Raumati: Discover boutique treasures and coastal village charm

Raumati means ‘summer’ in Te Reo Māori, and the township lives up to its name. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or outdoor play, this coastal gem has a little bit of everything.

Located 53 kilometres north of Wellington, idyllic Raumati Beach is a 40-minute drive from the city. The pace of life here is laid-back with young families, retirees, and many artists calling the area home. The leafy streets and sand-strewn paths are great to wander, and the village provides a clutch of shops. There are fashion boutiques, gift shops, art galleries, and some excellent eateries including the iconic Waterfront Kitchen and Bar.

On a sunny day, take the kids to the Marine Gardens. Cook your own lunch over one of the free BBQs or grab fish and chips from the village. The gardens provide plenty of sunny and shady spots to eat and relax while the kids run wild at the splash pad and playground. In the summertime enjoy a ride on the miniature train journeying around the banks of the park and through two tunnels.

A couple of kilometres down the road is the boutique village of Raumati South. Grab a coffee on the go, or sit down and watch a band over a bottle of wine at Raumati Social Club (RSC). Across the road, Sunday Cantina provides dining experiences and cooking classes to fill the soul and the stomach.