Gannets and History
First stop Huapai. Start the day with a delicious brunch at Meus Cafe [A].
After brunch, blow the cobwebs out at the Gannet Colony in Muriwai [B] wander down the hill to the jet black sands of Muriwai Beach for a relaxed wander.
Following this, pop back into Waimauku and head out to The Hunting Lodge [C]. Settle in for a glass of wine and a long lunch and while away an hour or two in either of these relaxing settings (around 5 minutes from Waimauku) .
After lunch, head up to Helensville. There’s a heritage trail along the river and takes in historical buildings such as the courthouse and an Edwardian cottage, get details at the Helensville Museum [E]. which is also an interesting visit, just on the left as you drive into the town. The Heritage Trail can be walked or driven depending on your level of fitness (approx 15 minutes from Kumeu).
Your feet will need a rest after all that pottering and there is a particularly wonderful option as you drive back towards the city stopping off at Riverhead. The highly-awarded Landing Restaurant at The Riverhead [F]. This historic venue is the actual building that the early pioneers passed through when they first arrived to the area by steamer, before roads or railway. Pop in for a glass of wine and platter or more while enjoying the stunning views from their large decks, shaded by 100-year-old oak trees.
