There are so many things to do in the Waitakere Ranges that you probably will want to stay for more than a day. If you need accommodation in Waitakere then the Oratia Bed and Breakfast is perfectly located.

To help you plan your trip we’ve put together a top 10 list of our favorite places to visit and activities. If you would like our assistance to organise any of these before your visit please let us know.

1. 1.Arataki Visitor Centre - would recommend a visit here early on in your visit as it provides a good introduction to the area, introduces you to some native wild life and offers spectacular views of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park.
   

2. 2.Arataki Nature Trail - a 1.6km (1hr 15mins) walk through native bush, which also includes a wonderful glade of mature kauri.
   

3. 3.Te Henga (Bethells) - a 4 km (2 hr 30mins) easy wander along a shallow sandy stream. You go past towering sand dunes which lead to Lake Wainamu where you can enjoy a swim.
   

4. 4.Piha - this popular surfing spot is an absolute must place to visit whatever your age! The view around the last corner before you start your descent down to the village is stunning and there are plenty of easy walks if you prefer not to hit the waves. Surf lessons can be booked or you are welcome to borrow our buggy boards.
   

5. 5.Whatipu - remote and windswept this is a stunning beach and has some fantastic walks to offer visitors. Bring a camera as the scenery is totally awesome!
   

6. 6.Lopdell House Theatre and Gallery - The Titirangi Theatre is located in 'The Basement' of Lopdell House and has regular shows and comedy nights. To check out what’s on go to www.titirangitheatre.co.nz. In the upper part of the building you’ll find the West Auckland's Regional Art Gallery. Open daily from 10am-4.30pm. A short distance from the gallery is the restored house of New Zealand's most famous modernist artist, Colin McCahon.
   

7. 7.Kiwi Valley Farm Park - one for the kids or animal lovers this farm lets you get up close to cuddle and feed the animals. Entry also includes horse riding and tractor rides. There is a cafe next door which serves lovely cakes, snacks and warm dishes.
   

8. 8.Muriwai Gannet Colony - a windswept rugged coastline, 60km of surf beach and rolling dunes of black sand characterise Muriwai Beach. Muriwai is home to a range of birds but it is the gannets that most visitors come to see. The birds return to Muriwai between July and October. December is an exciting time as chicks clamour for food and parents nosedive spectacularly into the water. During spring look out for fur seals for sunbathing on the rocks below the gannet colony.
   

9. 9.Rose Hellaby House - the house is worth a visit just for the stunningly spectacular views of Auckland and beyond including both Manukau and Waitemata harbours. The bush clad property was once owned by Rose Hellaby and is now part of the Waitakere Regional Parks. Grounds open daylight hours 7days a week. Shop open on Saturday & Sunday & Public Holidays 10am-5pm.
   

10. 10. Vineyards - designate a driver and then go wine tasting in the wineries and Vineyards of the Henderson Valley, Waimauku and Kumeu Districts of West Auckland. Trips can also be arranged so you don’t have to worry about driving. Many of the vineyards also have beautiful restaurants and grounds.
    

Other things you may also like to check out are:

1. •Woodhill Mountain Bike Park
   

2. •The Rain Forest Express
   

3. •Piha Canyoning