LOCAL ATTRACTIONS DIRECTORY
The following are just some of the great attractions Waiuku and the wider Franklin area have on offer. For full details on each attraction, including opening hours and pricing, please contact the attraction directly or view their website.
Awhitu Regional Park
Brook Road, Awhitu 2684 www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/
Wander freely over parkland pastures, explore the wetlands and enjoy the safe and sandy beaches. There are a number of walking tracks available to explore.
Awhitu Wines
31 Greenock Drive, Awhitu Peninsula
09 235 1465
www.awhituwines.co.nz
Take a drive up the Awhitu Peninsula and call in at Awhitu Wines for a leisurely boutique wine tasting in a picturesque setting. Check their website for opening times.
Glenbrook Model Railway
99 Morley Road, Waiuku 2681 www.facebook.com/glenbrookmodelrailway/
Pop in to see the Glenbrook Model Railway, with 800m of track, spiral climbs, multiple factories and buildings for just a $2 donation. Selected days only.
Glenbrook Vintage Railway
Glenbrook Station Road, Glenbrook
09 236 3546
www.gvr.co.nz
Take a trip aboard the historic Glenbrook Vintage Railway steam train through the countryside from Glenbrook to Waiuku township.
Hunua Ranges Regional Park
Hunua Ranges Regional Park Falls Road, Hunua 2583 www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
This natural playground includes bush-clad ranges with streams, waterfalls and magnificent vistas. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the falls, or avoid the crowds by finding your own secluded picnic spot on one of the other walking tracks in the park.
Karioitahi Beach
Located just below Castaways Resort.
Enjoy a romantic stroll hand in hand along this expansive beach. Feel the warm black sand under your feet, admire the rugged coastline and the picturesque waterfalls that trickle down the cliffs.
Leafy Hollow Lavender Farm
66 Duff Road, Waiuku 2682 www.lavendergarden.nz/
Leafy Hollow is a two-acre garden, gallery and lavender nursery. During the blooming season it is truly spectacular to wander among the rows of lavender.
Manukau Heads Lighthouse
759 Manukau Heads Road, Manukau Heads 2684 https://www.manukauheadslighthouse.org.nz/
Approximately 45 minutes drive from Castaways Resort and open to the public at all times - free of charge although donations towards the upkeep are always appreciated.
Pleasant Valley Blueberry Farm
69B Awhitu Gully Road, Manukau Heads 2684 www.blueberries-pleasant-valley.co.nz/
Enjoy a fun, family-friendly outing on the way up the Manukau Heads to pick your own fresh flavoursome blueberries.
Pollock Co-Op
2141 Awhitu Road, Pollok, Awhitu Peninsula
09 2352225
www.facebook.com/pollokarts/
For art and craft enthusiasts, the Pollok Art & Crafts Co-op is well worth a visit. Glassware, ceramics, jewellery, fabric art and a sculpture garden can all be found at this boutique gallery.
Ratahi Cruises
11 King Street, Waiuku 2123 0272 689 482 www.manukaucharters.co.nz/
Enjoy timeless cruises on the Waiuku River & Manukau Harbour onboard Waiuku’s vintage boat - the Ratahi. There is lots to see and explore including discovery cruises and fishing charters, with all ages abilities catered for.
Spookers Haunted House
833 Kingseat Road, Kingseat 2580
https://spookers.co.nz/
Spookers Haunted Attraction Scream Park takes you on a trip through the scariest, creepiest, most-blood curdling attractions outside of America. Located in an old psychiatric hospital, Spookers is only 25 minutes drive from Castaways Resort.
Waiuku Forest
Wilson Rd, Otaua 2682 www.mpi.govt.nz/outdoor-activities/waiuku-forest/
Waiuku Forest is a sand dune pine plantation forest on the northern mouth of the Waikato River. Recreational opportunities in the forest include horse trekking, walking, picnicking, and fishing.
Waiuku Golf Course
1 Racecourse Road, Waiuku 2123 09 235 9489 www.waiukugolfandsquash.com/
The Waiuku Golf course is an 18-hole course that rarely closes and is playable right throughout the winter. Located just 7 minutes drive from Castaways Resort, the club boasts friendly members and a challenging course. Visitors are welcome.
Waiuku Museum
13 King Street, Waiuku 2123 09 235 8698 www.waiukumuseum.wordpress.com/
A local landmark run by volunteers, Waiuku Museum offers a pioneer experience with permanent and changing displays of Maori and early colonial artifacts reflecting the area’s maritime and agricultural past. Take a stroll around hstoric buildings in the vicinity of Tamakae Reserve, including the Second Maioro School, Pollok Cottage and Hartmann House.
Wrights Watergardens
128 Mauku Road, Patumahoe 2678 09 236 3211 www.wrightswatergardens.co.nz/
Wrights Watergardens are built around the historic Mauku Waterfall and stream. A different scene emerges each day, from the ever-changing selections of trees, shrubs and native plants. Waterlilies, lotus and iris all flourish in this stunning setting.
