Takapuna New Zealand, Beach Getaway with Shopping and Markets
Travel to the North Shore of Auckland in New Zealand and spend the day in the sun, relaxing on one of the area beaches. Shop ‘til you drop at a designer store or one of the local markets. Take a culinary tour and explore International cuisine at one of the many cafes and restaurants. Experience adventure like a local and learn to kitesurf, or how to manoeuvre a stand-up paddleboard.
Lake Pupuke and Surrounding Beaches
Lake Pupuke is a heart-shaped, freshwater lake in a volcanic crater near Takapuna. This is Auckland’s only freshwater lake, and visitors love picnicking on its grassy shores, as well as other water activities like kayaking, rowing, sailing, and windsurfing. Recreational fishing is also popular, especially for rainbow trout. Birdwatchers enjoy looking for interesting species, including shags. Takapuna Beach, a crescent-shaped beach, is a popular recreation area for both locals and tourists alike. This vibrant destination is the nightlife hub of Takapuna. Featuring soft white sand, swimming, windsurfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding are popular activities. Guests gaze at stunning views of Rangitoto, a volcanic island, across the Hauraki Gulf. Visitors enjoy a picnic lunch while watching the yachts sail past. This family-friendly beach is one of Auckland’s most popular. Inns, hotels, and motels are located within minutes of the beach, but for the more adventurous, waterfront camping in a tent, modern cabin, or onsite caravan are fun options. Hikers can enjoy the Takapuna-Milford Walk near Milford Beach. Lasting roughly two hours, this walk is mostly along public roads and pathways, and highlights historical facts about the buildings in the area. It is known locally as Takapuna’s “Golden Mile.” Take this walk at low tide when the fossil forest is most visible. Milford Beach is also a very popular swimming beach, and is dog friendly so furry friends can romp and have a great time as well. Pack a picnic or use one of the public barbecues to grill up a tasty burger or hot dog.
Shopping and Entertainment
Takapuna’s famous Sunday market features a festive atmosphere as visitors stroll through the stalls and shop for fresh fruit, vegetables, crafts, furniture, and antiques. Visit early to get the best bargains, then rest and refuel with lunch at a nearby café. For a more modern shopping experience, visit Shore City in the heart of Takapuna. Here guests have access to 70 different stores, including many designer stores. There is ample parking and guests enjoy shopping for top brand-name fashions, food, and beauty products. Bring a swimsuit and towel, and take a short walk to the nearby beach. Browse upscale athletic apparel and women’s clothing boutiques along the Hurstmere Road shopping destination. Several theatres provide assorted entertainments. The PumpHouse Theatre offers performance arts and staged events, as well as arts related activities and a children’s theatre. Within walking distance to the beach, the Bruce Mason Centre hosts arts and entertainments ranging from the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra to popular comedians, ballet, dance, and family entertainment. For visitors looking for a more hands-on experience, the Lake House Arts Centre offers children and adult art classes, as well as weekend workshops, exhibitions, and public programs. A small gift shop sells artwork and jewellery. And the onsite restaurant features all day brunch, smoothies, and coffee drinks.
Food to Suit Every Palate
Takapuna is home to a vibrant and stylish dining scene offering an array of local and ethnic cuisine. Cafes, tasty takeaways, and stunning beachfront dining are centrally located. Restaurateurs cater to all tastes and dining styles, from relaxed bistros and cafes, to vibrant bars and modern restaurants. International flavours include sushi, Thai, Italian, Korean BBQ, seafood, pizza, and bakeries serving the freshest coffee. Along Lake Road, guests will find Korean and Chinese restaurants, while Fortieth and Hurstmere offers upscale dining. Visitors searching for affordable eats must explore The McKenzies Precinct. Other authentic cuisines include Mexican, Indian, Japanese, and Columbian. Perhaps the best way to discover why Takapuna is one of the best food areas is through The Big Foody Food Tours. These culinary journeys last over three hours, as guests stroll the streets of Takapuna while sampling treats along the way, including items like lamb sliders, handmade chocolates, and more.
Tours and Water Sports
For those anxious to experience New Zealand’s natural environment, Habitat Tours focuses on New Zealand’s natural wonders with day tours from Auckland to the Waitakere Ranges. Takapuna’s water sports school uses top-of-the-line equipment to provide windsurf lessons, catering to all abilities from beginner to advanced. Stand-up paddle boarding is a fun and easy sport for anyone to pick-up. Kitesurfing lessons are also available, and instructors focus on helping students learn quickly and safely while having fun. Equipment is available to rent by the hour, day, week, or even moth.