Mangawhai area is a foodie heaven with Bennets Chocolate factory, and cafe, probably unbeaten in Auckland. There is an old fashioned butchers, a meat and fish deli with everything you need, really a mini farros, a farmers market which is to die for with smoked goods fresh goods, artisan breads, you name it. A wonderful little authentic deli with the best bread sticks.
Of course their is amazing fishing, and fresh fish to buy, after all you are in the north where all the fish are.

For families, there is the wonderful ocean beach with full life saving facilities, as well as the very beautiful and very safe estuary for swimming, you can access the beach from the surf club or one of the many paths into the estuary. There are wonderful walks up and down the coast, a play ground, and golf course, and lots to explore in the coast and district.