Whangarei

Whangarei is the largest city in Northland with a population of around 50, 000 people. Situated on a harbour the town now mainly derives the majority of its income from the large port, oil refining and agriculture. Many attractive parks and gardens can be found throughout the city including Cafler Park. The town basin is on the quayside in the centre of town and hosts many shops and restaurants. Whangarei Falls are just 5 kilometres out of town and are well worth a visit. To the east of Whangarei are the Poor Knights Islands and it is from Tutukaka harbour that most dive trips depart. The Poor Knights Islands are a Marine Reserve and are rated as one of the top ten dive sites in the world.