Great Span
Auckland 1001
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Great Span |
Westhaven Drive Auckland 1001 |
Completed in 1959, the Harbour Bridge serves as a link between central Auckland and the booming North Shore and beyond. To date the only way to savor the views is to be stuck on the bridge during rush hour traffic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Blair  |
 Photo: nowthentravel.com |
 Photo: paul eterovich |
 Photo: Kyle Seager |
 Photo: ikiwwwi |
 Photo: muscular sufi |
 Photo: Rebecca Sizer |
 Photo: Hweiling Ow |
 Photo: HannuY |
 Photo: David Tillett |
 Photo: Michael Wards |
 Photo: Mark Rippin |
 Photo: Fiona P Townsend |
 Photo: Margot |
 Photo: Anita Willis |
 Photo: Angela CareyMoustafa |
Look out over the Gulf |
Tamaki Drive Auckland 1005 +64 9 367 6009 (Tourist Information) |
Bastion Point offers fine views out over the Hauraki Gulf and Waitemata Harbour as well as central Auckland. A popular destination for kite fliers, Bastion Point lives up to its name and has the remains of WWII-era lookout bunkers and gun emplacements. Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Gardens, dedicated to the Labour Party legend and prime minister of the 1930's, consist of a beautifully kept garden and reflecting pool, and a delightful art deco memorial and obelisk. Access is from Tamaki Drive. The car park is closed after dark. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Campey |
 Photo: Julie Wallace-Cooley |
 Photo: Corina A Lennox |
 Photo: Hayden Crocker |
 Photo: Matt Smith |
Secluded spot |
Eastbourne Domain Recreation Reserve Eastbourne Wellington 6008 +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) http://www.gw.govt.nz/section6... bookings@WellingtonNZ.com (Visitor Information Centre) |
There is a bit of walking to do here but once you are there it is well worth the effort. Hike through bush reserve on well maintained tracks. Accessed from Eastbourne Coastal Village, this walk into the Eastbourne Domain Recreation Reserve will bring you to the lovely Butterfly Creek. Swim in the safe waters after your walk and find a secluded and sheltered picnic spot beside the creek. Fabulous panoramas of the harbour await those prepared to endure the initial climb. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: porpol |
 Photo: Martin Noakes |
 Photo: Theresa Chan |
 Photo: Jon Coronel |
 Photo: SILVIA PONDE AUSTIN |
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New Zealand's largest fertile expanse |
Christchurch, Canterbury 8001 +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Tourist information) |
Flanked by the Port Hills and Pacific Ocean in the east, and the imposing Southern Alps in the west, this flat expanse was once home to the moa, a three metre tall flightless bird that roamed the swamps and braided rivers and which, at one time, was the staple diet of the Maoris. Today, they consist of a patchwork of fields that sustain cattle, sheep, deer, orchards, wheat and vegetable crops, specialty cheese producers and a host of vineyards. Underneath the plains lies a network of artesian water channels that provide Christchurch with clean drinking water. Information is available from Christchurch & Canterbury Visitors Centre". Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Libby vanBuskirk |
 Photo: Neil Gotadoro |
 Photo: thinboyfatter |
 Photo: Michael Crandall |
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 Photo: HauGeng AuYeong |
 Photo: Sabine Little |
 Photo: Kiwi Tahini |
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Panoramic views of Canterbury |
10 Bridle Path Rd (Heathcote Valley) Christchurch 8002 +64 (0)3 384 0700 http://www.gondola.co.nz gondola@gondola.co.nz |
Rising 945 metres to the top of the Port Hills, the Christchurch Gondola provides truly panoramic views. To the west, Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps. To the east and south lies Banks Peninsula, with Lyttleton Harbour and Lake Ellesmere further afield. To the north, you can see across to Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The Gondola complex itself sits on the crater rim of Christchurch's extinct volcano. Along with an observation deck, the complex houses a multimedia Time Tunnel, a cafe and restaurant, and a souvenir shop. Check website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Graeme Gillam |
 Photo: Ben Felden |
 Photo: Georgina Fox |
 Photo: Duncan Falconer |
 Photo: Adrienne Mowery |
 Photo: Nancy Hamilton |
 Photo: Jill Hutchison |
Inner city scene |
Civic Square Jervois Quay Wellington 6001 +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
The eye-catching city to sea bridge is, as the name suggests, the link between the heart of the city and the nearby waterfront. Architecturally designed, the construction reflects the city's heritage and historic links with the sea. New and intriguing vistas await discovery on each return visit and from the many different vantage points afforded by the design of the bridge. Particularly stunning are the evening reflections, of the large copper globe above the square, in the windows of the council buildings. Note also the distinctive Nikau palms adorning the exterior of the public library. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Judy F |
