West of Auckland Touring Route

The West of Auckland Touring Route takes you through Waitakere City and the Rodney District. The area is famous for its great scenery - lush rainforests, rugged black sand beaches and rolling green rural landscapes.

The rainforest of the Waitakere Ranges is an ecological treasure at Auckland's western fringe. Situated only 24 kilometres west of Auckland, the area covers more than 18,000 hectares and features more than 240 kilometres of walking trails through beautiful native trees to streams, waterfalls and stunning west coast beaches. Travelling north west into the Rodney District, the dense forests of the Waitakere Ranges transform into farmland, vineyards and roadside shops selling fresh, locally-grown produce. The west is the oldest wine growing region in Auckland and produces premium wine in a range of varieties.

Suggested Itinerary

Day One

Take the Avondale turn off from the North Western Motorway to reach the village of Titirangi, the gateway to the Waitakere Ranges and black sand west coast beaches. Titirangi township is a great cafe stop and a place to browse for local artworks. Continue west on Scenic Drive until you get to the Arataki Visitor Centre. There is a range of walking tracks here, giving you the opportunity to discover the spectacular native flora and fauna of the region. The beaches in this area are renowned for their black sand and wild water. They are all popular for surfing, swimming and fishing. Choose between Piha, Bethells/Te Henga, Karekare, Anawhata and the more remote Whatipu. Guided tours of this area are also available.

Day Two

The suburb of Henderson is known as Auckland's original wine growing area, although several of the original vineyards have relocated further north. As you travel through the townships of Kumeu, Huapai and Waimauku, you'll notice an abundance of established and new vineyards - most are open for tastings and meals. Turn off at Waimauku to travel to the black sand beach of Muriwai, home to one of New Zealand's largest onshore gannet (sea bird) colonies. Nearby is Woodhill Forest where it is possible to quad bike or mountain bike along the forest tracks. A little further north is the village of Helensville, which was established during the timber milling days of the 1800s. From here the route can lead back to Auckland City or link up with the North of Auckland Touring Route or the Northern Bays Touring Route.

Beach Safety

West Coast beaches are famous for their rugged beauty, but can be dangerous for those not familiar with their strong undercurrents and pounding waves. Always swim between the flags and follow lifeguard instruction at all times.

Highlights

• Walk along a black sand surf beach
• Take a bush walk through the Waitakere Ranges
• Test your sense of adventure and go canyoning
• Learn more about the Waitakere Ranges at the Arataki Visitor Centre
• Visit the gannet colony at Muriwai
• Enjoy honey tasting or lunch at BeesOnline Honey Centre and Cafe
• Stop off at an award-winning winery for a glass of wine and lunch

Downloads

Download West of Auckland Section Please note file size is 1.5mb