Mahurangi East, Snells Beach, Algies Bay & Scotts Landing

Rediscover the laid back Kiwi holiday at Snells Beach, Algies Bay and Scotts Landing. Visit the Brick Bay Winery & Sculpture Trail. So close to Auckland.  

With breathtaking sea views from almost every hilltop, Mahurangi East offers a quintessentially Kiwi seaside escape, with easy access to wineries, regional parks, gentle beaches, rejuvenating walking trails and the Matakana Farmers’ market. 

Begin your exploration in Snells Beach, where the long curve of waterfront is draped with shady pohutukawa trees. Kids can scooter or ride their bikes along the foreshore path from playground to playground and when the tide slips in over hot sand in the late afternoons, the shallow water is beautifully warm and safe for swimming. 

Snells Beach faces due east, so the sunrises here are truly spectacular. Bayside Eatery on the water’s edge in Whisper Cove is a prime spot to enjoy a morning cup of coffee in the sun as you take in the expansive views of Kawau Bay. 

For fine art, food and wine, visit the Brick Bay Wines and Sculpture Trail. The one-hour trail weaves through farmland, lake and native bush and features large scale contemporary New Zealand sculpture thoughtfully positioned against stunning natural backdrops. Dine on produce fresh from the farm in the spectacular Glass House Kitchen cantilevered over the pond. Taste the popular Bordeaux blends or pinot gris as you sit beneath the vines and watch the kids play on the playground.

Heading further east, visit Highfield Garden Reserve above Algies Bay for incredible views of Kawau Bay and say meet the small herd of friendly local donkeys.  If you’ve brought the boat, launch at Algies Bay for a spot of fishing in the calm, abundant waters, or pop across to historic Kawau Island for a picnic.

Near the end of the Mahurangi East peninsula lies Scandrett Regional Park. Kids love exploring the historic farm buildings, climbing pohutukawa trees, paddling in clear waters and investigating the rock pools at low tide. Follow the trail over Mullet Point and down to Martins Bay, a safe sandy beach with all-tide swimming and plenty of shade. 

On the western side of the peninsula, the drive down Ridge Road to Scotts Landing offers stunning views through bush to the Mahurangi Harbour. The historic Scott Homestead was a hotel and boarding house in the 1800s and a regular stop on the shipping route between the Mahurangi Harbour and Auckland. The homestead overlooks the clear waters and sheltered anchorage of the bay and the extensive lawns make a perfect spot for group picnics. Toddlers will enjoy the low tide walk across to Casnell Island, searching for small sea creatures and shells along the way. 

Stock up on holiday needs in Snells Beach and choose from a range of accommodation options, from holiday homes to apartments, B & Bs and lodges are all within walking distance of the sea. Bring your swimsuit and your jandals, and rediscover that laid back Kiwi lifestyle in Mahurangi East.