Visiting the town of Raglan on New Zealand’s North Island will pique your interest if you want to spend time surfing, viewing expansive landscapes and taking in the local cafe culture. Located in the Waikato region, Raglan is famed for its black-sand beach, Ngarunui Beach, its large surf waves of Manu Bay, the extinct volcano of Mount Karioi as well as the numerous forests, mountain ranges and waterfalls that make up this beautiful area. There are several short walks in the Raglan area that allow you to take in views of the dramatic coastline of black sand and treat yourself, thereafter, to the stellar world-class espresso that the town is well-known for. Personal favorites include Bridal Veil Falls, the trek up Mount Karioi and the Te Toto Gorge Track. Read on to find out about our best recommendations of things to do in Raglan, New Zealand. Find out about places to visit both indoors and outdoors, as well as where to eat and how to experience this creative culture in this town that could be your next holiday destination.
1. Take a short walk to Te Toto Gorge Lookout
Walk for an hour (return journey) to the lookout point of Te Toto Gorge, a historic site that provides stunning views of the Raglan coastline and traditional Maori gardens. Start this walk along with those who are also hiking Mount Karioi but stop at the viewing platform after 30 minutes, which opens up into stretching landscapes and fabulous views of the coastline, gorge and amphitheater where the Maori gardens were once located.
Te Toto Gorge Lookout
Address: Carpark located south of Raglan along Wainui Road.
Website: Te Toto Gorge Lookout
2. Spend an afternoon at Wainui Reserve
The ideal spot to take a packed picnic lunch with you, head to Wainui Reserve on a day when the weather is kind to you and find yourself nestled between the beach and the plants and native bush. There are walking tracks, spots for swimmers and surfers as well as areas to just relax on the green. Hike to the top of the reserve for beautiful views and to see a magical sunset.
Wainui Reserve
Address: Wainui Road, Raglan, New Zealand
Website: Wainui Reserve
3. Chill out at Ruapuke Beach
A steep walk down on a cliffside opens up to Ruapuke Beach, a sandy space for surfers looking to take in views of the west coast during their time out on the waves. The beach provides views of Mt. Karioi and can be an ideal place to spend the day lounging on the sandy shores and enjoy having a beach to yourself. Not the best sea for swimmers but the views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes more than makeup for the wild seas.
Ruapuke Beach
Address: Ruapuke Beach Road, Raglan 3296, New Zealand
Website: Ruapuke Beach
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4. Head to the famed Ngarunui Beach
The best beach in Raglan for swimming and surfing, Ngarunui Beach is famed for its black sand but it is also ideal for laying in the sunshine, learning to surf and just enjoy swimming in the sea. The beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers and it even has a surfing school located here. Located an easy walk from Raglan, enter the beach from Riria Kereopa Memorial Drive (formerly Ocean Beach Road) and plan to spend at least one of your vacation days here.
Ngarunui Beach
Address: Wainui Road, Raglan 3297, New Zealand
Website: Ngarunui Beach
5. Explore Raglan and District Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Thank you to the Museum volunteers and people in our community who made these amazing poppies in the garden outside the...
Posted by Raglan & District Museum / Te Whare Taonga o Whaingaroa on Friday, April 24, 2020
First opened in 1970, the Raglan Museum showcases the town’s history and cultural roots, telling the story of how the town was formed and the tales of the people that contributed to its establishment, growth and development. The museum itself developed from a private museum of local farmer Harvey Wright in the 1950s whose aim was to keep the history of the town alive for future generations in Raglan. Learn about James and Mary Wallis, the history of Raglan surfing and see historical evidence of what life was like in Raglan for previous generations.
Raglan and District Museum
Address: 15 Wainui Road, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Raglan and District Museum
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
Price: 1.6 USD (adults), 0.6 USD (children)
6. Attend an event at Raglan Old School Arts Centre
Be sure to check out Raglan’s community arts and events on your visit to the town. Located in a 19th-century heritage building, Raglan Old School Arts Centre hosts regular art shows and workshops, theatre events, movie screenings, music gigs and many more types of events. There is always something on and it is a great way to interact with the local community, get to know the culture and local artists of the area. An ideal way to spend time with children or even the elderly, The Old School Arts Centre always has something for everyone.
