11 Cafes with the Best Views On the North Island

oListing 11 of the very best Cafes on the North Island of New Zealand, because if there are two things New Zealand does best it’s great coffee and even better views. Judging from the success of my other article 12 Best Cafes on the South Island which has currently been shared over 1,000 times you all are itching to find out where the very best Cafes in New Zealand are.

Thankfully, I’m here to help and this article features all the very best Cafes on the North Island from a quirky cafe with a mosaic living room to a tropical paradise high above Russell with bright blue ocean views.

So, read on for our contenders for the best Cafe on the North Island of New Zealand.

1. Honey House Cafe, Kerikeri

Address | 246 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri Basin

Located right next to the historic Stone Store in Kerikeri and with stunning views out to the gorgeous gardens and river below the Honey House Cafe is certainly one of the best spots for a brew in Northland. Serving up everything from iced coffees, hot coffees, and hot & cold foods you could easily spend an hour or two here. Maybe even longer if the weather is nice enough for you to sit outside.

2. Helena Bay Cafe, Helena Bay

Address | 1392 Old Russell Road, Helena Bay

Stunningly set in a tropical garden with incredible ocean views over Helena Bay, honestly, the view from the Helena Bay Cafe is truly breathtaking. Fairtrade coffee, homemade cabinet food as well as a seasonal Lunch menu are on offer here. Located just 30 minutes North of Whangarei and an hour from historic Russell. There is also an Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden on site.

3. Jesse’s on the Waterfront, Mangonui

Address | 1 Waterfront Road, Mangonui

Gorgeous views across Mangonui Harbour why not have your coffee alfresco on the Jesse’s on the Waterfront’s deck? Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner (I hear their Eggs Benedict is famous with locals) and of course excellent coffee. This is one of the best Cafes in Northland!

4. L’Arte Cafe & Gallery, Taupo

Address | 255 Mapara Road, Acacia Bay, Taupo

Their website describes L’Arte Cafe as a ‘visual and edible feast’ and I have to agree, from the outdoor mosaic living room to the mosaic pathway leading up to the Cafe, this place is certainly full of color. It is a 20 minute drive from Taupo town, but well worth the drive in my opinion. Serving up Allpress Coffee and fresh hot and cold food. Be sure to visit the Art Gallery on-site.

5. Secret Garden, Waihi Beach

Address | 17 Wilson Road, Waihi Beach

A gorgeous Balinese inspired outdoor space the Secret Garden in Waihi Beach comes complete with a coffee pod serving up delicious Allpress coffee, smoothies, and other yummy food treats. Over the Summer & long weekends, you can enjoy live music in the gardens. Also, why not pop into the designer clothing and homeware store on site.

6. Eutopia Cafe, Kaiwaka

Address | 1955 State Highway 1, Kaiwaka

Recently reopened after a 5 year closure, the unique Eutopia Cafe and art space features crazy sculptures and award-winning coffee. Eutopia has been lovingly handcrafted by owners Marijke & Robert along with their sons and a little help from volunteers. Each piece of the Cafe has been restored and designed. Serving up breakfast and lunch and utilizing as much organic produce as possible. And of course delicious Rush Coffee.

7. Chocolate Fish Cafe, Wellington

Address | 100 Shelly Bay Road, Miramar, Wellington

Chocolate Fish Cafe is a seaside cafe located within the old defense buildings on Shelley Bay Road with heaps of indoor and outdoor seating (choose outdoor on a sunny day). Just a 15-minute drive from Wellington CBD. Given its location right on the water’s edge, it makes sense this Cafe serves up some of the best seafood in Wellington. If you don’t fancy seafood there’s a variety of non-seafood items on the menu too.

8. Maranui Surf Lifesaving Cafe, Wellington

Address | 107 The Parade, Lyall Bay, Wellington

Epic seaside views across Lyall Bay mean the little Maranui Cafe can get very busy especially at the weekend or on a nice sunny day. Serving up breakfast and lunch, or fresh counter food if you’re after a quick snack. Of course, delicious coffee too, to savor while you watch the surfers on the beach below braving ‘Windy Wellington’s’ waves.

9. Takapuna Beach Cafe

Address | 22 The Promenade, Takapuna, Auckland

Join in with the locals and enjoy the holiday vibes at Takapuna Beach Cafe. Floor-to-ceiling windows mean you can enjoy the view across the Hauraki Gulf no matter the weather. Food-wise enjoy pastries, sandwiches, and fish & chips to takeaway or if you dine in there is a more extensive menu available.

10. Punnet Eatery, Hamilton

Address | 337 Newell Road, Tamahere

Set on a Strawberry Farm, this is in fact what Punnet Eatery started as until it became so popular with locals and tourists alike that it was transformed into a trully wonderful foodie and coffee destination. You can pick your own strawberries on the farm, visit the on-site Country Providore store, or indulge in fresh & yummy food at the Punnet Eatery. The Punnet Eatery serves up rustic fine dining with menu items such as burgers, bento bowls and cakes.

11. Third Place Cafe, Rotorua

Address | 35 Lake Road, Rotorua

With expansive views of Lake Rotorua and Saint Faith Church and even a children’s play area, Third Place Cafe is an ideal Cafe to relax for an hour or so. The Cafe itself is bright & spacious and serves up everything from salads to burgers to fish and chips. There is also a wide selection of fresh cabinet goods if you’re after something lighter.

Thanks for Reading!

And there you have it 11 of the very best Cafes on the North Island of New Zealand. I’m certain I’ve missed some of your favorite Cafes, but all of the above are Cafes I’ve personally visited – of course, if you have any suggestions to add to this list please use the comment section below.

Why not read next –

12 Things You Must Know Before Renting a Car in New Zealand

Living in Queenstown New Zealand-Absolutely Everything You Should Know

The best beaches in Northland, New Zealand

Tips and tricks for moving to New Zealand

Like it, then PIN IT for later!

Last Updated on June 8, 2024 by snaphappytravel