The Waitakere Ranges & Beyond
Lush native rainforest, rugged coastline and windswept, black-sand beaches. This 160-sq-km wilderness was covered in kauri until the mid-19th century, when logging claimed most of the giant trees. A few stands of ancient kauri and other mature natives survive amid the dense bush of the regenerating rainforest, which is now protected inside the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Bordered to the west by wildly beautiful beaches on the Tasman Sea, the park’s rugged terrain makes an excellent day trip from Auckland.
Explore over 250 kilometres of walking tracks, from short, easy walks to the famous four-day Hillary Trail tramp. Discover the rainforest’s magical waterfalls Kitekite Falls, Fairy Falls and Karekare Falls. For a short walk that’s suitable for the whole family, try the Kitekite Track.
As tranquil as the Waitakere Ranges area is, it’s also one big playground, with surfing, swimming, fishing, walking, picnicking and camping. For the more adventurous there’s mountain biking, quad biking and even canyoning. Stunning west coast beaches are on our doorstep including the famous surfing playground of Piha beach a short drive away, Bethells beach to the north and the black sands of Karekare to the south - made famous in the movie The Piano.
For further information visit the Arataki Visitor Centre and Auckland tourist information.
Here are some of our recommended local activities.
RAINFOREST WALKS
Complimentary
There are many rainforest walks available either from the Resort and in the surrounding Park. Walks are self guided and include tracks with beautiful waterfalls, magnificent native Kauri Trees, the rugged West Coast and water reservoir dams.
AWOL ADVENTURES CANYONING
From $225.00 per person
For the more adventurous. No experience necessary – we train you and provide you with the gear the skills to explore the canyon. Not only do you get some great canyoning, but you will see a coastal subtropical rain-forest, learn about the local flora /fauna and history of the area. Half day and full day adventures are available and includes pick up a drop off at the Resort.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Complimentary
Bring your bikes, there are some great mountain biking options nearby suitable for Mountain Bikes/Cross Bikes which involve some gravel roads. The rides include access roads for power lines, quiet gravel roads and some sealed roads. Rides require a moderate level of fitness as the local terrain is hilly.
For those that prefer flatter options access to the Opanuku Stream/Henderson cycleway is a short 15 minute drive from the Resort and suitable for all bike types.
PRIVATE YOGA
From $195 per couple
Private Yoga sessions are available subject to availability. Sessions are available for one or more participants and are thoughtfully crafted to meet your goals blending Yoga, Pilates, Pranayama, Mindfulness and Somatic Movement to support both body and mind.
ARATAKI INFORMATION CENTRE
COmplimentary
Located approximately a 10 minute drive along the Scenic Drive from the Resort entrance the Arataki Information Centre has some great views of the Waitakere Ranges and information about the area, walking tracks etc.
te uru art gallery- titirangi
Complimentary
Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery is a regional gallery locally rooted in West Auckland but globally minded. We have a distinctive West Auckland focus but a national and international perspective. We present a diverse programme of contemporary exhibitions, events and activities, including art, craft and design, to reflect and strengthen the full diversity of cultural identities, interests and potential of our community.
