Hobsonville Point

If someone had said to you 10 years ago that there would be a whole new township on the North Shore of Auckland that would have access to the CBD by ferry, that would house thousands of new families, have two new schools, various eateries and a farmers market. You would have said ‘Yeah right!”

But the ongoing development of what was the RAF base in Hobsonville continues to grow in size and popularity. It is now home to one of the most popular coastal walkways on the North Shore and has a good selection of cafes and eateries. It’s kid and dog friendly and is pushchair, pram and cycle friendly too.

If you have never been to Hobsonville Point then here are some must do’s to enjoy your day:

Top 3 things to do at Hobsonville Point:

Coastal Walkway

The coastal walkway is a 5km path that is mainly flat and comes round in a big loop. The track follows the peninsula’s shoreline and cuts across various townships from one coast to another. It takes in the bustling waterfront at Catalina Bay which is home to the farmers market and has a choice of amazing eateries including Little Creatures Brewery and Siamese Doll. The walkway continues through ‘Bomb Point’ with views overlooking the harbour and round to the ‘Rifle Range’ where you often see the local community playing table tennis or partaking in some Tai Chi. There are various playgrounds that you can stop at during the walk making it fun for the whole family.

The track is perfect for walkers, cyclists, prams and dogs!

Download your map here, grab your walking shoes or your wheels and do the loop.

Source: cbfarmersmarket.co.nz

Catalina Markets

The Farmers Market is located at Catalina Bay and is fully covered so sheltered from all weather conditions. It is located on the waterfront and has ample parking in the surrounding area. The market has local produce, artisan baked goods, doggy treats, candles and more. There is also ready to eat treats from resident food stalls.

The market is open Wednesday through to Sunday and a night market is held on the third Thursday of every month.

Eateries at Catalina Bay

There is something for everyone at Catalina Bay from Fish and Chips on the wharf to fine Dining at Fabric Cafe. The newly opened Little Creatures Brewery is a bustly bar and eatery that is full of action and fun. It is located in the newly restored Sunderland Hangar that is a heritage gem which has recently been restored to house this new micro brewery.

If beer is not your thing then try out the delicious Siamese Doll where you can enjoy great Asian food in a relaxed atmosphere. Or there is Fabric Cafe which enjoys waterfront views it’s a bustling cafe during the day and a stunning Bistro at night.

Besides these things there a numerous playgrounds and picnic spots around the township including a small waterpark for young kids and Harrier Point playground with BBQ’s for lazy Sunday afternoons.

Take some time out and explore – you won’t regret it.