I say “Raglan”, you say (actually, pretty much everyone says) “surfing”. But the best part about this charming beachside town is that there is so much more to experience than just ripping the world-famous waves. On the west coast of the North Island, just two hours south of Auckland, Raglan is a small and welcoming gem, boasting the very best of New Zealand’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. From native bush walks, to vintage and antique shopping, to peacefully enjoying the beautiful beaches, Raglan truly does have everything you need for a quick getaway from the stressful life of the city.
Solscape — Accommodation
You will be hard pressed to find accommodation more unique than Solscape, who are dedicated to sustainable living and maintaining a positive connection between humans and nature. Get the best of the pick by staying in the units with shared facilities: the Earth Domes, which have been constructed purely out of the generously available resource of ground earth; the Cabooses, beautiful up-cycled train carriages; or in the hugely popular Tipi Forest, which allows you to experience ‘glamping’ in its most peaceful form, in secluded tipis and belle tents.
Yoga at Solscape — 8:00am
Saturdays at Solscape begin with a yoga session of powerful and purifying techniques. Breathe your way into the new day with a clear mind and a focused soul. The 90-minute class is offered at just $15, and is held in a gorgeous yoga studio or, if the weather is kind, outside on the beautiful lawn.
The Conscious Kitchen — 9:30am
Still at Solscape, head to their café for a delicious breakfast of ethically sourced and created eco-cuisine. Everything is organic and plant-based, but don’t worry about feeling like you’re missing out on a hearty side of bacon or salmon with your eggs benedict, because everything from the delicious smoothies to the exceptional buckwheat pancakes will provide you with all the energy you need for the day.
Wairēinga Falls/Bridal Veil Falls — 10:30am
Explore the surrounding countryside with a 20-minute drive to Wairēinga Falls/Bridal Veil Falls. Once there, it’s just a 20-minute return trip through native bush to get to the stunning waterfall, surrounded by an impressive amphitheatre of soft sandstone rocks. For an extra 20 minutes return, you can reach the pool at the base of the falls to find an amazing view back up at the cascading water.
The Shack — 12:30am
Back in the township, pop into The Shack for lunch, one of Raglan’s most popular food joints. The menu is made primarily of locally sourced ingredients, and is ever-changing to keep up with the best of the season. The friendly staff give The Shack a buzzing atmosphere and the fantastic service for which they are renowned. Located on “the sunny corner of Bow Street and Wainui Road”, The Shack will give you a summery experience and a delicious lunch to boot.
Shopping — 2:00pm
The Raglan township has some gorgeous shops to poke around in. Here are some of the best:
Soul Shoes — Boasting New Zealand-made, genuine leather shoes, bags and belts: soulshoes.co.nz
Raglan Vintage & Retro — A cute antique store with awesome 70s furniture and other curiosities.
Tony Sly Pottery — Stylish, handmade pottery and other Scandinavian style accessories: tonyslypottery.com
Atamira — A beautiful range of fashion, books and wellbeing goods. There really is something for everyone: atamira.co.nz
The Herbal Dispensary — A wonderful organic store with fabulous selection of tea, German-style breads and much more! theherbaldispensaryraglan.co.nz
Three Little Birds — Another great vintage and craft store. Beautiful local and hand-made produce.
Ngarunui Beach — 3:00pm
This is an idyllic spot to spend an afternoon. Hire a surfboard from the rental caravan right by the beach, go for a gorgeous walk, or just relax and sunbathe on the magnificent black sand. The ocean is fresh and delightful if you want to go for a quick dip, and it is fully patrolled by surf lifesavers from October to April.
Solar Cycle — 5:30pm
See all of Raglan in the most relaxed and eco-friendly fashion, by hiring a solar-charged bicycle and cruising around without having to worry about exerting any effort to get up the hills. At only $15 per hour, and with a powerful motor with a range of over 60km, this is the perfect way to see the best sights and hidden gems of Raglan township.
Raglan Fish — 6:30pm
What’s a trip to the seaside without fish and chips for dinner? Head to Raglan Fish for your classic Kiwi meal of a few dollars’ chips and the fish of the day, and rest assured that it will be as fresh as it gets. Located out on the pier, it is the perfect spot to wind down at the end of the day whilst looking out to the mesmerising sea.
Raglan Coconut Yoghurt — 8:00pm
There is nothing better than supporting locally produced, handmade treats, so combine this with anything coconut-y and we have an absolute winner! Raglan Coconut Yoghurt is made in Raglan, with a blend of local love and ingredients. Pop into the local SuperValue before 8pm and get your hands on a jar of this coconut gold, drive for 10 minutes out to Manu Bay, and relax on the beach with some deliciously healthy dessert. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to spot some late-night surfers catching some waves.
Words: Harriet Keown
Tipi at Solescape, Photo: Kyle George. Miss Crabb summertime dress black from Atamira. Ngarunui Beach. Workshop at Tony Sly Pottery.
