Whatipu

The Whatipu area is a Scientific Reserve owned by the Department of Conservation and managed on behalf by the Auckland Regional Council.

It is a spectacular area of coastal dunes and wetlands. It is also the breeding ground for endangered species such as the New Zealand Dotterel. Due to its status as a scientific reserve no dogs are permitted at Whatipu.

Swimming is not recommended at Whatipu beach as the surf and tidal conditions are extremely dangerous.

Whatipu Lodge

Whatipu, at the entrance of the Manukau Harbour, is best known for its remoteness and natural heritage values - its windswept sand dunes, wetlands and wildlife. This unique landscape, now part of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, has long attracted visitors seeking a wilderness experience.

Whatipu Lodge, nestled against the steep hills at the back of the beach flats, has provided accommodation for sightseers for nearly a century. The 'Lodge' is actually a collection of buildings. The oldest of these is the Gibbons homestead, with its characteristic steep-pitched roof. It was built in about 1867 during the days of timber milling, by mill manager Nicholas Gibbons. At this time the shoreline was more than a kilometre closer than its present location.

As supplies of accessible timber became depleted, the Gibbons family turned to providing accommodation for tourists to supplement their income. In 1910, two new accommodation blocks and a kitchen/dining room were added. The old post office and wharf shed that once sat on a wharf alongside Paratutai Island was shifted to add to the complex.

Another early building that forms part of Whatipu Lodge was once a dairy, where milk and cream were kept and made into butter and cheese. Later, road access was built to Whatipu and during the 1930s and 40s further developments included the addition of a tennis court, billiard table, and further accommodation at the Lodge.

Today, Whatipu Lodge remains a significant part of the cultural history of the Waitakere Ranges. The Lodge is operated under lease from the Auckland Regional Council, and with its charm and sense of history it continues to be popular retreat for Aucklanders.

Please note Whatipu Lodge runs on an alternative energy system and does not have mains power, so there are no washing machines, freezers or microwaves.

Booking enquiries

Contact:
Whatipu Lodge
PO Box 60416
Titirangi
Waitakere City
New Zealand

Telephone: 09 811 8860
Email: whatipulodge@xtra.co.nz