The earliest inhabitants of the Karekare valley were people known as the Ngaoho who lived in the area for 300 years from the 13th century. The first European settlers arrived in 1845 clearing some of the bush to graze their livestock. Today a handful of people call Karekare home but being only 45 minutes from downtown Auckland it is a popular destination for day visitors. Beautiful bush walks, swimming, surfing and stunning scenery are all on offer.

Photographer: Scott Venning

Credit: New Zealand Tourism