The Waitakere ranges was one of the biggest draw cards for my husband and I to settling out West…read morewhen we moved here last year from Australia. The West of Auckland has a hit and miss reputation, but that is ok, so does Tasmania in Aus where we were living for the last five years. We have managed to go camping out in Whatipu, Waitakere Ranges, once so far, visited most of the beaches, and done a couple of tramps around the bush a bit closer to the city side. No major, hard-core tramps/camps for days on end, but more leisurely 'park the car day trips' kind of thing. I would highly recommend going with the kids if you are interested too, there is a variety of walks set out that would suit many levels of fitness. It is also well maintained with conservation awareness well set up, so taking the kids would be educational as well as the many other blessings you get when you go.

This past Easter weekend, my family and I spent two of the four days travelling across the…read moreWaitakere ranges. First visit was to the amazing Bethells Beach to get through the ranges, we had to start our journey at scenic drive, merging with Te Henga road, and then Bethells road which travels up the northern ridge of the ranges. We travelled through the beautiful cascade Kauri zone (where if you're keen for stretching the legs walk the 8 km track to see the biggest Kauri trees in Auckland) and finally arrived at the west coast- Bethells Beach. The drive is purely scenic as its name describes, and nature at its finest. The other journey I took was to Huia and Whatipu Beach, We started at Titirangi, and following signs headed towards the southern part of the ranges, first you past turn off's for Cornwallis, Huia and once in Little Huia, follow the Whatipu road which climbs up into the forest before plunging down towards Whatipu and the beach- this road is gravel and very twisty so be prepared for the drive. I really enjoyed my adventures through the ranges and loved the scenery and beaches I found.

If there was a competition to find the coolest beach swing I would have to say Titirangi would win…read morethe prize. My family, and everyone we bring to this beach-side park, agree that the rope swing which can take multiple swingers is a great ride. The rest of the playground is ok too, lots of equipment for the littlies. There is a wide grassy expanse adjacent to the park and then there is beautiful Titirangi Beach itself. This is a tidal beach so if you want a swim it is best to search out the Manukau Harbour timings. Wear shoes if you are walking the beach at low tide because the oyster shells are really sharp. Speaking of low tide, this is a lovely time to explore the bay and shore line. We bring our dog and can spend hours here. So close to Titirangi village that the takeaways are still nice and hot when you are unpacking them on the picnic blanket. We have also had a great time or two in the Titirangi Beach community hall.

We almost bought a house at Titirangi beach a couple of years ago and when the auction went…read moreanother way I was devastated. Titirangi beach is truly incredible. There are two sections for parking and a nice stretch of grass positioned opposite another separate grass field for sports play. There is also agreat little playground with some awesome swings. The playground is reached by going over top of a little creek that runs past the grass area. The beach itself is really nice too. Although in my opinion it is not a beach for sun-baking, swimming and spending the whole day chilling though. I see it as more of a beach made for a family picnic, a sweet stroll or a walk with the dog. Still it is a lovely beach.

Great gym facilities like pool and a variety of equipment…read more Just joint looking forward

If I loved gyms, I might take a serious look at Club Physical…read more Why wouldn't I because the sign on the main road says "first month free, no joining fee". How good is that! If I loved gyms there is so much to take advantage of at this Club Physical. I'd be assessed by a personal trainer on day 1, weighed (eek) and taken through the gym routine. They've got a circuit of machines, separate weight room for the ladies (great) and loads of classes to take advantage of. If I loved any of these classes I could really take advantage of things like step classes, flex weight class, boxing, spin, pilates, yoga, abs (exhausting just looking at the list, I feel the kilos sliding off me already). But what can I do, I love tennis! I'd still recommend this gym because they offer so much for the membership.

Pretty good off lead dog park. Could benefit with some more fencing and definitely needs some…read moredrainage sorting out, it's a bit muddy in places in winter but great in summer. Even has an agility area constructed where your dog can go through tunnels, through hoops etc. The park itself also has areas for humans to train, do chin ups etc off a well formed track around the reserve, with dense native bush in between. Fenced children's playground area.