Experience Raglan - Louise's Guidebook
West coast beaches and lookouts
Ngarunui Beach is just a few minutes drive away and considered one of the most ataahua - beautiful beaches in Aotearoa New Zealand (well we think so!). You can park in the carpark via Wainui Reserve, walk from the Wainamu Bay carpark (via Riria Kereopa Drive - this option offers flat access but a longer walk to the main beach) or take the (approx) 10 minute bush walk to the beach from Earles' Place. The main area of beach is patrolled by lifeguards in the summer. It's the best spot for learner surfers and the beach, and Wainui reserve above it, are perfect for picnics, walks or a run year round.
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Ngarunui Beach
Ngarunui Beach is just a few minutes drive away and considered one of the most ataahua - beautiful beaches in Aotearoa New Zealand (well we think so!). You can park in the carpark via Wainui Reserve, walk from the Wainamu Bay carpark (via Riria Kereopa Drive - this option offers flat access but a longer walk to the main beach) or take the (approx) 10 minute bush walk to the beach from Earles' Place. The main area of beach is patrolled by lifeguards in the summer. It's the best spot for learner surfers and the beach, and Wainui reserve above it, are perfect for picnics, walks or a run year round.
Look for the DOC carpark above Te Toto Gorge (less than 20 mins drive south of Raglan on Whaanga Road) and prepare to be wowed by breathtaking scenery at this sacred site. Te Toto translates to 'the blood' as lives were lost here.
From the carpark, which is also used for those hiking Mount Karioi, a short track leads to a viewing platform which provides spectacular views of the coastline, gorge and amphitheatre where Māori gardens once thrived. Beyond the lookout, the track is unmarked through an open grassy area with a steep descent that flattens out closer to the coast. Discover more on the short walk down from the viewing platform which includes remnants of garden plots, stone walls and karaka groves which have been dated back as far as 1700 and 1800.
This is also a beautiful spot to picnic and watch the sun go down. If you are staying at Bay View Beach Retreat in Raglan, a cooler, glasses and a picnic blanket are supplied. Whale Bay Surf Studio guests - Te Toto is just a few minutes up the road, just ask us for a picnic blanket and a cooler/chilli bin.
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Te Toto Gorge Lookout
Look for the DOC carpark above Te Toto Gorge (less than 20 mins drive south of Raglan on Whaanga Road) and prepare to be wowed by breathtaking scenery at this sacred site. Te Toto translates to 'the blood' as lives were lost here.
From the carpark, which is also used for those hiking Mount Karioi, a short track leads to a viewing platform which provides spectacular views of the coastline, gorge and amphitheatre where Māori gardens once thrived. Beyond the lookout, the track is unmarked through an open grassy area with a steep descent that flattens out closer to the coast. Discover more on the short walk down from the viewing platform which includes remnants of garden plots, stone walls and karaka groves which have been dated back as far as 1700 and 1800.
This is also a beautiful spot to picnic and watch the sun go down. If you are staying at Bay View Beach Retreat in Raglan, a cooler, glasses and a picnic blanket are supplied. Whale Bay Surf Studio guests - Te Toto is just a few minutes up the road, just ask us for a picnic blanket and a cooler/chilli bin.
The windy, gravel road to Ruapuke Beach (via Whaanga Road, the location of Whale Bay Bush Studio) has been nominated one of the top 10 scenic drives in the world (Lonely Planet) and the beach itself is worth it. You can also take an easier drive from Te Mata on the way in to Raglan (if you are staying at Bay View Beach Retreat this may be quicker). The beach is unspoilt, wild and not patrolled. When the surf is flat at Raglan, expect to see lines of surfers here as well as horse trekkers and surfcasters. A favourite beach walk from the north to the south end. This beach is not patrolled by lifesavers and there are rips so it's more ideal for a paddle than a swim. Take everything you need and leave nothing behind, except your footprints. There is a basic wharepaku/toilet at the North end car park and no shops.
