Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A 1.6km nature trail opposite the centre leads visitors past labelled native species, includ-
ing mature kauri.
Hillary Trail & Other Tracks
(
www.arc.govt.nz/hillarytrail
)
Arataki Vistor Centre is the starting point for this challenging
70km trail honouring Everest-conqueror Sir Edmund Hillary. It can be tackled in stages or
in its four-day entirety, staying at campsites along the way. Walkers head to the coast at
Huia, then continue past Whatipu, Karekare, Piha and Anawhata. From here continue up
the coast to Te Henga and Muriwai, or head through bush to the Cascades Kauri to end at
Swanson train station.
Other noted walks in the park include the Kitekite Track (1.8km, 30 minutes one way),
the Fairy Falls Track (5.6km, 2½-hour loop) and the Auckland City Walk (1.5km, one-
hour loop).
TRAMPING
Rain Forest Express
( 09-302 8028;
www.watercare.co.nz
;
280 Scenic Dr; 2½hr trip adult/child $25/12)
Departs from Jacob-
sons' Depot and follows an old logging track through several tunnels deep into the bush.
You'll need to book well ahead; check the website for the schedule. Less regular are the
3½-hour twilight trips (adult/child $28/14), offering glimpses of glowworms and cave
weta.
RAILWAY
Waitakere Tramline Society
( 09-818 4946;
www.waitakeretramline.org.nz
;
adult/child $15/5)
Runs four scenic trips every Sunday
that pass through a glowworm tunnel en route to the Waitakere Falls and Dam. Trips start
from the end of Christian Rd, which runs south of Swanson station. Closed temporarily at
the time of writing; check the website for the latest.
RAILWAY
AWOL Canyoning Adventures
( 09-834 0501;
www.awoladventures.co.nz
;
half-/full day $160/195)
Offers plenty of slippery, slidey,
wet fun in Piha Canyon and the Blue Canyon, including glowworm-illuminated night trips
($185); transfers from Auckland are included.
CANYONING
