BEST OF BOTH WORLDS – AUCKLAND CITY AND NATURE TOUR

We combine an Auckland city tour in the morning with an afternoon nature tour to the black sand beach of Piha and the rainforest covered hills of the Waitakere Ranges – a relaxed day of variety and a great introduction to Auckland and New Zealand.

Your morning Auckland city tour is designed to explore the history and sights of the city. Discover the Māori history of the city and see what makes our city a vibrant place to live. Auckland City is built around the beautiful Waitematā harbour and it is known as the ‘City of Sails’. This small group city tour includes stops at iconic landmarks such as The Auckland Domain, Devonport and Westhaven marina. There is also a stop at a cafe by a beautiful beach and lots of photo opportunities all day. Your local guide can answer and questions you have about what to do in the City.

Your afternoon nature tour is spent in the rainforest covered Waitākere Ranges. In just 30 minutes you leave behind the bustle of the city and step into the tranquility of the rainforest. On the way we make a short stop for you to buy some lunch at a local bakery – time for NZ food treats!

We travel to the Arataki Centre, an information centre built high on the ridge of the Waitākere Ranges. From here you get breathtaking panoramic views across the rainforest to Auckland’s two harbours. The visitors centre is also home to some traditional Māori carvings and your guide will talk about them and explain their significance for the area.

Continue on to the lush rainforest where your guide will take you on a guided walk on the easy tracks among giant tree ferns and view New Zealand’s famous kauri trees and silver ferns. Your guide talks about the unique natural history of New Zealand as we wander through the forest. With no snakes or ‘nasties’ in NZ this is a very safe environment!

We then move on to experience the power of the wild and rugged west coast. Feel the black sand of Piha beach beneath your feet as you stroll along one of the most awe-inspiring beaches New Zealand has to offer.

During the afternoon we also include a New Zealand style afternoon tea including Anzac biscuits, Mānuka honey and tea and coffee or juice.