 Photo: Eveline Maat |
Volcanic rock and panoramic views |
Adjacent Dyer Pass Road and Summit Road Port Hills Christchurch |
A few million years ago, Lttyleton Volcano spewed out molten lava that flowed down the slopes to the harbour below. Today, the volcano lies dormant but its legacy of amazing rock formations lives on. The Crater Rim Walkway is a great way to explore these rocks, not to mention enjoy magnificent views of Banks Peninsula, Lyttleton Harbour, Christchurch City and the Canterbury Plains. Commencing at the Sign of the Takeha (just above Dyers Pass Road), the walkway also provides access to remnants of native forest and areas where replanting of native and exotic trees has occurred. Pick up a Department of Conservation guide at the Christchurch Visitors Centre to work out how much of the walk you want to complete--at 17 kilometers, many people only tackle a small section at a time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: loz and dave |
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See the harbour from the water |
Ferry Building, Quay Street Auckland 1001 +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) http://www.devonport.co.nz/fti... |
The ferry run to Devonport is a great way to see the bustling waterfront and port of Auckland and take in great views of the city skyline. The destination is Torpedo Wharf on the Devonport foreshore. Devonport is reminiscent of a quaint English seaside village with lots of interesting shops, cafes and restaurants. A walk up North Head is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city and outer gulf islands. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sweet Sweet Memories |
 Photo: David Whyte |
View up Muriwai Beach |
Muriwai Beach Auckland 1250 |
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: m2urray |
 Photo: Julia Crosthwaite |
 Photo: Mark Elliott |
 Photo: Andrew Dickson |
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 Photo: Nancy Hamilton |
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Remarkable biblical display, with view |
27 Revelation Dr Christchurch 8008 +64 (0)3 326 5848 http://www.gethsemanegardens.c... gethsemanegardens@xtra.co.nz |
High on a hill, overlooking the seaside suburb of Sumner, are the remarkable biblically-themed, privately-owned Gethsemane Gardens. With stunning views of the city, the ocean and the alps, the three hectares of immaculate gardens are testimony to the owners' faith, and love of gardening. The garden's delights include the Jerusalem garden, depicting the life of Jesus, the Noah's Ark garden, with animal figures, the prayer garden, the rosary maze, the Mount of Olives, and a small chapel, where weddings are held. Visitors need their own transport to visit Gethsemane, a 20-minute drive from the city centre. The more adventurous could climb the steep hill from Sumner below, about a half-hour walk. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Darren Humphries |
World-renowned marine paradise |
Between Christchurch and Picton Christchurch, Canterbury 8280 +64 3 319 5641 (Kaikoura Information Centre) http://www.kaikoura.co.nz/ info@kaikoura.co.nz |
Surrounded by spectacular mountains, this charming seaside township nestles on the peninsula from where it is said Maui, a Maori mythological hero, dragged the North Island up from the ocean. The waters that surround the township are home to a staggering variety of marine and bird life, and excursions include whale watching by sea or air, a pelagic bird-watching cruise, swimming with the dolphins, or a face-to-face meeting with sharks! For close encounters, try Whale Watch Kaikoura or Shark Dive Kaikoura. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Barron |
 Photo: Adam Weathered |
Volcanic plug |
Piha Beach Waitakere Auckland 1008 +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
At 101 metres, Lion Rock towers over the windblown surf at Piha Beach and offers spectacular views of the black sand beach and bush-clad Waitakere Ranges to the west. Strongly fortified as a Maori pa or fortress in pre-European times, Lion Rock is the solidified lava plug of an ancient volcano that has since eroded away. A steep trail with steps cut out of the rock leads to the top. Give yourself about an hour for the return trip. Access is from the car park reached from Piha Road off Scenic Drive, the main route through the Waitakere Ranges. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fraser wyeth |
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Picturesque deep-water harbour |
Rapaki Christchurch 8012 +64 (0)3 328 9093 (Lyttelton Information Centre) lyttinfo@ihug.co,nz |
