Takapuna, the beautiful suburb on Auckland’s North Shore.
Having lived and worked in this beautiful part of Auckland’s North Shore.
Takapuna, a vibrant beachside destination only 10 mins from Auckland’s CBD. Takapuna encompasses the best of everything. Laid-back Takapuna is known for its busy white-sand beach and seaside cafes serving amazing coffee. Lake Road, Anzac Street and Hurstmere Road form a triangle with some of the best Asian joints alongside lively pubs and student friendly nightclubs. Lake Pupuke is also a popular location especially when the weather is nice. Specialist stores in the area sell everything from designer clothing to New Zealand wine.
Takapuna is the unofficial ‘capital’ of Auckland’s North Shore. Shop for fashion, books, footwear and beauty products along Takapuna’s Hurstmere Road, and if you’re there on a Sunday, visit the lively market for fresh fruit and vegetables, crafts, furniture and antiques. The quieter next-door neighbour to Takapuna is Milford – a relaxed beachside suburbThe lake is a volcanic crater and a favourite spot for rowing, sailing and canoeing. Milford has many recreation reserves – Kitchener Park, Sylvan Park, Byrnes Reserve, and a boat marina.
There are so many things to do and see in Takapuna – Escape HQ, New Zealand’s best escape room and team building event venues where you can challenge friends, family or colleagues to hours of fun. Thrillzone Takapuna offer a fantastic range of indoor and outdoor VR games, adventures, simulators and more, perfect for kids of all ages.
The beautiful coastal beachside walk from Takapuna north to Milford – known as the ‘lava’ trail – can be walked at any tide, winding its way over rocks, along beaches, and interesting pathways, overlooking the Hauraki Gulf. The Takapuna-Milford walk is included in the Te Araroa Trail, a continuous 3,000 km walking track spanning Cape Reinga in the tip of the North Island and Bluff in the South Island. Setting off from Takapuna beach you will see at low tide, by the boat ramp, parts of a fossilised kauri forest, a very rare sight anywhere in the world.
Takapuna is home to commercial businesses including event managers Adrenaline Group, the headquarters of Provident Insurance and the global headquarters of SaaS software firm.
Takapuna Beach is also home to many sports clubs. The Takapuna Football Club in Taharoto Drive and the Takapuna Rugby Club in Akoranga Drive, just in front of the YMCA North Shore Recreational Centre. You can also find the Takapuna Tennis Club and Bowling Club in Bracken Avenue and the Croquet Club in Auburn Street. For those into golf, the Takapuna Golf Course is in Northcote Road.
When visiting Takapuna one can’t go past the neighbouring suburb of Devonport.
Exploring the underground tunnels, gun emplacements and fortifications at North Head is a must. The volcanic cone offers incredible 360-degree views over the Hauraki Gulf and across to the city – you can even take a segway tour to the top.
Take a wander through the local art galleries and see how the surrounding landscapes have inspired beautiful paintings and photographs (great if you’re looking for something special to take home). Browse boutique shops for unique, quality clothing and jewellery, then relax at one of Devonport’s casual-cool cafés and restaurants. Pop into the chocolaterie for handmade chocolates and truffles. There’s also a beautifully restored Victorian cinema if you fancy a flick.
And when it comes to beaches, gorgeous Cheltenham Beach is a winner. Slip off your shoes and take a stroll or a dip – the sheltered waters are perfect for families.