Waitakere, the 5th largest city of New Zealand, is famous for scintillating sceneries and exciting adventure options. Situated in the Auckland region, the city is much talked about for the picture perfect Waitakere Ranges. The glorious Waitakere Ranges sit at an elevation of more than 400 meters above the Tasman Sea’s rocky surf beaches. Tourists from all over the world come here to explore the stunning walking tracks and highlights surrounding the Waitakere Ranges. These form an integral part of the Waitakere tourist attractions.
Other than this, Waitakere city is a famous black beach destination. Bethells, Piha and Karekare warrant special mention here. These are the perfect places for both adventure as well as nature lovers. However, the list is endless. Apart from sightseeing, the city is also popular for a host of leisure activities. If you are planning a vacation in this city, do take a look at the list of activities and attractions in Waitakere. It will help you in travel plan.
Among all the Waitakere Tourist Attractions, this one is really exclusive. The Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, spread over 16,000ha of coastline and forest, makes for a great place to relax and enjoy holiday. It features 250 km long walking and tramping trails that lead to numerous beaches, waterfalls, rugged formations and farms. From swimming, fishing, horse riding and surfing to boating, the place has it all. Some of the major highlights of this area are Arataki Visitor Centre, Muriwai, Cornwallis, Anawhata, Cascades and Huia.
If you love nature and admire its every subtle form, then the west coast beaches in Waitakere City is the perfect bet for you. Tourists from far corners of the world arrive here to explore the rugged charm of Karekare, Anawhata, Te Henga (Bethells), Piha and Whatipu beaches.
Set up in 1980, Coopers Creek is famous for manufacturing the finest quality of wines. A large number of people flock here for a wine tasting experience. Located about 35 km from Auckland near Waitakere, this winery is nestled amid serene gardens. Children’s playground, petanque court, an outdoor chessboard, BBQ and a farmer's market are some of the attractions of this winery.
Started in 1935, West Brook winery is a family run business. It is about 30 minutes from Auckland city. This winery is especially renowned for producing rich varieties of wines. For local visitors as well as tourists, this is an ideal place for picnic and wine tasting.
Among the stunning array of Waitakere tourist attractions, Titirangi Village cannot be missed out. Befittingly called the “gateway to heaven”, this place is an ideal stopover to Waitakere Ranges. It is filled with a variety of restaurants and cafes and has an excellent Lopdell House Art Gallery. From here, you can reach Titirangi Beach and French Bay. Popular Piha and Karekare Beaches are also close by at a distance of about 20 minutes. In addition, there are some stunning elevations providing spectacular city views.
A wonderful place for day trip, Kumeu area offers you scenic views of vineyards filled with beautiful gardens and cafes. From here, you can easily get to Kumeu River, Coopers Creek, Muriwai Beach and Soljans among other attractive spots.
Visit this incredible forest to explore bike park, BMX racing trails, tree adventures and others. There are many fruit shops selling fresh produce.
In this rugged and unspoilt beach area, you will get to see gorgeous black sandy blanket. It is filled with many cabins, ice cream shop, camp ground and fish and chip shop. It is an excellent place for dirt bikes and 4X4 tour.
Waitakere City features a great range of wineries. These are mainly the part of Kumeu and Henderson Valley. Montana, Delagats and Parrs Cross Road’s Artisans wineries are some of the most beautiful spots. For a relaxed day, you can head over to Henderson Valley road’s Pleasant Valley.
Visiting Waitakere Aquatic Centre in Henderson will be a different experience. This place was used in 1992 for Commonwealth Games for hosting swimming contests. After undergoing an extensive renovation program, now the complex boasts of 8 lane pools, hydroslide, drive pool, toddlers pools, wave pool, river, spa, steam and sauna facilities. Café and gym are also integrated in the property.
If you prefer walking tours, visit Parrs Park near Waitakere city. As per walking trail is concerned, this is one of the best Waitakere attractions. While exploring this site, you will encounter the fascinating vistas of the Waikumete Stream and Macrocarpa shelter belt. It has some great walking trails for leisure walkers as well.
With plenty of adventure and fun activities, Waitakere has become a favorite holiday hub for many tourists. Apart from sightseeing, you can do exciting things in the city for pure fun. Swimming, surfing, hiking, trekking, camping, biking and wine tasting are some of them. For shopping, you can visit West Coast Gallery in Piha. In addition, if you are a foodie, the city is the best bet for you. Here, you will get tasty varieties of homemade pizza, roast dinners, kebabs, chicken sandwiches, fish, chocolate chip and caramel slice, etc.
