Piha is a seaside coastal settlement, one of several around a 50 minute drive from the Auckland Central Business District. We drive up through the Henderson Valley the historic pioneering heartland of the New Zealand Wine industry where many Croation winemakers settled and started out by harvesting the ancient Kauri Trees for timber and gum, an early export. Piha is famous for its volcanic magnetic black iron sand and is a very popular outpost to visit for locals and tourists alike. Travellers will stop at the Piha Lookout for magnificent views of the Settlement below before driving down and walking on the beach. The coastal Tasman Sea is very dramatic to look at, but also dangerous with rips and large waves and stormy weather conditions in winter. In summer it is a surfers paradise and has held host to the world under 16 surf championships. Enjoy time on both South and North Piha beaches and see the iconic Lion Rock.

Karekare is another settlement close to Piha in the Waitakere ranges. The waterfall is one of several beautiful natural falls a 15 minute walk into the rainforest. Within this protected forest, you will see a 500 year old Pohutukawa Tree, a species that New Zealanders colloquially call the native New Zealand Christmas tree, because it only flowers for one month in December. You will will see a broad range of other different native plants and trees including the native flax and unique "Silver Fern" New Zealand's most famous icon. At the foot of the falls there are several Nikau Palms, the world's most southerly growing Antipodean Palm Tree. Most of the pathway leading to the waterfall has been gravelled for safety. Occasionally in the fall you will see ducks and native eels that curiously come to the surface to look at people. The drive in the forest from Piha to Karekare is 20 minutes and the walk from the car park to the falls is 10 mins We spend around 20 mins by the Karekare falls.

Soljans Estate is a fifth generation family wine company established in 1937. Pioneers in New Zealand wine making, they produce sparkling Methode Traditionelle, Rose' Wines, Estate barrique fermented Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and a small amount of Pinotage. Their Marlborough grower supplies them with Gewurtztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. They produce barrel aged Syrah and Cabernet blends from Hawkes Bay and sweet sparkling Muscat from Gisborne. They also have an enviable reputation for their 10 year Tawny Port aged in giant 3400 litre handmade Totara casks. Soljans also have a souvenir shop and can arrange shipping of any of their wines to your door in Australia, the UK and the United States. You will try a minimum of five wines in the cellar door and Soljans aim to accommodate different palates and preferences on the day.