Awhitu Peninsula, Auckland Overview

Awhitu is a beautiful peninsula stretching towards the North Island of New Zealand. The Peninsula is an elongated mass of land extending towards the north of the mouth of the Waikato River. The Peninsula is filled with adventure and action-packed activities and is a perfect summer escape with tranquil beaches and scenic views.

The Peninsula is 50 kilometres long and 10 kilometres wide, with not more than a population of 2500, which doubles during the peak season. Awhitu is one of the most famous peninsulas of New Zealand due to the magnificent Manukau lighthouse, which provides breathtaking views from the top. The Peninsula is also home to exotic wildlife. Some endemic species include seabirds, hawks, wild deers etc.

Activities to Do

The Peninsula has many things to explore and relish. Right from witnessing the wonderful architecture to soak oneself in the beautiful beaches, Awhitu has almost everything to make your vacation worth spending. Awhitu Peninsula is full of adventurous activities to do. Right from witnessing the architectural heritage, to blooming in the sun at the black-sand beaches, Awhitu has covered them all.

Kayaking
Awhitu peninsula is a well-known spot for enjoying the thrilling water sports like 'kayaking'. With mild tides and temperate water, Karioitahi beach near the Peninsula tends to be the best spot for Kayaking.

Camping
The Peninsula offers a perfect camping ground with aesthetic views and gorgeous weather year round. Barbeque is also available over there for rent and hence no one is required to bother about it.

Trekking
Climbing up the ridges and elevated areas of the peninsula give a spectacular and panoramic view of the beautiful city. Trekking through the trails is a must when in Awhitu.

Swimming
Kids can enjoy swimming in the natural pool as the water has low and steady tides, safe for the younger ones.

Shopping
Awhitu country market ought to be the perfect destination to pick up natural goodies like fine oils, organic produce, health and beauty products etc. The market is laid on the last Sunday of every month.

Places to Visit

Karioitahi Beach
A black-sand beach, located approximately at a distance of 33 KM, from Awhitu Peninsula is a must visit. The iron-rich sands of the beach are ideal for various adventurous activities like hand gliding, Paragliding, Blokarting, Surfing etc.

Awhitu Regional Park
The park is a tranquil space to be at. It is full of sandy beaches and has got exciting wildlife to witness. One can have lovely nature walks through the park and also have the thrilling experience of bird watching.

Awhitu Wines
It is a beautiful vineyard, located near Greenock drive of Awhitu Peninsula. One can pop into this place to indulge in some of the finest local wines.

Manukau Heads Lighthouse
The spectacular Manukau heads lighthouse is one of the most astonishing historical sites located in Waiuku area, an easy walk from the Awhitu Peninsula. It is one of the few lighthouses in New Zealand that is accessible by tourists, to go inside and see the inner workings and enjoy the gasping beauty of the sea.

Awhitu Golf Club
It is a 9 hole golf course, located somewhere in the middle of the Awhitu Regional Park. It is an ideal location to spend some alone time, as it isn't crowded on the usual days. The club is open on Sunday and Wednesday and moreover, it also provides space for weddings, and social occasions, catering up to 100-120 people.

Best Time to Visit

Awhitu peninsula is best experienced if visited during summers. One can enjoy the water activities and have fun on the sandy beaches of the peninsula during this time. January tends to be the busiest month in Awhitu, and also one of the hottest months with an average temperature at around 22°C.

If one wants to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene landscapes, February ought to be the best time to visit Awhitu, when one can fully enjoy the beaches and other sports activities. This month also welcomes the Chinese New Year Lantern festival, that lights up almost the entire city and makes it an enchanting experience for the visitors.

How To Reach Awhitu Peninsula

Peninsula is approximately 95 kilometres away from the main city of Auckland and takes about 65 to 70 minutes to reach there by road.
The Peninsula is easily approachable by road, as one can hire a cab or rent a car from the city to explore the enchanting view from the Peninsula.
The roadway to the Peninsula is gorgeous, surrounded with natural beauty while the road winds around the Tasman Sea, giving you unparalleled views of the ocean.