This coastal area on the Hauraki Gulf is only about half an hour north of central Auckland, and its beaches and attractions make it a popular weekend and holiday getaway for Aucklanders. It’s also a good weekend escape for backpackers working in Auckland, or for those who want to visit Auckland but don’t want to stay in the city. The main centre on the Hibiscus Coast is Orewa, a resort town with a good selection of dining and shopping options, and a nice 3km-long beach. Windsurfing is a popular activity in the area. An indoor winter-sports recreation centre called Snow Planet in the town of Silverdale has also become an attraction.
214a Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa
Bus 895, 895X
Tel (09) 426 0076
Website www.rodneynz.com
Open 9am-5pm daily
Stagecoach bus route 895 and 895X run hourly between central Auckland and Orewa. The journey takes just over an hour and costs $9.70. This bus also stops along the Hibiscus Coast and is a good way to travel between Orewa and Hatfields Beach. The short five-minute hop between Orewa and Hatfields Beach costs $1.60.
2D Hammond Avenue, Hatfields Beach
Tel (09) 426 8455
412 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa
Tel (09) 426 6338