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Location: Awhitu Peninsula, Franklin, Greater Auckland
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Details: In the ongoing pursuit of great locations and fun family adventures, we'd like to introduce you to the Awhitu Peninsula. This forgotten beautiful peninsula is on the south western shores of the Manukau Harbour. While it takes around 45 minutes to drive from Auckland City, it's best to allow lots of time to explore and enjoy. Make it a day trip, at the very least. If you are wondering where to start your day of exploration, take a scenic drive through steep gullies and farmland out to the Awhitu Lighthouse and bring your camera, as there's terrific views across to Whatipu and further inland to Huia and Cornwallis. You can't access the beach from here, so hug the coast around to West Coast Road and access to the ocean beach for west coast perspective. For quieter bays, there are several beautiful beaches like Big Bay to choose from within the Manuaku Harbour itself, perfect for swimming, surf casting or boating. If you feel like stretching your legs, then the Awhitu Regional Park has to be on the list. There's even a superb DOC campsite within the Regional Park itself that looks idealic - well worth a booking in the summer months. [Ed] If you are staying a while at one of the camp grounds, you may want to mix things up a bit. Perhaps a horse trek or paintball game, or if the weather turns you could head indoors and try your hand at greenstone carving. There's no pubs out this way, but the Social Club offers a licensed "brunch" from midday-4pm on Sundays, or you can mingle with the locals at the Awhitu Markets. If you want to go "green" you could always take an eco-tour around Awhitu. There are two bird parks out on the Awhitu Peninsula at Orua and Waipipi, to call in for a coffee and talk to the parrots. For driving time, allow around 45 minutes to drive from Auckland City, and you'll drive through Waiuku to the coast. Bear in mind that the Awhitu Peninsula is tidal, so remember when you're swimming or heading out on the water, the tides can change quickly. What to pack? Definitely bring your camera, fishing gear, a windproof jacket (as it's prone to a strong coastal breeze), and a picnic lunch (as there's not too many shops and cafes out this way). Certainly the Awhitu Peninsula got the "thumbs up" from us. A beautiful spot indeed.
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