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Although first established in the mid
eighties, the Orua Bay Bird Park was not open to the public until late in
1996 when the Bird Cage Tearooms was added. Since then both the park and
the tearooms have enjoyed growing popularity with people visiting from all
over the country and from many other countries as well.
Private coaches bring visitors and tourists
from all parts of Auckland (just over an hours drive
away)
and elsewhere, not only allowing groups to spend as much time as they like
among the birds, but offering them the opportunity to experience the
sights of the Awhitu peninsula without the need to provide their own
transport.
Owned and operated by Carolyn Gibb, the
Bird Park and tearooms are open to the public every weekend and public
holidays 10 am to 5pm, and also open every day during the summer holidays.
Visitors are equally welcome at any other time by appointment, a simple
phone call is all that's needed.
Our
park has ample off-road parking for coaches, buses and cars. Tour groups
and functions of all sizes can be catered for, although visitors are
welcome to bring their own lunches and use the outdoor picnic tables in
the park if they wish. Gas BBQ's are available for hire on site.
The Tearooms are operated strictly in
accordance with Council regulations for health and hygiene, and all food
is carefully prepared and is of the highest standard.
Clean toilet facilities are provided,
including toilets for disabled people, and a
ramp up to the tearooms from the park allows easy access for people in
wheelchairs.
The Awhitu peninsula itself is one of
Auckland's best kept secrets. Nearly 40 km long
with
boundaries on the beautiful Manukau Harbour to the east, and the Tasman
sea at the west, it offers spectacular views, and has beaches to suit
everyone, from wild west coast surf beaches to tranquil sandy beaches.
Other attractions in the area include, the
ARC park and golf course, Awhitu Herb Gardens, Signal Station and Lookout,
and Earthlee - Awhitu Bush Walks. Accommodation is available at the Big
Bay Fishing Lodge & Motor Camp, Longacre Cottage and West Coast Jade.
Crafts availabe at Waitui Crafts.
Swimming and fishing are excellent on the
peninsular. Bush walks can be arranged as may accommodation at the nearby
Orua Bay Motor camp or at a variety of other places including farm stays
and private cottages.
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