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Indoor skate park |
4008 Great North Road Kelston Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 9 813 0016 |
Housed in an old workshop on the border of an industrial and a residential area, this venue allows its patrons to really cut loose. The frequently loud music reflects the good time going on inside. With ramps, half-pipes, and other obstacles, skateboarders and in-line skaters can show off their latest tricks. Sessions run for two-and-a-half hours, with Sundays reserved for freestyle bikes, followed by a sausage sizzle. Skateboard decks cannot be hired, but the owner has a couple of 'old dungas' that he is happy to lend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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City farm |
43 Ambury Road Mangere Bridge Auckland 1701 New Zealand +64 9 366 2000 http://arc.govt.nz/auckland-re... info@arc.govt.nz |
Ambury has been farmed for hundreds of years, first by Maori and then by Europeans. Today Ambury Farm (133 hectares) is a working farm, stocked primarily with horses, sheep and cattle. Its location on Manukau Harbour also makes it a popular destination with bird watchers who look for godwit and knot as well as pied oyster catchers and wrybill. Feed the baby farm animals, see demonstrations of sheep shearing and wood chopping, ride a pony or a tractor! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Getting steamed |
Parkhurst Road Parakai Auckland 1250 New Zealand +64 (0)9 420 8998 http://www.aquaticpark.co.nz/ Aquaticpark@xtra.co.nz |
The complex has a range of thermal pools with shallow areas for children, hydroslides for action and private spa pools for a quiet soak. There is also a café, a video arcade and barbecue/picnic areas. Aquatic Park is available for private functions, catering for groups from 30-200. Campground accommodation: The campground has caravan and tent sites, and the tariff includes use of kitchen, laundry and ablution facilities as well as unlimited use of the pools. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Up close and personal with the animals |
Motions Road Western Springs Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 9 360 3800 http://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/i... aucklandzoo@akcity.govt.nz |
Auckland Zoo has committed itself to improving the living quarters of New Zealand's largest collection of native and exotic animal species. Now you feel as though you are walking with the rare white rhinos on the Pridelands, swinging with the monkeys through the McDonald's Rain forest and almost swimming with the inhabitants of Hippo River. There are picnic facilities and a café. The zoo has many outreach and educational programs for both visitors and local groups and is available for corporate and private functions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Reserve in Greenlane |
Manukau Road Maungakiekie Auckland 1003 New Zealand +64 9 630 8485 http://www.cornwallpark.co.nz/ huialodge@xtra.co.nz |
Presented to the city by Mayor Sir Logan Campbell in 1901 to be maintained as "a place of public resort for the recreation and enjoyment of the people of New Zealand", Cornwall Park retains the rural character of early Auckland with grazing cattle and sheep. Cornwall Park features a popular tea house located in the restored Huia Lodge Visitor Centre and Acacia Cottage, Auckland's oldest house (1841), moved to the Park in 1920. The Auckland Observatory is located near the Manukau Road entrance to the Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Kayak the harbour |
12 Tamaki Drive Okahu Bay Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 529 2230 |
Just down the waterfront road east of Auckland central is an opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful Waitemata Harbour. Former Olympic rowing gold medalist Ian Ferguson has established a kayaking rental and instruction center on the waterfront. The people at Ferg's are as friendly and helpful as can be. The kayak selection is phenomenal and the possibilities for kayaking are fantastic! The cost is very reasonable too. They also have a café. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Family Fitness Centre |
122 Elstree Avenue Glen Innes Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 9 527 3260 |
Set in the heart of East Auckland's suburbs, this complex specializes in water sports. With an Olympic size pool, children's pool and separate pool for instruction, a visit is enjoyable with friendly staff and off street parking. Swimmers from the area train at this facility so be prepared for waves and splashing at peak hours. A fully equipped weight room with treadmills and rowing machines, plus aerobic and yoga classes, round out the 'G.I.' experience. To relax after a hard workout, spa, steam and sauna are also available, as well as sun beds, massage and personal trainers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Steam engine adventure |
Glenbrook Station Road Waiuku Auckland 1852 New Zealand +64 (0)9 236 3546 http://www.franklindistrict.co... |
Step back in time on a vintage steam engine! You can travel in an open cattle car or enjoy the comfort of a closed carriage on this 12 kilometre train ride which rolls through South Auckland farm land. At the "station" there is a picnic area with playground and a cafe. Livestock can be petted and fed at the Farm Park just down the road. Before leaving, do not forget to take advantage of a second train ride at no extra charge or try your hand on the jigger. Train rides: Adults NZD10; children (5 years and over) NZD5; family NZD25. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cool off with the kids |
