Gateway to north beckons
Monday, 12 February 2007

Our Homes Today

Warkworth has long been a popular choice for retirees keen to finally say goodbye to the daily bustle of Auckland’s sprawling metropolis.

However, the Rodney township, barely an hour’s drive north of the CBD, is also considered a viable commute for professionals dependent on the city for work but who prefer to go home at night to a more peaceful lifestyle.

Furthermore, it is a great holiday idyll serving nearby beach communities such as the likes of Omaha, Leigh, Algies Bay and more.

Yes, Warkworth ticks all the boxes. It is ideal for those who don’t want true rural isolation but are seeking a friendly, small town environment with a wide range of shops, services, eateries and nearby vineyards.

Being close to attractive East Coast beaches and still surrounded by unspoilt countryside, it is often considered the gateway to the north and at weekends or holidays it is usually a flurry of visitors. Many stop for a breather before heading to the far north while for others it is the perfect place to pick up provisions before turning towards The Sandspit, Snells Beach, Leigh, Matakana and Omaha.

And in town there is plenty to see and do. Bordered by the Mahurangi River, Warkworth is pretty indeed. The Lucy Moore Memorial Park is a favourite “pit stop” for motorists wanting lunch or a coffee break. Sitting on the banks of the river, feeding the ducks is sure to induce a mood of relaxation then take a peaceful ramble along the river walkway and boardwalk – it’s a must.

Of course, Warkworth has a variety of excellent cafes and restaurants – Queen Street Corner Café and Gallery was judged runner-up in Café magazine’s 2006 Best Regional Café Awards. For those staying a few days there are plenty of attractions such as nearby Sheepworld, Parry Kauri Park, Warkworth & District Museum, The Honey Centre, horse-riding, canoeing, golf, and the town’s heritage trail.

<!--page--> For women in a mood for retail therapy check out shops such as Peggy’s Place in Riverview Plaza for hats and accessories or Gaby’s, with its range of smart women’s wear. Then pop into the newly opened Imelda’s for shoes or, perhaps, Warkworth Shoes and don’t forget to call at well-known Dorothy’s where the fashions are aimed at more mature clients. Be sure to wander the side streets too.

Shoppers will, of course, find everything from gorgeous antiques through to books, jewellery, stylish menswear, furniture and European woven tapestries. There is an Internet café in town and for those seeking accommodation there is plenty to choose from including the likes of romantic guest house, Bridge House Lodge, a landmark since 1854 or Walton Park Motor Lodge, which is handy to the village and has a swimming pool, SkyTV and room service breakfast.

When it comes to the arts there are no end of surprises but one studio visitors should visit is that of artist and tutor, Hugh Brading’s on Matakana Rd.  Recognised for his beautiful watercolours depicting bold, colourful florals from his garden as well as local landscapes, Brading’s paintings have found their way into homes all over the world and many of his works have been printed onto placemats, greeting cards, serviettes and dinnerware.

And if you’re thinking of moving to Warkworth or purchasing or building a holiday home in the area then there are excellent real estate and construction facilities such as Ray White Bogue Warkworth and Jennian Homes.

Obviously, there is much more to see and do in Warkworth and the best way to discover its multitude of charms is to first visit the Information Centre at 1 Baxter Street. There visitors will find copious information and brochures on a wealth of facilities and activities all designed to make any stay in town a sojourn to remember.