Henderson

Henderson sits between Te Atatū Peninsula and the mighty Waitākere Ranges – it's considered by many to be the beating heart of West Auckland.  

Treat the kids to a live-action or puppetry performance at Whoa! Studios to enjoy the renowned film studio and theatre centre. Leave some wiggle room for the epic children’s adventure park or a delicious dinner at the family-friendly eatery, The Grounds.  

Henderson is home to some seriously good eats, some more covert than others. The small-but-mighty Cielito Lindo is legendary for those who love Mexican – call in takeaways to skip the usual queue. Indulge in a savoury brunch at the super-popular Little Sister Café or hunker down with a steaming bowl of Vietnamese pho noodle soup at Pho Bien.  

You can float, swim laps and play at Waitākere’s only public pool, West Wave Pool and Leisure Centre, originally built for the 1990 Commonwealth Games. Prefer solid ground? Let the kids scramble up towers and eagle nests at Tūī Glen Reserve’s treetop-themed playground. For more country vibes, whisk the family off for a fun-filled day at Kiwi Valley Farm Park. Ride a tractor (or horse!), cuddle baby animals, and stroll through the paddocks to find donkeys, sheep, alpacas and more. 

Love a hidden gem? You’ll find thousands of them (literally!) at Crystal Mountain, an activity centre with a stellar crystal and mineral shop, animal farm and café. Pick up your own twinkling treasure before greeting the turkeys and peacocks – the roller coaster and train ride are also a hoot.  

Tickle your creative side at Corban Estate Arts Centre, a leafy art-filled oasis at a historic homestead and winery estate. ‘Ooh’ and ‘ahh’ at the latest exhibitions, browse handmade wares and artworks at the gallery shop or get in on the action – the centre hosts workshops and art classes for all ages.