Reaching Birkenhead is easy. Whether you travel five minutes over the Harbour Bridge by car or enjoy a relaxed a 10 minute ferry ride from Downtown Auckland, Birkenhead is the ideal spot for the easy-going traveller to revel in some of New Zealand’s best preserved heritage.
Ferries arrive at the Hinemoa Street wharf - one of the oldest streets in the area, which leads directly to the local shops and the Birkenhead Shopping Centre. Many of the buildings are historic with good examples of early architecture in Queen Street, Hinemoa Street and Palmerston Road.
For some of the most stunning views in Auckland make sure you visit Birkenhead Point. Ferries run regularly throughout the day and are an easy and affordable way to travel to this stunning location.
If you are looking to do something outdoors, Birkenhead boasts many wonderful walks along beaches and through local reserves. The Chelsea Sugar Refinery in Colonial Road is well worth a visit as is the adjoining Chelsea Estate Heritage Park. Drive down to the water’s edge and enjoy this unique setting before heading back to the main street and sitting back and enjoying a cappuccino at one of the many local restaurants and cafés.
Hot Spots
Chelsea Estate Heritage Park - this newly opened public park is a stunning place to walk, tramp or sit and enjoy the view across the Harbour to downtown Auckland.
- The main entrance to this amazing Heritage Park is Colonial Rd. in Birkenhead.
Birkenhead Wharf - take a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland to this hub of Birkenhead and enjoy a leisurely stroll to shops and cafes on Hinemoa Street.
- Follow Hinemoa Street to the water and you will find yourself at Birkenhead Wharf.
Little Shoal Bay - experience one of the most spectacular unobstructed views of Auckland from this quaint park. Enjoy sunset with a picnic and a bottle of wine.
- From Hinemoa Street in Birkenhead, turn left onto Maritime Terrace Road and head down the hill to this picturesque bay and park.
