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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... |
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 |
 Photo: ganzalleinunterhalter |
 Photo: Dave Greene |
 Photo: Hugh Winters |
 West coast beach |
Bethells Road Waitakere Auckland 1008 New Zealand +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Smaller and more intimate than Piha or Muriwai, Te Henga beach offers booming surf, bush walks and spectacular vistas. There are walking tracks north, over the headlands, to O'Neill Bay, which is popular with surfers. The cliffs to the back of the beach are composed of pillow lavas, which were formed when the flowing lava hit the surf and solidified in place. There are toilets and changing sheds at the car park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: AliaK |
 Photo: Leon Tan |
 Photo: Jlin1228 |
 Photo: AliaK |
 Photo: Peter Gutmann |
 Photo: Peter Gutmann |
 Photo: Adam Wood  |
 Photo: Patrice Scandlyn |
 Photo: Michael |
 Photo: Gary Quigg Open2view |
 Photo: L. Darragh |
 Photo: Nicki Gemmell |
 Photo: Dan Antunovich |
 Photo: Penny Street |
 Photo: Toni Thatcher |
 Photo: Kelvin Lau |
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Reserve in Greenlane |
Manukau Road Maungakiekie Auckland 1003 New Zealand +64 9 630 8485 http://www.cornwallpark.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 |
 Photo: Rickly W |
 Photo: Gregor Dodson |
 Photo: Rebecca Spong |
 Photo: Jeff |
 Photo: Claire Maurier |
 Photo: Kazza Dazza |
 Photo: Ben Gremillion |
 Photo: 7deacons |
 Photo: Mac Martine |
 Photo: Andrew Ross |
 Photo: kandaconz |
 Photo: Paul King |
 Photo: Izuwan_Fairus |
 Photo: Pablo Garbarino |
 Photo: Petra Kiesewetter |
 Photo: SarahandRoo |
 Photo: Owen |
 Photo: Nabihah Sallih |
 Photo: Chris Botha |
 Photo: Razzu Engen |
 Photo: Antoine Nexon |
 Photo: mayhem17 |
 Photo: liortam |
 Photo: Allison Burdon |
 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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View up Muriwai Beach |
Muriwai Beach Auckland 1250 New Zealand |
The Gannet Colony sits on the cliffs overlooking Muriwai Beach, Maori Bay and two offshore islands. This place is all action between September and February, with chicks hatching in the spring and flying off to Australia at the age of 15 weeks. They return three to seven years later to repeat the process. The views from the lookouts are spectacular with booming surf, extruded pillow lava formations in the cliffs and gannets soaring in the breeze. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roger South |
 Photo: Ken Moore |
 Photo: Gavin Sandy |
 Photo: David Rawsthorne |
 Photo: Jaap van 't Veen |
 Photo: Olyshka |
 Photo: Lloyd Macrohon |
 Photo: Bryan Basham |
 Photo: Lorna Tomes |
 Photo: Jean Bowering |
 Photo: Geoffrey Bauer |
 Photo: Andrew Dickson |
 Photo: Brent Barrett |
 Photo: deadparrotmeowmeow |
 Photo: Jacqui D Jones :) |
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Scenes from 'The Piano' |
Karekare Road Waitakere Auckland 1008 New Zealand +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Karekare Beach, famous for its appearance in the film The Piano, is the epitome of a wild west-coast beach. With cliffs, raging surf, streams, windswept dunes and black sand, Karekare is an exhilarating location in all weathers. Backed by second-growth forests, Karekare was the focus of kauri milling operations at the turn of the century. Remains of tramlines can be seen to the south, on the way to Whatipu beach. Pools of sea water, suitable for children to swim in, often form at the northern end of the beach. Climb up onto the rocks to watch the surfcasters in action. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Santiago Bisbal |
