Welcome to Matakana Village, a truly special spot just a cruisy 45 minutes north of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Tucked beside the tranquil Matakana River, this is where country charm meets boutique style. It’s the perfect place for a day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway, with plenty to eat, see, and do.
Whether you’re after a delicious feed, a bit of retail therapy, or just a chance to slow down, you’ll find it all right here.
What to Do in Matakana Village
The village is buzzing with cool places and unique experiences. Here are a few must-dos:
- Matakana Village Farmers’ Market: A real Kiwi institution! Every Saturday from 8am to 1pm, rain or shine, the market is the heartbeat of the village. Grab a freshly brewed coffee, listen to some live music, and stock up on incredible local produce, artisan cheeses, and gourmet goodies. It’s a zero-waste market, so remember to bring your reusable bags.
- Catch a Film at Matakana Cinemas: This isn’t your average movie theatre. With three unique cinemas, including the stunning Paradiso with its 32,000 paper flowers, it’s a classy spot to watch a film.
- Explore the Boutique Shops: Wander through the village and discover a fantastic range of independent stores. From fashion and homewares to beautiful art and unique gifts, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the local bookshop, the art gallery, and the sweet treats at the chocolate shop.
- Wine & Dine: The Matakana region is famous for its boutique wineries, and the village itself has a great selection of eateries. Grab a bite at the Matakana Market Kitchen or enjoy a drink at the Matakana Village Pub. You can also explore the wider Matakana wine trail from here.
Eat & Drink Your Way Through Matakana
Matakana is a foodie paradise, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Matakana Market Kitchen: A favourite for locals and visitors, serving up delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- The Matakana Pub: A cherished local landmark with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual drink or a hearty meal.
- Local Cafes & Gelato: Enjoy a coffee from one of the local roasters or grab a scoop of handcrafted gelato from Charlies Gelato on a hot day.
Your Gateway to the Matakana Coast
Matakana Village is the perfect base to explore the wider Matakana Coast. From here, you’re just a short drive to:
- Omaha Beach: A stunning white-sand beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Tāwharanui Regional Park: A coastal paradise with beautiful beaches and walking trails.
- Goat Island Marine Reserve: New Zealand’s first marine reserve, ideal for snorkelling and discovering local marine life.
- Sculptureum: A unique blend of art, gardens, and animals that’s a hit with the whole family.