Imagine a geothermal hot pool experience as a reward for fish n chips on the beach. Places to go include the imaginative garden centre Kaipara Coast Gardens with its sculpture trail and newly constructed Conservation trail. Take a quick peek at Helensville, the location for the TV Series ‘BrokenWood.’
Attractions, places to go
For other trips and holiday inspiration check out Auckland Road Trips.
Departing from Auckland, city of sails you travel through West Auckland and Kumeu, the home of Auckland’s oldest wine regions with temptations to linger in one of the many vineyard cafes and explore the Kumeu weekend market scene. From Kumeu a quick detour for heritage lovers and fans of the TV series ‘BrokenWood’ to view the TV series ‘Police Station.’ The actual building is heritage listed Helensville Post Office.
Admire the elegant lines of the former Post Office and grab the selfie before exploring Helenville’s walkway. The walkway feature’s tracks boardwalks and bridges, with a lookout over the Kaipara River where there has been extensive planting of native trees and shrubs. A handful of access points to the track include: southern entry in Mill Road (opposite Mitre 10); central entry point Creek Lane (beside Unichem, Commercial Road); and the northern entry between the historic Post Office and the old Bank of New Zealand buildings on Commercial Road.
Parakai Springs is the classic family destination for Auckland locals looking for a day out, Parakai Springs is tired and worn out. Although kids don’t mind flaking paint and a lack of maintenance parents might be concerned about the lack of hygiene and care of the premises. The hydro slides, the open air geothermal pool still is a place of joy for kids.
The unassuming garden centre, stocked with the usual bedding plants, roses and shrubs holds a secret door complete with a keypad entrance. Behind the door (there is an entry fee) is an amazing naturalised garden stacked with an array of sculptures, installations and public art works which are mostly for sale. You are invited to take a picnic with you and relax in the gardens where a heritage orchard has a delightful installation or grab a coffee from the garden cafe and enjoy sipping your beverage while admiring the backside of a large elephant artwork.
Fish and chips, a burger or an ice cream from the local convenience store / cafe while watching locals launch boats, kids jump off the jetty and dog walkers. The Kaipara Harbour is part of Kauri Coast beaches things to do & see – Best Bits and is a hidden gem with its world class Matakohe Kauri Museum, extraordinary shallow harbour and settlements.
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