 Photo: Phil |
 Photo: James & Clara |
 Photo: Santiago Bisbal |
 Photo: Hamish Graham |
 Photo: Danny Birchall |
 Photo: P and H |
 Photo: Jon Rocatis |
 Photo: Erja-Riitta Salonen |
 Photo: Amber N. |
 Photo: shirlidicastro |
 Photo: mar barcelo |
 Photo: Vincent Dickie |
 Photo: Andrea Harding |
 Photo: natures_mathematics |
 Photo: Pete Baldrey |
 Photo: ShardulNZ |
 Photo: Richard Wong |
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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 |
 Photo: sensi1 |
 Photo: Sam Cottle |
 Photo: Valerie Griffeth |
 Photo: AKSamba |
 Photo: sensi1 |
 Photo: dancing_shomi |
 Photo: Bryan Davis |
 Photo: Hank Chen |
 Photo: Hank Chen |
 Photo: Andrew Perren |
 Photo: Helena Pattison |
 Photo: catgo_yun-hui |
 Photo: aidyandbeffy |
 Photo: Ram H. Viswanathan |
 Photo: jeric valle |
 Photo: Mark Jones |
 Photo: drummersnakesworld |
 Photo: P. McKinney |
 Photo: Xiang Zi |
 Photo: David Quick |
 Photo: Candice Collier |
 Photo: Helena |
 Photo: Karoline Biermanski |
 Photo: Mark Derricutt |
 Photo: Robbie Mackay |
 Photo: nadjagisler |
 Photo: Oliver Imogen Henlich |
 Photo: Shane Taylor |
 Photo: Angela CareyMoustafa |
 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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Trig station |
Mount Eden Road Auckland 1003 New Zealand |
One of the larger scoria cones in the Auckland volcanic field, Mt. Eden (196 metres) has three craters with extensive storage, defensive and habitation earthen remains. Known by Maori as Maungawhau, or hill of the whau tree, Mt. Eden is the principal trig station for Auckland surveys. Accessible by both road and path, Mt Eden offers extensive views out over Auckland into the Hauraki Gulf and beyond. Have a bus drop you off at the mountain, or take a ten to fifteen minute stroll from the train station. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Timo |
 Photo: Magalie L'Abbé |
 Photo: wonderferret |
 Photo: David O'Neill |
 Photo: Darrel Birchall |
 Photo: Gary Korhonen |
 Photo: Trisha Trainor |
 Photo: Jill Faure |
 Photo: Brandon Raimo |
 Photo: Simon Grimshaw |
 Photo: Maria Cansick |
 Photo: Marcos Fernandez |
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 Photo: Kate Raynes-Goldie |
 Photo: Kate Wheadon |
 Photo: Cian Llywelyn |
 Photo: Carsten Beneker |
 Photo: Mira Rithalia |
 Photo: matt01 |
 Photo: Fraser Pratt |
 Photo: sauzee72 |
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 Photo: Ashley Palmer |
 Photo: David Yeo T B |
 Photo: Matthew Weller |
 Photo: Gregory Franklin |
 Photo: Tony Bailey |
 Photo: Harley Donaldson |
 Photo: hayton389 |
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West coast beach |
Muriwai Road State Highway 16 Auckland 1250 New Zealand +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Stretching from the cliffs overlooking Maori Bay and the Gannet Colony north to Kaipara Head, Muriwai Beach with its fine black sand is popular with surfers, families, surfcasters and dune buggies. You can drive all the way north, some 40 kilometres, at low tide, but the northern sector is sometimes used as a bombing range by the New Zealand Air Force, so make sure the red flag is not flying! The shop near the main car park has excellent coffee and burgers. There is a camping ground, many pleasant grassy picnic spots with shade, a playground and even a golf course at Muriwai. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karl Loo |
 Photo: jo eaton |
 Photo: Trent Rule |
 Photo: jo eaton |
 Photo: Darrel Birchall |
 Photo: Raewyn Hooper |
 Photo: Niall Smart |
 Photo: freakalad |
 Photo: HelenB |
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 Photo: arrested.eye. |
 Photo: Andrew F Lambert |
 Photo: ilah2001 |
 Photo: Marco |
