Top 5 Things to do in Raglan

Where is Raglan?

Raglan is a small community located to the west of Hamilton and southwest of Auckland. Probably best known for the famous 'left hand break' on the surf beaches, Raglan also sports safe swimming beaches, boutique shopping, and some quality tramping tracks nearby. The people here are friendly, laid back, and proud of their town.

Map of Raglan

Did I mention laid back? Raglan is an artsy surf community full of fun people. Wondering what to do in this awesome little town? Check out my suggestions!

Surfing

Ready to Surf!

Famous for it's left hand break and consistent waves, Raglan is an amazing surf community. Situated on the west coast of New Zealand. Surfing on the Tasman sea is much warmer than the Pacific ocean on the other side of New Zealand. Water temperatures in the summer reach 20C-24C, which makes for pleasant surfing. 

The beaches of New Zealand offer some of the most consistent surfing of anywhere in New Zealand, with the break at Manu Bay famous for allowing rides of up to 2km. Any day is a good surf day in New Zealand!

There are a number of surf beaches in New Zealand:

1. Ngaranui Beach - Beach surf, consistent, great for beginner to intermediate surfers
2. Manu Bay - Famous left hand break - longest and most consistent in the world! Surf break with rocky beach and rocks in the water so best for intermediate to experienced surfers.
3. Whale Bay - surf break good for experienced surfers. Long paddle, with exposed rocks

Shopping

Surf Shops Everywhere

If you are looking for the Warehouse or McDonalds, you aren't going to find what you are looking for in Raglan. If you want boutique artisan shops, surf shops, and good food from small cafes and chip shops, then look no further!

Pedestrian friendly, the central district of Raglan has many unique shops featuring work of local artists, fun clothes, crafty gifts, and surfing gear. There are, I believe, four surf shops in Raglan, as well as custom surf and long board shops for those looking for something made especially for them. It's certainly worth spending an afternoon wandering around.

If you get tired or hungry on your shopping excursion, then look no further than the three bars, handful of cafes, or collection of other small restaurants to quench your thirst. Many of the local bars feature the BEvERages of the Good George Brewing Company, based in nearby Hamilton, NZ. Try the Old Mout Cider! It's tasty!

Beach Time

River Swimming

Fun Playground

What small town in New Zealand would be complete without the local watering hole? Lots of nearby amenities including picnic tables, toilets, change rooms, showers, a huge and awesome playground, as well as a small shop nearby with an assortment of snacks including ice cream. 

While crowded during the summer, it is almost always possible to find a spot on the soft sand and dip into the water for a quick cool off or a day in the sun. 

Ngaranui beach also features soft sand and, during the summer, a lifeguard patrolled swim area. 

Picnic facilities

Arts and Music

Raglan is an artsy town, with a high proportion of art galleries, local artisans, and festivals. 

The second Sunday of every month features the Raglan Creative Market, specializing in local crafts, art, and food. More information can be found at the following link: Raglan Market.

The YOT club is a normal stop for New Zealand musicians on National tours. The Orca, the Harbour View, the Raglan Club, and Valentes Cafe also feature live music most nights in the summer and weekend evenings year round. 

There's almost always something happening in Raglan! If there aren't any events or festivals, there are still about eight different small art galleries featuring the work of local area artists.

Tramping

Bridal Veil Falls

The Whaingaroa region, near Raglan, features a variety of walks ranging in difficulty.

The Bridal Veil falls track (I mentioned it in a previous post here), is an easy track, suitable for wheelchairs and prams up to the top of the falls. The path to the bottom of the falls is slightly more challenging, featuring approximately 200 stairs down to the base of the falls.

In Raglan itself, there is the Wharves Walk, a historical heritage trail through Raglan. More information can be found in the brochure available at the link here.

For more strenuous walks, check out the Mount Karioi tracks. These trails take around two to three hours for a fit walker and climb 756m from the carpark to the summit. There are incredible views from the top of Raglan, the coast, and the cliffs nearby. More information on these tracks is located here.