Originally named Port Cooper by the Canterbury Association, this long harbor, indented with hundreds of coves and bays, stretches deep into Banks Peninsula from Godley Head to Teddington. The "First Four Ships" bearing settlers arrived here in 1850, and the Port of Lyttelton became the main gateway for Canterbury's exports. Take a boat ride to Diamond Harbor, or some of the other historic landmarks in the harbor. For a spectacular view, head up Sumner Road to Windy Rock Point. The busy wharves of Cashin Quay lie directly below, and a plane table identifies distant landmarks on Banks Peninsula. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: elliebump |
 Photo: Neil Jenkins |
 Photo: Arun Sudhakaran |
 Photo: Diarmuid Toman |
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Historical harbour building |
Reserve Road Christchurch 8012 +64 (0)3 328 7311 |
The historic, stone, Lyttelton Timeball Station, on a hill overlooking Christchurch's picturesque Lyttelton Harbour, was built in an era when the region's only links with the outside world were by sea. For over 50 years, from 1876, the Lyttelton Timeball signalled Greenwich Mean Time to all ships in the busy harbour below, helping to ensure maritime safety. The building is one of about twelve "timeballs" in the world still working. Built by prisoners from the nearby jail, the Timeball Station is an important example of mechanical engineering of the times. This interesting castle-like building is also worth the climb for the great harbour view. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Jack |
Picnic with a view |
Off Shelly Bay Road Miramar Peninsula Wellington 6003 +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
If you have exhausted the traditional city views, take the scenic coastal drive around the bays to Miramar Peninsula and climb the steep track just past Point Halswell to the Massey Memorial. It is a fine tribute from the people to William Ferguson Massey, Prime Minister from 1912 to 1925. This is a popular evening summertime picnic spot with fabulous views over the harbour entrance and the coastal village of Seatoun. From the memorial a myriad of tracks explore the remains of the old New Zealand Air Force defence area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bradley Houghton |
 Photo: Craig Godley |
Trig station |
Mount Eden Road Auckland 1003 |
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: KeMa |
 Photo: Klemens Maritschnig |
 Photo: Frederico Mourão |
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Popular scenic high point |
Alexandra Lookout Road Mount Victoria Wellington 6001 +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
The high point on Wellington's Southern Walkway, Mount Victoria, easily accessible by foot or vehicle, is undoubtedly the capital city's favourite lookout. Popular with the tourists for its spectacular bird's-eye view of the city and surrounds, the site is also appealing to locals. On warm summer evenings there is nowhere better to enjoy your fish and chips than with a glass of red wine and a view of the setting sun as it descends behind the surrounding hills. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paperetta |
 Photo: Neil Riphagen |
 Photo: May Lee |
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View of harbour |
Kerr Street Devonport Auckland 1309 +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Mount Victoria, at 87 metres, is a 10-15 minute walk from the Devonport ferry terminal. Maori fortifications can still be seen--Takarunga, "the hill above", was an important Maori Pa or fortress site. French navigator Dumont D'Urville recognised the strategic importance of the scoria cone and climbed to the top in 1827. Later it was the site of a signal station for shipping. Today Mount Victoria rewards visitors with a splendid view of the harbour and city as well as well-tended gardens and trees. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: nessa2698 |
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 Photo: Matthew Weller |
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Scoria cone |
Maungarei Memorial Drive Mount Wellington Auckland 1006 +64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information) |
Mount Wellington dominates the landscape of South Auckland and provides superb vistas of the Tamaki Estuary and the low portage to Manukau Harbour. It was once such a strategic place that it was the scene of many battles. By the time of European settlement, it was mostly abandoned. The summit is accessible by road from Mountain Road off the Panmure roundabout. From the summit you get extensive views of the gigantic Winstone Quarry, which provides an excellent look at the scoria and volcanic tuff that underlies most of Auckland. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: scott_and_liz_travelpics |
360 degree natural cinema |
Simla Crescent Khandallah Wellington 6004 +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
