Beautiful parks and reserves, picturesque beaches, an air force base and multiple recreational facilities are only some of the many things that make Upper Harbour such a wonderfully diverse area.
Located just 30 minutes from the city centre, the Upper Harbour Local Board area is made up of a unique blend of urban, coastal and rural environments, offering locals and visitors alike an exceptional experience.
The many popular reserves, such as Sanders Reserve and Luckens Reserve, are great for family picnics, exploring, or just soaking up the view on a fine summer’s day.
Over the last few years, there have been a number of successful initiatives in the area including two new skate parks in Greenhithe and Albany along with new 3-on-3 basketball courts in Pin Oak Reserve.
Improved local parks include the updated facilities at Bill Moir Reserve in Whenuapai, and the Faraway Tree art project at Sanders Reserve in Paremoremo.
The old Sunderland Lounge has recently reopened for community use by the growing Hobsonville Point community.
Other projects soon to be completed include the development of the Albany Community Hub in the Albany Domain, an adventure playground in Harrowglen Reserve, and the Albany Stadium Pool swimming facility due for completion in summer 2016/2017.
Local board chair Lisa Whyte says the area has something for people of all ages and interests.
“It’s a really great area to call home with something for everyone. Our area is becoming increasingly diverse and provides a range of quality lifestyle options, attractions and facilities. With so much to do and see, why wouldn’t you want to be here?”
Suburbs include: Albany, Greenhithe, Hobsonville, Paremoremo, Whenuapai, Northcross, Pinehill, Rosedale, Unsworth Heights and Herald Island.
Upper Harbour population: 53,670 people or 4 per cent of Auckland’s population.
Educational, cultural and sporting facilities: QBE Stadium, Albany Tennis Park, Massey University, the AUT Millennium Centre and Unitec.
Great things to do in Upper Harbour:
- Indulge in some retail therapy at Albany’s modern metropolitan shopping centre
- Venture out to Hobsonville Point to enjoy the delectable produce and food at the weekend farmers market
- Wander through the beautiful Paremoremo Scenic Reserve to admire the largest bush reserve on the North Shore
- Try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking around Herald Island
- Enjoy a coffee at the Plain Sailing Café, which overlooks the picturesque Hobsonville Marina
- Cycle the various trails at Sanders Reserve and picnic at the mysterious Faraway Tree
- Try your hand at riding the BMX track in Rosedale
- Spend a day horse riding at Greenhithe and Rosedale’s famous pony clubs.
Best kept secret: The mysterious ‘Faraway Tree’ at Sanders Reserve in Paremoremo. An old Macrocarpa tree has been transformed into an enchanting visual story about the history of the 41 hectare reserve overlooking the top of the Waitematā Harbour. Not only does the tree portray various animals and significant local people, but also features a trunk cave big enough for adults to crawl into!
Check out OurAuckland events for local up-and-coming events and keep informed with what is happening in the Upper Harbour Local Board area by following the local board on Facebook.
