Whangarei Town Basin and Sculpture Trail

The biggest population centre in Northland, Whangarei, sits on a deep harbour, one of the most sheltered in New Zealand. It enjoys a climate that approaches subtropical.

Long a haven to both local and overseas yachts, the town basin has a pleasant waterside atmosphere with cafes, shops and galleries. A sculpture trail around the basin now numbers 16 installations, the first was 'Waka and Wave' by Chris Booth and Te Warihi Hetaraka. The 300 berth marina is in excellent proximity to the town centre.

Clapham's Clock Museum is down here too, and soon will be joined by the Hundertwasser Art Centre, which has begun, in the form of 'Te Kakano, the seed', while many years of fundraising and campaigning continue.

The town basin loop walk connects with the Hatea Loop, towards Te Matau a Pohe and William Fraser Memorial Park on Pohe Island.

Image Credits: Peter Taylor and Alanah Stigsdottir