Auckland to Bay of Islands: Where to Dine on Your Coastal Drive
An Auckland to the Bay of Islands roadtrip is a classic Kiwi adventure. Winding through small towns, wine country, and along dramatic coastlines, this drive offers an abundance of views and charm. There are also plenty of places to dine along the way. If you are bound for the magic of the Bay of Islands, we have curated a list of some of the best restaurants to stop at en route.
Orewa
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1. Cheek & Chong
348 Hibiscus Coast Highway,, Auckland CentralTucked onto Orewa’s bustling main road, and just a stone’s throw from the popular Orewa Beach, Cheek & Chong is a fabulous place to stop on your Auckland to Bay of Islands roadtrip. Its all-day menu offers the very best in Asian fusion dishes, from aromatic lemongrass chicken to wagyu beef pad see ew. Vegans and vegetarians are catered for too, with vegan dumplings and their delicious sweet potato pad see ew. Cheek & Chong has mastered aromatic and bold flavours, fresh ingredients, creative cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere. You won’t be disappointed!
Matakana to Mangwhai
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It's perfect for art, nature, wine and flavours from the land all in one settingYou need to try the Bruschetta with cured salmon, spiced Brick Bay lamb and baked eggplantLook out for the 2km sculpture trail walkRead moreTucked into the coastal wine region, just an hour’s drive from Auckland city, the Glass House Kitchen at Brick Bay is a quaint and charming place to stop on your journey towards the Bay of Islands. It offers all-day dining, famous for its dining hall overlooking the enchanted pond and surrounding vibrant greenery, which transforms into shades of auburn during autumn. The restaurant also offers idyllic alfresco dining. Its farm-to-table style menu sources many of its ingredients from local orchards, olive groves, beehives, and wineries.
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It's perfect for date nights where art and dinner are equally compelling.You need to try the tasting menu paired with Matakana vineyard wines. Expect intricate flavours and thoughtful plating.Look out for the sculpture trail post-dinner—wandering under big skies adds a touch of magic.Read moreWhere art meets cuisine, Rothko Sculptureum is a romantic dining spot on your Bay of Islands roadtrip, and is one of the best restaurants in the Mangawhai region. Rothko offers a relaxed atmosphere tucked into enchanting gardens and a menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Many guests love to order the tasting menu, paired with Matakana vineyard wines. After a slow, flavourful dining experience, wander through the sculpture trail under a bright, starry sky.
Whangarei
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1. No.8
8 Quayside, Townbasin, WhangareiRead moreNo.8 serves authentic Asian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Sourcing their seafood, meats, and fresh produce locally, No.8 dishes deliver on flavour, quality, and attention to detail. Try the raw tuna and the calamari! There’s even a kids’ menu, so it’s a great place to stop along the way to the Bay of Islands if you are with family! Tucked into a colonial building, the decor feels cosy and charming with red umbrellas and hanging auburn lanterns. You won’t be disappointed!
Russell
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Read moreThe Duke of Marlborough Hotel sits on the waterfront of Russell and oozes with local history. This charming spot unlocks a relaxing dining experience. It’s open for lunch and dinner, making it a great place to stop on your coastal drive through the Bay of Islands region. The menu offers a fresh twist on Kiwi favourites, sourcing local and fresh ingredients. Sit back and enjoy watching the world go by as you indulge in the extensive drinks menu and views of the sparkling water.
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Read moreThe Omata Estate Kitchen overlooks its vibrant vineyards and unparalleled views of the ocean. Offering a rustic charm with a modern twist, this restaurant is just 8km from Russell, and a great place to stop on your adventure for a meal of gourmet platters and wood-fired pizzas. Their menu changes frequently, offering something fresh and new with each season. If you are travelling with the family or with a group of friends, there is something for everyone, with a large drinks menu including craft beers, coffee, soft drinks, and jugs of sangria. Yum!
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Read moreThe Gables Osteria & Enoteca sits on the glimmering Russell waterfront and is New Zealand’s oldest restaurant, dating back to 1847. It’s also one of the best restaurants in the Bay of Islands. For an Italian twist on your New Zealand coastal roadtrip, Bay of Islands bound, The Gables is a perfect place to stop. Think fresh seafood and cuts of New Zealand meat, and a range of Italian-inspired dishes. Its menu pairs perfectly with its range of curated Northland and Italian wines. For a timeless and charming escape into Italian cuisine and sunset waterfront views, visit The Gables!
Paihia
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Read morePerched at the end of the wharf in Paihia, Charlotte’s Kitchen unlocks charm and flavour like never before. As a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike, it combines a diverse menu (inspired by dishes from a range of cultures) with unforgettable views of the waterfront. Dishes are crafted with passion and fresh ingredients, paired perfectly with the selection of cocktails and wines. It’s great for a date night during your romantic weekend away to the Bay of Islands, with its alfresco dining spots where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon. How magical!
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Read moreZane Grey’s Restaurant and Bar captures the vibrant spirit of Northland. It’s a great place for a meal on your coastal drive of the Bay of Islands, as it offers two dining options - a casual all-day affair at The Dock, or refined and sophisticated evening meals at The Aquarium. Both show off the natural awe of the Bay of Islands, including the water and the islands rising from the horizon. Head chef Danilo Radenkovic curates a diverse, flavourful menu, packed with fresh ingredients and dishes inspired from all over the world. Zane Grey’s coolest feature is its 66,000-litre aquarium, where you can encounter some fascinating marine creatures.