Northern Bays
The parks and beaches of the North Shore lend themselves nicely to a stroll or hike on a sunny day. Explore the 45 hectares of bush land around the Chelsea Sugar Refinery in Birkenhead, or stretch your legs along the Takapuna to Milford coastal walk which follows the heritage trail. At low tide the route follows a mixture of paved promenade, beach and lava rocks and is a walk enjoyed by many Aucklanders.
Enjoy an ice cream on Takapuna Beach or a coffee and local art at the Pumphouse Theatre or visit Lake Pupuke – a favourite spot for rowing, sailing and canoeing.
Take the 12-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland and stroll around the art galleries, book shops and cafes of old Devonport. This captivating maritime village by the sea is also home to New Zealand’s naval base where you can visit the museum to learn about the country’s naval heritage.
After lunch at one of the cafes in the village centre stock up on delivious sweet treats from Devonport Chocolates. Next take a walk – or even a segway tour with Magic Broomstick Tours - to the top of Mt Victoria and North Head. These volcanic cones offer stunning 360 degree views from the city to the Gulf Islands. On North Head kids of all ages will love exploring the gun emplacements and tunnels.
If you are visiting on a Sunday, you can gather everything you want for an amazing picnic lunch from the Orewa Beach Farmers’ Market. Then head to either Shakespear Regional Park on Whangaparaoa Peninsula or picturesque Wenderholm, just north of Waiwera. Both are coastal parks offering great walks with beaches, stunning views, heritage sites and any number of perfect picnic spots. Fire up one of the barbeques and enjoy a delicious feast or play games on the grass.
At the end of the day, enjoy a relaxing soak in the mineral pools at Waiwera. These natural thermal pools are a great place to unwind and relax.