Lesser known to Wellington visitors but favoured by locals, Mt Kaukau rewards those who take the time to conquer its steep slopes, with stunning 360 degree panoramic views of the Wellington harbour basin and Cook Strait beyond. If ever you are likely to see the South Island, it will be from here. Entry points at Simla Crescent, Ngaio and Woodmancote Streets, Khandallah. This treat is a also part of the Northern Walkway. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dan fowler |
 Photo: Kelley Cleaveland |
Lookout over Gulf |
Devonport Auckland 1250 +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: Ron Wynyard |
 Photo: Christian Ziglowski |
 Photo: Mike Cochrane |
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Fantastic views |
Cornwall Park, 203 Greenlane Road Auckland 1005 +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: Marcel Frehner |
 Photo: Anamarija Djarmati |
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Opulence on the shore |
Oriental Parade Wellington 6001 |
Surrounded by many of Wellington's most expensive and desirable homes Oriental Bay is a sheltered, safe swimming bay right in the heart of the city. Ringed by a promenade, relax on the beach with views across to the inner-city and the northern hills. Take a nearby walk along the harbour or walk up into the town-belt for a spot of greenery. After a hard day swimming or sunbathing revive yourself with a drink in one of the many cafes in the vicinity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lisa Hills |
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Scan the cityscape |
Oriental Bay Wellington 6001 +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
If you are arriving in Wellington by air, ask the taxi driver to divert via the bays and your reward will be the most inspiring views available from any of the city's many vantage points. The landlocked harbourside city is resplendent no matter what the weather's mood. However, as the song says, "You can't beat Wellington on a good day"! In fact, on fine days the bay teems with people on in-line skates, children on bikes and in strollers, swimmers, runners and walkers and the local dairy does a roaring trade in ice creams. Treat yourself! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: anne |
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Mountain farm park |
Marine Drive Charteris Bay Christchurch 8033 +64 (0)3 329 4730 |
There is something for everyone at Orton Bradley Park, a private, working, farm park overlooking picturesque Lyttelton Harbour, 26 kilometres from Christchurch. The park's facilities include tennis courts, a golf club, children's adventure playground, picnic sites, a farm centre, horse riding, and tree and rhododendron gardens, as well as an interesting collection of historical farm machinery, and a water wheel, dating from 1880. There are several walking tracks, which vary in length from a short 20-minute stroll, to a four-hour, strenuous climb up Mount Herbert, at the back of this forested, valley park. There are great views from the top. Admission: NZD2 per person Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Blair Walton |
Historic volcano |
Pirongia Waikato Auckland 2450 +64 7 838 3363 http://www.doc.govt.nz/Explore... mstephens@doc.govt.nz |
An outstanding track leads through regenerating forests to the summit of Pirongia, a 959-metre volcanic peak. Scene of some action during the Land Wars of last century, the Pirongia region today is rich in dairy and agriculture. Alexandria Redoubt, in the town of Pirongia itself, is a well-preserved earthworks built as protection by the invading British and colonial troops. Exhibits tell the full story. Camping is permitted at specific sites within the 13,000 hectare Pirongia Forest Park. Buy food supplies in Hamilton or Te Awamutu before arriving! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Robinson |
Spectacular views of Christchurch and the Plains |
Summit Road Port Hills Christchurch 8002 +64 (0)3 941 8999 (Tourist Information) http://www.ccc.govt.nz/parks/N... info@christchurchnz.net |
A rich source of inspiration for Maori myth and legend, the Port Hills, with its volcanic rocky outcrops and numerous walkways, marks the southeast divide between Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula. From the Summit Road, there are spectacular views of beautiful bays and inlets on one side and, on the other, Christchurch, its beaches, and the majestic Southern Alps stretching into the west. There is always plenty to do, with bush walks, paragliding, mountain biking, gondola rides and excellent climbing at Castle Rock, which in Maori myth was believed to be the citadel of the Rainbow God, Kahukura. Information: Christchurch & Canterbury Visitors Centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: William Stewart |
 Photo: Alan and Tina Parkes |
 Photo: Sebastian Wahsner |
 Photo: Matt |
 Photo: Custom Canvas |
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 Photo: Richard & Adele Butler |
