VISIT FRANKLIN! An undiscovered part of south Auckland and North Waikato, starting at Papakura and stretching as far east as Miranda, as far West as Awhitu, and south as far as Hampton Downs and Waikaritu.

The Franklin district offers you the perfect weekend opportunity to relax, recharge and reconnect with the land, the Waikato river, and nature.  

Stop off in Waiuku at the Kentish Hotel for a meal and travel up to the Awhitu Regional Park in your motorhome or to camp in this idyllic spot complete with toilets, BBQs, and amazing fishing spots. 

Visit the Manukau Heads Lighthouse or take your 4WD to Hamilton’s Gap for the ultimate ride over sand dunes.  If you want more luxury, you can eat, play and stay at Castaways Resort at the incredible Kariotahi Beach or wine and dine in exquisite surroundings at Awhitu wines. 

The next day, take a cruise to see the sea lions, waterfalls, and rare birds aboard the Rahtihi which is moored in Waiuku Harbour.  Be sure to stop off at Leafy Hollow Lavender and take a picnic to the Waiuku Forest or visit the Pollock Arts Cooperative to take some souvenirs home.

If you exploring the Waikato River is something you’ve always wanted to do, check out Discovery River Cruises.

POSSIBLE ITINERARY

Day 1: Kentish Hotel, Manukau Heads Lighthouse, Awhitu Regional Park, Castaways Resort

Day 2: Rahtihi, Hamilton’s Gap, Leafy Hollow Lavender, Awhitu Wines

Day 3: Waiuku Forest, Pollock Arts Cooperative