Ray White Whangārei was proud to host the 2026 White Plate on the Waterfront, a spectacular community event that brought together local residents, business leaders, and supporters for an unforgettable evening – all in support of a vital Northland service.
Held on the iconic Victoria Bridge, the bridge was transformed into an elegant open-air dining space, with guests dressed entirely in white and seated at beautifully styled tables overlooking the Hātea River.
While the weather required a small adjustment to the evening’s planned start, guests gathered under shelter on the bridge before the night unfolded into a vibrant celebration of community, generosity, and connection.
Supporting the Northland Rescue Helicopter
This year’s White Plate on the Waterfront proudly supported Northland Emergency Services Trust (NEST), the charity responsible for operating the region’s rescue helicopter service.
Northland’s vast coastline, remote communities, and rural landscapes mean the rescue helicopter often provides the fastest – and sometimes the only – access to urgent medical care.
It was wonderful to welcome Paul Ahler, who attended and spoke about the incredible work carried out by the Northland Rescue Helicopter across the region. Hearing firsthand about the impact of the service helped connect guests to the importance of the cause and the lives being saved every day throughout Northland.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Linda Ahler, and Jonathan & Lisa Slavich, whose support and presence on the evening were greatly appreciated.
A Unique Waterfront Dining Experience
Guests enjoyed a beautiful dining experience prepared by Aqua Restaurant & Bar, paired with premium wines and accompanied by live music as the evening unfolded under the lights of the Whangārei waterfront.
Inspired by elegant communal dining events around the world, White Plate on the Waterfront is designed to bring people together for a shared experience that celebrates community, connection, and the beauty of our region.
From the stunning table styling to the sea of white attire stretching across the bridge, the event created a visually striking and memorable evening for everyone involved.
Celebrating Whangārei and Northland
At its heart, White Plate on the Waterfront is about celebrating the vibrancy, beauty, and spirit of Whangārei and the wider Northland region.
With the waterfront and the nearby Hundertwasser Art Centre providing a stunning backdrop, the evening highlighted not only the incredible places we live, but also the organisations that keep our communities safe and connected.
By bringing people together in one of the region’s most beautiful public spaces, the event served as both a celebration of place and a meaningful opportunity to support a cause that impacts people across Northland.
Thank You to Our Supporters
Events like White Plate on the Waterfront are made possible thanks to the generosity and support of local businesses and partners who share a commitment to strengthening our community.
Ray White Whangārei would like to sincerely thank:
- Henderson Reeves Lawyers
- Smart Move Conveyancing
- Events Northland (special thanks to Kylie and the team)
- Trade Me Property
- Sarah Marshall Photography
- Mint Floral
- David Palfreyman
Your support helped bring this incredible evening to life while raising awareness for the lifesaving work carried out by NEST.
A Night That Brought the Community Together
White Plate on the Waterfront continues to grow as one of Whangārei’s most unique community events – a night where people come together not only to celebrate our region, but to support causes that truly matter.
Ray White Whangārei is proud to support initiatives that strengthen Northland and connect our community, and we look forward to continuing to create meaningful events that make a real difference.