Take a scenic detour on your way to the Bay of Islands via the Tutukaka coast drive through Ngnunguru and Tutukaka. Stop at Matapouri for a swim, it's a beautiful beach.
If you want to stay, Bluewater Cottages are up in the hills between Matapouri and Tutukaka with beautiful views over the ocean and out to the Poor Knights Islands
Bluewater cottages,Matapouri Rd, 09-434-3423. Approx 26km northeast of Whangarei
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