Ruapuke is a 20 minute slow drive from Whale Bay Bush Studio via Whaanga Road and 19 mins from Bay View Beach Retreat via Te Mata.
To enquire about horse trekking on the beach go to www.wildcoast.co.nz.
Ruapuke Beach
The windy, gravel road to Ruapuke Beach (via Whaanga Road, the location of Whale Bay Bush Studio) has been nominated one of the top 10 scenic drives in the world (Lonely Planet) and the beach itself is worth it. You can also take an easier drive from Te Mata on the way in to Raglan (if you are staying at Bay View Beach Retreat this may be quicker). The beach is unspoilt, wild and not patrolled. When the surf is flat at Raglan, expect to see lines of surfers here as well as horse trekkers and surfcasters. A favourite beach walk from the north to the south end. This beach is not patrolled by lifesavers and there are rips so it's more ideal for a paddle than a swim. Take everything you need and leave nothing behind, except your footprints. There is a basic wharepaku/toilet at the North end car park and no shops.
Ruapuke is a 20 minute slow drive from Whale Bay Bush Studio via Whaanga Road and 19 mins from Bay View Beach Retreat via Te Mata.
To enquire about horse trekking on the beach go to www.wildcoast.co.nz.
Manu Bay, and its left-hand break is usually the first pick for visiting surfers but this rocky beach is also a great place to visit for a hot summer's day swim (next to the boat ramp) and the big reserve has some great grassy spots for lounging and enjoying the coastal view. Manu is just over 2kms or a 30 minute walk from Whale Bay Bush Studio and a 10 minute drive from Raglan.
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Manu Bay
Manu Bay, and its left-hand break is usually the first pick for visiting surfers but this rocky beach is also a great place to visit for a hot summer's day swim (next to the boat ramp) and the big reserve has some great grassy spots for lounging and enjoying the coastal view. Manu is just over 2kms or a 30 minute walk from Whale Bay Bush Studio and a 10 minute drive from Raglan.
A favourite spot for surfers (you need to be better than average) and a beautiful little reserve where you can sit under a big pohutakawa and watch the left-handers roll in. There's also an adult size swing alongside the small person's one...just saying. Just 1.5kms and an easy walk from Whale Bay Bush Studio. Not suitable for swimming, just surfing and looking.
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Whale Bay
A favourite spot for surfers (you need to be better than average) and a beautiful little reserve where you can sit under a big pohutakawa and watch the left-handers roll in. There's also an adult size swing alongside the small person's one...just saying. Just 1.5kms and an easy walk from Whale Bay Bush Studio. Not suitable for swimming, just surfing and looking.
Hiking
Mt Karioi (or Sleeping Lady as the locals affectionately call it) is a native forest-clad extinct volcano, surrounded by lush Waikato farmland on one side and the Tasman Sea on the other.
If you are staying at Whale Bay Bush Studio, you are already on its foothills.
There are two tracks to reach the summit of Mt Karioi. This allows those hiking the trail to do a mountain crossing, or a return trip on either side. The Ruapuke access track is easier but not quite as picturesque.
The Karioi track from Te Toto Gorge car park offers fantastic views of the rugged west coast, north towards the Manukau Heads. Looking south on a clear day, you can see the four peaks of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Ruapehu and Mt Taranaki.
The track is exposed and steep at times, and chains and ladders are provided in some places to assist. From Te Toto Gorge car park to the summit and return takes a full day.
From Te Toto Gorge car park choose the first summit walk (2-2.5 hours) or take another 45-60 mins each way walk to the highest peak.
Tips: This walk is very popular and there is limited carparking on weekends. Get there early or choose a weekday (recommended).
The track can get slippery/muddy after rain.
It is a steep walk in places so a reasonable level of fitness is required - you can also choose to walk part of the way to the first peak for some of the very best views.
Take food and water and note there are no toilets. Also stick to the Karioi Track (marked KT), following the marked trapping trails can take you to a dead end and a much longer return (I know from experience!).
