Ruakaka - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Ruakaka

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ruakaka, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ruakaka and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ruakaka, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Ruakaka for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ruakaka

Ruakaka is a small coastal town located in the northern region of North Island, New Zealand. It is situated around 30 kilometers south of the city of Whangarei. The town is known for its beautiful long white-sand beaches, including the popular Ruakaka Beach. There are also a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in the area, such as fishing, surfing, and hiking. Additionally, Ruakaka is home to a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts.

What to visit in Ruakaka

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Ruakaka, New Zealand along with some information: 1. Ruakaka Beach: Ruakaka Beach is a popular destination for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. It is a beautiful, long white-sand beach that is perfect for long walks. There are also several coastal walks around the area, which provide stunning views of the ocean.
2. Waipu Caves: Waipu Caves are natural limestone caves that are located approximately 20 minutes' drive from Ruakaka. The cave system consists of several chambers, some of which are lit up with glowworms. There are also several walking tracks and great picnic spots in the area.
3. Marsden Point Oil Refinery: The Marsden Point Oil Refinery is located just north of Ruakaka and is the northernmost oil refinery in New Zealand. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the refining process, safety measures and environmental impact of the refinery.
4. Whangarei Falls: Whangarei Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is located about 20 minutes' drive from Ruakaka. The waterfall is easily accessible via a short walk through the forest, and there is a picnic area nearby where visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch while watching the falls.
5. Mount Manaia: Mount Manaia is a volcanic peak that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding region. There is a well-maintained walking track that takes visitors up to the summit of Mount Manaia, and the walk takes approximately 2-3 hours round-trip.
6. Piroa waterfall: Piroa waterfall is another gorgeous waterfall located in Ruakaka. It is accessible via a ten-minute walk through the forest from the car park.
7. Bream Head Scenic Reserve: The Bream Head Scenic Reserve is located about 30 minutes' drive from Ruakaka and offers spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. It also offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching and wildlife spotting.
All these attractions offer different experiences and things to explore in Ruakaka, New Zealand.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Ruakaka

The best time to visit Ruakaka, New Zealand is during the summer months which fall between December and February. During this time, temperatures are warm, and the weather is generally sunny and pleasant, making it perfect for enjoying the beach and other outdoor activities. However, if you prefer a cooler weather, the months of March through May offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. It is important to note that Ruakaka can experience rainfall all year round, so it is always advisable to pack some waterproof clothing regardless of the time of year you visit.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ruakaka

Ruakaka is located in the North Island of New Zealand, about 2.5 hours' drive north of Auckland.
By Car: You can rent a car at the Auckland airport and drive to Ruakaka. From Auckland, take State Highway 1 north and follow the signs to Whangarei. Once in Whangarei, follow the signs to Ruakaka.
By Bus: There are also buses that operate between Auckland and Whangarei, with stops in Ruakaka. Intercity buses and Naked Bus both operate daily bus services between Auckland and Whangarei.
By Train: While there is no direct train service to Ruakaka, you can take a train from Auckland to Whangarei and then transfer to a bus or taxi to get to Ruakaka.
By Air: The nearest airport to Ruakaka is Whangarei Airport but the airport only operates a limited number of flights. The most convenient airport is Auckland Airport, which has regular regional flights to Whangarei Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Ruakaka.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ruakaka, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ruakaka

Ruakaka is a small coastal town in New Zealand that offers a range of delicious traditional foods. Here are some of the typical foods of Ruakaka: 1. Fish and Chips - This NZ classic can be found in almost every corner of Ruakaka. Fish is deep-fried with a crispy batter, served with hot chips and often a side of tartare sauce.
2. Hangi - A traditional Māori meal prepared by cooking food in a pit oven. The food is kept moist and flavourful by being wrapped in banana leaves. Hangi often includes meats such as lamb or chicken, potatoes, kumara (sweet potatoes), and pumpkin.
3. Whitebait Fritters - A popular dish in New Zealand, whitebait fritters are made with tiny whitebait fish, mixed with eggs, flour, and seasonings, and then fried until golden brown.
4. Pavlova - A light and fluffy meringue dessert topped with whipped cream and fruit, typically kiwifruit or strawberries.
5. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream - A deliciously creamy vanilla ice cream with crunchy honeycomb toffee chunks mixed in. It is a Kiwi favourite and can be found in most ice cream shops in Ruakaka.
6. Kiwi Burger - A New Zealand twist on the classic burger, the Kiwi burger is made with a beef patty, beetroot, a fried egg, and tomato.
7. Meat Pie - A classic and beloved Kiwi snack, meat pies are buttery, flaky pastries stuffed with fillings such as beef and cheese, chicken and mushroom or steak and onion.
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Ruakaka an expensive destination for tourists?