Grosvenor Street Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 9 979 7060 (Tourist Information) |
Here's a great space to let the children stretch their legs and burn off some of that pent-up energy. Not only is there plenty of grass to run on, there's also a children's playground with all the usual swings, slides, seesaws, climbing equipment, and flying-fox. In the summertime the paddling pool within the park is a welcome oasis of cool, clean water. It is fully-fenced, with full—time supervision for swimmers, and is equipped with shade cover, seating, and flotation devices. It's also free! Explore Grey Lynn Park further, and discover the skateboard ramp, fitness trail, gardens and sculptures, sports fields and outdoor basketball/netball court. When summer is just around the corner, the park gears up for its famous Grey Lynn Park Festival. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Living colonial history |
Bells Road, Lloyd Elsmore Park Pakuranga Auckland 1706 New Zealand +64 9 576 9506 http://www.fencible.org.nz fencible@ihug.co.nz |
Auckland's colonial past (1840-1880) comes to life in this museum of living history, where characters in historical costume recreate life in a 19th century settlement. Authentic buildings number over 30 and include a store, church, forge, settlers' houses, sod and raupo cottages. Live Day, the third Sunday of each month (except December), includes a regimental march and military manouvers, plus a working blacksmith. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sharks and stingrays glide overhead |
23 Tamaki Drive 42-021 Orakei Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 9 528 0603 http://www.kellytarltons.co.nz/ ktinfo@kellytarltons.co.nz |
Underwater passageways allow you to observe a huge variety of sea life in gigantic tanks. Large sharks, gliding stingrays and many species of fish found in New Zealand waters, are above and beside you as the moving floor carries you along. Feeding time is especially exciting. Antarctic Encounter features live penguins and a recreation of life on the great southern continent. Allow up to 2 hours to fully appreciate these combined attractions. There is also a cafe and gift shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Public Swimming Pool |
29 Lagoon Drive Panmure Auckland New Zealand +64 (0) 9 570 9777 |
The Panmure open-air swim centre is a popular destination with students and young families seeking recreation, through to those people swimming for fitness. With three large pools, including one with outdoor high and low diving boards, a water slide, large spa pool and children's area, Panmure Lagoon is just good clean fun. A wide range of swimming classes are available for all levels. Also on hand is a complete weight room. The clientèle is diverse, the cost reasonable and the premises are always tidy and well looked after making Panmure Swimming a pleasant experience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Technology and social history |
Great North Road Western Springs Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 9 815 5800 / +64 800 66 8286 (MOTAT Infoline) http://www.motat.org.nz/ enquiries@motat.org.nz |
The old pumphouse, which pumped water from Western Springs to early Auckland residents is the focal point of this fascinating museum. The museum houses a magnificent working Beam Engine (one of only three in the world) and numerous vintage and veteran road vehicles and early Auckland buildings. Various displays feature agricultural, forestry, medical, dental, photographic and telecommunication technology. A display of historic aeroplanes, including the only Solent Mark IV flying boat in the world, is laid out at Site 2, reached by vintage tram. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Indoor and outdoor complex |
Ron Keats Drive Papakura Auckland 1703 New Zealand +64 9 298 8526 |
This facility (45 minutes from downtown Auckland) offers a variety of options for family fun, including an outdoor pool for the summer months and an indoor lane pool and wave pool. Hydroslide sessions run throughout the day, and an inflatable aqua run provides another challenge. There are picnic tables and a cafeteria. Confident swimmers from eight years old may be left under the supervision of lifeguards while younger children and non-swimmers need parental supervision. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lay back and relax on a sunny afternoon |
Tamaki Drive Mission Bay Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Mission Bay is a popular place on fine summer weekends. The wide beach, recently restored with white sand from Pakiri beach, provides excellent swimming. The grassy domain running behind the beach, complete with playground, provides an excellent picnic spot. There are many lively cafes, restaurants, takeaway bars and pubs catering to all tastes and budgets, just across the road. Giant Norfolk pines, planted by Bishop Selwyn 150 years ago, provide welcome shade on a hot day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Auckland's newest family attraction |
Upper Harbour Drive Hobsonville Auckland 1008 New Zealand +64 9 416 9282 http://www.montereypark.co.nz/... |
