Wharf Jump Your Way Into Summer

Once a bustling fruit-shipping port, Mapua Wharf’s cool-store buildings have since been converted into a lively precinct of restaurants, galleries, cafes and recreational stores. In summer months, wharf jumping also draws visitors and locals alike.

Jumping into the tidal waters of the picturesque Waimea Estuary is popular for all ages (bear in mind the tidal pulls can be strong) and definitely warrants the half hour drive from Nelson. Once you’ve climbed the ladder and shaken the salt water from your ears, Golden Bear Brewing Co. awaits, conveniently located on the Wharf itself. With outdoor seating, water views, live music and of course, fresh beer, it’s always a hive of activity.

Owner-operators, Anne and Jim Matranga are Los Angeles natives, which is evident in the California pales they brew, the SoCal-inspired Mexican menu, and the ubiquitous Golden Bear (a symbol of LA), which is showcased in gorgeous murals and occasionally stamped onto burgers and burritos.

Anyone that's hiked in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park has likely heard of Cornwallis Wharf. A rewarding post-hike cool-down spot, Cornwallis Beach is frequented by families and features a 200m wharf that is utilised all year round. It is the last remaining wharf of Manukau Harbour’s ferry wharves (there were once 16!), and is a good stop for cars returning from the winding road to Whatipu beach.

Once back in beautiful Titirangi, visit iTi. Set in a lush native bush setting, iTi serves up scrumptious brunches, big and small sharing plates and a cracking chicken burger - so it pays to go hungry. To accompany, there is an exciting drinks list - featuring a wide range of craft beer and dessert cocktails.

Certainly one of the most picturesque wharves in the country, only the brave will be keen to jump into these chilly glacial waters. With a backdrop of the lake and stunning snow capped mountains, as well as some intriguing sunken trees to the right of the wharf, Glenorchy Wharf is a popular destination for photographers all year round.

The adjacent Red Wharf shed is equally gram-worthy, and provides some interesting information about the history of the area inside. The township of Glenorchy is only small, so walk your way up to the Trading Post for friendly service, hot coffee and homemade treats to enjoy whilst absorbing the serene mountain views. There are also souvenirs, local art and local produce such as honey available for purchase. 

If you’re headed to Glenorchy, why not also check out Bob’s Cove Track too? It is an easy nature walk leading off the Queenstown-Glenorchy road down to an idyllic little bay with a jetty at the end. A perfect spot for a hike and picnic in summer, and dare we say even a polar plunge opportunity for adventurous winter visitors?

Jumping off the jetty into the thrilling emerald water of Lake Whakatipu is hard to resist, but do make sure you jump from the end point as the water can be quite shallow along the sides. Afterwards, head back into Queenstown to Altitude Brewing, for a glass of beer at its chilled out lakeside setting. With rotating food trucks and plenty of beers on tap, it’s the perfect spot to whittle away the afternoon, taking in the majestic Remarkables mountain range across the water.

Jumping off the wharf at Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson Lakes National Park is basically a rite of passage when visiting the area in summer. Surrounded by Southern Alps peaks, the jetty entering the lake is a true sight to behold, but the jetty is only one of many attractions in the area.

Hiking, kayaking, fishing and water-skiing are all on offer. For a bite to eat, head to the nearby Alpine Lodge in St Arnaud for an exquisite meal or snack - although there’s a chance you’ll be staying here already! From casual fare to fancier meals, the lodge manages to be both family friendly and a romantic escape.

Everyone has a reason to check out the Raglan Wharf, but none more so than the jumpers. With a revamp scheduled for 2023, visitors can expect an even more thrilling experience in years to come. The wharf is home to a number of artisan shops and galleries (including Tony Sly Pottery), a cutesy coffee window, stunning views and of course the ever inviting ocean water.

After you’re tired of making a splash, order some fish and chips (in true kiwi style) to eat on the wharf. Raglan Fish is unmissable on the wharf itself, and with any luck, there will even be some live music.

Despite a short-lived ban on all wharf jumping (since repealed, to the relief of water-loving locals), Torpedo Bay Wharf is one of Auckland’s few urban jumping wharves.  Fostering a community spirit, it is frequented by the kids of Devonport, and is only a 10 minute ferry ride from the CBD. 

The wharf is not the only drawcard: Corelli’s Café is a Devonport institution, open from 7am every day and serving all day breakfasts, dinner, milkshakes and some of the best baked cheesecake in the region. It’s relaxed, fun and a great spot to just hang out.

Stretching 660 metres, this is New Zealand’s longest, and one of its most historic, wharves. Marking the spot where Captain Cook once arrived on the Endeavour and was met by Te Aitanga a Hauiti, it has undergone extensive restoration to ensure it remains a popular place for fishing (and jumping!) for years to come.

Where wharf meets land sits Broad Bills, a food truck specialising in pizzas, hot chips, coffee and smoothies - perfect for replenishing those energy stores post swim. With friendly service and plenty of spaces for a catch up or some games, the truck has become an icon in its own right. Fan favourites include the Zeus pizza (topped with lamb, olives and feta) and the loaded fries.

Across the expansive harbour from Wellington City is Days Bay Wharf. Not only is it the launching point for the local ferries, it’s also a launch pad for local jumpers, divers and fishermen alike. The safe swimming beach is popular with families, so naturally the wharf lends itself to informal competitions between people of all ages willing to take the plunge.

Pop across the road for an ice cream at Days Bay Pavilion, an open green space serving burgers, pizza and coffee in addition to the much loved double scoop. Bring your dancing shoes, because there is often live music, otherwise just grab your treats to take back to your possie at the wharf.