Whangarei District stretches south to the Brynderwyn Range, north to the hills that form Cape Brett and west to a series of ranges running up the middle of the island. The landscape is marked by volcanic cones and ancient volcanic cores and lava flows.

Natural resources developed in the region have included coal, limestone, kauri gum and clay. European settlement benefited from the native forests, and income is now derived from farming on the land that was cleared and plantations of pine forests.

The city of Whangarei has grown from a small settlement on the south bank of the Hatea River. From its natural port now known as the Town Basin, it grew southwards to become the main centre for Northland. It provides cultural and entertainment facilities, and is the commercial and service centre for the area.