WELLSFORD, TE HANA + KAIWAKA

Wellsford, Te Hana and Kaiwaka are a trio of small rural towns that provide ideal spots to stop and break up a car journey. Wellsford is the larger of the three and offers several takeaway shops, cafés and restaurants.

Photo: Kaipara Harbour

Photo: Atiu Creek

Dome Valley Summit Track Starting from the Dome Valley Tearoom, just north of Warkworth, the Dome Valley Summit Track is a 3-hour round return trip. For the first 40 minutes, the track ascends an impressive set of stairs and passes through a native forest. When you arrive at the lookout, you are treated to views across the Mahurangi Peninsula. You have a choice here to either turn around and head back or continue up the steep and rocky track to the summit – watch where you place your feet as the track is riddled with tree roots. You will be rewarded with stunning views across the valley if you push on through. Make sure you also spend time in the small clearing of the Waiwhiu Kauri Grove. This track crosses sacred Iwi land, so walkers must remember to stay respectful and on the trail. Atiu Creek Regional Park If you head west from Wellsford along Tapora Peninsula, you will enter Atiu Creek Regional Park, a working farm open for the public to enjoy. The park provides ample opportunities for an active holiday thanks to the 800 hectares of unspoiled rural land overlooking the Kaipara Harbour. Several shared tracks that weave around wetlands, native bush and rolling farmlands are popular for horse riders, walkers and mountain bikers. If you are planning to explore the park by horseback, you must have a permit from Auckland Council. If you want to extend your day trip, Courtyard House is a cottage complex that can sleep up to 23 people - this and the separate event building book up in advance, so be sure to check availability. There is also a basic campsite within the park near Solomons Bay. Self-contained vehicles are permitted to stay in the car park for one night. Horse paddocks are also available in both locations.