The 9 best day trips from Auckland: discover food, wine and outdoor adventure

Oct 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Woman paddling Kayak around the rock formations know as the Pancake Rocks on the west coastline at the town of Raglan, popular for leisure kayakers and paddleborders,Raglan,Waikato,North Island,New Zealand

Whether you're day-tripping by bus, ferry or your own car, there are plenty of amazing experiences within a few hours of Auckland © Peter Unger / Getty Images

Gold-mining history, island and coastal escapes, and outdoor (and underground!) adventures all combine for the best ways to enjoy a day trip from Auckland , New Zealand’s biggest city. And everywhere you go, there’s almost always the promise of good food, wine and beer.

Do some water sports in Raglan 

Why go? Surf, outdoor adventures and art

West coast surf combines with cafe culture and kayaking or paddle boarding on the sheltered waters of Raglan’s Whaingaroa Harbour. A bohemian band of local artists includes the diverse crew at Jet Collective , and Māori-influenced design from Simon Te Wheoro at his Toi Hauāuru Studio . 

How to get to Raglan:  From Auckland to Raglan is just under two hours by car. By public transport, travel by InterCity bus from Auckland to Hamilton, and then transfer to Busit route 23 linking Hamilton to Raglan from the Hamilton Transport Centre.

Have a food, beer and wine tour in Matakana

Why go? Breweries, beaches, and a brilliant farmers market

Visit Matakana’s excellent market  – held riverside on a Saturday morning – before exploring the region’s emerging wine scene or sampling craft beer at 8 Wired Brewing or the Sawmill Brewery . Essential summertime beach detours include Matheson Bay, and Anchor Bay on the nearby Tāwharanui peninsula.

Culinary tours including local cheese, oysters, beer, wine and chocolate are offered by Matakana-based Kiwiness Tours . It also runs after-dark walks to experience the kiwi sanctuary at nearby  Tāwharanui Regional Park .

How to get to Matakana:  Matakana is an easy one-hour drive north of Auckland. By bus with Auckland Transport takes from two to three hours (via Warkworth), but will involve multiple transfers.

Tourists strolling around an Italian-style garden, with individual flower beds separated by low hedges

Enjoy art and culture in Hamilton

Why go? Extravagant gardens and Māori culture

Highlights of New Zealand’s fourth-largest city include the superb Hamilton Gardens , featuring the entertainingly confounding Surrealist Garden, and the display of Māori taonga (treasures) at the Waikato Museum . After a hit of art and culture, adjourn to Duck Island Ice Cream for seasonal flavors, or shared plates at riverside cafe  Gothenburg .

How to get to Hamilton: By car, it’s an easy 90-minute drive south on SH1, and there are also regular InterCity bus services linking Auckland and Hamilton.  

Go glow worm spotting at the Waitomo Caves 

Why go? Exciting subterranean adventures

Board a boat to drift along an underground river in Waitomo’s historic Glowworm Cave , or embark on the "Only in New Zealand" adventure of black-water rafting . Wetsuits are mandatory for participants steering an inner tube over underground rapids and waterfalls. Other exciting options include cave zip-lining and rappelling with Waitomo Adventures .

How to get to the Waitomo Caves:  It’s a drive of 2½ hours from Auckland to the Waitomo Caves, or the destination can be combined with a longer visit incorporating Raglan or Hamilton (both one hour from Waitomo). Day trips from Auckland including the Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton can be booked with Bush & Beach.

A huge rock archway is a distinctive feature on a sandy beach

Have a soak in Hahei

Why go? Surprising coastal highlights on the Coromandel Peninsula

Embark on an easy kayak to Cathedral Cove , a spectacular rock arch on the edge of the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve. After rain, a natural waterfall sometimes flows from atop the arch. At nearby Hot Water Beach, visitors can dig themselves a natural hot tub in the sand around low tide. Pizza and beers at Hahei’s Pour House complete this Coromandel day trip.