 Photo: Trevor J. Fong |
 Photo: Nick Stephens |
 Photo: salmonleft |
 Photo: Carlo Laing |
 Photo: Peter de Ruiter |
 Photo: khaines |
 Photo: Munah Ahmed |
 Photo: Etienne Laliberté |
 Photo: David McCormick |
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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 |
 Photo: Mirko Prehn |
 Photo: Stuart Gilberd |
 Photo: Shane Reiser |
 Photo: Gary Korhonen |
 Photo: Antoine Pethers |
 Photo: Heather Cuthill |
 Photo: Paul Batchelor |
 Photo: marcos andrés ojeda |
 Photo: THE_13th_EARL |
 Photo: sky_jumper60 |
 Photo: martyntann |
 Photo: richhobby |
 Photo: Reuben Payne |
 Photo: Milan |
 Photo: Chris Johnston |
 Photo: Orlando M. Gojar II |
 Photo: Christian Ziglowski |
 Photo: ozzieadria |
 Photo: Flavio Greco |
 Photo: Charin Kidder |
 Photo: Ron Wynyard |
 Photo: Rene Guidote |
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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 |
 Photo: OldWalker |
 Photo: Sue Gardner |
 Photo: Steve |
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Fantastic views |
Cornwall Park, 203 Greenlane Road Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 9 630 8485 |
Sadly, the eponymous pine tree at the summit had to be removed following several attacks on its 105-year-old trunk. Known by Maori as Maungakiekie, or hill of the kiekie vine, One Tree Hill (elevation 183 metres) is a 20,000-year-old scoria cone offering exquisite views over central Auckland and surrounding areas. Located in Cornwall Park, One Tree Hill was heavily fortified in Maori times and has the remains of extensive earthworks and terraces. The summit is accessible by car or walking track. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bjarni Thorbjornsson |
 Photo: Kiwi Flickr |
 Photo: Stuart Yeates |
 Photo: Stuart Yeates |
 Photo: Bryan Lowe |
 Photo: Blair Duncan |
 Photo: Richard Chisholm |
 Photo: Shaun Dymond |
 Photo: Helen Tang |
 Photo: honzalhotsky |
 Photo: bluesbro20032003 |
 Photo: lightwrite |
 Photo: NEW ZEALAND SPECIALIST - SINGAPORE |
 Photo: Gary Ku |
 Photo: Jude Westmacott |
 Photo: Rob Dickson |
 Photo: Lindsey Isham |
 Photo: stbhh |
 Photo: Rob Andersen |
 Photo: janni-p |
 Photo: Ana y Dani |
 Photo: joel |
 Photo: Emma Carter |
 Photo: Helen Swan |
 Photo: Craig Nellist |
 Photo: Stuart Riddell |
 Photo: Laura Gallant |
 Photo: Russell Van Howe |
 Photo: Theresa R. Bandy |
 Photo: petitpapillion |
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Waiheke Island beach |
Waiheke Island Hauraki Gulf Auckland 1240 New Zealand +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Oneroa Beach is within walking distance of Oneroa, the main shopping, arts, eating and drinking district of Waiheke Island. With white sand, gentle waves and warm water, Oneroa Beach is the perfect place to while away an afternoon on Waiheke. Oneroa is accessible by bus from the main ferry terminal at Matiatia Bay. Little Oneroa Beach is just a short walk away and offers great tidal pool watching and a children's playground. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: amelia a earhart |
 Photo: Iris Grooten |
 Photo: Guillermo Galan |
 Photo: chloemallinson |
 Photo: brent simpson |
 Photo: runawaynow.com |
 Photo: anils070721 |
 Photo: Brent Swanson |
 Photo: Rene Kunkel |
 Photo: Jon Robinson |
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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 |
 Photo: Bill Pickard |
 Photo: Michael C. Place |
 Photo: Michael C. Place |
 Photo: Gareth Wills |
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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 |
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 |
 Photo: Thiago Almeida |
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Surf's up and it's a blast! |
