While just a short drive from Auckland, subtropical Mangawhai Heads feels like a world away and is fun year round. The sheltered estuary is great for swimming and kayaking. Next to the rocky inlet you’ll find epic surf breaks and beyond that some excellent deep-sea fishing and dive sites. You don't have sea legs? Just play on the beach, spot rare birds in the sand dunes, tackle the Mangawhai Cliff Walk, shop in Mangawhai village and grab some local produce from the markets.