Top Things to do in Matakana
Countries
What to do and see in Matakana, North Island: The Best Things to do
Matakana is a small town in the Rodney District of New Zealand. Warkworth lies about 9 km to the south-west, Snells Beach the same distance to the south, Omaha is about 7 km to the east, and Leigh about 13 km to the north-east.
Restaurants in Matakana
1. Sculptureum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,267 reviews
The Sculptureum Experience is made up of three sculpture gardens and six art galleries spanning over 1.5km of flat paths. The private collection includes over 650 works of art by local and international artists. From live rabbits to the grand Chihuly glass chandelier and everything in between, you are guaranteed to find inspiration around every corner during your visit to this immaculately kept attraction. The 11 acre award-winning vineyard overlooks the sculpture gardens with views out to Little Barrier Island. Sculptureum wines are best enjoyed with a meal at Rothko Restaurant or savour the experience and take a bottle home.
Reviewed By Alison-JNZ - Wanaka, New Zealand
This is the second time I have been to Sculptureum. I was equally if not more impressed than I was 3 years ago. The gardens are spectacular and the artwork and sculptures nestle into the gardens beautifully, creating a peaceful and reflective space to wander through. This trip was extra special for my daughters and me as the owner took us under his wing while we meandered through the artwork inside. It was an absolute treat to have Anthony delve into the history of some of the pieces, why he had chosen them, show us the newest pieces in the collection as well as give us some history and insight into the artists. How special and absolutely memorable! We are so fortunate in this part of the world to have such a stunning private collection of art and sculpture available to be enjoyed by all. Highly recommended.
2. Matakana Estate
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
Matakana Estate is the largest winery in the region, spanning 35 hectares of land, we produce award-winning boutique-style wines and also provide luxury lodge accommodation. This hidden gem of a wine region right on Auckland's doorstep only a 1-hour drive from the CBD. Our cellar door is open Thursday - Monday for wine tastings and lunch is available Friday - Sundays. Our luxury lodge is situated on our property overlooking the vineyards and offers uninterrupted views of the countryside. With four bedrooms, it sleeps up to eight guests, an ideal location for a holiday retreat or function space.
Reviewed By SammyG336
Had an awesome wine tasting yesterday and learnt lots about the local Matakana wines. We felt as though they had all the time in the world for us and we took home some delish wines
3. Matakana Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 420 reviews
There’s something about Matakana Village… Perhaps it’s the fresh country air, the artisanal food and award-winning wine, or the stylish boutiques and galleries you simply won’t find in the city. Whether you’re catching up with friends in one of our eateries, meeting the makers at the famous Matakana Village Farmers’ Market or watching an arthouse film in the magnificent cinema, a visit to Matakana comes with memories to treasure. From the cascading cherry blossoms of spring to the riches of autumn leaves, you’ll find something to savour in every season. Just 45 minutes from the Auckland Harbour Bridge, yet a world away – there’s so much to love in Matakana Village.
Reviewed By Lindaxbarron - Brisbane, Australia
Excellent Saturday market with food stalls. The dumpling and rice paper roll stalls are worth trying. Plenty of fresh produce to buy direct from farmers. Take some cooler bags to store your produce. Make sure you check out the chocolate shop in the village square the price is worth the quality of the produce! If you can’t go on market day there is plenty of little shops and restaurants to choose from.
4. Matakana Country Park
5. Matakana War Memorial
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
The Matakana War Memorial has stood in the village for over 95 years. Sculptured by W. H. Feldon from Oamaru Stone, it was dedicated on 20th April 1920 by The Right Honourable Joseph Gordon Coates MC MP, the 21st Prime Minister of New Zealand. In August 2020 the statue gained Heritage NZ Listing as a place of heritage significance. Situated in a lovely riverside park with excellent access and paths. Well worth a visit.
Reviewed By HansenSteve1234
Just a minute walk from the Village is the sculpture of George V that is memorial dedicated is local soliders lost at war, there are story boards that reflects their lives. So interesting and done well. We then went down to the old warf to eat our lunch, very chilled and relaxing, followed by a walked over bridge to Morris & James Pottery cafe.
6. The Vivian Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By Sparky81
The Vivian under its new Director is continuing its established innovative and exciting mix of exhibitions with local, national and international artists. Well supported by the locals, its also well worth travelling some distance to see. Their Facebook page always tells you what is on. Highly recommended.
7. Ascension Wine Estate Matakana Auckland
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 65 reviews
Ascension is a beautiful vineyard in Matakana just 40 minutes north of Auckland. With our own rustic cellar door and restaurant we are the perfect location for wine tasting and lunch. We also host stunning weddings and stylish corporate events in the Belfry our fully self contained Function Centre. Life is too short to drink boring wine! Our philosophy has evolved to craft small quantities of distinctive, terroir-driven wines from both traditional and very unusual varieties. Expensive techniques regarded as "special" by many wineries, such as cane pruning, extensive leaf plucking, crop thinning and hand harvesting, are standard here. We make small batches of our handcrafted wines, which you can only buy through our cellar door, restaurant or website. The best way to experience Ascension is to visit us! We look forward to sharing Ascension with you because it is not just a business for us. It's our life.
8. Omaha Bay Vineyard
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By I1503OSlisaw - Auckland Central, New Zealand
We came for a mothers day lunch...a day early. The venue is a very authentic wine cellar feel where you can do a wine tasting then head outside to the covered deck area. We had lunch outside with a huge view of omaha. Food is a selection of vineyard platters with cheese and meats etc, quite nice not to have a big selection. Platter was beautiful and the wine lovely, prices were reasonable aswell. Will definitely be back.
9. Matakana Village Farmers' Market
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 35 reviews
Reviewed By MitchfromMelbourne - Melbourne, Australia
I honestly and truly wish I had the time to go back to the Matakana markets every Saturday. The atmosphere, people, attractions and food are that good. It is a gorgeous drive down the coast (taking tolls from Auckland saves you about ten to fifteen minutes) my advice is to skip tolls and go the long way. Matakana itself is a gorgeous town that really seems to be alive on a Saturday, with the atmosphere built around the markets. We loved the dog sitting facility at the front of the market where you can leave your dog for a donation. We don’t have a dog but loved giving all the ones a rub. Then to wonder around and have some delicious food, we tried the croque monsieur, crepes, fresh oysters (heaven), coffee, and bought some cheese from Puhoi Valley Cheese Co. too. It is well priced for fruit and vegies, and the cheeses we purchased were great value, and to try a variety of food is a great option for groups.
10. Matakana Trails
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
