Swanndri Mission Series: Matakana

When looking for locations to shoot and show off the new Swanndri summer range, we wanted to make sure it was somewhere that would allow us to illustrate what a modern Swanndri mission could be.

A quick weekend away, not too far from the big smoke, that the whole family could enjoy. A bit of adventure, a bit of relaxation, a bit of indulgence. Basically, a bit of everything. Doesn’t exist, someone said. Then someone else mentioned Matakana. We looked it up and it looked like it ticked all the boxes. So we went on the mission (as well as the shoot), and had such a good time, we figured, why not share the yarn?

And with that, welcome to the first edition in our Swanndri Mission Series. Here, we’re going to share ideas for all sorts of missions – from after-work adventures, to weekends away, to week-long expeditions. Giving you the inspiration, so you can make your own mission.

Starting with Matakana. It’s only about 45 mins (a bit longer in the old Landy) north of Auckland. But it feels a world away…

There used to be a homemade sign at the entrance to the Matakana region, at the corner of Anderson Road and opposite what is now a winery. It read “Your now on Matakana time.” The sign has disappeared (a grammar geek probably pulled it down), but the feeling of being in a separate time zone still exists. There’s heaps happening – but somehow there’s still a sense of quiet countryside quaintness. It’s a melting pot of stuff to do, from exploring and outdoors-ing to drinking and eating and shopping – but it still feels somehow relaxing.

Anyway, let’s start with the most important thing: where to stay. There are baches, lodges and holiday accommodation aplenty. But if you’re up for something slightly more intrepid, you can’t beat the campgrounds. There’s idyllic Sandspit, where boat rides across the harbour and onto Kawau Island are right on your doorstep. There’s Whangateau, overlooking the estuary and Omaha beyond, where you might be lucky enough to catch a local game of cricket at the grounds next door. There’s Martin’s Bay with its all tide boat ramp and long sandy beach. And, of course, there’s Pakiri.

Whether you’re staying there or not, Pakiri beach is worth a visit. After winding up and over Pakiri hill (make sure you stop at the top to check out the views), you’ll emerge onto an endless white sand beach that extends as far north as the eye can see. Always significantly quieter than nearby Omaha, it’s the perfect spot for setting up and spreading out for the day. Surfers know it as a prime spot to catch a wave, while surfcasters know it as a prime spot to catch a feed. We gave it a go – but left the fish in the sea for you guys.

On the way back, you’ll drive right past Goat Island Marine. We would recommend calling in, but this merits an entire day – at least – on its own. This is New Zealand’s first ever marine reserve, and still one of the most accessible. A short walk down the hill from the carpark and you’re in the perfect spot for a beach picnic, as well as snorkelling, diving, paddle-boarding, kayaking and glass-bottom-boating amongst the incredible marine life.

It’s just one of many of the Auckland region’s most beautiful parks and nature reserves which seem to be condensed in this part of the country. Take a walk through Scandrett Regional Park and see the history, the heritage homestead, and the regenerating natural forest. From here, you’ll also get incredible views south across the Hauraki Gulf and north across the Kawau Harbour to Tāwharanui, one of the most well-known reserves in the region.

Tāwharanui is quite simply a must-see. With white sand beaches, rolling pasture and lush native forest, Tāwharanui offers surfing, hiking, camping, and thanks to the predator proof fence, a regenerating richness of native flora and fauna that is hard to find elsewhere in mainland New Zealand. You’ll hear birdsong from Tūī, Kākā, Bellbirds, North Island Robins and Saddlebacks. Stick around at night and there’s a good chance you’ll see a North Island Brown Kiwi. Tāwharanui is also one of the rare places you can see endangered Takahē in the wild.

With all that exploring, it’s important to enjoy some creature comforts too. Matakana village itself has a Saturday morning farmers market, as well as shops, bars, cafes and even a cinema open all week. Alternatively (or as well), there’s Matakana Country Park just down the road. Here, you’ll find a miniature ride-on train, an adventure playground, and horse and carriage rides, as well as craft shops, an art gallery, a café and a bar and restaurant.

Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t recommend a stop off to see our mates at Sawmill Brewery and Smoko Room while you’re in the region. Here, you can enjoy generous hospitality, some of the country’s best craft beer on tap and food with gumption, all in an idyllic setting at the base of Mount Tamahunga.

We couldn’t think of a better way to kick start a Matakana Mission, to break up all the exploring, or to top off an epic trip before you head home.

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