Easy way to Whangarei?

[Ascott]

Okay, I'm headinging to whangarei on Fri 28th Dec, I would like to miss all the shit parts, like Orewa (80kph) and Dome valley same, thinking of going 'thru helensville to welsford, is the turn off from the motorway easy to find/which one? I will probably gas up at bombay, is there an easier way from there? I expect to arrive at Bombay around 11ish(am) If anyone can help I would be most greatfull! regards all Al

[paturoa]

If you want to go via Helensville it is quite easy.

Come up the southern wmay and just before the city is the New Market Vaiduct (fecking big bridge).

Get in the left hand lane and stay in it.

Follow the big green overhead signs (don't change lanes) for Helensville (16).

There is one tricky piece where this lane splits into 2 about 1km further up - go right.

There is an off ramp to get onto the North Western mway (DON'T follow the sign that says Whangarei.)

Once on the North Western go to the end of it which is a T intersection, go left and follow the signs.

Ride safe.

[Taz]

There's lots of nice gravel roads up behind riverhead and puhoi as well they are always good for a blast.

[Laava]

There is an awesome stretch of road from Paparoa to Mangapai and back to SH1 about 10km sth of Whangarei. The Paparoa-Oakleigh Rd in fact! Turn right just as you get to Paparoa and follow your nose. Will add on about 15min as you have to initially head towards Dargaville thru Maungaturoto to Pap on SH12. You will thank me for it and in fact I can make myself available so you can buy me a beer! Have fun!

[Ascott]

Thanks Paturoa, that was what I wanted to know, thank you ! Anthrax gravel does not suit super corsa tyres so will give that a wide berth but thanks and Laava always on for a beer! I may get up to Manganui to see a mate of long standing but not sure at this stage, bro is just north of Kamo staying with him 'till 2nd jan, who knows?
regards Al

[paturoa]

Thanks Paturoa, that was what I wanted to know, thank you ! Anthrax gravel does not suit super corsa tyres so will give that a wide berth but thanks and Laava always on for a beer! I may get up to Manganui to see a mate of long standing but not sure at this stage, bro is just north of Kamo staying with him 'till 2nd jan, who knows?
regards Al

Hey you norflanders - someone coming your way.