December 8, 2007:
The region west of Auckland is known for stunning beaches and fantastic hiking (or bush walks as the locals say). Often compared to Northern California because of its rocky cliffs and beautiful vistas we were very excited to explore this region on our second day- trip outside of the city.
About 30 minutes to the west of Auckland, if you don’t get lost, is the magnificent regional park called the Waitakere Ranges (pronounced why-tuck-airy). Our first stop was the gateway to the ranges, Arataki Visitor center, where were learned about the volcanic origins of this landscape.
A short jaunt down the road we stopped to eat at the local café, Elevation. Perched atop a steep and windy road this venue was crowded with Aucklanders out for a weekend brunch. We had such a great meal and although the weather was not cooperating, we could tell the view from the venue would be truly spectacular on a clearer day. After our food break, we headed on to what would be the highlight of the trip. We visited Karekare and Piha beaches which are both special in their own right. Karekare is particularly well known for being in the movie, The Piano, and is a stop on the ‘natural wonders’ tour. It is rugged and isolated in a way that you would never find in the states. Piha is just down the road and is a bit more commercialized, but just as beautiful. Both beaches are synonymous with good surfing and have tumbling waves.
Recently, Auckland has been rather windy and rainy; our trip was a bit dicey due to the weather but none the less the scenery was breathtaking. We can’t wait to go back on a more pleasant day and are so pleased to find something so great close to the city!
The region west of Auckland is known for stunning beaches and fantastic hiking (or bush walks as the locals say). Often compared to Northern California because of its rocky cliffs and beautiful vistas we were very excited to explore this region on our second day- trip outside of the city.
About 30 minutes to the west of Auckland, if you don’t get lost, is the magnificent regional park called the Waitakere Ranges (pronounced why-tuck-airy). Our first stop was the gateway to the ranges, Arataki Visitor center, where were learned about the volcanic origins of this landscape.
A short jaunt down the road we stopped to eat at the local café, Elevation. Perched atop a steep and windy road this venue was crowded with Aucklanders out for a weekend brunch. We had such a great meal and although the weather was not cooperating, we could tell the view from the venue would be truly spectacular on a clearer day. After our food break, we headed on to what would be the highlight of the trip. We visited Karekare and Piha beaches which are both special in their own right. Karekare is particularly well known for being in the movie, The Piano, and is a stop on the ‘natural wonders’ tour. It is rugged and isolated in a way that you would never find in the states. Piha is just down the road and is a bit more commercialized, but just as beautiful. Both beaches are synonymous with good surfing and have tumbling waves.
Recently, Auckland has been rather windy and rainy; our trip was a bit dicey due to the weather but none the less the scenery was breathtaking. We can’t wait to go back on a more pleasant day and are so pleased to find something so great close to the city!
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