More info: www.doc.govt.nz
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Karioi Summit Track
596 Whaanga RdMt Karioi (or Sleeping Lady as the locals affectionately call it) is a native forest-clad extinct volcano, surrounded by lush Waikato farmland on one side and the Tasman Sea on the other.
If you are staying at Whale Bay Bush Studio, you are already on its foothills.
There are two tracks to reach the summit of Mt Karioi. This allows those hiking the trail to do a mountain crossing, or a return trip on either side. The Ruapuke access track is easier but not quite as picturesque.
The Karioi track from Te Toto Gorge car park offers fantastic views of the rugged west coast, north towards the Manukau Heads. Looking south on a clear day, you can see the four peaks of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Ruapehu and Mt Taranaki.
The track is exposed and steep at times, and chains and ladders are provided in some places to assist. From Te Toto Gorge car park to the summit and return takes a full day.
From Te Toto Gorge car park choose the first summit walk (2-2.5 hours) or take another 45-60 mins each way walk to the highest peak.
Tips: This walk is very popular and there is limited carparking on weekends. Get there early or choose a weekday (recommended).
The track can get slippery/muddy after rain.
It is a steep walk in places so a reasonable level of fitness is required - you can also choose to walk part of the way to the first peak for some of the very best views.
Take food and water and note there are no toilets. Also stick to the Karioi Track (marked KT), following the marked trapping trails can take you to a dead end and a much longer return (I know from experience!).
More info: www.doc.govt.nz
Sightseeing
Explore Raglan Harbour by kayak, SUP (aim for an hour either side of the high tide), swim near Te Kōpua Bridge or visit the wharf for Tony Sly Pottery, art, leather goods and great fish and chips.
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Raglan Harbour
Explore Raglan Harbour by kayak, SUP (aim for an hour either side of the high tide), swim near Te Kōpua Bridge or visit the wharf for Tony Sly Pottery, art, leather goods and great fish and chips.
Love a beautiful waterfall? Waireinga or Bridal Veil Falls is just minutes out of town on the Te Mata Road. Walk to the top and down to the base of these spectacular 55 metre falls. The 0.9 metre track takes 10-15 mins to the top of the falls and is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies. Visit www.alltrails.com/trail/new-zealand/waikato/bridal-veil-falls-walkway
Waireinga Scenic Reserve
Love a beautiful waterfall? Waireinga or Bridal Veil Falls is just minutes out of town on the Te Mata Road. Walk to the top and down to the base of these spectacular 55 metre falls. The 0.9 metre track takes 10-15 mins to the top of the falls and is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies. Visit www.alltrails.com/trail/new-zealand/waikato/bridal-veil-falls-walkway
Food scene
The Shack is an award-winning Waikato cafe. Usually open during the day but may open at night during the summer months. www.theshackraglan.com
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The Shack
19 Bow StThe Shack is an award-winning Waikato cafe. Usually open during the day but may open at night during the summer months. www.theshackraglan.com
Wyld has food and really good cocktails. Open day and some nights www.wyldraglan.nz
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WYLD Raglan
11 Bow StreetWyld has food and really good cocktails. Open day and some nights www.wyldraglan.nz
ISO is open day and night. The perfect spot to people watch on the Main Street and a great option for dinner during on and off season. Visit www.isobarraglan.nz/
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Isobar Raglan
23 Bow St ISO is open day and night. The perfect spot to people watch on the Main Street and a great option for dinner during on and off season. Visit www.isobarraglan.nz/
Ulo's is fun, delicious and open for takeaways and at night (usually Weds-Sat, pays to check). Highly recommend booking for this place. Safe to take the kids and great for a date. To book, search for them on Facebook and message or text 022 131 7028.
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ULO’s Kitchen
6 Wallis StUlo's is fun, delicious and open for takeaways and at night (usually Weds-Sat, pays to check). Highly recommend booking for this place. Safe to take the kids and great for a date. To book, search for them on Facebook and message or text 022 131 7028.
