Warkworth
- Auckland
68 km (43 miles)
Approximately 1 hour
Road Conditions: State Highway/Motorway
Warkworth is a pretty town located on the banks of the Mahurangi River. From here it’s easy to explore the many attractions of the district – surf beaches, marine and wildlife sanctuaries, vineyards, golf courses, regional parks and islands.
The drive south takes you through areas of native forest and farmland. You’ll notice a side road pointing to Puhoi, a town famous for its cheese. Another interesting settlement is Waiwera, which means ‘hot water’ in Maori. Soak in the hot springs and play on the hydroslides. In the town of Orewa you can explore bush trails, visit the friendly shopping centre or dive into the waves for a refreshing swim. You’ll find more beaches, a marina and a world class golf course if you drive along the Whangaparaoa Peninsula.
The newly completed motorway will quickly sweep you towards the city of Auckland, which is situated between two enormous harbours and dotted with 48 extinct volcanic cones. It’s a place for marine adventures, wine trails, forest walks and urban sophistication.
Scenic Highlights
Auckland's volcanic cones
Climb green volcanic cones in the heart of a large city to peer into deep craters and explore ancient Maori earthworks. Look out over the harbours, islands and beyond.
Devonport & North Head
Discover colonial cottages, stately waterfront homes and World War II defences that run deep into a volcanic cone.
Hunua Ranges
Enjoy nature walks, mountain biking, fishing and camping in the largest mainland forest within the Auckland region.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
Learn about plants from New Zealand and around the world. This beautiful garden offers 64 hectares of cleverly themed displays.
Tamaki Drive and beaches
Enjoy on-street cafes, park-like picnic areas and safe sandy beaches just minutes from Auckland's central business district.
Parnell Historic Walk
Explore the historic houses and buildings of Parnell, New Zealand's first suburb. Be tempted by great cafes and specialty shops along the way.
Coast to Coast Walk
Walk across New Zealand in one day. This 16 kilometre walkway explores parks, volcanic cones and historic suburbs across the Auckland isthmus.
Long Bay Regional Park
Pack a picnic and head for a waterfront park just 20 kilometres from the city centre. Relax on the long sandy beach or hike along the headland.
Tawharanui Regional Park
This regional park is one of north Auckland's best-kept secrets. If a swell is running from the north or east, come ready to play in the surf.
Auckland Domain
Fly a kite, feed ducks, walk through native forest or follow a trail of outdoor sculptures in this magnificent inner city park.
Auckland's North Shore beaches
Dip your toes into the North Shore's beachy lifestyle. A series of sandy bays stretches from Cheltenham to Torbay.
Cape Rodney - Okakari Point Marine Reserve (Goat Island Marine Reserve)
So much more than a picnic at the beach, a day at Goat Island Marine Reserve is unforgettable.
Motu Manawa (Pollen Island) Marine Reserve, Waitemata Harbour
A haven for wading and sea birds, you can see this marine reserve from Auckland's northwestern motorway.
Motuihe Island
Visit a picturesque island that is becoming a new wildlife sanctuary. Enjoy walks, beautiful sandy beaches and glimpses of the island's intriguing history.
Rangitoto Island
Cross the harbour on a ferry to step onto an alien volcanic landscape. Explore native forests and lava caves on the way to panoramic views from the edge of the summit crater.
Waitakere Ranges
In half an hour you can leave the city behind to explore a vast forest park with waterfalls, rivers, giant kauri trees and wild ocean beaches.
Activities
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