Highest volcanic cone in Auckland |
Hauraki Gulf Auckland 1020 +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: Courtney Crockett |
 Photo: Nicole Money |
 Photo: Rob Freeth |
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 Photo: SAM & LIEN in Nieuw-Zeeland |
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Established beech forests |
Waterworks Road, SH2 Kaitoke Regional Park Upper Hutt 6007 +64 4 526 7322 / +64 27 443 0361 http://www.gw.govt.nz/ steve.edwards@gw.govt.nz |
Part of Kaitoke Regional Park, the Ridge Track is a demanding three hour (one way) walk through established beech forests. The track runs along the main ridge between Kaitoke and Te Marua (the top of the Hutt Valley) and crosses some of Wellington's steepest bush-clad hills. There are grassy areas for picnics and camping areas at the entrance of the track, coin-operated barbecues, excellent toilet facilities and drinking water. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Leanne Jeffery |
 Photo: Bruce Staples |
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 Photo: Matt Pritchard |
 Photo: Wade Chambers |
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 Photo: Maeve Crowley |
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 Photo: Roberta Vlugter |
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Old guest house |
Summit Road Port Hills Christchurch 8002 +64 (0)3 332 9889 (Port Hills Ranger Service) |
Although this old stone building now lies in ruins, it was once a caretaker's cottage, a guest house, and from 1918-1921 a post office. Built in 1913, it is historically significant as one of a group of interesting buildings, which include the Sign of the Takahe (now a fine-dining restaurant) and the Sign of the Kiwi (shop and cafe, close to Victoria Park), along the Port Hills Summit Road. Acquired by local politician and visionary, Henry Ell in the early 1900s, the Sign of the Bellbird was used as part of a staging post along a tourist route. Visitors have a good view of the plains below, from here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Grammy and Koropop's new way to brag |
Historic hillside tea rooms |
Summit Road Port Hills Christchurch 8002 +64 (0)3 329 9966 |
High on the Port Hills, at the junction of the Christchurch-Lyttelton Harbour road and the scenic Summit Road, near Victoria Park, sits the curiously-named, quaint, stone building, Sign of the Kiwi. Opened in 1917 as a tearoom and rest house, it is one of a chain of interesting buildings, which includes the Sign of the Takahe (now a fine dining restaurant) further down the hill. Built by local politician and visionary, Henry Ell, in the early 1900s and used as staging posts along a hillside tourist route, Sign of the Kiwi is now a shop and cafe--and the view is great. Directly behind is Coronation Hill Reserve, with walking tracks, which traverse this old volcanic area. All-day menu available, including sandwiches, scones, and nachos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Snee |
 Photo: Heather McCutcheon |
 Photo: J Dub!! |
Tallest building south of the Equator |
Federal Street (Sky City) Auckland 1001 +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 |
 Photo: Melanie J Middlemiss |
 Photo: eelynn teo |
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 Photo: Nathaniel Cook |
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 Photo: Nathan Jones |
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 Photo: Andre Kreitlein |
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 Photo: Rudy Rivapalacio |
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Impressive mountainous region |
Christchurch, Canterbury +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Tourist Information) |
These impressive mountains stretch for almost the entire length of the South Island, with the highest, Mount Cook, reaching 3,764 metres. The mountains are home to a unique and diverse range of flora and fauna--much of it from the last great ice age--as well as many beautiful lakes and glaciers. The alps are also Christchurch's adventure playground, with the foothills offering every activity imaginable, from Alpine Horse Safaris to Rangitata Rafts. Along the ranges, there is plenty of good skiing, tramping, mountaineering and rock climbing. Among the numerous alpine resorts are Mt Hutt and Porter Heights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Guy Trowbridge |
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On a clear day... |
Port Hills Christchurch http://www.summitroadsociety.o... secretary@summitroadsociety.org.nz |