Raglan Old School Arts Centre
Address: 5 Stewart Street, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Raglan Old School Arts Centre
7. Wander around Raglan Wharf
The Raglan Wharf is a well established, almost historical part of Raglan, with its fish and chips shop renowned as some of the best in the world. Walk along the Warf to visit cafes, eat those fish and chips, go shopping or just people watch for a few hours. There are many options for food, entertainment and places to stay at the harbor that would be worth even a night or two. Look out for the Golden Bay cement silos that were built in 1967 on your drive into the Wharf.
Raglan Wharf
Address: 92 Wallis Street North, Raglan 2051, New Zealand
Website: Raglan Wharf
8. Enjoy a meal at Orca Restaurant and Bar
Take some time to relax and unwind over a meal on the waterfront. Choose Orca Restaurant and Bar for its laid-back atmosphere, well-rounded food offerings from seafood to burgers and its fantastic views of the ocean and harbor. Using local produce and highlighting local vendors, try the local craft beers on tap and the award-winning toasted espresso that is always available. This family-run restaurant has long been a favorite for locals and visitors to the area alike.
Orca Restaurant and Bar
Address: 2 Wallis Street, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Orca Restaurant and Bar
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
9. Go surfing at Manu Bay
The ideal spot for surfers is Manu Bay, having been featured in blockbuster movies, The Endless Summer and Last Paradise, the Bay is a well-known Raglan point of interest. With a tide and waves that are kind to surfers, this Bay is filled with locals and visitors from afar that have come to experience surfing in the area. On weekends, Manu Bay makes for an ideal people-watching spot, in addition to swimming, fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding that can all be done at this beach. Enjoy days spent at the beach, taking in the beautiful surroundings and landscapes.
Manu Bay
Address: Manu Bay Road, Raglan, New Zealand
Website: Manu Bay
10. Admire the photographs at Raglan Photo Gallery
The Raglan Photo Gallery houses an extensive collection of photographer Jwan Milek’s work, in addition to other local photographers and artists. Browse through originals, buy some prints and marvel at the beauty of Raglan’s oceans, sunsets, and landscapes through Jwan Milek’s lens. The Gallery makes for a great place to pick up gifts of a souvenir of your trip to Raglan, a way to remember those magical sunsets that you experience during your time on the North Island.
Raglan Photo Gallery
Address: 53 Wainui Road, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Raglan Photo Gallery
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
11. Have yourself a party at Yot Club
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
An ideal spot for night birds and music lovers, Yot Club is a performance venue for local and national DJs and music bands looking to play to a lively, upbeat crowd. The club is well known for the Sunday afternoon summer sessions that offer great beats during the day and for those looking to enjoy the summer sunshine. If you are in Raglan on a Sunday, Yot Club is the place to be and a Sunday session should not be missed.
Yot Club
Address: 9 Bow Street, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Yot Club
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 8pm - 1am; Sun: 4pm - 1am (closed on Mon & Tue)
12. Play a round or two at Raglan Golf Club
If the game of golf is something you are looking for, check out Raglan Golf Club for its relaxing yet challenging course, at decent prices. Regulars will note that one should watch out for the sheep around the first four holes, which can make for an interesting story to be told afterward. The clubhouse provides food and beverages, bar counters as well as showers and toilet facilities. Visitors to Raglan are welcome at the golf course and the course is open year-round to play.
