Local Activities

Mangawhai offers a diverse range of activities for our Ridge guests to explore. Whether you're an active relaxer, or partial to pampering, there's something for everyone all within a 20 min drive of your accommodation.

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Mangawhai Heads

The Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway is an exceptional 8–9 km coastal trail (2–3 hour return) located about an 18-minute drive from The Ridge. Beginning at the Mangawhai Heads Surf Life Saving Club car park, the route leads along the beach before climbing moderately steep steps to dramatic cliffs lined with ancient pōhutukawa, nikau palms, and native forest.

Panoramic coastal views stretch from Bream Head in the north to the Tāwharanui Peninsula—with possible glimpses of Great Barrier Island—while tide-dependent beach loops and a rock arch provide rewarding variety.

This easy-to-intermediate walk, suitable for families, is a highlight for nature lovers seeking spectacular ocean vistas and an accessible outdoor adventure.

More info

Vineyards

Brooke Lane Vineyard, a family-run boutique vineyard and distillery tucked beneath the Brynderwyn Hills, is a delightful escape just a 17-minute drive from The Ridge. Open daily in summer (winter by appointment), the cellar door offers tastings of their chardonnay, pinot gris, and rosé, all grown on-site.

Visitors are welcomed by Ray (the owner), their friendly Jack Russell “Cheeky Charlie,” and a resident tui bird, TuiTui. The setting features a meandering brook, pond, and vineyard vistas, making it a serene spot to sample wine or gin in a warm, personal environment.

On the last Saturday of each month, Brooke Lane hosts its popular “Last Saturday Club” with live music, wood-fired pizza, and local produce hampers—booking required. It’s an ideal choice for guests seeking relaxed charm, local flavour, and friendly hospitality just outside Mangawhai.

Visit Brooklane

Te Arai Wellness

Te Arai Wellness Collective, just an 11-minute drive from The Ridge, offers luxurious mobile spa services throughout the Mangawhai–Te Arai–Omaha region. Founded by sisters with over 20 years of experience in massage, acupuncture, herbal medicine, and holistic skincare, they bring tailored treatments directly to your accommodation.

Services include deep tissue and pregnancy massage, hot stone therapy, facials, cupping, and more—using high-quality, ocean-inspired products. Ideal for relaxation, recovery, or special occasions, this is a serene and professional wellness experience delivered right to your door.

Visit Te Arai Wellness

Fishing Charters

RNR Charters is a professional skippered boat charter service based at Alamar Crescent, Mangawhai Heads, just a 16-minute drive from The Ridge. With over 25 years of experience, they offer fishing and adventure trips to stunning offshore locations including the Mokohinau, Hen and Chicken, and Great Barrier Islands.

Guests can choose from half-day, full-day, or overnight charters, with options for scenic cruises and water taxi services as well. Whether you're after a serious fishing mission or a relaxed day on the water, RNR Charters provides expert local knowledge, top-quality gear, and a safe, memorable marine experience.

Visit RNR Charters

Te Arai Links

Te Arai Links is a world-class coastal golf resort and lifestyle destination located about a 23-minute drive from The Ridge. Set along a stretch of pristine white-sand beach and dramatic dunes, it features two championship links-style courses and a selection of on-site dining options.

Whether you're there to golf or simply unwind with a meal by the sea, Te Arai Links delivers a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

Visit Te Arai

Learn to Surf

Aotearoa Surf School is one of New Zealand’s top-rated surf schools, located just a 9-minute drive from The Ridge. Based at the beautiful Te Arai Beach, it offers surf lessons for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced surfers, with options for group sessions, private coaching, kids' camps, women's retreats, and more.

With experienced local instructors, high-quality gear, and a strong focus on safety and fun, it’s an ideal way to experience the region’s pristine coastline. Whether you're looking to catch your first wave or improve your technique, Aotearoa Surf delivers an unforgettable, laid-back coastal adventure.

Contact our local surf school

Head to the tavern

The Mangawhai Tavern, situated about a 9‑minute drive from The Ridge on the edge of the estuary, offers a warm, lively atmosphere with classic pub-style dishes and small plates, a rotating craft beer selection, wine, cocktails, and a hidden lounge bar.

Housed in a historic kauri building dating back to the late 1800s, it’s known for its waterside dining, live music gigs—especially over summer Sundays and weekend concerts—and vibrant community markets held on-site.

With strong reviews praising its great views, friendly service, flexible menu (including vegan options), and scenic outdoor seating, it’s a popular local favourite for relaxed meals, drinks, and events in Mangawhai.

Visit the website

Activity Centre

One for the kids or the young at heart come on down for a skate, swing or a workout.