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Offered languages
- English
- Spanish
The tour combines Auckland’s rich history, spectacular coastal scenery, native wildlife, and hidden local gems in a single unforgettable experience. Unlike standard sightseeing tours, we take you beyond the city to explore iconic destinations such as Dacre Cottage, the Ōkura Bush Walkway, the historic Riverhead Tavern, and the world-famous Muriwai Gannet Colony. Along the way, you'll discover beautiful landscapes, learn fascinating local stories, and have opportunities to see native birds and wildlife in their natural habitats. With a relaxed pace, personalised commentary, and a focus on authentic Auckland experiences, this tour offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and history that few visitors get to experience.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please meet outside the main entrance of the Auckland Sky Tower, our number plate will be either LIMOU1, LIMOU2 or LIMOU3
Itinerary
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1
Dacre Cottage, built around 1855 on the shores of Karepiro Bay, is one of Auckland’s oldest surviving colonial homes. Originally part of Captain Ranulph Dacre’s Weiti Station, the restored cottage offers a glimpse into the region’s early farming and settlement history. Nearby, the Ōkura Bush Walkway follows a scenic coastal route through native forest, estuary margins, and sheltered bays within the Long Bay–Ōkura Marine Reserve. The track features beautiful stands of pōhutukawa, pūriri, nīkau palms, and regenerating native bush, with stunning views across the estuary. The area is rich in birdlife, including tūī, kererū, pīwakawaka (fantail), silvereyes, kingfishers, New Zealand dotterels, variable oystercatchers, and stilts. Together, Dacre Cottage and the Ōkura Walkway offer a unique blend of history, wildlife, and natural beauty.
1 hour 45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Located on the banks of the upper Waitematā Harbour, The Riverhead Tavern is New Zealand’s oldest riverside tavern, with a history dating back to 1857. Once a vital gateway for travellers heading north before roads and railways were established, it remains a treasured heritage landmark. Today, visitors enjoy its historic character, waterfront setting, and relaxed hospitality. York Terrace, the picturesque road leading to the tavern, overlooks the Rangitopuni River and reflects the charm of the historic Riverhead township. The surrounding waterways and mature trees provide habitat for a variety of birdlife, including kingfishers, pūkeko, shags, tūī, kererū, silvereyes, and welcome swallows. Together, The Riverhead Tavern and York Terrace offer a unique blend of history, scenic beauty, and natural wildlife.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included -
3
Perched on Auckland’s rugged west coast, the Muriwai Gannet Colony is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular wildlife attractions. Located within Muriwai Regional Park, the colony sits atop dramatic coastal cliffs overlooking the Tasman Sea and the region’s iconic black-sand beaches. Each year from August to March, more than 1,000 pairs of Australasian gannets (tākapu) gather here to nest, raise their chicks, and perform their distinctive courtship displays. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from dedicated viewing platforms and watch the birds soaring effortlessly on ocean winds. The area is also home to white-fronted terns, kingfishers, and occasionally little blue penguins and fur seals along the rocky coastline. Combining remarkable wildlife, dramatic scenery, and unforgettable coastal views, the Muriwai Gannet Colony is one of Auckland’s premier natural attractions.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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