Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Eating & Drinking
Charlie's Gelato Garden
ICE CREAM $
(
www.charliesgelato.co.nz
;
17 Sharp Rd; ice cream $4-6, pizza from $5; 9am-5pm, reduced hours
in winter)
Superb sorbet and gelato made from fresh fruit and interesting ingredients - try
the liquorice or ginger beer flavours - and excellent wood-fired pizzas during summer
from Friday to Sunday.
Mahurangi River
Winery & Restaurant
WINERY $$$
$$$
( 09-425 0306;
www.mahurangiriver.co.nz
; 162 Hamilton Rd; mains $24-36, platters $25-45;
11am-4pm Thu-Mon Feb-Dec, 11am-4pm daily Jan)
Expansive vineyard views partner with a re-
laxed ambience and savvy food at this rural spot off Sandspit Rd.
The Matakana
PUB $$$
(
www.matakana.co.nz
;
11 Matakana Valley Rd; mains $17-25; noon-late)
Following a trendy
makeover, Matakana's heritage pub now features quirky decor, Matakana wines and craft
beers, and decent bistro food including local Mahurangi oysters. Occasional DJs and live
acts enliven the cool outdoor space.
Plume
WINERY $$$
( 09-422 7915;
www.plumerestaurant.co.nz
; 49a Sharp Rd; mains $29-40; 11am-3pm Wed-
Sun, 6pm-late Fri & Sat)
Plume has rural views from its terrace and an adventurous menu
that jumps from China to Spain by way of Thailand and India.
Vintry
WINE BAR
( 09-423 0251;
www.thevintry.co.nz
; 2 Matakana Valley Rd; tastings from $5; 10am-10pm)
In
the Matakana Cinemas complex, this wine bar serves as a one-stop cellar door for all the
local producers.
Information
Matakana Information Centre
(
09-422 7433;
www.matakanainfo.org.nz
; 2 Matakana Valley
10am-1pm)
In the foyer of the cinema complex.
Rd;
Getting There & Away
