Map of Warkworth

Warkworth is one of those places that lingers in the memory long after you have returned home.

Away from its busy streets and great shopping is the Mahurangi River with its open lawn area and car park. Drive down and enjoy the open space for a picnic, take a stroll along its boardwalk toward the shops and watch the boats go by.

Warkworth’s people are proud of their village and its strong heritage which goes back to 1853 – when Kauri trees dominated the area.

The village was named by John Brown 10 years after he arrived from the town of Warkworth in Britain. He bought more than 150 acres of land here, developed the area and created jobs by opening a timber mill. The nearby river was perfect for shipping Kauri logs to Auckland.

Visitors won’t go hungry or thirsty in Warkworth for there are plenty of places to satisfy any appetite. Eat in or take-away – the choice is yours.

While better roads make access to Warkworth easier, this patch of New Zealand has retained its traditional style – you can feel the olde worlde ambience as you walk along its streets featuring many fascinating buildings and stores.

For those who enjoy the great outdoors then Warkworth is sure to delight you. There are regional parks, plenty of wonderful coastline to enjoy swimming, and wide open spaces where you can clear away all thoughts of city life.

One park well worth visiting is the Tawharanui Regional Park. With 580ha to explore there is plenty of space to lose yourself – to enjoy a quiet moment with friends, family or a with good book – you choose.

Take your camera and you may be lucky enough to snap native bird life such as the Kiwi, Stitchbirds, Bellbirds and Oystercatchers in this protected area.

The local historical museum is well worth a visit too and on the way you may come across one of Warkworth’s two gentle giants – 1000-year-old Kauri trees surrounded by a boardwalk and bench. Sit in the shade of one of the trees and marvel at how this native wood was the backbone of this wonderful and interesting village.

Things to see and do

• Shopping

• Museum

• Riverside walks

• Great dining

• Regional park