Matakana Coast
Stretching from Puhoi to Pakiri, the Matakana Coast is dotted with deserted bays with small islands and recreational reserves and offers some of the finest wines, arts, crafts, luxury accommodation and visitor attractions in rural New Zealand, all within an hour drive north of Auckland.
The boutique village is fast making a name for itself as a gourmet, 'slow food' destination (the new found art of enjoying food; the opposite to fast food), specialising in locally produced delicacies and award-winning wine. The area is overflowing with fresh produce and the weekly Matakana Farmers' Market is the place for savoring fine, local food. A relatively new wine-growing region, Matakana has a great selection of boutique vineyards acclaimed for their Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and classic red varieties. Check out Ascension Wine Estate, Hyperion Wines and Ransom Wines to name a few.
The attractions in Matakana are endless. There are several regional parks and stunning beaches around the region. Just up the coast is the charming village of Leigh, home to the unique Leigh Sawmill Cafe. In Matakana Village you'll find galleries, shops and cafes, with other attractions around the region including a country park, market, and sculpture gardens (Brick Bay and Zealandia).
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