Whāingaroa Raglan iHub
Discover everything you need to know about this special place – from rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage to world-class surf, arts, and community spirit.
When Raglan’s i-SITE closed in 2020, the future of visitor information in town looked uncertain. Thanks to the determination of a passionate group of locals, the Raglan iHub opened its doors in 2021 – with a new name, a new focus, and a guiding vision of connecting experience through people and place.
Open seven days a week, 10am–3pm, the iHub is the best place to visit for up-to-date information about Raglan. Entirely run by volunteers, the iHub ambassadors bring the vision to life. They are storytellers, guides, and friendly faces who share authentic experiences of Whāingaroa with visitors and locals alike.
The effort to reinvigorate the space was a true community collaboration, involving Raglan councillor Lisa Thomson, local businessman Charlie Young, iwi representatives, and local organisation Raglan Naturally, Raglan Museum, Raglan Business Chamber, and the Raglan Community Board. Together they reshaped the site to serve both visitors and the community.
Sharing information is just one aspect of what we provide. We want to share the stories from our place, build relationships between our visitors and community, and share the values that are important to us. – Lisa Thomson (2021)
Inside, the iHub is more than an information centre. It is a vibrant showcase of Raglan’s creative spirit, filled with locally made art, jewellery, clothing, books, food items, and gifts crafted by community artists and makers. Environmental values are also central, with the iHub promoting ways for visitors to step lightly on the land while enjoying their stay.
Managed by the Whāingaroa Destination Management Organisation, the iHub is a place where stories, people, and place connect.