Auckland

The Pohutukawa Coast Highway

Every Sunday (except Christmas) the Clevedon Farmer’s and Village Market bustles with arts, crafts, fresh coffee, and Instagram-worthy food stalls. Take the short path to Clevedon – half an hour or so from the CBD – and grab brunch when you get there. The pastries are a real favourite if you’re after something sweet, or tuck into Akemi’s Gyoza Japanese dumplings.

Once you’ve picked up some handmade gifts and prepared a picnic for the road with fresh bread and local produce, get some speed up on the cool straights of North Road as you head toward Duder Regional Park. (Heading this way later in the morning also keeps the sunstrike at bay). Stop here for a picnic and a walk through native bush, or at Maraetai and Beachlands and take in the famous Pohutukawa Coast. If you hit the coast during the summer, then of course you’ll have your pick of swimming spots.

It’s a beautiful section of lush coastline, equally scenic and peaceful. Great for a full-belly cruise, or to stop and walk the Pohutukawa Coast Trail through parkland and historical sites. Time your trip to come back for sunset and you’ll get some stunning views as you return to the city.