For the best…

…FREE ENTERTAINMENT

Land & Sea at the Marsden Cove Marina is directly next to the boat ramp and the Marsden Cove Fishing Club weigh station. Take a seat in the large outdoor area, order a cold beverage and watch the spectacle of the catch of the day. 8 Rauiri Drive, One Tree Point. (09) 432 7097, on Facebook.

…EATERY WITH A TUGBOAT OUT FRONT

Porthouse Bar & Eatery is located next to The Big Tomato. It's a family-friendly joint with good burgers and pizzas, all reasonably priced. Easy to find, just look for the big tomato and the tugboat. No, really. 163 Port Marsden Highway, Ruakaka. (09) 432 8909, on Facebook.

…SWEET TREAT AFTER TACKLING THE SUMMER CROWDS AT THE SHOPS Two Birds Café is a little hub at the shopping centre that hums during the holiday period. Sit down and savour a slice of homemade cake as a reward for surviving the long queues at the supermarket. Ruakaka Shopping Centre. (09) 433 0277, on Facebook.

…PLACE TO GRAB A COFFEE BEFORE A WINTER WALK ON THE BEACH

The Bach Café is located next to the Ruakaka Surf Life Saving Club, and near the boardwalk down to the beach. Order a hot drink to warm hands before letting the dogs (or kids) off for a winter zoom. 79 Bream Bay Drive, Ruakaka. (09) 432 8201, on Facebook.