Arataki, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
Also known as Arataki Visitor Centre
300 Scenic Drive, Nihotupu
Check for open and closed tracks and help protect our kauri
We have closed large sections of the Waitākere Ranges to prevent the spread of kauri dieback.
When you visit our parks, you need to clean your footwear and equipment to avoid transferring disease from one area to another.
Find open and closed tracks and read about protecting our kauri.
About Arataki, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
The Arataki Visitor Centre is the gateway to the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, and the wider Auckland regional parks network.
Visit the Arataki Visitor Centre to:
- discover hiking tracks
- learn about cultural and ecological landscapes
- enjoy nature activities and art exhibitions.
An 11m kauri pou (post) welcomes you on arrival to Arataki. Carved by tribal members, the pou depicts the ancestors of iwi Te Kawerau ā Maki. This reaffirms their mana and guardianship of the ‘Great forest of Tiriwā' (Waitākere Ranges). The pou is one of the largest of its kind in New Zealand.
Opening hours
The centre is open from 9am to 5pm every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Connect with the Arataki Visitor Centre
Call Arataki Visitor Centre on09 892 4777
Contact Arataki Visitor Centre on their email"arataki.centre@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Visit the Arataki Visitor Centre Facebook page for up to date information on the centre and events.
Book accommodation at Arataki, Waitakere Ranges Regional Park
Lecture / meeting room for hire
We have a versatile room for hire. It has good natural light and overlooks the Waitākere Ranges. The bush clad decks and upstairs area are great break out spaces.
The room can take up to 50 people. It has kitchen facilities, a projector, screen, sound system, tables, and chairs available.
Email arataki.centre@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to book.
You need to know
Animals
- Dogs, other animals and pets are prohibited at all Auckland Council regional parks' bookable sites and accommodation. The exception is registered aid dogs. You will need to advise our staff at time of booking if you have a registered aid dog for an exemption.
- Dogs are allowed in regional parks only as stated in the dog walking section. All other animals are prohibited at all times, unless you have a permit issued by Auckland Council.
Alcohol
- Visible and excessive consumption of alcohol is prohibited.
- We may ask you and your group to leave the park and terminate your permit.
Smokefree regional parks
- Our regional parks are smoke-free.
- Please observe this while staying on or using our regional parks.
Waste
All our regional parks are rubbish free. Take all rubbish and recycling with you when you leave.
Outdoor fires
It is illegal to light a fire outside in all public areas in the Auckland region.
How to access Arataki, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
- Campervan access ‑ Summer: Self contained campervans can stay for one night in the SCC parking area. Winter: Self contained campervans can stay up to two nights in the SCC parking area.
- Sealed access road
- Mobility access (limited) ‑ There is limited mobility access at the visitor centre and surrounding park area.
- Gate access summer ‑ 6am to 9pm (Daylight saving).
- Gate access winter ‑ 6am to 7pm (Non-daylight saving).
- Pedestrian access ‑ Open 24 hours
- Security surveillance ‑ A CCTV system operates throughout the site.
What to see and do at Arataki, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
- Drinking water ‑ Fountain and taps outside toilet block near main car park area.
- Picnic table ‑ Three picnic tables available.
Map of Arataki, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
Map of Map of Arataki, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
Contact us to report a problem at this park