Model aircrafts, dollhouse villas, model ships and a half hour demonstration of a working model railway are some of the features of this attraction along with a range of vintage cars built between 1908 and 1970. There is a cafe and restaurant with views over the bay to Herald Island and a reserve perfect for picnicking across the road. The attraction functions as two separate areas, with a discount on admission to the Motor Museum when tickets are purchased for both parks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Horse trekking |
Pioneer Road Clevedon Auckland 1730 New Zealand +64 9 292 8724 |
Montgomerie Farm offers horse trekking, a farm show (which includes sheep shearing), barbecue meals, and farm stays. Horses can be ridden on scenic farmland and through beautiful native bush. The farm shows occur daily. Individuals and groups are catered for but bookings are essential. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lookout over Gulf |
Devonport Auckland 1250 New Zealand +64 9 379 6476 (Department of Conservation Visitor Centre ) |
North Head is important strategically, as it stands at the entrance to the inner harbor and looks out over the Hauraki Gulf. It is covered with military remains dating from pre-European times to the World War II era. Tunnels link many of the gun emplacements built during World War II. A few big guns still remain. Allow a couple of hours to walk from the Devonport ferry landing to the top of North Head and enjoy the panoramic vista. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Camp at the beach |
Whitford-Maraetai Road Omana Regional Park Auckland 1705 New Zealand +64 9 366 2000 (Auckland Regional Council) |
With gorgeous views of Waiheke Island to the north and Rangitoto Island to the north-west, Omana Beach has great swimming, walking tracks through mangrove swamps via a series of boardwalks and great tidal pool viewing. There is also a Maori pa (fortified village) site on the bluff. Facilities include barbecues and toilets. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beach on Waiheke |
Waiheke Island Hauraki Gulf Auckland 1240 New Zealand +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
This beautiful, three-kilometres long, white sand beach on the north shore of Waiheke Island, is ideal for sunbathing, bodysurfing and just plain relaxing. Take the bus from the ferry landing if coming from Auckland, it is a 20-minute ride. Onetangi Village has a couple of friendly hotels with accommodation, meals and entertainment as well as shops and a petrol station. At the shop you can rent kayaks to play in the surf. At the far western end of Onetangi Beach, clothing is optional. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Busy beach |
State Highway One Orewa Auckland 1461 New Zealand +64 9 426 0076 (Hibiscus Coast Visitor Information Centre) http://www.orewa-beach.co.nz/ |
Orewa is a fast-growing tourist destination featuring a beautiful beach, cafés and restaurants and a beach-front holiday park. On windy days watch for sand yachts whizzing up and down the beach. It is officially classified as a public thoroughfare and can be driven upon at low tide. The Orewa Beach Lookout, located just north of Orewa on the eastern side of State Highway One, provides a spellbinding vista of the entire sweep of Orewa Beach as well as the Hauraki Gulf islands. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Create your own masterpiece |
475 Lake Road Takapuna Auckland New Zealand +64 (0)9 489 1117 fun@painttheearth.co.nz |
A range of ceramic ornaments, tiles, mugs and platters await an artistic touch at this unique store. Children and adults alike are welcome to decorate their own ceramics. The possibilities are endless, and at the end of a fun morning or afternoon, your creation will be fired and will be ready for pick-up within a week. Group functions and children's birthday parties are catered for, and there is always the chance to have a first hand look at the molding and firing process. There is a second branch in Lynmall Shopping Centre, West Auckland. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pakiri Beach Horse Riding |
Pakiri Beach R.D.2 Wellsford Auckland 1242 New Zealand +64 (9) 422 6275 http://www.horseride-nz.co.nz pakirihorse@xtra.co.nz |
Experience the freedom and exhilaration of horseback riding on one of New Zealand's clean and unspoilt beaches. Choose from a one-hour beach ride, to a seven-day trek, taking in the beach, pine forest, and native bush. There are horses to suit all ages and levels of riding skill, with tuition available. Safety helmets are provided. Overnight accommodation is in comfortable cabins, and excellent farmhouse cooking is provided. Alternatively, there is a good restaurant in nearby Leigh. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Be in the swim |
Judges Bay Road Parnell Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 9 373 3561 |
Parnell open-air pool is an institution on the Auckland waterfront. Tucked at the base of Parnell's hills, just on the lagoon by the Waitemata Harbour, the views are splendid. The pool is a popular destination due to its Olympic size, easy access and low cost. The water is clean and salty! Parnell is a popular training pool, as well as good clean fun for a broad range of people appreciating a pleasant outdoor swim whilst taking in a view of Auckland's splendid scenery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Indoor wave pool |
