We used Dolphin View as a great base for our family to explore Northland from. Cable Bay is a lovely local to swim (2min drive down the rd), Beach Box (2mins in the other direction at Coopers Beach) do great coffee, and Mangonui is great for an easy dinner. It’s a basic kiwi Bach, no frills but exactly what it says it is. Noted it’s on rainwater tank, so pick a swim over a long shower while you’re here!