THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT Mamaki is close to the popular sandy beaches North East of Whangarei. In addition to the very attractive Matapouri Bay beach, Sandy Bay surf beach, Wooleys Bay, and Whale Bay are all very close.

There is a small general store in Matapouri. In Ngunguru, 15 minutes drive, there is a larger grocery store, hardware store, garages, school, playcentre, and large community sports complex.

Closer, at Tutukaka, is the marina complex, game fishing club and bar, restaurants, and dive shop.

Generally there is great fishing, swimming, boating and surf nearby, as well as horseriding and all the usual rural activities. There is also a school bus service.

Many people from the local coastal communities drive to Whangarei each day to work.