Hokianga Hip - Rawene and Kohukohu

Northland

Picturesque Rawene is the first stop on the unsuspecting visitor’s journey into Hokianga’s buzzing art scene. Here the local 1960s Post Office stands as a fine example of Retro Historic New Zealand public architecture. It was restored to its original flavor and converted into a quirky and stylish boutique by its new Kiwi owner who left her high flying design career in the Milan and London fashion industries to soak up – like so many others – the potent creative juices of the area. From the local “Hokianga chic” fashion label to cool retro op-shop finds and unique high-quality New Zealand design – the Rawene outlet represents the incredible cosmopolitanism and artistic buzz of this oddly backwater part of Northland. A skip down to the waterfront leads you into the local café which serves you an astonishingly faithful taste of Italy next to more local art and craft. Hop on the ferry and travel through time to the Victorian village of Kohukohu, where a historic walk takes you around the strings of unspoiled kauri villas perched on the hills overlooking the Hokianga Harbour. But do not be fooled by the feelings of time gone by; Kohukohu is the hub of the Hokianga’s contemporary art scene with one craft shop, two galleries and an artist’s studio which exclusively feature the locals’ unique brand of creative activity.