See a different side of Auckland on a relaxed, private full-day tour from the city and waterfront, through the Waitākere Ranges and lush native rainforest to the rugged volcanic black sands of Piha on Auckland’s west coast.
Start by exploring Auckland’s inner city with a local guide, taking in famous sights, historic suburbs, volcanic viewpoints and a few hidden gems. Around midday, there’s an hour of free time to grab lunch and explore before we head west.
Travel through the Waitākere Ranges to Arataki Visitor Centre for sweeping views across the rainforest and Tasman Sea. Continue through the bush to Karekare Falls for a short walk and a chance to try kawakawa tea with New Zealand honey.
Our final stop is Piha Beach, where you can walk the black sand, see Lion Rock and take in the rugged coastline before heading back to Auckland.
Travel in comfort in a private Mercedes-Benz V-Class, with pickup and drop-off from your Auckland CBD accommodation or cruise ship terminal.
Please be ready at your confirmed pickup location and clearly visible to your guide at least 5 minutes before departure.
Hotel pickups:
Wait inside the main hotel lobby, near the entrance, so your guide can easily locate you.
Cruise/Port pickups:
Please wait at the designated passenger pickup zone and keep an eye out for your guide.
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.
We begin by passing the Auckland Ferry Building, a distinctive 1912 waterfront landmark that overlooks the harbour and marks the heart of the city’s transport and trading history.
Follow Auckland’s iconic coastal road with wide views across the Waitematā Harbour as we make our way toward Mission Bay.
A beautifully landscaped clifftop reserve offering sweeping views across the Waitematā Harbour. Explore the memorial to Michael Joseph Savage and and learn why this is one of Auckland’s most significant viewpoints.
Stop to enjoy one of Auckland’s favourite beaches. Feel the sand beneath your toes, admire the pōhutukawa trees along the shoreline, or take a moment to photograph the view across to Rangitoto Island.
Explore the heritage glasshouses, including the Tropical House and Cool House, before walking down into the tranquil Fernery tucked into an old quarry beneath the gardens.
Take a short walk to the summit for sweeping 360-degree views over Auckland’s skyline, twin harbours, and volcanic landscape.
Once a Māori walking track along the ridge and later one of Auckland’s busiest shopping streets. Today, as we drive through, you’ll see a vibrant mix of heritage buildings, street art, LGBTQ plus culture, and the colourful nightlife the road has long been known for.
The heart of Auckland’s CBD, where 19th-century architecture meets busy retail, theatres, and business life. As we drive through, you’ll see how the city has grown from its early colonial beginnings to the modern metropolis it is today.
We pass this 1911 Edwardian Baroque landmark beside Aotea Square, known for its clocktower and beautifully restored concert hall.
Enjoy approximately 1 hour of free time around the Sky Tower to have lunch or as you choose.
Stop at Arataki Visitor Centre for some of the best views over the Waitākere Ranges and out towards the Tasman Sea. Take a wander around the viewing decks, have a look at the impressive Māori carvings, and learn a little about the area’s natural and cultural history. It’s also a good spot for a quick bathroom stop before we continue down to the west coast.
Explore Karekare Falls, a beautiful 30-metre waterfall hidden within the lush Waitākere Ranges. Take a short rainforest walk to the falls, then relax with locally sourced kawakawa tea sweetened with Native New Zealand honey — a unique taste of New Zealand surrounded by ancient native forest.
At Piha Beach, step onto Auckland’s iconic black-sand coastline and take in the dramatic west coast scenery. Learn how the volcanic sand was formed, explore the shoreline, and enjoy views of Lion Rock and the rugged cliffs. There’s plenty of time for photos, fresh sea air, and soaking up Piha’s wild coastal atmosphere.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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