How to get to Hahei:  Auckland to Hahei is just over two hours by car. From October to April, visitors to Cathedral Cove should leave their vehicle at the Park & Ride parking lot at the entrance to Hahei and catch the shared shuttle into town, where many kayak tours start. Go Kiwi  buses to Hahei run from downtown Auckland, also stopping to pick up passengers at Auckland Airport. 

See 19th-century heritage in Coromandel Town

Why go? Railway ride and forest adventures

Heritage 19th-century buildings reinforce the gold-mining history of Coromandel Town, discovered nearby at Driving Creek in 1852. Now the verdant valley incorporates the quirky narrow-gauge Driving Creek Railway  – with views all the way back to Auckland from the "Eyefull Tower" – and an exciting zip line swooping through a stand of regenerating native forest.

How to get to Coromandel Town:  Driving from Auckland to Coromandel Town takes around 2½ hours, but an alternative day trip option is to catch the ferry from downtown Auckland with Fullers360 . The journey across the Firth of Thames takes two hours, and incorporates a 15-minute minibus transfer to Coromandel Town. Transfers covering the short distance to Driving Creek are also available.

Two hikers wearing backpacks stride down a grassy path towards a sandy cove hidden by tall rocks on each side

Stroll the trails of Tiritiri Matangi

Why go? Native birdlife on an island sanctuary

Venture across the Hauraki Gulf to this predator-free bird sanctuary. Tiritiri Matangi’ s avian superstars are the squat and quizzical ​​takahē, a flightless bird found only on the island, in fenced predator-free sanctuaries, and in the most remote wilderness areas of New Zealand’s South Island. Strolling on the Tiritiri Matangi’s bush and beach trails may also reveal up to 30 other bird species.

How to get to Tiritiri Matangi:  Catch the ferry from downtown Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi with Fullers360. Fullers’ other island day-trip destinations from Auckland include Waiheke Island and  Rangitoto Island .

Enjoy the microclimate of Waiheke Island

Why go? Wine, beaches, and fine dining

Auckland’s island of wine is a favorite escape for city locals, drawn to Waiheke’s vineyard restaurants and a Mediterranean-style microclimate that’s equal parts southern Europe and southern hemisphere. Challenge yourself on EcoZip’ s zip line adventure, soaring high above vineyards and native bush, before a long lunch at the Spanish-influenced Casita Miro . 

How to get to Waiheke Island:  Catch the passenger ferry with Fullers360 from downtown Auckland, and then use the convenient 50A and 50B bus services from Auckland Transport to get around the island. You’ll need to buy a stored value AT HOP card to use on the bus. Car ferries with Sealink leave from central Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter and Half Moon Bay in east Auckland.

Have a beachfront meal in Waihi 

Why go? Gold-mining history and clifftop walking

Towering Phoenix palms and stately buildings line Waihi’s main street, a legacy of the quiet Waikato town’s gold-flecked past. Explore the region’s lustrous history at the award-winning Gold Discovery Centre , join a tour to learn about the sprawling Martha Mine, or divert to nearby Waihi Beach and tackle the Orokawa Bay walk high above the beach’s surf-trimmed arc. A late lunch or early dinner at Flatwhite 's beachfront location is recommended.

How to get to Waihi: It’s a drive of 1¾ hours from Auckland to Waihi, and then a further 15 minutes to Waihi Beach. InterCity buses linking Auckland to Tauranga stop at Waihi, but travelers then need to catch Bayhopper’s number 85 bus service from Waihi to Waihi Beach (Tuesday and Thursday only), or arrange taxi transport with Waihi Cabs . 

This article was first published March 2022 and updated October 2023

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Home » Travel Guides » New Zealand » 15 Best Day Trips from Auckland

15 Best Day Trips from Auckland

Often overlooked by tourists heading elsewhere in New Zealand, Auckland is well worth taking an extra couple of days to explore so you can experience the urban side of the country.

