About Awhitu

Longing to Return

Those familiar with the area understand why Awhitu is said to mean ‘longing to return’.

The Peninsula is 40km long and 8-10km wide, a total of 22,000 hectares - predominantly rural with a mixture of dairy, beef and sheep farming as well as some horticulture and exotic forestry.

It comprises some 900 households and has a population of approximately 2,400 - this swells considerably through summer and at weekends with many people enjoying the Harbour bays, Awhitu Regional Park and the dramatic west coast - Tasman beaches such as Karioitahi and Waimatuku.

There are over 600 baches on the Peninsula, which is a representation of ‘middle New Zealand’ - the District School has a decile 6 rating.

In recent times the restored Manukau Heads lighthouse has become a popular drawcard for tourists. Awhitu Peninsula is often mentioned as one of the top places to visit by Auckland publications such as the Weekend magazine. Visitor numbers are estimated to be 30,000 a year and growing.

Awhitu, in Franklin, is now officially part of Auckland. Closest towns are Waiuku and Pukekohe - one of the fastest growing areas in New Zealand.

The cultural diversity of the region is reflected in a dynamic and varied artistic community.

Awhitu Peninsula offers a country lifestyle and spectacular scenery, increasingly with a touch of city sophistication.