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As we head into spring and summer, Waiuku will be preparing for summer crowds bound for Karioitahi Beach as well as many other popular seaside spots dotted along the coast of the Awhitu peninsula.
Pitstops for top ups are practically par for the course. While Waiuku is a thriving Franklin town in its own right, fair weather visitors will always find many a warm welcome with much to munch on the menu, including bars and restaurants such as the iconic, and historic, Kentish Hotel.
The town is rich in history. Manu whenua saw the advantages of the area. Thanks to the Manukau Harbour, it became a gateway for waka heading north via various portages while also being located close to the mouth of the Waikato River, a superhighway of its day.
In addition, the region was prolific growing country thanks to its rich, volcanic soil.
European settlers followed. They also saw the merits of the area, especially as an important trading and transport point, linking the area with Auckland.
For these reasons, there’s plenty for tourists travelling from far or near to explore.
From the Waiuku Museum and pioneer village at Tamakae Reserve, to the nearby Glenbrook Vintage Railway, the past is part of the present in this corner of Franklin.
History buffs will also find more historic sites to explore on the peninsula, such as the former Kohekohe Presbyterian Church and, of course, the picturesque Manukau Heads Lighthouse.
As both a great stop along the way or as a destination in itself, Waiuku has plenty to offer locals and visitors.
