10 Cafes with the best views on the North Island

Last Updated on July 16, 2020 by snaphappytravel

Listing 10 of the very best Cafes on the North Island of New Zealand, because if there’s two things New Zealand does best it’s great coffee and even better views. Judging on 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.

Honey House Cafe, Kerikeri

Located right next to the historic Stone Store in Kerikeri and with stunning views out to the gorgeous gardens and river below this 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.

Address | 246 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri Basin

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Helena Bay Cafe

Stunningly set in a tropical garden with incredible ocean views over Helena Bay, honestly, the view from this Cafe is trully 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.

Address | 1392 Old Russell Road, Helena Bay

Website | click here

Waterfront Cafe & Bar, Mangonui

Gorgeous views across Mangonui Harbour why not have your coffee alfresco on the Cafe’s deck. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (I hear their Eggs Benedict is famous with locals) and of course excellent coffee.

Address | 1 Waterfront Road, Mangonui

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L’Arte Cafe & Gallery, Taupo

Their website describes the 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 colour. 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.

Address | 255 Mapara Road, Acacia Bay, Taupo

Website | click here

Secret Garden, Waihi Beach

A gorgeous Balinese inspired outdoor space 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 & home ware store on site.

Address | 17 Wilson Road, Waihi Beach

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Eutopia Cafe, Kaiwaka

Recently reopened after a 5 year closure, this unique Cafe & art space features crazy scupltures 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.

Address | 1955 State Highway 1, Kaiwaka

Website | click here

Chocolate Fish Cafe, Wellington

A seaside Cafe located within the old defence 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 waters 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.

Address | 100 Shelly Bay Road, Miramar, Wellington

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Maranui Surf Lifesaving Cafe

Epic seaside views across Lyall Bay means this little 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 delicous coffee too, to savour while you watch the surfers on the beach below braving ‘Windy Wellington’s’ waves.

Address | 107 The Parade, Lyall Bay, Wellington

Website | click here

Takapuna Beach Cafe

Join in with the locals and enjoy the holiday-vibes at Takapuna Beach Cafe. Floor-to-ceiling windows means 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.

Address | 22 The Promenade, Takapuna, Auckland

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Punnet Eatery, Hamilton

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 strawberry’s 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.

Address | 337 Newell Road, Tamahere

Website | click here

Third Place Cafe, Rotorua

With expansive views of Lake Rotorua and Saint Faiths Church and even a children’s play area this 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.

Address | 35 Lake Road, Rotorua

Website | click here

And there you have it 10 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.

Here are the very best airbnb’s on the North Island

Fancy a unique stay on the North Island? Well, these are the absolute coolest airbnb’s I’ve ever seen. Honestly, click on the links below to see them in all their glory!

NAME	WHERE	BOOK
Tree house above harbour	Wellington	See more here
Cozy bush chalet	Auckland	See more here
Luxury with outdoor infinity pool	Whitianga	See more here
Glass house near the ocean	Raglan	See more here
Lake retreat	Rotorua	See more here

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