- “800 Words” was primarily filmed in the stunning Auckland Region of New Zealand’s North Island.
- The fictional town of Weld is based on real coastal towns in the Rodney District, including Helensville and Warkworth.
- Many outdoor scenes showcase picturesque beaches such as Karekare and Muriwai, highlighting New Zealand’s natural beauty.
- The show features local landmarks like the Manukau Harbour and Arataki Visitor Centre, giving viewers an authentic Kiwi coastal vibe.
- Filming locations are accessible for visitors wanting to experience the charm of New Zealand’s scenic west coast near Auckland.
Introduction to 800 Words Filming Locations
“800 Words” is a beloved New Zealand television drama that captivated audiences with its heartfelt storytelling and breathtaking scenery. Set in the fictional town of Weld, the show brings to life small-town charm combined with New Zealand’s striking coastal landscapes. We are a local Kiwi-owned rental car company based in Māngere, Auckland, and we know how important a good car is for a great trip, especially when exploring filming locations like those in “800 Words”.
In this guide, we’ll explore where “800 Words” was filmed, focusing on the real-world Auckland Region and surrounding locales that inspired the series. Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply want to discover beautiful parts of New Zealand’s North Island, this article covers the key spots and practical tips for visiting.
The Fictional Town of Weld and Its Real-Life Inspirations
The heart of “800 Words” lies in the quaint town of Weld, a fictional place with a strong community feel and captivating coastal views. The show’s production team chose several locations within the Rodney District in the Auckland Region to represent Weld.
- Helensville: A charming small town that provided much of the local vibe for Weld, with its friendly atmosphere and historic buildings.
- Warkworth: Another key filming spot, known for its heritage architecture and close proximity to the New Zealand coastline.
- Rodney District: The wider area encompassing these towns, offering diverse landscapes from beaches to forests.
These locations provide an authentic backdrop that captures the essence of small-town living on New Zealand’s North Island.
Coastal Beauty in 800 Words Filming Scenery
One of the show’s distinctive features is the use of stunning coastal scenery along New Zealand’s west coast. Several iconic beaches and bays feature prominently, adding to the show’s picturesque appeal.
- Karekare Beach: Famous for its wild black sand and dramatic cliffs, Karekare Beach is near Auckland and featured in several outdoor scenes.
- Muriwai: Known for its rugged coastline and gannet colonies, this beach offers sweeping ocean views seen in the series.
- Kaitarakihi Bay: A quieter spot providing serene coastal backdrops for reflective moments in the show.
- Piha: Although not a primary filming site, Piha’s rugged beauty is often associated with the region’s coastal vibe.
These locations highlight the natural charm of New Zealand’s North Island and are perfect destinations for visitors inspired by the series.
Key Landmarks and Natural Attractions Featured in the Show
Beyond beaches and towns, “800 Words” showcases several well-known landmarks and reserves that contribute to its authentic Kiwi setting.
- Manukau Harbour: A prominent harbour near Auckland visible in various scenes, providing a peaceful water vista.
- Arataki Visitor Centre: Located in the Waitakere Ranges, this centre offers panoramic views and is near filming locations.
- Titirangi and Henderson Valley: Suburbs with lush greenery and forested areas that add depth to the show’s outdoor scenes.
- Huia and Oratia: Small localities featured for their rural charm and natural landscapes.
Visiting 800 Words Filming Locations in New Zealand
If you’re planning a trip to explore the filming locations of “800 Words,” here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your journey.
- Rent a car in Auckland: We are a local Kiwi-owned rental car company based in Māngere, Auckland, offering reliable and affordable vehicles. Having your own transport is essential to reach the diverse filming spots spread across the Auckland Region.
- Plan your route: Key locations like Helensville, Warkworth, Karekare Beach, and Muriwai are within a 1-2 hour drive from Auckland city. Use a map to link these destinations efficiently.
- Check weather conditions: New Zealand’s weather can be changeable. Summer months offer longer daylight hours and better beach conditions, but always bring rain gear for the occasional shower.
- Respect local communities and nature: Many filming sites are in small towns or nature reserves. Please follow local guidelines and preserve the environment.
- Explore nearby attractions: Consider visiting the Arataki Visitor Centre or Titirangi arts scene to enrich your trip beyond the show’s locations.
FAQ
Where exactly was “800 Words” filmed?
The series was filmed mainly in the Auckland Region of New Zealand’s North Island, particularly in the Rodney District towns of Helensville and Warkworth, along with beach locations such as Karekare and Muriwai.
Can I visit the filming locations as a tourist?
Yes, many of the filming spots are public areas and towns accessible to visitors. Renting a car from Auckland is the best way to explore these locations at your own pace.
Is Weld a real place in New Zealand?
No, Weld is a fictional town created for the show but inspired by real coastal towns within the Auckland Region like Helensville and Warkworth.
What is the best time of year to visit these filming locations?
Summer months (December to February) offer warmer weather and longer days, ideal for beach visits. Autumn and spring are also pleasant but can be wetter.
Are there guided tours for “800 Words” filming locations?
Currently, there are no official tours dedicated to the show, but many visitors create their own itinerary using rental cars to explore the key towns and beaches featured.
What else can I do around the filming areas?
Besides visiting beaches and towns, you can explore the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, Arataki Visitor Centre, local art galleries in Titirangi, and enjoy New Zealand’s renowned outdoor activities.
Plan Your Visit to 800 Words Filming Locations
We provide reliable, affordable cars across New Zealand through trusted partners, making it easy to visit all the iconic spots from “800 Words.” Whether you want to take a coastal drive, stop at scenic beaches, or explore charming small towns, having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility and freedom to enjoy your trip fully.
Book your rental car with us today and discover the natural beauty of New Zealand’s Auckland Region, just like in the show. We are experienced travellers ourselves — we know how important a good car is for a great trip.
I’ve visited New Zealand before, and I must say, the scenery is breathtaking. However, I’m always a bit skeptical when it comes to TV shows exaggerating the beauty of a location. I’d love to see these spots for myself and judge if they truly live up to the hype.
I totally get what you mean! Sometimes TV shows make places look way better than they actually are. But hey, if it’s New Zealand, it can’t be that bad, right? Let’s plan a trip and check it out together!
Absolutely! New Zealand is truly stunning, and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed by the actual beauty of the locations. Planning a trip together sounds like a fantastic idea – let’s make it happen and experience the breathtaking scenery firsthand!
Absolutely! I couldn’t agree more. New Zealand’s beauty is truly unparalleled. Count me in for that trip – it’s definitely worth experiencing firsthand!
I totally get where you’re coming from. It’s always tricky when TV shows try to capture the essence of a location. Have you ever taken a trip to a filming location to see how it compares in real life?
I totally understand your skepticism! It’s always good to see it with your own eyes to know for sure. New Zealand is such a beautiful place, definitely worth a visit!
I completely understand your skepticism! I haven’t visited any filming locations yet, but it’s definitely on my bucket list to see how they stack up in person.
Wow, such gorgeous scenery! Can’t wait to visit these locations!
I’m glad you enjoyed the scenery in the show! New Zealand truly is a stunning destination with so much natural beauty to explore. If you ever get the chance to visit, you won’t be disappointed!
I know, right? It looks amazing! I’m thinking of planning a trip there myself.