Top Things to Do in Waitakere

Waitakere, New Zealand

Things to Do in Waitakere

Slurp Fresh Green-Lipped Mussels

Food & Drink

Brace yourself for a 'shelluva' good time with fresh Green-Lipped Mussels from New Zealand's coasts! This briny delight will make your taste buds do the haka!

Picnic at Lake Wainamu

Outdoors

For a chill day out, head to Lake Wainamu. Surrounded by stunning sand dunes, it's a picture-perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. Bring a picnic and frolic on the sandy shores or have a go at sandb...

Yoga on the Black Sands

The Unexpected

Channel your zen on the infamous black sand beaches of Waitakere. Feel the sand between your fingers and don't forget your downward dog! Namaste never felt so bracing, especially with the roaring ocea...

Get Artsy at West Coast Galleries

The Unexpected

Put aside those hiking boots and dive into the vibrant artsy scene of Waitakere's west coast. Whether you're a passionate collector or an 'I-know-nothing-about-art-but-I-like-it' enthusiast, these gal...

Master the Art of Kiwi Bushcraft

The Unexpected

Unleash your inner Bear Grylls and learn the ancient ways of surviving in the Waitakere wilderness. From building a makeshift shelter to starting a fire with sticks (no lighters allowed!), this is you...

Collect Honey and Meet the Bees

The Unexpected

Channel your inner beekeeper and get up close and personal with the buzzing beauties of Waitakere. You'll get to harvest honey straight from the comb and maybe even name a bee Betty. Watch out for tha...

Trek through the Cascade Kauri Park

Outdoors

Strap on those boots and explore lush rainforests, bubbling streams, and jaw-dropping views. It's a nature-lover's paradise with the majestic Kauri trees standing watch.

Hit the Waves at Piha Beach

Outdoors

Dust off your surfboard (or rent one!) and catch some gnarly waves at Piha Beach. Known for its black sand and powerful surf, it's a favorite spot for thrill-seekers. Even if surfing isn't your thing,...

Trek the Scenic Waitakere Ranges

Outdoors

Calling all trail blazers! The Waitakere Ranges offer some epic hikes with vistas to die for. Lace up those boots and get ready for an adventure through lush forests and over rugged terrain. Don't for...

Dive into the Te Henga Walkway

Outdoors

Want to walk along jaw-dropping cliffs? Te Henga Walkway is your ticket to some of the best coastal views in Waitakere. Stretching from Bethells Beach to Muriwai, this track is hopping with native flo...

Nibble on Kumara Fries

Food & Drink

Crunchy, sweet, and oh-so-irresistible! Dive into New Zealand's native twist on fries with kumara (sweet potato) fries. They're fry-tastic!

Wander Te Henga (Bethells) Beach

Sights

Lose yourself in the dramatic volcanic landscape of Te Henga (Bethells) Beach. This spot is a local favorite for its serenity and endless sky. Perfect for unwinding with some ocean sound therapy.

Stroll through the Iconic Arataki Visitor Centre

Sights

Get ready to dive into the heart of nature at the Arataki Visitor Centre! With jaw-dropping views, informative exhibits, and a chance to learn about the Waitakere Ranges, it's an absolute must for nat...

Experience the Ancient Kauri Trees

Sights

Step back in time as you wander among some of New Zealand’s oldest and mightiest residents—the stunning kauri trees! It’s an awe-inspiring experience you won’t want to miss.

Embark on the Fairy Falls Track

Sights

Get your hiking boots on and hit the Fairy Falls Track for a magical journey through lush greenery, with the enchanting Fairy Falls as your reward. It’s a hike to remember!

Wander through the Hendersen Valley Wine Trails

Sights

Uncork some fun times and savor local wines at the picturesque Henderson Valley. It's a vino lover's paradise with gorgeous vineyards and delightful tastings. Cheers to that!

Enjoy Hāngi

Food & Drink

Get ready to dive into the traditional Maori feast cooked underground. This earthy and delicious spread, featuring meats and root veggies, is as ancient as it is tasty. Hāngi is a slow-cooked, smoky m...

Treat Yourself to Manuka Honey Delights

Food & Drink

Meet Manuka, the Kiwi honey that's more than just sweet - it's a sticky, golden superfood! Drizzle it or slather it, just make sure you try it!

Savor Wild Venison

Food & Drink

Feeling game for something wild? Chomp down on succulent wild venison and see why it's a local favorite - perfect with a splash of native herbs!

Conquer a Tree Climbing Adventure

The Unexpected

Channel your inner monkey and scramble up towering trees! It’s a unique way to get a bird’s eye view of the dense Waitakere forest. No bananas required!