured grass-fed herd producing premium buffalo milk products.
A Hole-In-One Experience
The Bunker is Mangawhai’s newest destination, blending live sports, great food, and state-of-the-art golf simulators for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Village Picnic To You
Since its launch in October 2019, Village Picnic has been supporting local artisans with its picnic gift hampers. Now, founder Philippa Potaka is expanding, taking her venture on the road with Village Picnic to You.
The Culinary Journey Of Giorgio
From Italy to Brazil to Matakana Village Farmers’ Market; meet the man behind the Italian pasta creating a stir at the Village Farmers’ Market.
Wildly Grows Beyond The Local Market
Renowned local business Wildly, previously Wild Delicious Matakana, has been making great strides.
Savour Northland: A Culinary Celebration
This spring, Northland will come alive with flavours, stories, and traditions. From Mangawhai to the far north, and coast to coast, Savour Northland is set to be a month-long celebration of the best local flavours the region has to offer.
Wine, Art and Relaxation Returns
Omaha Bay Vineyard, known for its exquisite wines and warm hospitality, reopened its doors in August following its annual winter break.
Where the Buffalo Roam
Corner Paddock, nestled at the intersection of Mangawhai, Waiteitei, and Silverhill Roads, is home to a carefully nurtured grass-fed herd producing premium buffalo milk products.
Matakana Meadows
Born from a vision to connect with and support the local community by striving to produce fresh, chemical-free, nutrient-dense food in Matakana’s backyard.
Roadside Delights
Down an unassuming avenue in Algies Bay, next to an idyllic picnic spot and surrounded by hibiscus flowers and edible gardens, stands a small yet mighty honesty stall, The Rootstock Larder.
Growing and Homesteading - Waionehu Wild
Nestled on their family farm in Waipu, established in 1893, Grant and Sharlene Russell have cultivated a thriving homesteading business born from a vision of sustainability and community.
Crafting the Meanest Burgers
At the heart of MEAN BRGR lies a commitment to freshness that defines their approach to crafting burgers.
Historic meeting place by the water
A trip to the north isn’t complete without a stop-off at The Mangawhai Tavern, a historic cornerstone of the community since 1862.