Let’s Get Out of The City
The Riverhead Boat Cruise
The Riverhead Experience brings together scenic river travel and great food in one unforgettable day out. Step aboard a ferry from the Westhaven Marina in Auckland City and enjoy a leisurely cruise up the river, taking in the views as you make your way to The Riverhead - New Zealand’s oldest riverside tavern.
Once you arrive, settle in for a delicious meal at The Landing Restaurant or The Portage Bar, with two relaxed hours to eat, drink, and soak up the historic atmosphere before cruising back to the city. The full experience runs for approximately 5.5 hours, including a 1.5-hour journey each way.
There are two ferry companies operating the cruises, and two eateries once you reach The Riverhead. Read more below, or hit BOOK NOW to find a sailing time that suits you!
What to Expect When You Get to The Riverhead
The Landing Restaurant
Set beneath 100-year-old oak trees and flowing out to a sunny outdoor deck, The Landing Restaurant in Riverhead offers a relaxed, welcoming dining experience just 25 minutes from Auckland. With rustic charm and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy fresh, flavourful food made from the best local and seasonal ingredients.
Our skilled chefs craft dishes that celebrate modern New Zealand flavours, with a focus on quality, creativity, and simplicity done well. The menu is matched with a thoughtfully selected wine list and a wide range of craft beers and premium ales. Whether you’re catching up with friends, enjoying a romantic meal, or gathering with whānau, The Landing delivers food you’ll feel good about — in a place you’ll want to return to
The Portage Bar
Everyone needs a place to unwind – somewhere relaxed, full of character, and always welcoming. At The Portage Bar in West Auckland, you’ll find stories being shared, pool games in full swing, live sport on screen, and delicious food being enjoyed. And of course, there’s always an icy cold drink close at hand. With an outdoor courtyard and some seating in The Rockery (shaded by the old oak tree), you’ll find a space to suit you.
Look up and you’ll spot a striking motorbike above the bar – a sculptural piece crafted by artist Garry Dunn from bits and pieces found around the property during the renovation. Take a moment to explore the walls and you’ll discover Riverhead’s rich past – stories of the people who came before… and even the shoes they left behind (check out the hanging foliage above the bar).