TRIP 2 AUCKLAND The Hunting Lodge Winery © Todd Eyre RIGHT, BOTTOM: Kaipara Coast Gardens © Kaipara Coast Plant Centre & Sculpture Gardens
TRIP 2
a journey west to
Wellsford
Auckland to Helensville via SH 16 near Woodhill Forest 41min, 47.9km
W
ind your way out west on SH 16 through northern Waitākere to discover the country charm of Kumeū. There are many adventures to be had in Woodhill and Riverhead Forest and the pleasant stretch of highway that runs alongside the Kaipara Harbour.
Helensville to Wellsford via SH 16 49min, 57.3km
In Māori, Helensville is known as Te Awaroa, or ‘the valley of the long river’ in reference to its location on the banks of the Kaipara River, at the southern edge of the vast Kaipara Harbour. Stay and explore the harbour itself. Your journey finishes in the pleasant country town of Wellsford, gateway to Northland at the junction of SH 1 and SH 16.
76 |
M U S T D O ’ S • A UCK LA N D
SIDE TRIP
Ease into the open countryside just outside Auckland city where you’ll find exceptional local produce in the small hubs of Kumeū and Waimauku.
Wellsford to Kaipara Harbour via Port Albert Rd, Wharehine Rd & Run Rd 21min, 22.2km
