Damask is a sweet little shop in Matakana, with a nice range of well-priced items that would all…read moremake for very special, unique gifts for a daughter, mother, grandmother or friend. Much of the stock seems to be rose themed, which ties in well with what is printed on the window: 'a rose is a rose is a rose', and is both internationally and locally imported. I was greeted in a very friendly way and asked if I was looking for anything in particular, which was very helpful as there are so many nice things you don't really know where to start, especially if you are looking for something specific. Beautiful looking and charmingly smelling shop.

All the hype in Matakana is over the Farmers Market, but to be honest my favourite place to go on a…read moreSaturday morning is the Cream of Matakana. It's just down the road, still in the village, in what used to be a dairy factory. Today it's a gift store, and one of my favourites! They do unique art, jewellery, home wares, clothing and a great range of wooden toys. Its like ferreting in a treasure trove; I always end up leaving with something. On Saturdays they have a market outside; a selection of brick-a-brac, food, sunglasses and clothing. The quality of the stalls can vary, and there is a lot of junk but its fun looking through the antiques and scoring a bargain. If you haven't filled up at the farmers market, there is also DELICIOUS Hungarian style bread for sale. The hot cinnamon kind cooked on the rotisserie; scrummo.

I like to head north of Auckland to visit the beaches of our great region on the beautiful east…read morecoast. If I am ever lacking a pair of Havaianas I shall not have to search any further than The Bach surf shop in Matakana village. They have such a sweet as range of different colours and styles that I would be put to the test to decide on the right one. Other than those famous Brazilian jandals loved the world over, I really like the range of Sanuk shoes in store- so comfy and for the eco conscious shopper. The Bach Surf shop has been present in Matakana village for many a year since the early part of this millennium. I love the brands they offer- my faves are Billabong, Quicksilver, Sea Folly, Dragon and Havaianas. So remember if you have mistakenly left your sunnies or hat at home on your way north, pop in to The Bach and they will provide you with style and quality.

Bach in Matakana is the best surf shop in the region. It's a bit pricey, like most surf shops, but…read morehas a good selection of gear. The women's section has all the usuals; Roxy, Billabong, Ripcurl etc. you can find some pretty beach dresses and summery tops. They also do a good range of summer hats and sarongs. There is a good selection of guys boardies, it's good for those forgetful fellas who didn't pack there's for the beach (been there a few times). I was a bit shocked to find my Havianas cost nearly $40 for the pair, but apparently that's the going price! The sale rack out the front is a good 'stop n browse' you can definitely bag a few bargains there

An excellent find in Matakana!…read more Although just browsing; I was super pleased that I came across this natural NZ hat stall,(while visiting the Matakana Farmers Market) my partner had admired her works quite a few times in the past however never had the chance to stop and try on her products. A Lazy Sunday was the perfect opportunity. Friendly Terrie who owns Matakana Millinery was more than happy to let us decide on that perfect hat, and showed my partner the size differences to match. After choosing the classic open weave men's classic fedora , priced about 25 dollars less than bought online, Terrie explained that you could even iron the hat should it ever become ruffled, and pack in and around it when travelling distances. I shared with her that I wish she did toddlers fedoras, they would be the cutest! Not only does Matakana Millinery have the best quality NZ naturally sourced product hats in town, they also do stylish felt hats, and stunning cloche and floppy brim hats for the ladies. As winter is soon upon us I shall be back for my stylish winter hat!

WOW!!! What a market!…read more Produce, dairy, pies, eggs, cheese, plants, fish, breads, olive oils, sweets, savories, liqueur, beer, knife/scissor sharpener, etc. etc. etc. All first class from friendly people, at fair prices. I will be back in two weeks and will have a light breakfast at home so I can enjoy the hot foods here for an early lunch. Best to arrive by 10am. Parking is a couple of blocks away.

Right. Now I see why so many Aucklander's have packed their bags and settled an hour North -…read moregorgeous beaches (Omaha, Tawharanui and Snells to name a few) , a laid-back lifestyle and this absolute gem of a market! Full of fresh, locally grown produce, there's everything here from cashew nut butters, to buffalo meat, to fresh figs (if you come after March, that is) as well as gorgeous flowers. Not too mention the options for breakfast/lunch are plentiful! Although we'd heard the croque monsieur was a must, we just couldn't go past the buffalo burger served in a fresh bun with lettuce, tomato, melted buffalo pecorino and beetroot relish. So so juicy! To finish we popped around the corner for a simple lemon and sugar crepe. Oh and we may or may not have got a fresh strawberry ice cream to share on the way out.... Well worth the 40 min drive from the North Shore. Matakana, we will be back soon! p.s no dogs allowed but they have dog sitters by the entrance who, for a gold coin, will look after your pooch whilst you roam around the market!

It's hard not to! (Love this shop that is). I love the idea behind this store... it's mostly local…read moredesigners and its all handmade clothing and jewellery. There are some beautiful and unique items in here and the love behind them (and the store) is obvious. The stock varies quite a bit, and although sometimes there's not too much in the store, I always find something new when I pop in. Debbie (who owns it) is such a vibrant lady and always greets you with a beaming smile. It's hard to categorise the age group 'Love this Shop' would appeal too, there really is such a mix. But I think anyone that is after something special, made with care and individual would appreciate what they're trying to do here

This shop is small and overpriced. I realize that it's a charity, but the prices are unrealistic…read more The quality is minimal...like out of someone's garage leftovers after the garage sale. I almost gave it one star.

The Warkworth Hospice shop is one of the largest I've been to. Hidden along Argyll lane it's a…read morelittle gem, and definitely worth a visit. They have a good range of clothing; and it always smells clean, not old and musty! Their book section is another favourite, it's good for seeking out those really old classics that the library has long got rid of. They have quite a bit of bric-a-brac, which I don't have much time for but Mum spends hours ferreting though. I've always found loads at the WW hospice shop, probably loads I really don't need, but at least I know that my money is going to a fabulous cause (and not to one of the richest men in the country who runs Save Mart!)