Waitakere Auckland 1008 New Zealand +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Piha Beach, on the wild Tasman coast is famous for the Lion Rock vistas, black sand beaches, great surf and deadly rips. If you venture into the water, do so only between the lifeguard flags. Changing rooms, a shop and campground are available. If coming in summer bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat as it can be blistering hot on the black sand. The beach is also spectacular on a wild, windy day. From north Piha there are walking tracks to more secluded beaches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: redking |
 Photo: Greg Clark |
 Photo: Bryan Lowe |
 Photo: Sascha SpangenbergUK |
 Photo: Lawrence Wilkinson |
 Photo: Pete Anderson |
 Photo: Shiro_insidious |
 Photo: Miss Lele |
 Photo: france gipsy |
 Photo: Megan McChesney |
 Photo: Laura Brown |
 Photo: Emily Olson |
 Photo: Daniel Fowlie |
 Photo: Tim Renouf |
 Photo: SILVIA PONDE AUSTIN |
 Photo: Kurt Preshaw |
 Photo: Scott Andrews |
 Photo: Jacqui Hanson |
 Photo: Cecile la photomaniaque |
 Photo: Dafna Lakritz |
 Photo: Ana Raquel Hernandes |
 Photo: M!NG |
 Photo: Grace Tali |
 Photo: sharon watkinson |
 Photo: vini00 |
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Highest volcanic cone in Auckland |
Hauraki Gulf Auckland 1020 New Zealand +64 9 379 6476 (Department of Conservation Visitor Centre) |
At 260m, Rangitoto is Auckland's largest and youngest volcano. It last erupted 600 years ago and is covered in regenerating bush, (including some extensive Pohutukawa forests), and barren lava flows. Views from the summit are exquisite on a clear day, with vistas to Kawau Island to the north and Great Barrier and Little Barrier to the north-east. Access is provided by Fullers Ferry services, and a 45-minute walk up the well-maintained track to the summit. A tractor and trailer, booked in conjunction with the ferry, also goes to the summit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robyn Dunning |
 Photo: Erick Opena-Sydney |
 Photo: Matt McKeown |
 Photo: Matt McKeown |
 Photo: Duncan Blair |
 Photo: shewhoeats |
 Photo: Erick Opena-Sydney |
 Photo: Libby Irwin |
 Photo: Sarah Macmillan |
 Photo: Shane Reiser |
 Photo: Chris Wall |
 Photo: Peter Asquith |
 Photo: Felipe Schwartzmann |
 Photo: Louis 2006 |
 Photo: Fraser Pettigrew |
 Photo: Willoughby Owen |
 Photo: Natalie Robinson |
 Photo: Henning Schmitz |
 Photo: maximas.prime |
 Photo: ginger_noodles |
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 Photo: Steve |
 Photo: Caleb, Sexy Policema |
 Photo: David M. Hennessy |
 Photo: Rob Freeth |
 Photo: jghenassia |
 Photo: Anna Brown |
 Photo: Alec Shiya |
 Photo: Chris McDowall |
 Photo: Peter |
 Photo: andydrummond2001 |
 Photo: Lauren Nadler |
 Photo: anne |
 Photo: Lisa Mammoliti |
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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 |
 Photo: 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/ |
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 |
 Photo: Chris |
 Photo: Sajeewa |
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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 |
 Photo: Graham Warren |
 Photo: Gregory Bodnar |
 Photo: Fabio Costa |
 Photo: Donald Campbell |
 Photo: Pablo Garbarino |
 Photo: Rocio Gomez |
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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 |
 Photo: M Streeter |
 Photo: Jack McGrane |
 Photo: Lukas Molloy |
 Photo: Kiwi Flickr |
 Photo: redking |
 Photo: Fi@Kiwifruit |
 Photo: Kate McCormack |
 Photo: Cole Mottram |
 Photo: Jonathan Baird |
 Photo: Steve Kimmens |
 Photo: Through the Looking- |
 Photo: Natalia Tellechea |
 Photo: mr philmy |
