All the hype in Matakana is over the Farmers Market, but to be honest my favourite place to go on a…read moreSaturday morning is the Cream of Matakana. It's just down the road, still in the village, in what used to be a dairy factory. Today it's a gift store, and one of my favourites! They do unique art, jewellery, home wares, clothing and a great range of wooden toys. Its like ferreting in a treasure trove; I always end up leaving with something. On Saturdays they have a market outside; a selection of brick-a-brac, food, sunglasses and clothing. The quality of the stalls can vary, and there is a lot of junk but its fun looking through the antiques and scoring a bargain. If you haven't filled up at the farmers market, there is also DELICIOUS Hungarian style bread for sale. The hot cinnamon kind cooked on the rotisserie; scrummo.

Last Friday my wife and I was out and about shopping for gifts, when I came upon a boutique store…read morethat will forever change the way my wife shops for clothing. This store is everything that chain stores are not. The fashion within was unique, and the style absolutely stunning. The people of Warkworth is now the envy of all Auckland shoppers not prepared to make the way up the Northern Motorway. Katya Maker stocks a unique range of shoes imported from Bulgaria, and provides a personalised service that is missing from so many stores these days.

Mooi mooi is a gorgeous little store tucked away at the back of Matakana. It was originally an…read moreonline shop and they sell a variety of things for the home. The children's section is very cute. Most of the clothing is the Sticky Fudge range; littler hipster hoodies for boys and floral prints for girls. It's good quality all-natural fabrics and averages about $30 an item. There are a few bits of furniture and the Wonki Ware kitchen range which I love. They also do a nice rage of bird and flower jewellery. Mooi Mooi has a natural but contemporary feel to it; lovely for gift buying or to pop into and have a browse

Warkworth Market is a bric-a-brac lovers dream. It's a treasure trove of old goodies; lots of it…read morelooks like it's from nana's glass cabinet or old cupboard. I always like having a quick browse at the antiques; you can find some interesting bits and bobs. Little ornaments, bowls, old kitchen ware and jewellery, there's lots of trinkets to rifle through. The second (or third) hand book section is my favourite. There is always a big range of old books. They have clothing too, which can be hit and miss but is generally ok quality. The Market can vary in price, sometimes it's reasonable and other times I think it's overpriced. I guess different items hold differing value for different people. It's worth a look anyway, even if it's just for a curious browse

I like to head north of Auckland to visit the beaches of our great region on the beautiful east…read morecoast. If I am ever lacking a pair of Havaianas I shall not have to search any further than The Bach surf shop in Matakana village. They have such a sweet as range of different colours and styles that I would be put to the test to decide on the right one. Other than those famous Brazilian jandals loved the world over, I really like the range of Sanuk shoes in store- so comfy and for the eco conscious shopper. The Bach Surf shop has been present in Matakana village for many a year since the early part of this millennium. I love the brands they offer- my faves are Billabong, Quicksilver, Sea Folly, Dragon and Havaianas. So remember if you have mistakenly left your sunnies or hat at home on your way north, pop in to The Bach and they will provide you with style and quality.

Bach in Matakana is the best surf shop in the region. It's a bit pricey, like most surf shops, but…read morehas a good selection of gear. The women's section has all the usuals; Roxy, Billabong, Ripcurl etc. you can find some pretty beach dresses and summery tops. They also do a good range of summer hats and sarongs. There is a good selection of guys boardies, it's good for those forgetful fellas who didn't pack there's for the beach (been there a few times). I was a bit shocked to find my Havianas cost nearly $40 for the pair, but apparently that's the going price! The sale rack out the front is a good 'stop n browse' you can definitely bag a few bargains there

This is a hidden treasure trove just a kilometer out of Warkworth on the road to Matakana. It is…read morepart of the Matakana collectables trail, and owner Margie has had the business since 1976, so is clearly a place worth a visit. Filled with genuine vintage treasures that are all tastefully grouped and merchandised, you can find anything from gardening implements and kitchen utensils to clothes and wall hangings in here. A lot of the stock is actually supplied by locals, who bring in stuff to sell to Margie, and anything she thinks isn't suitable or doesn't sell during sale time she sends off to give to the local hospice. She also has a vibrant personality so is great to talk to whilst you peruse the vintage racks or browse through old postcards.

We have an environmental crisis on our hands with plastic. My shopping experience is blighted when…read moreI can find only plastic bags in the fruit and veggie department to carry produce, as happened at Warkworth this morning. (The woman at the check-out in front of me must have had more than 6 of them, with very little in them). It is shocking. I also had to seek help to find the reusable bags (mubs), which at over $6.00 a box, are too expensive. I see that Count Down in Grey Lynn has no plastic bags at all and their reusable bags are very visible. If they can do it, why can't New World? Things must improve, otherwise I'll be forced to shop elsewhere. Margot

This may be a tad smaller than their average size store, but the staff is most helpful and…read moreaccommodating. If they don't have an item, they'll try to special order it for you. Lines move very quickly as they usually have baggers assisting the cashiers.

It's hard not to! (Love this shop that is). I love the idea behind this store... it's mostly local…read moredesigners and its all handmade clothing and jewellery. There are some beautiful and unique items in here and the love behind them (and the store) is obvious. The stock varies quite a bit, and although sometimes there's not too much in the store, I always find something new when I pop in. Debbie (who owns it) is such a vibrant lady and always greets you with a beaming smile. It's hard to categorise the age group 'Love this Shop' would appeal too, there really is such a mix. But I think anyone that is after something special, made with care and individual would appreciate what they're trying to do here

Yes Nosh in Matakana is not the discount supermarket, however the supermarket for the foodie who…read moreknows there food. If you're passing through Matakana Village or perhaps spending a weekend up the coast close to Matakana why not give yourself a big splurge with fresh and packaged gourmet food. I was in the mood to do some cooking, and thought I would get some courgettes which were tempting me from the outside stand for my stir fry. Once inside, I just wanted to grab a whole bunch of moreish foods just because. My reason got the better of me, and I decided on a few loaves of Coupland's Bakery pre packed sliced bread, a container of deli olives and and the courgettes. They have a really neat variety of products from all around the world, so really an international food shopping experience. You must be warned that after a few chosen pieces from Nosh your bill does add up fast, so make sure you know your budget because you may just splurge without realizing.

A splendid place to get all your delicatessen and gourmet food needs. A great cheese and small…read moregoods selection, excellent dry goods like pastas and canned/jar foods, a nice variety of fruits and vegetables and helpful friendly service. If you need food items that are exotic or gourmet, or your taste buds need a tickle, this is the best place to find it when you are in the Matakana/Omaha/Leigh and Snells Beach area. A true Matakana gem.

Quintessentially Kiwi is a superb display of the creativity we have in NZ. It's a gorgeous little…read moregift store filled with handmade jewellery, ceramics, wall art, sculpture and clothing. It carries work from designers all over New Zealand, and it's cool to see such a funky mix. I've found it the perfect store to buy house warming or engagement gifts in. I bought a cool set of ceramic heart wall panels and a funny little brass sheep. The jewellery is also really nice, although perhaps a little old for my taste, but great for mum or aunty. A lot of the stuff would be good for souvenirs or to send overseas; it's very kiwi but elegant and fun, not tacky and plastic.