The city itself is full of multi-cultural cuisine and events, world-class specialty coffee shops and a wide range of New Zealand’s best boutiques.

There is also plenty of history – both colonial and indigenous – natural beauty and of course “fush ‘n chups” – a local delicacy that was imported by the British and perfected by the remaining Kiwis.

It is also a great city to use as a base whilst you explore other parts of the North Island, with most places in Northland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty being easily accessible from the city within a day trip.

Here are 15 of the best trips you can take from New Zealand’s largest city.

1. Hobbiton

Hobbiton, New Zealand

One of the most popular day trips for visitors to New Zealand, immerse yourself in the Lord of the Rings franchise in Hobbiton.

Here, you can explore the hobbit holes that were built for use in the Hobbit trilogy, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region.

You can also enjoy Lord of the Rings themed drinks at the Green Dragon Inn and sample some of New Zealand’s fine cuisine at The Shire’s Rest Café.

There is a guided tour around the complex which takes around two hours, but you are free to explore the area afterwards and, of course, get your photo taken in front of the hobbit holes.

Great combo tour : Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small-Group Day Tour from Auckland

2. Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo Caves is a large network of underground caves that are filled with glowworms.

You can enjoy the caves by taking a gentle boat ride throughout the complex, with a local guide explaining how the caves formed and a little bit about the glowworms.

There is also the opportunity to go black water rafting; you can get your adrenaline fix by riding a flume through the caves in the pitch black, with only the gentle glow of the glowworms to guide your way.

A great experience in a country famed for its adrenaline sports and attractions.

Amazing combo tour : Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small-Group Day Tour from Auckland

3. Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

A short boat ride away from Auckland Central Business District (CBD), you can opt to either enjoy the high-life of the city’s socialites or have a more down to earth experience with the local hippy communities.

Waiheke is well known in the region for its vineyards and there are plenty of wineries set in stunning spots across the island for you to sample the local wine.

There are many beautiful beaches around the island, several of which can be very secluded if you go at the right time.

We also suggest you try Waiheke Oysters at one of the many cafés.

Recommended tour : Waiheke Island Premium Food & Wine Tour with Platter Lunch

4. Piha, Karekare Rainforest and Waitakere Ranges

Piha, New Zealand

Known as Auckland’s Wild West, this region is only an hour away from the Auckland CBD and packed with natural beauty.

Piha itself is a small village with one of the most famous beaches in the country.

You can continue up the coast to Bethell’s Beach – where Taylor Swift once filmed her Out of the Woods music video.

Away from the beaches, you can enjoy some spectacular hikes through the Waitakere Ranges – a small mountain range formed by the Auckland volcanic fault.

These mountains are covered in forests – known locally as bush – with Karekare Rainforest being the most popular for experiencing the lush green beauty of New Zealand.

Suggested tour : Piha & Karekare Rainforest Wine Day Tour from Auckland

5. Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island

Also a short boat ride from Auckland CBD, Rangitoto Island is the largest volcano in the Auckland volcanic fault and can be seen from most areas of the city.

Get your hiking boots on to truly experience the best this island has to offer, including unique wildlife and lush forest areas.

Once you reach the top, you will be treated to great views over the Hauraki Gulf and towards Auckland City.

You can also take a small detour to nearby caves to discover more of the volcanic wonders this island has to offer.

If you don’t feel like taking a long hike, there is a small train that takes you most of the way up to the top of the island.

Please be aware there are no restaurants or inhabitants on the island, so bring some snacks and plenty of water.

Recommended tour : Rangitoto Island Volcanic Explorer Tour from Auckland

6. Coromandel

Cathedral Cove Beach, Coromandel

Just across the Hauraki Gulf from Auckland, a two-hour journey brings you to this secluded peninsula.

It is not as touristy as other parts of the country, so a great off-the-beaten-path option if you are looking to get away from the busier attractions.

The Coromandel Peninsula is a large mountain range covered entirely in ancient New Zealand forest.