38 Alberton Avenue Mt Albert Auckland 1003 New Zealand +64 9 815 7001 http://www.clmnz.co.nz/philips... |
Auckland's premier indoor water park, the Philips Aquatic Centre features a heated, indoor wave pool, a wild hydro slide, swirl pools, a sauna and steam room and a competition-size pool. Only a block from St Lukas Mall, the Centre is a great family destination. Brand new with murals on the walls and plenty of free parking, the centre offers a healthy and fun way to spend an afternoon. It is also popular with business people in the early hours for a morning exercise routine. Admission: NZD7 Adults, NZD5 Seniors, students and beneficiaries, NZD2 Under 5s and non-swimming adults. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Manukau theme park |
Corner Great South and Wiri Station Roads Manukau City Auckland 1702 New Zealand +64 (0)9 262 2030 http://www.rainbowsend.co.nz info@rainbowsend.co.nz |
With 23 acres of fun, rides, attractions and entertainment, New Zealand's top theme park is located in Manukau City, just minutes from Auckland International Airport and a short drive from downtown Auckland. The park features a giant drop tower, a corkscrew roller coaster, log flume, and Cadbury Land Castle with rides just for the little ones. The whole family will have a whole day of fun. Plenty of free parking and refreshments are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Public play and picnic area |
New North Road Mt Albert Auckland 1003 New Zealand +64 9 979 7060 (Tourist Information) |
Clean public toilets and a large shady picnic area add to this well-designed outdoor playground. Children of all ages are able to explore the sandpits, slides, swings and climbing frames. There is also a roundabout sure to make any parent dizzy. With up to 100 people easily accommodated, there is plenty of room for all. The area is well maintained by the Auckland City Council with cushioned groundcoverings under the play equipment, providing a safe, fun and free facility. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sheep, sheep, sheep |
324 State Highway One Warkworth Auckland 1241 New Zealand +64 9 425 7444 http://www.sheepworld.co.nz/ info@sheepworld.co.nz |
Children as well as adults are well entertained here, with a sheep and dog show, a small animal farm, an adventure playground and Eco-discovery Trail. The animals can be hand fed - there is a small charge for the pellets. There is a picnic area and the on site café is tempting! A range of top quality sheepskins, woolen clothing and New Zealand made products is available for sale at the Sheep Shop on site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tallest building south of the Equator |
Federal Street (Sky City) Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 9 363 6000 http://www.skycityauckland.co.... skytower@skycity.co.nz |
At 328 metres, the Sky Tower is the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere and the views from the top are spectacular. A few Plexiglas blocks allow the courageous to stand and look directly down to the street. There are snack bars and a revolving restaurant up the tower. Plans are underway to allow thrill seekers to climb beyond the highest viewing platform and to take a daredevil bungy type ride down its sides. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Far end of Tamaki Drive |
Tamaki Drive Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 979 2333 http://www.stheliers.com/ |
St Heliers Beach is the last stop along Tamaki Drive and boasts of a one kilometer-long white sand beach popular with families. A children's playground is on the eastern end. You can walk along the cliffs at low tide to Ladies Bay, a more secluded beach at the mouth of the Tamaki Estuary. Paragliders can be seen floating over the headland when the wind conditions are right. Saint Heliers village has a full complement of beach front cafes and shops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Million dollar views |
The Strand Takapuna Auckland 1309 New Zealand |
Takapuna Beach is just a few steps from the bustling but laid-back shopping centre of Takapuna. It not only offers beautiful views across the harbour, fine white sand and safe swimming but also some excellent examples of lava-encased fossilised trees--covered by one of Auckland's many volcanic eruptions, 150,000 years ago. From Takapuna Beach you can walk south to Narrow Neck Beach or North to Milford Beach. Both walks are best done at low tide. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Follow the coastline |
Tamaki Drive Auckland 1005 New Zealand http://www.aucklandcity.govt.n... |
Tamaki Drive, a pohutukawa-lined waterfront esplanade, runs from the busy container wharves of downtown Auckland to St Heliers Bay, 10 kilometres to the east. It is a popular recreational area--half of the wide footpath is dedicated to cyclists and Rollerbladers. The drive winds in and out of beautiful bays and past numerous cafes and restaurants. The views of the harbour and Rangitoto Island are magnificent. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ten Pin Bowling Centre |
525 Ellerslie Panmure Hwy Panmure Auckland New Zealand +1 800 836 746 (Freephone NZ only) |
