Auckland Day Trips

Great options available

There are some great options available within Auckland which are perfect for a day trip or get away from home. Check out the following suggestions…..

Matakana
There are some great options to please all in Matakana. From the Saturday morning Farmers Market to great walking tracks, a cinema, arts & craft shops, cafes, wineries, beautiful beaches and more.

Rangitoto
You probably can’t call yourself a true Aucklander unless you’ve climbed Rangitoto. Pack a sandwich and a drink, good walking shoes and some sunblock then catch the ferry across to the iconic island for an adventurous day out. If you don't want to walk, you can do a ferry sightseeing tour instead.


La Cigale
The French Market La Cigale in Parnell is a lovely outing for families and friends. Perfect for croissants, cheese, and all other things deliciously French. Parnell also has some lovely quirky shops worth popping your head into while you're there.

Waiheke
Ah there’s so much to do on Waiheke, and if it has been a while since you were last there, make sure you give this option a tick. From multiple wineries, to cafes and restaurants, arts and crafts, glorious beaches and bush walks, it’s worth spending more than a full day here - in fact, stay overnight and take advantage of all that Waiheke has to offer.

Waiwera Pools
The Waiwera Hot Pools are a great day out for the kids with the hydro slides and a fun activity pool. There is a café on hand, as well as a great BBQ area, so you can plan your own family lunch. Great for birthday parties too. Located in the Hibiscus Coast.

Vineyards
Auckland has some fantastic vineyards which are all equally as satisfying for a day of wine tasting and lunch. Take your friends and a designated sober driver. Favourites include Coopers Creek, Artisan Wines and Soljan’s Estate.

Piha
One of Auckland’s most popular destinations, Piha is the perfect destination for hanging with friends or showing off one of our black sand beaches to international visitors. Chose to swim (between the flags); climb Lion Rock; take a long leisurely walk; pack a picnic; or have lunch at the Piha Cafe.

Auckland Zoo
When was the last time you went to the Zoo? There are over 700 animals at Auckland Zoo, so consider a day out wandering about, seeing what the animals are up to and take along a picnic.


Otara Flea Market
The bright and colourful Otara Flea Market is a great activity to get up nice and early for on a Saturday morning. Fresh fruit and veges, knick-knacks, cultural items and other great bits and pieces. Give it a go.

Karekare
Renowned for its views, Kare Kare is a beautiful beach on the west coast of Auckland. You can go horse riding, take a surf, enjoy a day of sunbathing, or take a bush walk and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Devonport
Devonport is a charming sea-side village just 15 minutes by ferry from downtown. There is so much to do there - you can choose to climb North Head for gorgeous views and  browse the tunnels, enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many cafes, or walk along to Cheltenham beach which offers golden sands and an amazing view of Rangitoto island.
 

Muriwai & Bethell’s Beach
Another glorious beach, Muriwai, just outside Kumeu is very peaceful with wild waves and hot black sand.  It’s worth climbing the stairs to take a look at the Gannet Colony. Pack a picnic or pick up an ice cream from the kiosk. Nearby Bethell’s Beach is also a great day trip option.

Long Bay
Long Bay beach is a lovely destination and makes a great excuse to pack up the family and head over the bridge for a day of bonding. There’s a great picnic area with BBQs, a playground for the kids, spots for frisbee throwing, and plenty of parking space.

Kawau Island
If you’re keen to see dolphins and kangaroos in Auckland, you’d be wise to take the ferry across to Kawau Island. You can also take advantage of canoe and kayak options, snorkelling, bush walks, take in Mansion House or visit the nearby Tiri Tiri Matangi Bird sanctuary. There is a café/restaurant which is open most days.

Mission Bay
Another of Auckland’s favourite beach side spots, Mission Bay is chocka full of cafes, bars and restaurants, all conveniently located close to the beach. Nearby bays St Heliers and Kohimaramara are great spots for a day in the sun.
 

Editorial by Nicholas Chidley