There is an interesting train ride attraction where you can learn about the local pottery industry, and some of the smaller towns showcase New Zealand culture at its most raw.

We suggest checking out Paeroa on the way, to learn about the most famous local soda – L&P – named after the town.

Suggested tour : Coromandel & Cathedral Cove Day Tour

7. Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Located in the far north of the country, the Bay of Islands is another popular destination for tourists – particularly in the summer months.

It is one of the only subtropical areas of the country and this enhances the laid-back lifestyle of the local towns.

Head to the bay itself to experience one of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand, as well as try out some water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and jet-skiing.

In Russell, you can visit a Maori experience to learn more about the indigenous culture of the islands, and about the Treaty of Waitangi, which established New Zealand as a British Dominion.

Available tour : Bay of Islands Day Tour from Auckland with Historic Russell

Rotorua, New Zealand

A bit of a longer journey from Auckland, Rotorua is well worth the trip.

Centered around Lake Rotorua, the town (known locally as Rotovegas) is packed with adrenaline sports activities like parachute jumping, bungee jumping, and zorbing.

If you are traveling with kids, there is a very popular go-kart track that winds around the nearby hills, giving great views over the countryside.

There are great Maori cultural centers for you to experience the indigenous history and a native redwood forest for day hikes.

The town is the center of geothermal activity, making it excellent for visiting natural spas and checking out the steam.

It does also, however, give the town a very distinctive rotten-egg smell, so keep this in mind before you go.

Recommended tour : Waitomo & Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Gondola Ride

Taupo Lake, New Zealand

A little further south than Rotorua, but also well worth a visit, is Taupo.

The entire Lake Taupo region is a popular getaway destination for kiwis during the summer, thanks to the breathtaking natural beauty.

You can enjoy boat journeys – or even kayak rides if you’re up to it – to Maori carvings and secluded beaches by lakeside.

The town is also a short drive away from Tongariro National Park.

This is where the Mordor scenes of the Lord of the Rings were filmed and it is easy to see why, thanks to the desert-like almost lunar landscapes the region showcases.

There are free hot springs in the town park, but make sure only to enter pools which signs confirm are safe, as others are far too hot!

Raglan, New Zealand

Located on the west coast of the North Island, Raglan is a very popular destination for surfers.

Surfing is very popular across both New Zealand and Australia, and if you want to try your hand at the sport, this town is one of the best places in the world to have a go.

It is also surrounded by gorgeous native bush and mountain ranges for you to explore when you tire of the waves.

The cliffs provide great views over the Tasman Sea and the town of Raglan; with a little bit of effort and a short hike, you can discover secluded waterfalls with fresh water that you can bathe in and even drink from.

11. Villa Maria Estate

Villa Maria Estate

New Zealand wine is growing in popularity across the world, thanks to the great climate and dedication to quality given by local winemakers.

The Villa Maria Estate is located just outside of Auckland Central, close to the airport; however, we do recommend setting a day aside to visit the area.

The winery produces wine with grapes grown across the country in Gisborne, Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay, and Auckland.

You will be given samples of wine from all the regions and taught about how it is produced, as well as given the chance to make your own tasting notes.

This is a must for any wine lover visiting New Zealand.

Available tour : Villa Maria Estate Scenic Vineyard Odyssey

12. Matakana

Matakana

Located in the northern reaches of rural Auckland, Matakana is another area of natural beauty within a reasonably short trip from the city center.

Popular with foodies, there are plenty of great attractions in the region to let you discover the best New Zealand food has to offer.

The New Zealand Honey Centre will teach you all about Manuka Honey and the strict quality efforts that go into producing it.

You can sample local cheeses and wines at the Matakana farmers’ market.

On the way, stop in at the Puhoi Cheese Factory if you are interested in learning more about local dairy production.

13. Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga, New Zealand

Cape Reinga is at New Zealand’s northernmost tip, where you can see the Tasman Sea join the Pacific Ocean.

