Nestled at the edge of the Waitākere Ranges, the Rainforest Retreat opens onto one of Auckland’s most dramatic landscapes. To the north, the Cascade Kauri / Te Piringa loop winds through kauri forest, along the Waitākere River and past cascades. Below, shifting black-sand dunes form a barrier that holds Lake Wainamu, a dune-dammed lake about two kilometres from the coast. A loop track circles the lake, leading over dunes, past Wainamu Falls, and through regenerating bush. A short drive away is Bethells Beach (Te Henga), a wild surf beach framed by cliffs and dunes. Just beyond lies Ōneils Bay, a quieter stretch of coast often known only to locals - especially on Friday nights with local music. From here, bush walks, birdlife, wild surf, dune-boarding and freshwater swims are all close at hand.