For artist Rachel Moore, painting has always been a deeply personal escape - one that now finds a home in Mangawhai’s flourishing creative community.

From teenage sketches to the luminous glow of glass art, Sue McFadden’s creative journey is a tapestry woven with rich experiences, evolving passions, and an enduring love for colour.

Flicka Williams’ global journey has been one of bold ideas, creative pivots, and saying yes to the unexpected.

Hidden among the rolling landscapes of Matakana, The Villa at Bali Garden is a place where time slows, senses awaken, and the outside world fades away. Though just a 50-minute drive from Auckland, this lush sanctuary feels as though it’s from another realm - where tropical palms sway in the breeze, the scent of native flora lingers in the air, and a deep sense of tranquillity welcomes you the moment you arrive.

With a complex design and luxurious finishes, this Mangawhai home leaves a lasting impression with its architectural grandeur and elegance.

Established glass artist Kathryn Bartlett’s work transcends the boundaries of the medium, capturing a deep emotional resonance and timeless beauty.

This luxury waterfront eco-design retreat pays deep homage to the natural world, embracing a slower, more intentional way of life.

Blending vintage elegance and modern artistry, Matakana-based jeweller Lisa Webb designs pieces that are as meaningful as they are beautiful - telling stories of connection through jewellery.

A self-taught artist, author, illustrator, and qualified interior designer who lives high on a hill in Leigh, Sharon C Fergusson has drawn inspiration from this peaceful setting for her four published children’s books.

The last weekend in February sees the highly anticipated return of the Mangawhai Artists Trail on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 February.

Nestled on a serene ridge, just a short 10-minute drive from Matakana Village, this property is an idyllic retreat that perfectly blends tranquillity, natural splendour, and opportunity. With views stretching across the Whangaripo Valley to Whangarei Heads and the Hen and Chicken Islands, this lifestyle property is the ultimate escape for those seeking a connection to nature.

Perched atop a serene one- hectare site the Matakana Coast, this breathtaking residence seamlessly blends European elegance with New Zealand’s idyllic rural charm.

Local artist Tom Leuschke has been quietly carving out his place in the art world, blending bold textures, vibrant palettes, and an abstract style that feels both dynamic and deeply personal.

In the heart of Waipu, amidst scenic landscapes and the town’s welcoming charm, Black Shed Artspace has made a grand entrance as the region’s newest creative hub.

Tucked away in the hills of Matakana discover an architectural gem built by the team at Aaron Butler Construction (ABC). The concept plan for the house was designed by architect Steve McCracken, with the detailed planning completed by architectural designer Martin Harnish. Junction spoke to the ABC team about this beautiful project.

Finalist in the 2024 BEST Awards for Residential Architecture and the 2023 HOME Interior of the Year Awards, this sustainable family home is a forward-thinking project by Jo Aitken, Principal Architect of Atelier Aitken.

Created from a belief that building should not be complicated and architectural design can be accessible to all, MyPad is celebrating 10 years in business with the launch of a new website and adding three new plans to their collection.

Imagine a place within an hour of Auckland where sunsets and serenity can be enjoyed in total privacy. That’s exactly what the owners of Matakana Cabin envisioned - and it more than delivers.

Tucked behind the horse stables at Matakana Country Park, a new studio has emerged, offering hands-on pounamu carving workshops.

Middle Earth Tiles, located on Hudson Road in Warkworth,
is revolutionising the world of beautifully handcrafted glazed tiles.