The Top Things to Do in Raglan, New Zealand

Stop for a visit to the infamous Bridal Veil Falls in New Zealands bohemian town of Raglan
Stop for a visit to the infamous Bridal Veil Falls in New Zealand's bohemian town of Raglan | © Michael Dutton / Alamy Stock Photo
Thalita Alves

There’s a beatnik vibe to the coastal North Island town of Raglan that wouldn’t seem out of place in 1950s California. Surfers from across New Zealand flock to its world-class point break, whilst others come to admire the nearby Bridal Veil Falls.

Black volcanic sands hint at a turbulent underbelly in Raglan, but today the reliable left-hand breaks of Manu Bay ensure a surfing community that brings an easy-going energy. A number of friendly surf schools welcome beginners of all ages, but this town offers you more than just swell-hunting. Enjoy our top recommendations of things to do in Raglan.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

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An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

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2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

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A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

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1. South Korea

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THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

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SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

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ULTIMATE EGYPT

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IMMERSIVE KENYA

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Soak Up the Sun at Kawhia Hot Water Beach

Natural Feature

Raglan’s black sands are the giveaway that New Zealand’s geothermal magic tricks aren’t too far away. An hour’s drive south to Kawhia is where you’ll find them. Park up at Ocean Beach at low tide, then negotiate the dunes before finding a spot of sand to dig for your gold. It won’t take long before you’ll have your own hot water spa – with a tranquil view to match.

Kayak Around the Limestone Coast

Architectural Landmark

Cathedral Cove near Hahei on the Coromandel Peninsular, New Zealand. Image shot 2008. Exact date unknown.
© Michael Dutton / Alamy Stock Photo

If surfing isn’t quite your thing and you’d rather spend more time floating on top of the water – rather than immersed in it – Raglan’s kayaking and paddleboarding scene is just as popular. This nimble seafaring option allows you to explore Raglan’s limestone nooks and crannies. The friendly certified pros at Bow Street Jetty offer one and two-hour sessions for newbies. There’s also a three-hour guided tour of Raglan’s pancake rock formations that include a coffee and pastry break.

Visit During Raglan Arts Weekend

Architectural Landmark

Held over three days every Labour Day weekend – the fourth Monday in October – Raglan Arts weekend is the town’s favourite way to showcase its creative and bohemian nature. Described as an “open studio artist trail”, the event is completely free. Featuring both emerging and established Kiwi artists, you’ll find them present alongside their work and happy to answer questions and give insight into their work. If you’re a bit early then fret not, preview exhibitions usually run for three weeks beforehand.

Grab a Bite at Rock-It Kitchen

Restaurant, Irish

On the way to the Wainui Nature Reserve, you’ll pass Rock-It Kitchen. This family-friendly converted woolshed serves up local, organic cuisine as well as top Raglan Roast coffee overlooking the verdant hillside – it’s no wonder that it is a favourite among the locals. Come for breakfast, where the Irish potato cakes with pork belly, poached eggs and spiced paprika hollandaise will make it well worth your while.

Learn to Surf at Ngarunui Beach

Natural Feature

Located just 5km (3mi) west of town, Ngarunui is the ultimate go-to for novice surfers. The beach is incredibly safe and well patrolled by local lifesaving guards in the high summer season. If you’re only just starting to delve into this epic water sport, you’ll have your pick of reputable surf schools in Raglan – your instructor will have you riding waves in no time.

Test Yourself at Manu Bay and Beyond

Natural Feature

Legendary Raglan Surf Beach - Manu Bay
© Rod Coffee Hill / Alamy Stock Photo

Manu Bay is located 8km (5mi) west of Raglan town and is highly regarded for its long peeling left-hand break – believed to be some of the longest rides in the world and is one of Raglan’s premier surfing spots for more advanced surfers. Whale Bay is just a little further down; another left-hander that’s a little softer than Manu – but watch out for the big rock in the middle. Ruapuke is 20 minutes out of town and offers powerful barrels when it’s working; the scenic drive and craggy cliffs that give the area an awe-inspiring sense of ruggedness will make the trip worth it.

Visit the Stunning Bridal Veil Falls

Natural Feature

Waikato’s iconic Bridal Veil Falls are located right on Raglan’s doorstep. Just veer off to Te Mata Road by the Hamilton/Raglan Highway (SH23) to reach the car park and the short boarded walking trail that takes you to this 55m (180ft) high natural marvel. Two viewing platforms provide the finest glimpses of the Bridal Veil Falls and surrounding countryside – if you want to extend your visit, just follow the track downwards to a series of stairs that will lead you to the bottom view bridge.

Walk Around the Wainui Reserve

Natural Feature

The Wainui Reserve is a 140ha (350ac) farm park that connects to Ngarunui Beach. Stroll from the centre of town and past the river into this bush reserve – dotted with wildflowers and pampas grass. You’ll often spot paragliders swooping overhead. After an hour of walking, you’ll end up on the beach: bring a picnic and enjoys the views across the Tasman Sea. Come at sunset to watch the sky turn a dramatic shade of orange and pink.

Hike or Cycle Up Mount Karioi

Natural Feature

Mount Karioi is an ancient volcano just 8km (5mi) southwest of Raglan that is believed to be more than two million years old. There are two hiking routes up to its summit: the steep but incredibly scenic Mt Karioi Track, which takes approximately three-and-a-half hours to climb; or the shorter Wairake Track, a two to three-hour meander past the nearby farmlands. Intermediate-advanced cyclists can also try their hand at the Mt Karioi loop track – conveniently starting at the Raglan town centre before setting off to the summit and back into town again.

Embark on a Sunset Harbour Cruise

Bridge, Train Station

As the summer sun sets over the Raglan Harbour, the Wahine Moe takes its passengers through a pleasant charter tour of the waterways. The seasonal catamaran cruises – operated by Raglan Boat Charter – depart from the Raglan Wharf off Wallis Street and cruise past ancient limestone formations as the crew recount their seafaring tales and provide insight into the town’s history.

Alexis James contributed additional reporting to this article.

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