Whangārei is a provincial electorate in Northland, centred on the region’s only city and its largest commercial hub. The area is defined by a mix of urban and rural communities, anchored by the Whangārei Harbour and the Marsden Point industrial precinct. The local economy is diverse, driven by heavy industry, forestry, and marine engineering, alongside a growing health and service sector. Demographically, the electorate has an older median age than the national average and a significant Māori population, contributing to a rich local cultural identity. Politically, the seat has traditionally been a National Party stronghold, held for decades by prominent MPs such as John Banks and Phil Heatley. However, it has shown a competitive streak in recent years, swinging to Labour during the 2020 election. Normal service resumed in 2023 when National’s senior MP Dr Shane Reti reclaimed the seat with a commanding majority, re-establishing it as a fortress for the centre-right. At the 2025 boundary review the electorate was extended northwards into Northland north of Whangārei city.