For the bowling enthusiast, Auckland can pleasantly accommodate. The facility is clean and comfortable, reflected by its busy traffic seeking a bit of fun. Shoe hire is available, prices are reasonable and the ambiance wholesome. Peak times are busy so it's advisable to book first. Bowlers from all corners of the region represent Auckland's diverse ethnic make up and appreciation for the sport at Tenpin. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Personal Touch |
266 Point View Drive Auckland 2016 New Zealand +64 953 426 63 http://www.gardenstovisit.co.nz valeside@ihug.co.nz |
Jacque Jamieson's backyard is something to see. In the green universe behind her house, you'll find 5,000 square meters of beautifully-landscaped garden, complete with New Zealand natives of many varieties. The garden includes ferns, perennials, roses, woodlands plants, trees, shrubs, bulbs, and even succulents, all made possible by the sub-tropical climate of the area, not to mention Jacque's hard work (20-30 hours a week). Among the green, you'll find some blue, too; specifically, local blue stone that's used to construct pillars, retain banks, pave patios and edge gardens. There's also a pond and a ponga house for plants needing more shade. Jacque's delightful tour costs only NZD10, and makes for a relaxing and educational day out. Bring a picnic! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Roman Garden Deity |
42 Kenneth Small Place Auckland 1050 New Zealand +64 9 522 6826 http://www.gardenstovisit.co.nz tadeusz5@clear.net.nz |
This 600 square foot garden has taken advantage of every inch of space. Dedicated to Tropical and Sub Tropical Plants, the garden includes a plethora of Palms, Cycads, Cordylines, Gingers, Bromeliads, Heliconias, Aroids and ferns, Sub Tropical trees and shrubs, water plants and succulents. Also among the delights of this garden is a small pond and an aviary featuring love birds. Space for picnics can be arranged by appointment, and admission is NZD10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Thrills and spills |
Neilson Street Onehunga Auckland 1006 New Zealand +64 9 636 5014 http://www.aucklandspeedway.co.nz |
This is one of the most popular speedway tracks in the country, and it provides entertainment for the whole family. All safety measures are taken, for crowd and drivers. The season runs from November through March. There is stock and saloon car racing, with races for modified and street stock cars. Two demolition derby were held in the last season. It is usually held once a week, on Saturday nights, with some Sunday nights being used also. So, all you petrol-heads, bring a friend. Prices vary from event to event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Take a hike in the hills out west |
Waitakere City Auckland 1008 New Zealand +64 9 266 2000 (Auckland Regional Council) |
The Waitakere Ranges provide Auckland's western backdrop. Formed by volcanic eruptions 20 million years ago, the ranges were once clothed in giant kauri trees. Now covered with regenerating native bush, the area is important as a catchment for Auckland's water supply and as a major recreational area for the city. The 68-kilometre Scenic Drive is the main vehicle route. The Arataki Visitor Centre on Scenic Drive, is a great starting place. Walking the Cascade Kauri Track and to the Waitakere Dam are highlights. There are only a few cafes, so a picnic is a good option. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hot springs by the beach |
21 Main Road Waiwera Auckland 1240 New Zealand +64 9 427 8800 http://www.waiwera.co.nz mail@waiwera.co.nz |
Just a few minutes north of Orewa is the fantastic Waiwera Thermal Resort, a hot springs complex with pools of various temperatures and depths as well as exciting water slides and private pools. Waiwera is a great family destination with good facilities and plenty of food and refreshments available. Further to the north is the beautiful Wenderholm Regional Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Enjoy a stroll around the lake and feed the ducks |
Great North Road Western Springs Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 9 379 2020 http://www.aucklandcity.govt.n... |
Western Springs, known as Waiorea by Maori, began flowing when lava from Three Kings volcano filled the original streambed 70,000 years ago. From the late 1870s, Western Springs was the main source of fresh water for Auckland. It was pumped across the city via a huge steam-powered beam engine which is now the centrepiece at neighbouring MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology). The springs contain a series of freshwater lakes, filled by the still-active springs, which attract a wide range of waterfowl. There is an excellent, large playground in the westernmost corner, over the fence from Auckland Zoo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Horse Riding Centre |
Rimmers Road Auckland 1250 New Zealand +64 9 420 9045 |
If your romantic fantasy includes horseback riding on the beach, you need not be disappointed when in the Auckland area. Nestled in the Woodhill Forest with close proximity to Muriwai Beach, a visit to Auckland's west coast will gratify horse lovers. Woodhill North Horse Riding Centre offers everything: lessons, camping safaris, forest and beach rides, instruction and children's holiday camps, all at a reasonable cost. The folks are friendly and eager to ensure a pleasant experience. It is essential to call first and book, and once there, you will not regret the half hour journey from Auckland City. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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