Leigh Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Leigh, New Zealand with this comprehensive travel guide covering the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Leigh

Leigh is a small coastal village situated in the Auckland region of New Zealand’s North Island. Known for its stunning scenery, sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters, Leigh is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The village is located approximately 100 kilometres north of Auckland, making it an easy weekend getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Leigh

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the natural wonders, or simply relax on the beach, Leigh has something to offer for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Leigh is home to several museums and historical places that offer a window into the region’s rich cultural heritage. These include:

  • Goat Island Marine Discovery Centre - a fascinating exhibit that showcases the underwater world of the nearby Goat Island Marine Reserve.
  • Matakana Village - a charming village that’s home to a collection of boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes.
  • Leigh Sawmill Cafe - a popular music venue that’s housed in a converted sawmill dating back to the early 1900s.

Natural Attractions of Leigh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Leigh is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, from its pristine beaches to its lush forests. Here are some of the top natural attractions in the area:

  • Goat Island Marine Reserve - a protected marine reserve that’s popular for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving.
  • Leigh Coastal Walkway - a scenic walk that offers panoramic views of the coastline.
  • Pakiri Beach - a stunning beach that stretches for miles and is perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Leigh

There are plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking in and around Leigh. Some of the most popular routes include:

Best Things to Do in Leigh: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Leigh, from exploring its natural wonders to indulging in the local food and drink scene. Here are some top activities and tours to consider:

Week-Long Itinerary for Leigh

If you’re looking to spend a week in Leigh, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Leigh, explore the village, and enjoy a seafood dinner at Leigh Sawmill Cafe.
Day 2 Hike the Tawharanui Regional Park loop track, have a picnic lunch, and relax on Anchor Bay Beach in the afternoon.
Day 3 Take a glass-bottom boat tour of Goat Island Marine Reserve, have a beachside lunch at Sandspit Beach, and explore Matakana Village and its markets in the afternoon.
Day 4 Take a surfing lesson at Pakiri Beach, enjoy a picnic lunch, and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach.
Day 5 Bike the Whangateau Harbour Walkway, have a picnic lunch, and visit the famous Sheepworld for an interactive sheep and wool experience.
Day 6 Go wine tasting in Matakana and have a leisurely lunch at a local winery.
Day 7 Relax on Omaha Beach, hike the Omaha Flats Trail, and have a farewell dinner at The Leigh Sawmill Cafe.

Food and Drink Scene of Leigh

Leigh offers an array of dining options, ranging from beachside cafes serving up fresh seafood to cozy wineries showcasing the best local wines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and chips from Leigh Sawmill Cafe
  • Paua fritters from Leigh Bar and Grill
  • Venison pie from Little and Local

Local Beverages

  • Matakana wines
  • Sawmill Brewery beers
  • Mahurangi Cider

Where to Stay in Leigh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Leigh has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. These include:

What to Buy in Leigh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Leigh, be sure to bring home some of the local products and souvenirs, including:

  • Handmade pottery from Morris and James Pottery
  • Local honey from Leigh Honey
  • Skincare products made from local Manuka honey

Local Culture and Customs of Leigh

The people of Leigh are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to reciprocate this warmth and respect. Some local customs and cultural practices to keep in mind when visiting include:

  • Maori culture is an integral part of New Zealand’s national identity, and visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect Maori customs and traditions.
  • Leigh is a small village, and visitors are expected to be mindful of noise levels and respect the peace and tranquillity of the area.
  • Environmental conservation is a top priority in Leigh, and visitors are encouraged to follow sustainable practices and support local conservation efforts.

Best Time to Visit Leigh

The best time to visit Leigh is during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visitors can also enjoy Leigh’s natural beauty in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, when the crowds are smaller, and the prices are more affordable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Leigh

Do:

  • Respect local customs and cultural traditions.
  • Follow sustainable practices and support local conservation efforts.
  • Explore the local food and drink scene.

Don’t:

  • Make excessive noise or disturb the peace of the area.
  • Litter or harm the environment.
  • Ignore safety warnings or put yourself in danger.

Safety and Health

Safety in Leigh

Leigh is a relatively safe area, but visitors are still advised to take basic safety precautions, such as locking doors and windows and keeping an eye on their belongings.

Health in Leigh

Visitors to Leigh should have up-to-date vaccinations, including for hepatitis A and B. Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and Zika virus are not a concern in Leigh.

Getting to Leigh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Leigh is located approximately 100 kilometres north of Auckland and is accessible by road or ferry. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Leigh

  • Auckland International Airport - approximately 90 kilometres south of Leigh.

Bus Stations Near Leigh

  • Intercity Bus Terminal, Auckland - approximately 100 kilometres south of Leigh.

Other Options

  • Rental car - a convenient way to explore the area independently.
  • Ferry - regular ferries depart from downtown Auckland to nearby Waiheke Island.

How to Get Around in Leigh

The best way to get around Leigh is by car, although biking and walking are also popular options for exploring the area. Public transportation in Leigh is limited, so visitors are advised to plan ahead and book tours or transportation in advance.

Where to Go Next from Leigh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Leigh is a great base for exploring the wider Auckland region and beyond. Some nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • Waiheke Island - a beautiful island paradise just a short ferry ride from Auckland.
  • Tiritiri Matangi Island - a bird sanctuary and nature reserve that’s home to some of New Zealand’s rarest birds.
  • Bay of Islands - a scenic area that’s popular for its beaches, islands, and wildlife.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, Leigh has something to offer for everyone. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and array of activities and attractions, Leigh is a must-visit destination in New Zealand.

Glass bottom boat in Goat Island marine reserve Glass bottom boat in Goat Island marine reserve