Raglan Golf Club
Address: Te Hutewai Road, Raglan 3296, New Zealand
Website: Raglan Golf Club
Price: From 9 USD
13. Enjoy a day of surfing at Whale Bay
Drive 8 km (5 miles) south of Raglan and you will be met with the blue ocean and sandy beaches at Whale Bay. This coastal community is located between Mount Karioi and the Tasman Sea and it is covered with dense forests all the way to the summit of Mount Karioi. Experience the Waanga Coast Road which starts at Whale Bay and ends up further south at Ruapuke for its dramatic views and gravel surfaces. Surfers will enjoy the waves at Whale Bay on all tides though the Bay is exposed to rocks, making it better suited for those more experienced in the surfing world. For those looking for something easy-going, Whale Bay Reserve has picnic tables, children’s swings and areas to just enjoy a sunset.
Whale Bay
Address: Calvert Road, Raglan, New Zealand
Website: Whale Bay
14. Go on a rock climbing adventure with Raglan Rock
The adventurous travelers amongst us will enjoy the offerings by Raglan Rock. Climbing, caving and canyoning on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the experience, thrills and the views offered are unique opportunities not to be missed. The sensational views of the landscapes, seas and forests are sure to keep you motivated during your climbs and adventures. Raglan Rock provides all the equipment you need, instructions, free pick-up and drop-off from Raglan to make sure that you get your adrenaline rushing in the most convenient and safe manner.
Raglan Rock
Address: 33 Simon Road, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Raglan Rock
15. Get to know local artists at Toi Hauāuru Studio
The Toi Hauāuru Studio is a gallery and shop showcasing artwork and sculptures by local artists of the area. Run by Simon Te Wheoro, the Studio highlights paintings in mixed media, Māori art, sculptures in wood and stone and has traditional pounamu (greenstone) carvings for sale. You can even arrange with Simon to get a traditional Māori tattoo- the art of ta moko which requires special skills by the artist. A great stopover between Hamilton and Raglan, visit the Studio if you are interested in local art and getting to know the artistic community of the area a little better.
Toi Hauāuru Studio
Address: 4338 Main Road, Raglan, New Zealand
Website: Toi Hauāuru Studio
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
16. Go on a scenic walk in Bryant Memorial Reserve
Visit Bryant Memorial Reserve for two of the most beautiful walks in Raglan. The Ngarunui Track, accessed from Wainui Road, will take approximately 20 minutes one way and is 800 meters (2624 feet) one way. Start at the car park beside the Bryant Home Children’s Bible Camp, follow the well-marked pathway through the native bush and forest along the coastline, trying to spot the tree ferns, nikau palm, kawakawa and kowhai along your route. The water-race track accessed from the road across the Bryant Home Children’s Bible Camp leads to water intake and is 25 minutes and 1 km (0.6 miles) one way.
Bryant Memorial Reserve
Address: Earles Place, Raglan 3297, New Zealand
Website: Bryant Memorial Reserve
17. Take on the rewarding Karioi Summit Track
Taking on the summit of Mt Karioi is a challenging hike, not for the faint but for those who won’t give up easily. The summit can take two hours (one way) but hikers are rewarded with beautiful views on the way up but those from the summit are breathtaking. Weather depending, the climb can be muddy, making the tracks slippery, which is something to watch out for. Climbing is a necessity- many have reported using tree roots and chains to hoist themselves up but were rewarded with uninterrupted 360-degree views from the summit. You can start this track at Te Toto Gorge, located 13 km (8 miles) from Raglan.
Karioi Summit Track
Address: 596 Whaanga Road, Raglan 3297, New Zealand
Website: Karioi Summit Track
18. Buy souvenirs at Tony Sly
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Shop local and bring home a piece of Raglan when you visit the Tony sly pottery store, located at the Raglan Wharf. With a collection of unique pottery pieces, with both rustic and classic takes, the handcrafted pottery pieces are a beautiful addition to any home, make the perfect gift or souvenir that will be treasured for years to come. Choose from a variety of home goods, including pots and plates alongside a selection of kitchenware accessories.
Tony Sly
Address: 90 Wallis Street, The Wharf, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Tony Sly
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
19. Stop at Te Uku Wind Farm Lookout
Marvel at the wind farm which is spread over 13788 acres (5580 hectares) of a privately owned sheep and beef farm in the small rural community of Te Uku. There are several ways to experience the wind farm, the easiest of which is to head to the viewing platform set up at the Te Uku community church car park. Here, you will find information about the wind farm, how it was set up as a community initiative with the energy company Meridian Energy, that its turbines are the tallest in New Zealand and that it generates 250-gigawatt hours of electricity annually.