 Photo: Dan Spataru |
 Photo: Diane Emerson |
 Photo: Lindy du Toit |
 Photo: Juliana |
 Photo: samueldhill |
 Photo: Nicholas Hartman |
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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 |
 Photo: sensi1 |
 Photo: Sarah Riedel |
 Photo: tara sutherland |
 Photo: Alana Howitt |
 Photo: Gabriele Giaquinto |
 Photo: Simon Middlemass |
 Photo: Ben Lowe |
 Photo: Chris Melville |
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Protected bird sanctuary |
Hauraki Gulf Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 9 979 7060 (Tourist Information) http://www.tiritirimatangi.org... |
This island in the Hauraki Gulf is a haven for endangered native birds such as Takahe, Silvereye and Kokako. Managed by the Department of Conservation, their staff is available for guided walks. Access to the island is limited, and ferry bookings are essential. In the summer, Hobb's Beach provides the opportunity for swimming and picnicking. Walks are easy to moderate in difficulty and range from 10 minutes to 4 hours. There are extensive sea views from the Tiritiri lighthouse - once the most powerful in the Southern Hemisphere, and a souvenir shop for a memento of your visit. Ferries to the island start from Auckland. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan |
 Photo: Paul & Kelly |
 Photo: jun_0418_sheep |
 Photo: Greg Clark |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan |
 Photo: James Rae |
 Photo: Sharon Gamble |
 Photo: Paul Cuming |
 Photo: Edvar van Daalen |
 Photo: sugar*loop |
 Photo: sunevdj |
 Photo: Brad Schram |
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Personal Touch |
266 Point View Drive Auckland 2016 New Zealand +64 953 426 63 http://www.gardenstovisit.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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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 |
 Photo: Karen Rubado |
 Photo: Lukas Molloy |
 Photo: Alex Lee |
 Photo: Lukas Molloy |
 Photo: Sharanjit |
 Photo: Jim Steiner |
 Photo: Sherilyn Tasker |
 Photo: Anne Kimble |
 Photo: Jo Copeland |
 Photo: Stephen Kent |
 Photo: Stephen McDonald |
 Photo: Julie Starr |
 Photo: Den Kholodov |
 Photo: Ryan Foley |
 Photo: DelioTO |
 Photo: wheatonsnz |
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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 |
 Photo: Renee Vousden |
 Photo: Peter Harrison |
 Photo: Emily Walker |
 Photo: Tanya Barlow |
 Photo: Tanya Barlow |
 Photo: Amber Parkin |
 Photo: Anuradha Dissanyake |
 Photo: Gan Huey Ying |
 Photo: FlyingKiwi! |
 Photo: Mike Child |
 Photo: Simon Gould-Thorpe |
 Photo: Carline imeson |
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West Coast beach |
Whatipu Road Waitakere Auckland 1008 New Zealand +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Overlooking the Manukau Harbour entrance and South Head, Whatipu is a wild wind and spray-driven beach popular for walking and surfcasting. Accessible from Huia along a twisty gravel road, Whatipu was once a major kauri (native timber) shipping port with a wharf built along Cutter Rock. Manukau Entrance was the scene of the sinking of the HMS Orpheus in 1863 with the loss of 189 souls. Some survivors managed to make it to Cutter Rock. See Orpheus artefacts at the small museum at Huia, open summer weekends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Piotr Zurek |
 Photo: Marcus Gonçalves |
 Photo: Piotr Zurek |
 Photo: Charlotte Franklin |
 Photo: Thomas Beagle |
 Photo: Kieron Lawson |
 Photo: Roger South |
 Photo: Kieron Lawson |
 Photo: _markc |
 Photo: Gareth Sheehan |
 Photo: sudeip |
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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 |