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West of Auckland

Auckland's west, including Waitakere City and part of Rodney District, is famous for its great scenery - lush rainforests, rugged black sand beaches and rolling green rural landscapes.

The rainforest of the Waitakere Ranges covers more than 16,000 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, 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; it is also home to the annual Kumeu Food and Wine Festival.

Titirangi

Titirangi is the gateway to the Waitakere Ranges and west coast black sand beaches. Titirangi township is a great cafe stop and place to browse for local artworks.

Waitakere Ranges

The Arataki Visitor Centre is the starting point for a range of walking tracks in the Waitakere Ranges, 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.

Kumeu

The countryside of Kumeu is a refreshing blend of green farmland, orchards and vineyards. The road leading in and out of Kumeu is lined with road-side fruit and vegetable sellers - a great place to stop for delicious, fresh produce. Also surrounding Kumeu are a number of wineries - many of them among the oldest wineries in Auckland. Other places to stop for a bite to eat include BeesOnline Honey Centre and Cafe and the boutique brewery, Hallertau Brewbar.

Muriwai

Beyond the wine-growing area of Kumeu and Huapai is the vast black sand beach of Muriwai, home to one of New Zealand's largest onshore gannet (sea bird) colonies. Inland is Woodhill Forest where it is possible to quad bike or mountain bike along the forest tracks.

Piha

Pounding surf and black sand are the sights of Piha that meet you as you wind your way down through native bush into the surf community. Piha is a popular beach for swimming during summer months, but caution must be taken and swimmers must always swim between the flags.

Helensville

A scenic 40 minute drive north from downtown Auckland, nestled beside the Kaipara River, historic Helensville has a relaxed lifestyle and plenty to offer visitors. There is a wealth of recreational amenities including harbour cruising, natural thermal pools, fishing, golf, horse riding, skydiving and so much more!

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