In our first holiday after a long lockdown, we wanted somewhere that felt like an escape but wasn’t actually too far away. Enter, the Āwhitu Peninsula. Tucked at the bottom left of the Auckland region, it has golden and black sand beaches, and plenty to do for a relaxed weekend away!
Castaways Resort and Kariotahi Beach
Thanks to my wonderful London ex-workmates, we had a hotel voucher to spend and decided to enjoy a couple of nights of luxury at the Castaways Resort. On the cliff tops overlooking Kariotahi Beach, we rented a huge cottage and enjoyed the sweeping views out to the Tasman.
With two bedrooms including a peek at the sea, a huge lounge overlooking the sea, and a full kitchen with plenty of space, we really could have stayed much longer than a couple of nights.
We took a small hike down to this cliff top to watch the sunset – just stunning!
The smaller cottages are even closer to the epic view!
We also treated ourselves to a couple of courses at the on-site restaurant – delicious! As well as the restaurant, the resort has an on-site spa which was unfortunately fully booked for our weekend, and glamping as well if you visit in the warmer months.
Manukau Heads Lighthouse
A meandering 40 minute drive up the peninsula let us admire the views of the sea on both sides – the Tasman to our left and Manukau Harbour on our right. Our destination – a very cute little lighthouse at the tip of Āwhitu Peninsula.
It’s a replica of the original lighthouse which stood there from 1874. I can vouch for the detail, down to the skinny doors, and sports a lens dating back to 1929!
Just a little windy at the top of the Head!
Āwhitu Regional Park
Not far back down the peninsula is beautiful Āwhitu Regional Park. It’s on the Manukau Harbour side so its sheltered golden beaches are a real contrast to the black-sand western side.
Hiding in the trees is the historic Brooks Homestead, a kauri cottage dating back to 1907. Pretty amazing place to live, even completely off the grid!
This was an amazing escape for us – and it turned out it was just the start of our more local adventures, thanks to Covid!
Where’s your favourite local escape?
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