Places to see

When it’s time to play, it’s time to head to Auckland’s playground, just north of the tollway tunnels. Stretching from Puhoi to Mangawhai and Matakohe, and coast to coast from the Kaipara Harbour to the Hauraki Gulf, the area boasts seven stunning regional parks and New Zealand’s oldest marine reserve.

It’s a boaties paradise with room for everyone – sailors, fishermen, divers and pleasure craft. Surfers have a multitude of beaches and breaks to choose from, and there are plenty of walking tracks, golf courses, canoe trips and horse-riding treks for those who like to make the most of the outdoors.

Added to nature’s bounty is an indulgent range of galleries, museums, gardens, a sculpture park, potteries and cellar doors to visit. Preparing meals becomes a gourmet’s delight with fresh produce available from roadside stalls or one of the area’s many markets.

A new outlet on the circuit is the Sunday summer wine market, in the Matakana Village, an opportunity to learn more about the innovative, often family-owned wineries in the district. Tours are available for those wanting a closer encounter with the vines and the winemakers.

The area remains predominantly rural so if you veer off the beaten track, don’t be surprised to encounter sheep or cows on the road, being moved between paddocks. Just slow down, keep the blood pressure in check and relax.

We can’t make visitors have a good time, but we will certainly do out best to give you a warm Mahurangi welcome ….. enjoy!

• Albertland Museum
• Goat Island Marine Reserve
• Kawau Island
• Sheepworld
• Tapestry Decor
• The Kauri Museum
• Ti Point Reptile Park
• Warkworth & Districts Museum