Date ideas in Matakana, Auckland
Looking for date ideas in Auckland that are fun and romantic? Why not escape the city and take a short road trip to Matakana to spend some quality time together? No matter what your budget, you will find something on our list of date ideas in Matakana to try out.
1. For nature lovers
Goat Island Marine Reserve is a protected area that offers crystal clear water and abundant sea life. So, it’s a no-brainer that the team at Clearyak are offering clear kayaks so that you will not miss out on anything. Each kayak is a double, so you and your date will paddle together to explore the natural wonders of the coastline of Goat Island. You will likely see a variety of fish and even stingrays if you are lucky. This date idea will, for sure be a memorable one. This is a weather-dependent activity so make sure to have a backup in case it is too wet or windy to go out kayaking.
Top Tip: head to Leigh Sawmill Cafe for a drink and bite to eat, you are bound to be hungry after all that time out in the ocean.
2. For foodies
If you love food and fancy a bit of puzzle solving, Village Picnic offers a Mystery Picnic. Think amazing race in the Matakana Coast region and your reward will be discovering local artisan producers and growers. This will offer site-seeing, and gourmet treats at the end for you and your special one to enjoy a romantic picnic at the final destination.
If you are more on a budget, then head to the Matakana Village Farmer’s Market and pick up all your picnic goodies there. All the operators are small businesses that believe in producing handcrafted high-quality products. This is definitely a food lover’s haven. Take all your market produce and choose a scenic destination to enjoy your picnic. Our top picks would be Omaha Beach or Algies Bay where you have a stunning view of Kawau Island.
3. For art lovers
Enjoy a relaxed day and tour the many art galleries in the region. The region has two art sculpture trails; Brick Bay and Sculptureum. Great options to take a romantic stroll and enjoy art and nature. There are also galleries in Matakana that display fine original artworks, sculptures, ceramics and jewellery. Also, not to be missed is Morris & James pottery, a local icon and their showroom is a popular place for visitors. Founded in 1977, it produces a beautiful range of handmade ceramics. A courtyard café is also on-site to enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat.
4. For a rainy day
Wet weather should not deter a blossoming romance or going out on a spontaneous date.
Wineries are abundant in Matakana. If you are a little bored of the traditional wine tasting style, why not try your hand at wine blending? It is a fun date idea in Matakana after a trip to the markets in the morning.
At Matakana Estate, we offer a wine blending experience that is done in pairs. Perfect for a daytime date activity. Learn the basics of wine tasting and wine blending. At the end of the 1-hour session, each person gets to take their very own 375ml of their own creation home.
What better souvenir from a date to remind you of a great time spent together? Rain or shine, this activity is perfect as a date idea.