Waitākere Ranges & Arataki Visitor Centre
Waitākere Ranges
A primeval rainforest range on Auckland's western edge. The Arataki Visitor Centre's viewing platform overlooks the rainforest and Manukau Harbour.
The Waitākere Ranges Regional Park covers about 16,000 hectares. Its kauri, tree ferns, and coastal cliffs make up Auckland's “backyard.” It's about a 30-minute drive along Scenic Drive to the Arataki Visitor Centre. Here you'll find a carved Māori gateway, a “picture frame” viewing platform, trail information, and a short rainforest loop. From the centre you can see Manukau Harbour and the rolling sea of forest. Some tracks have been closed for long periods to control kauri dieback, so check the regional park's official website before you set out. The visitor centre is free. Continue west from here to reach Piha, Karekare, and other west coast beaches.
Opening hours
Visitor center 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Kitekite Falls
- Piha Beach
- Auckland Zoo
- Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT)
- Te Henga / Bethells Beach & Lake Wainamu
- Mount Eden
- Auckland Harbour Bridge
- Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill & Cornwall Park