For panoramic views of Christchurch and its surrounds, you can't beat a drive along the Summit Road. The Summit Road was created by Harry G Eli who, at the turn of last century, envisioned a road for travellers from Godley Head to Akaroa Harbour. These days the road is more driven than hiked, but you will see many cyclists and walkers along the way. Others explore the mountain bike trails and walkways accessible from the road. There are a number of historic landmarks along the way, in particular the Sign of the Bellbird, the Sign of the Kiwi, and the Sign of the Takeha. These are all rest houses created by Eli so travellers had somewhere dry to stay at night.Transport: If planning to drive, pick up the Port Hills Drive map from the Visitors Centre. They also have information on buses and bus tours that travel along the Summit Road. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: layshock |
 Photo: Karsten Grillitsch |
Million dollar views |
The Strand Takapuna Auckland 1309 |
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: Diane Emerson |
 Photo: Mario y Judit |
 Photo: Angie Gilling |
 Photo: Graeme Mulholland |
 Photo: Mark Coomey |
 Photo: David Streifler |
 Photo: crispysmithnz |
 Photo: vitus furrer |
 Photo: Juliana |
 Photo: violena |
 Photo: Darren Hannay |
 Photo: Mike & Terri Johnson |
 Photo: Molly Stiern |
Follow the coastline |
Tamaki Drive Auckland 1005 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: David Carter |
 Photo: Robin Capper |
Walker's delight |
St Mary Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
Tinakori Hill is a familiar backdrop for the city and its maze of interweaving tracks is popular with lunchtime joggers. There are plenty of entrance options but if you follow the marked track from St Mary Street, you will emerge from pine plantation and native bush to a stunning and unique view of the city from the north. An ideal spot to appreciate the city and the enormity of recent constructions like the Stadium and Te Papa, Museum of New Zealand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tijs Robinson |
 Photo: Jamie McEwan |
Protected bird sanctuary |
Hauraki Gulf Auckland 1001 +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: Warren Russell |
 Photo: morgotron |
 Photo: Nicola Owen |
 Photo: Hamish Luebbers |
 Photo: brickmun |
 Photo: Bob Marshall |
 Photo: Mark Greene |
Beaches, hiking trails and vineyard restaurants |
Hauraki Gulf Auckland 1240 +64 9 372 9999 (Tourist Information) http://www.waiheke.co.nz/index... waiheke@iconx.co.nz |
Just a half-hour ferry ride from central Auckland, Waiheke Island is a bedroom community for Auckland, but retains its own unique atmosphere. With cafés and pubs in Oneroa, wineries in the center and a beautiful beach at Onetangi, Waiheke makes a great getaway destination. Buses run on most roads and car rentals are available. Cycling is a fun way to see the island - the hills providing both challenges and great vistas. There is plenty of accommodation from isolated boutique sanctuaries to homely bed and breakfast. It is advisable to book through the Visitor Information Centre before arriving. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott Lindley |
 Photo: Jason Kuoerman |
 Photo: Steve |
 Photo: Kirsty |
 Photo: Owen Foreman |
 Photo: Luc & Yannick |
 Photo: AfricanKiwis |
 Photo: Diane Lister |
 Photo: Barbara Dieu |
 Photo: Philip Duggan |
 Photo: Raphael Hu |
 Photo: LL Ng |
 Photo: \\\M/// |
 Photo: James McCracken |
 Photo: Amy Warrick |
 Photo: The thing to remember......By KF's 400D |
 Photo: Jeffrey J Davis |
Take a hike in the hills out west |
Waitakere City Auckland 1008 +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: edolescent |
 Photo: Joe Warren |
 Photo: Zaria Yusoff |
 Photo: Paul Left |
 Photo: RedJackSquid |
 Photo: jerry green |
 Photo: Eleanor Hogan |
 Photo: Liam McCauley |
 Photo: Jo Beveridge |
 Photo: Coralie Thabot |
 Photo: Benjamin Miller |
 Photo: Derryn_NZ |
Seaside bathing |
Waiwera Auckland 1244 +64 9 366 2000 http://www.arc.govt.nz/arc/ind... info@arc.govt.nz |
Located on the southern shore of the Puhoi estuary, Wenderholm (134 hectares) is surrounded by forested headlands and was the first of the many Auckland Regional Parks. It contains one of Auckland's best examples of mainland coastal forest. Swim, or picnic under the magnificent pohutukawa trees, or take one of the many bush walks. Couldrey House, an original kauri homestead, contains a small museum and information centre. Camping is available by contacting the Parksline number which is listed above. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Wayne Ross |
 Photo: Dave Horton |
 Photo: ko anna ahau |
 Photo: Kathleen Hay |
Modern icon |
Off Ashton Fitchett Drive Brooklyn Wellington 6002 +64 4 381 1200 |
What better way to celebrate the seasonal wind patterns (spring is the worst) of the windy city than with a wind turbine? Erected in 1993 to test the feasibility of wind-generated power in the city, it now supplies power to 80 homes and has also rapidly become a local icon. An added bonus is the spectacular panoramic views. Visible from many parts of the city, its classic form has endeared it to many. For those wanting a momento, buy a tile in Brooklyn village. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: curtisp |
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