Te Uku Wind Farm Lookout
Address: Van Houtte Road, Raglan 3295, New Zealand
Website: Te Uku Wind Farm Lookout
20. Admire the sunset at Michael Hope Lookout
Raglan has numerous lookouts and viewing platforms that allow you to take in the gorgeous landscapes and views of the town. One of these is Michael Hope Lookout located in the Waikato Reserve. Watch a sunset as you park up by the lookout point and take in the views across the mountains and ocean.
Michael Hope Lookout
Address: Off the Wainui Reserve Road, Raglan 3297, New Zealand
21. Check out the beautiful artwork at Kanuka Design Gallery
Julie Whyman’s pretty new mixed media - Watching the Weather
Posted by Kanuka Design on Friday, 22 February 2019
Visit this gift shop in Raglan to find the best local products and handicrafts, all made and produced locally. From candles, homeware accessories, textiles, pottery and vases to paintings, prints and jewelry, all of the well-curated selection will leave you wishing for more space in your suitcase. Both locals and international visitors alike will enjoy discovering emerging artists and New Zealand products at the Kanuka Design Gallery.
Kanuka Design Gallery
Address: 1 Wainui Road, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Kanuka Design Gallery
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
22. Indulge in local cuisines at Rock-It Kitchen
Sunday special... #arancini Mmm mmm mmm
Posted by Rock-it Kitchen Raglan on Saturday, 23 March 2019
Rock-It Kitchen highlights organic, seasonal produce and supports local vendors throughout its ever-changing and developing menu. Open throughout the week, the outdoor deck is a great place to sit if the weather is friendly, an ideal place to drink a local craft beer or a glass of New Zealand wine. With vegetarian and vegan options available on the menu, the restaurant is welcoming to families, large groups or even those who want a quiet solo lunch.
Rock-It Kitchen
Address: 248 Wainui Road, Raglan 3297, New Zealand
Website: Rock-It Kitchen
Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 9am - 3pm; Wed - Thu: 9am - 3pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 10pm (closed on Tue)
23. Find some mementos at Raglan Vintage & Retro
Posted by Raglan Vintage & Retro on Thursday, 14 November 2019
If you are looking for a place to shop in Raglan, you must visit the Raglan Vintage & Retro store. The store specializes in items from the 1950s, ‘60s and '70s, from larger pieces of furniture to smaller ones such as second-hand vinyl records, ceramics, artwork, glassware and more. Browse through the eras and find some special gems that you will treasure for years to come on your next visit to the Raglan Wharf.
Raglan Vintage & Retro
Address: 92 Wallis Street, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: Raglan Vintage & Retro
Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
24. Dine at The Wharf Kitchen and Bar
Our waterfront venue might be just what you are looking for to host that dream wedding. Can’t beat those...
Posted by The Wharf Kitchen And Bar on Sunday, 5 August 2018
Experience some of the best waterfront views when you choose to dine at The Wharf Kitchen and Bar which also boasts live music, delicious food and a happy hour that will make sure you head down to the restaurant early. Watch a sunset from the restaurant, which is only a ten-minute wander from the Raglan town center, and an easy evening in a relaxed and comfortable environment.
The Wharf Kitchen and Bar
Address: 43 Rose Street, Raglan 3225, New Zealand
Website: The Wharf Kitchen and Bar
Opening hours: 9am - 12am (daily)
Experience North Island beauty in Raglan
Raglan is sure to provide you a sense of adventure and fun on your holiday. Explore the forests and extinct volcanos, go kayaking and paddleboarding or just relax on a harbor cruise to take in the beautiful sunsets. Spend your time hunting around the cafés, bars, surf shops and galleries that the town is also well known for. Raglan is one town you will not want to miss on your vacation in North Island, New Zealand.
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