Find a tranquil New Zealand paradise on the Waikato coast. The North Island’s most well-known surfing location is Raglan. Naturally, the community has evolved through time to have a bohemian ambiance with an eco-conscious feel, wonderful small cafes, and a bursting sense of creativity. With this list of activities to do in Raglan, you can find inspiration for your trip.
1. Surfing is a must!
Raglan’s legendary surf is the key factor in its global recognition. In Raglan, there are several possibilities to take surf instruction if you are a novice. The majority of surf lesson providers will also pick you up in town. Other locations where professional surfers can find good breaks include Ngarunui Beach, Manu Bay, Whale Bay, and Ruapuke Beach, further along, Whaanga Road.
2. The Pancake Rocks by kayak or SUP
Searching for activities close to Raglan town? Go out on a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and explore Raglan’s Pancake Rocks! A cool place to kayak to at mid to high tide to get into more of the caves or to go at low tide to see more of the rock formations are these layers of limestone rocks crushed together over millions of years. The town is home to numerous kayak and SUP rental businesses that can direct you on the correct path.
3. Climb Mt. Karioi
See the ancient volcano that towers over the town. You can, however, climb it! The hardest of the two hiking trails up to Mt. Karioi’s peak, the Mt. Karioi Trail, takes two and a half to three hours to complete.
The entire way, there are wide-ranging vistas to take in, and just before the summit, there is another lookout. To help with some of the steeper and rockier areas, there are chains and ladders. The Wairake Trail is a simpler and shorter route that spends 40 minutes traveling through farmland before entering a forest and climbing a mountain.
4. Browse the galleries of art
Raglan’s town is full of art! See the diverse collection of art galleries to get a feel for the small town’s bohemian vibe. You can visit about seven different art galleries. The summer, when the galleries are open more frequently, is the greatest time to visit.
5. To Bridal Veil Falls by foot
The magnificent Bridal Veil Falls are just a short drive from Raglan. The 55m (180ft) waterfall is just inches away from the observation platform after a 10-minute stroll through the thick native flora! After taking in the vistas, descend the 261 steps to one of the viewing decks. After that, get ready to climb all the way back up!
6. Take a Canyoning or Caving Experience
Do some caving, rock climbing, or canyoning with Raglan Rock to experience Raglan’s raw side. Climb the tiered limestone Skycastle formations on the majestic Mt. Karioi while admiring the amazing views! Take one of the pot holiday excursions down to stalactite-filled caves if you want to be underground. Also, you’ll observe the well-known New Zealand glowworms.
- Read more 10 Awesome Places To Surf In New Zealand
7. Visit the Wainui Bush Reserve for a Stroll
What would you do if you were stuck on Ngarunui Beach while every one of your friends went surfing? Go for a walk through the forest behind the beach! There is a walking path that circles the entire beach. It is reachable from the parking lot at the conclusion of Riria Kereopa Memorial Drive. A grassy path leads to a gate; from there, follow the arrows.
8. Take to the Biking Trails
Absolutely, a bike track is a fantastic way to explore nature in the Raglan area. If you want a ride that starts in town and has fantastic vistas, try the 45 km (29 mi) Mt Karioi Loop. The Pipiwharauroa Trail to the Te Umu Windfarm is another option. Te Ara Kakariki, a tiny park on the outskirts of town, has mountain biking paths.
9. Raglan & District Museum should be criticized
In New Zealand, every tiny town needs a museum, and Raglan’s is definitely worth a visit. See out historical images from World War One, artifacts from Raglan’s early history, tales of local heroes, relics of antiquated technology, details on the area’s wildlife, and much more for a nominal entrance fee!
10. Take a harbor cruise
Take Raglan Boat Charter’s Wahine Moe Harbour Cruise to get out on the water and take in the sunset. Take in some historical tales, see some of Raglan’s amazing limestone structures, and indulge in a local delicacy: fish & chips.