Named after the orcas that regularly swim up the Raglan Harbour, Orca, once the Centennial Milk Bar and Cabaret is a safe bet for breakfast, lunch, dinner and operates a popular bar. Ideal for families and larger groups. Visit www.orcaraglan.nz
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Orca Restaurant and Bar
2 Wallis StNamed after the orcas that regularly swim up the Raglan Harbour, Orca, once the Centennial Milk Bar and Cabaret is a safe bet for breakfast, lunch, dinner and operates a popular bar. Ideal for families and larger groups. Visit www.orcaraglan.nz
Roasted by animals, tested on humans. They say it's average, visitors and locals love it. If you like coffee, you can't not try it. In town on Volcom Lane and also at Te Uku Roast Office on the way in... and out. Just don't ask for a saucer. Visit https://raglanroast.co.nz
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Raglan Roast
9 Bow StRoasted by animals, tested on humans. They say it's average, visitors and locals love it. If you like coffee, you can't not try it. In town on Volcom Lane and also at Te Uku Roast Office on the way in... and out. Just don't ask for a saucer. Visit https://raglanroast.co.nz
Delicious. Try the seedy sourdough or the plain white loaf. Raglan Artisan Bread also creates delicious things from sourdough starter including cakes, crackers and pizza. Moreish. Their bread can also be found locally at the Four Square and Super Value food stores.
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Raglan Artisan Bread
3 Wainui RdDelicious. Try the seedy sourdough or the plain white loaf. Raglan Artisan Bread also creates delicious things from sourdough starter including cakes, crackers and pizza. Moreish. Their bread can also be found locally at the Four Square and Super Value food stores.
Fish, fresh, fried and smoked. Raglan fish is the best place to buy fresh fish and the smoked salmon is legendary. You can eat your takeaways there right on the wharf or take home. Not open late, 10am-7pm so order early for dinner. Phone 07-825 7544 to order takeaways.
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Raglan Fish
92 Wallis StFish, fresh, fried and smoked. Raglan fish is the best place to buy fresh fish and the smoked salmon is legendary. You can eat your takeaways there right on the wharf or take home. Not open late, 10am-7pm so order early for dinner. Phone 07-825 7544 to order takeaways.
Finally we have great curry in Raglan! Raglan Rasoi opened in winter 2023 and here is their first review on Trip Advisor - 5 stars: ‘Outstanding!
One of the best Indian meals we have ever had. The food was so tasty and beautifully cooked. The Chilli Chicken (mild) was particularly outstanding. We didn’t dine in but the restaurant was bright, fresh and modern and very well presented. Would highly recommend.’
Open from 5pm most days. Dining and takeaways.
Raglan Rasoi
Finally we have great curry in Raglan! Raglan Rasoi opened in winter 2023 and here is their first review on Trip Advisor - 5 stars: ‘Outstanding!
One of the best Indian meals we have ever had. The food was so tasty and beautifully cooked. The Chilli Chicken (mild) was particularly outstanding. We didn’t dine in but the restaurant was bright, fresh and modern and very well presented. Would highly recommend.’
Open from 5pm most days. Dining and takeaways.
Experiences
Raglan Flower Farm opens to the public for tours, fresh and dried flowers and wreaths. Affordable, organic and spray free. Visit https://moastone.wordpress.com/
Moa Stone Estate Limited
Raglan Flower Farm opens to the public for tours, fresh and dried flowers and wreaths. Affordable, organic and spray free. Visit https://moastone.wordpress.com/
Raglan has many biking opportunities including the fantastic Te Ara Kākāriki trails, (also for walkers and horse riders). You can also cycle the walkway from Ngarunui Beach that goes all the way into town, explore Wainui Bush Park and Reserve or do the loop around the Karioi maunga. If you don't have a bike, contact Raglan Rock (raglanrock.com) to hire quality bikes. Raglan Rock's Adventure Centre is located right at the foothills of Te Ara Kākāriki trails here in Raglan, so it's the perfect place to jump on a bike and enjoy your Raglan adventure. Raglan Rock also does climbing, caving and canyoning tours. You can also rent bikes in town and get repairs at Cyclery Raglan on Bankart Street (cycleryraglan.co.nz).
