Arataki Visitor Centre (as it was)

The Arataki Visitor Centre is located near the Titirangi end of Scenic Drive (map – not even close to Bethells Beach as Google maps might want to tell us!).

The image (from May 2007) shows the centre in its full glory, complete with pou. Sadly, the carved wooden pole has deteriorated beyond repair and had to be removed. A replacement is expected by the middle of 2010. (For the new version, see the post of May 17, 2011.)

The Centre offers great views of the Waitakere Ranges and the Manukau Harbour from the viewing decks, knowledgeable personnel and information pamphlets, maps, souvenirs, and great information displays, including live weta and geckos. Across Scenic Drive, there are walking tracks with informative signs explaining the native flora of the bush.

Here is a view of the Visitor Centre from way below at the Lower Nihotupu Dam:

Arataki Visitor Centre from Lower Nihotupu Dam