Enjoy the North North West
Just 40 minutes out of the central city, on the eastern side of the Kaipara Harbour are some true hidden gems.
If you drive up SH16 past Kaukaupakaupa you’ll come to a sign which says Omeru Scenic Reserve [17] Park your car near the sign and walk down to a series of streams and small but very picturesque waterfalls. It’s a magical spot and makes for a lovely walk (take decent shoes).
Once you’ve had a good walk around, grab a coffee at Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens [16] before you embark on the 1 km trail of 60 sculptures by New Zealand artists. You can even pick up some plants at the nursery if your garden is in need.
All of this is bound to make you hungry so drive back towards the city, stopping at the highly awarded Hapunan Filipino Cuisine [C] restaurant in Huapai and pass a leisurely afternoon with some innovative and utterly delicious food (approx 25 minutes from Kaipara Coast Sculpture Garden).
Wind your way back home, gathering everything you need for a lovely dinner at your place. Pick up some wine from Coopers Creek [A], Kumeu River [D] or Soljans [A] (would be rude not to do a tasting on the way). Boric Food Market [D] is a family-owned orchard and artisan supermarket. You’ll love their fresh local produce, gourmet cheese and fresh or cured meats.
