While Away at Wonderful Wenderholm

Certainly one of the most beautiful parks of Auckland, Wenderholm is a must for locals and tourists to see and spend a day this summer.

Wenderholm was the first Auckland Regional park that first opened back in 1965, taking its name from the historic homestead located there that was formerly called “Wenderholm” (winter home).  That same historic Couldrey House still sits in lovely tranquil grounds today.

The park is cradled by the Waiwera and Puhoi Rivers, with a forested headland abounding in native birds, perfect for birdwatching.

Plentiful shaded areas perfect for picnics (a small number of  electric and solid fuel BBQs are provided, but you would need to bring your own wood or charcoal) and games, with some tables and benches surrounded by sand, providing a secure sandpit of sorts for litte children. The beach, of course, is a natural attraction in itself.

Other activities that can be done at the Wenderholm Regional Park include fishing, viewing farm animals, kayaking, boating, dog walking (with restrictions), camping,  and walking.

If you’d like to spend more than a day at Wenderholm and don’t want to camp out, you can book a bach or small house on site for a maximum of 6 persons that’s complete with a galley kitchen, central living room, a large sun room/dining room on the sea side, and 3 bedrooms with access to the living room. The beach house, of course, has bathroom with shower, toilet, and sink.

Summer being part of the peak season (October to May), the bach hire is $120 per night. On off peak seasons, (June to September weekdays, except public holidays), the rental is only $80 per night. To book the bach or for more information, call the Auckland Regional Council at 09 3662000 or email parks@arc.govt.nz.

To get to Wendeholm, just drive on State Highway 1 towards north of Waiwera. From Auckland Central Business District, the distance is only about 48 kilometres, which will be around 40 minutes of driving.
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Photo credit: Cherry Themo-Fernandez