Whatipu road is situated on the southern end of the Waitakere Ranges and runs from Huia to the Whatipu beach carpark. The road is well formed with only a small section dotted with a few potholes.
This is a pleasant ride but be mindful of tight turns and traffic as Whatipu beach can get busy. There is a campground at the end of the road that would be a cheap stopover ($7.50 Per Person / Cash Only) for those doing the Top 2 Bottom (T2B) Route.
Campsite details at: http://www.whatipulodge.co.nz/.
The GPX trackfile includes a 2nd track for a detour up Mount Donald Maclean Road which leads to a lookout point, however the final track is closed at present due to Kauri Dieback. Nevertheless this road affords nice views of Manukau heads and being a steep descent, is useful for practicing technique.
Contributed by: @daniel_fisher
Track type: Gravel Road
Track composition: Smooth, Firm, Undulating
Slippery when wet? No
Suitable for bikes <650cc? Beginner
Suitable for bikes >650cc? Beginner
River crossings? No
Whatipu/Mount Donald Maclean Road is closed from Little Huia until end of Jan 2022 for slip repairs. This is due to the heavy storm back in August.
Road still closed as of 05/12/2021