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FREE OFFICIAL GUIDE 2013

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76<br />

Things to<br />

see and do<br />

Head for the hills out west and experience the bush covered Waitakeres<br />

(Pg 58) There are great walks through native forests and along the wild west<br />

coast beaches – and don’t miss the gannet colony! Drop into the Arataki Visitor<br />

Centre (Pg 46) on Scenic Drive and they’ll point you in the right direction.<br />

Out on the water you’ll find the enchanting islands of the Waitemata (Pg 66-77).<br />

Get across to the Barrier (Pg 67-70) by boat or plane and relax on this sought<br />

after remote island. Closer to the city is Waiheke Island, with wonderful wineries<br />

and beautiful beaches, just 35 minutes away from Downtown.<br />

Up north begin by exploring the charming little seaside village of Devonport<br />

(Pg 55) then on to Orewa with its magnificent stretch of beach running the<br />

length of the Hibiscus Coast Highway.<br />

Just 20 minutes up the line you’ll find Puhoi (Pg 60) – an absolute gem with its<br />

old historic pub, great local cheeses and devonshire teas.<br />

Further north on State Highway 1 you’re just 20 minutes away from Leigh, Goat<br />

Island and Matakana, (Pg 62-65) with its world class wineries, fantastic farmers<br />

markets and New Zealand’s famous pottery Morris and James.<br />

Back in the City of Sails take a wander around the Viaduct harbour – that’s<br />

the home of the Super Yachts. Wine, dine and watch the world go by from an<br />

amazing choice of waterfront bars, cafes and restaurants. By the way don’t miss<br />

the local attractions (Pg 80-127).<br />

Head south to Clevedon Country (Pg 52) and make sure you visit Franklin<br />

Country with its stunning Awhitu Peninsula.

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