Ruakaka, New Zealand is generally considered a mid-range priced destination for tourists. The cost of visiting Ruakaka will depend on a variety of factors such as the time of year, type of accommodation and activities you choose to participate in. Generally speaking, New Zealand is known for being a more expensive country to travel to due to its remote location and high cost of living. However, with careful research and planning, it is possible to have an enjoyable and budget-friendly trip to Ruakaka.

Where to find accomodation in Ruakaka

Ruakaka is a small town located on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island, close to the city of Whangarei. In terms of accommodation options, the best areas to consider are: 1. Ruakaka Beach: This is the main tourist area and is home to several holiday parks, motels, and self-catering apartments.
2. One Tree Point: This is a quieter residential area, located about 5-10 minutes drive from Ruakaka Beach. There are several holiday homes and apartments available here.
3. Marsden Point: This is a small industrial area located a few kilometers south of Ruakaka. While there are few accommodation options here, it may be useful if you are visiting nearby industries.
4. Whangarei City: If you're willing to stay farther away, Whangarei city has plenty of hotels and motels to choose from and it's a 20 minute drive to Ruakaka.
Regardless of where you stay in Ruakaka, make sure you check out the beautiful beaches and nearby attractions like the Waipu Caves, Whangarei Falls, and Tutukaka Coast.
You can check hotel prices at Ruakaka here:
Booking.com

Is Ruakaka a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ruakaka in New Zealand is generally a safe place for tourists. It is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike, known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. However, as with any place, it is always important to take safety precautions such as locking valuables in a safe place and being aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to follow the local customs and rules.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ruakaka.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ruakaka the most?

Ruakaka, located in Northland, New Zealand, is a great place to visit for all types of travelers. Here are some details on who will enjoy it the most: 1. Couples: Ruakaka offers a peaceful and serene environment for couples to spend quality time together. They can relax on the beautiful beaches or take a romantic stroll while enjoying the natural scenery.
2. Young people looking for fun: Ruakaka also has a lot to offer for young travelers looking for a bit of fun. The area has some fantastic outdoor activities to offer, including surfing, kayaking, and hiking. There are also several lively bars and clubs to enjoy the nightlife.
3. Families: Families will enjoy the safe and peaceful atmosphere offered by Ruakaka. The beautiful beaches provide a safe environment for children to play and swim. There is also a range of activities and attractions for kids, such as playgrounds and animal parks, and the nearby towns offer plenty of family-friendly dining options.
Overall, Ruakaka is an excellent destination for anyone who loves tranquil beauty, adventure, or spending quality time with their family or loved ones.

How to get around Ruakaka

The most common forms of transportation to move around Ruakaka, New Zealand are private car, taxi or shuttle buses. However, there is also a public bus service available in the area. It is important to note that while there are bike lanes along some roads, bicycles may not be a practical mode of transportation.

What to see around Ruakaka

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Ruakaka: 1. Waipu Cove Beach: This beach is a popular spot for surfing and swimming, with a beautiful scenic view.
2. Whangarei Falls: A beautiful waterfall located near Whangarei, it makes for a lovely spot for a picnic or a hike.
3. Tane Mahuta: Located in the Waipoua Forest, Tane Mahuta is a giant and ancient Kauri Tree, and a must-see for visitors to New Zealand.
4. Tutukaka: This beautiful coastal town is home to some stunning beaches, as well as numerous marine activities, such as diving and snorkelling.
5. Bay of Islands: A bit further away, the Bay of Islands is a stunning place to visit, with over 140 subtropical islands and a variety of activities such as sailing, fishing, and swimming with dolphins.
I hope this helps you plan your trip!
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