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Te Ara Kakariki - Raglan Horse Riding, Walking and Mountain Bike Trail
Riria Kereopa Memorial DriveRaglan has many biking opportunities including the fantastic Te Ara Kākāriki trails, (also for walkers and horse riders). You can also cycle the walkway from Ngarunui Beach that goes all the way into town, explore Wainui Bush Park and Reserve or do the loop around the Karioi maunga. If you don't have a bike, contact Raglan Rock (raglanrock.com) to hire quality bikes. Raglan Rock's Adventure Centre is located right at the foothills of Te Ara Kākāriki trails here in Raglan, so it's the perfect place to jump on a bike and enjoy your Raglan adventure. Raglan Rock also does climbing, caving and canyoning tours. You can also rent bikes in town and get repairs at Cyclery Raglan on Bankart Street (cycleryraglan.co.nz).
You are never too old to learn to surf but it takes a lot of mahi to be good at it. Here is your opportunity to get started or brush up on those rusty skills with the best advice from local pro surfers. Raglan Surf School is one of several operators licensed to use the beach for surf lessons and surf camps raglansurfingschool.co.nz. Google for more options including Green Wave and UP Surf Coaching, or aim high with the ultimate teacher and all round nice guy, Daniel Kereopa DK Surf School dksurfing.com.
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Raglan Surfing School
Ngarunui Beach RoadYou are never too old to learn to surf but it takes a lot of mahi to be good at it. Here is your opportunity to get started or brush up on those rusty skills with the best advice from local pro surfers. Raglan Surf School is one of several operators licensed to use the beach for surf lessons and surf camps raglansurfingschool.co.nz. Google for more options including Green Wave and UP Surf Coaching, or aim high with the ultimate teacher and all round nice guy, Daniel Kereopa DK Surf School dksurfing.com.
Art, film and markets
Don’t miss the Old School Arts Centre, run by the Raglan Community Arts Council. It is housed in a charming 19th-century heritage building where you'll find regular exhibitions, film screenings, a charming monthly market (second Sunday of each month) and info on the the Raglan Arts Weekend (usually Easter).
And there's more, Raglan is home to many galleries and retail art opportunities. Highlights are Artists At Work (Jane Galloway and Marise Rarere) studios in town, Kanuka design gallery, Jet Collective, The Monster Company, Rivet and several galleries on the wharf: Tony Sly Pottery (and beautiful homewares), Soul Shoes, and the Wharf Gallery (this gallery has some outstanding works by NZ artists for sale).
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Raglan Old School Arts Centre
5 Stewart StDon’t miss the Old School Arts Centre, run by the Raglan Community Arts Council. It is housed in a charming 19th-century heritage building where you'll find regular exhibitions, film screenings, a charming monthly market (second Sunday of each month) and info on the the Raglan Arts Weekend (usually Easter).
And there's more, Raglan is home to many galleries and retail art opportunities. Highlights are Artists At Work (Jane Galloway and Marise Rarere) studios in town, Kanuka design gallery, Jet Collective, The Monster Company, Rivet and several galleries on the wharf: Tony Sly Pottery (and beautiful homewares), Soul Shoes, and the Wharf Gallery (this gallery has some outstanding works by NZ artists for sale).
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Don't miss Raglan Growers' Market
A weekly market where local growers sell homegrown produce to the wider community, on Friday from 4-7pm during Spring/Summer months . Located at 1 Stewart Street near the town centre. Check out the Raglan Growers' page on Facebook or Eventfinda for future dates and take cash and a shopping bag or basket when you visit.