I f you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for a weekend afternoon, Duder regional Park a few kilometres past Maraetai could be just the place for you to visit. Situated on the Whakakaiwhara Peninsula looking out towards the Coromandel, the park offers a choice of walking options. The farmland option provides expansive views of the Hauraki Gulf, with one walk taking about 1i/2 hours and the otherabout 1 hour. However the day we went we chose the short walk soft option along the coast line. The peace and tranquility we encountered, with hardly another soul around made the 50 min drive from Auckland well worth while. There are public toilets at the park entrance, and clearly marked maps available. There are signs warning about leaving valuables in the car, which is a useful reminder.