Here, you can learn about the combinations of European and Maori history, as well as about Maori mythology; this is a culturally important place for the local Maori people.

There is also an impressive 800-year-old Pohutukawa Tree – if you visit in the summer, you will be able to see it bloom with bright red foliage – a popular symbol for New Zealand and its people.

Continue south from Cape Reinga and you can check out 90 Mile Beach.

Here you can surf the sand dunes that line one of the largest beaches in the country, all while enjoying spectacular views over the ocean.

14. Tiritiri Matangi

Tiritiri Matangi

Another Hauraki Gulf island worth visiting, you can take a slightly longer boat trip from Auckland CBD to this protected nature reserve.

The island is packed with native birdlife thanks to major conservation efforts.

Many of the birds on the island can only be found here, and this is an opportunity to get up close to the unique wildlife of New Zealand.

You can visit the island at your own pace, or take a short tour which will teach you all about the birds that inhabit the island and how to identify their calls.

There is also a ferry to the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, which is home to secluded beaches and a laid-back café culture, perfect for you to experience the famous New Zealand flat white.

15. Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui

Located in the northern suburbs of Tauranga, Mount Maunganui is a major party town by night and a relaxed beach town by day.

There are plenty of options for you to try out surfing, kayaking, and jet-skiing on the beach which overlooks the Bay of Plenty.

You can also take a hike up Mount Maunganui itself to get one of the most famous panoramic views in the country.

On your way back to the beach, check out some of the top-notch cafés on offer in the city, which feature excellent Kiwi cuisine, well-crafted specialty coffee, and even alcoholic milkshakes if you are looking to really kick back and embrace the local life.

15 Best Day Trips from Auckland:

  • Waitomo Caves
  • Waiheke Island
  • Piha, Karekare Rainforest and Waitakere Ranges
  • Rangitoto Island
  • Bay of Islands
  • Villa Maria Estate
  • Cape Reinga
  • Tiritiri Matangi
  • Mount Maunganui
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  • pinterest-circled
  • youtube-play

The Best Day Trips from Auckland 🌤️🚗 [2024]

The top places to visit near auckland.

Auckland is more than just an urban jungle. It has nooks and crannies to explore in every direction, from the rugged beaches of the Waitakere Ranges to the volcanic islands of the Hauraki Gulf . Plan some epic day trips, whether it’s a self-drive day trip or a day tour, with this guide to the best day trips from Auckland.

Plus, head on over to The Complete Guide to Auckland for more trip-planning advice. Plus, find a place to stay using The 50 Best Accommodations in Auckland .

5 Best Day Tours from Auckland

Before we delve into the amazing self-drive and ferry day trips from Auckland, here are some of the Auckland day tours where you won’t need your own vehicle.

Guided Day Tours from Auckland

  • Coromandel Day Trip with Kiwi Day Trips (more info and book tickets on Viator and Tripadvisor )
  • Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Day Trip with Auckland Scenic Tours (on Viator , Tripadvisor and Klook )
  • Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour with Bush and Beach (on Viator and Tripadvisor )
  • Tiritiri Matangi Island Day Trip with 360 Discovery Cruises (on Viator , Tripadvisor and Klook )
  • Rotorua Highlights Tour with Cheeky Kiwi Travel (on Viator and Tripadvisor ) .

Alternatively, why not spend the day in Auckland following our one day in Auckland itinerary ?

Matakana and Goat Island

The best day trip from auckland for foodies.

Travel time by car : 1 to 1h15mins one way Relevant tour : Matakana Tour with Auckland Wine Tours (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor ) .

Venture north of the city to discover the tasty side of Auckland. The Matakana Coast is not only home to various wineries but also passionate artisans that come together for the all-famous Matakana Farmers’ Market every Saturday. Just 15 minutes north of Matakana is the Goat Island Marine Reserve , one of the best places in Auckland and go snorkelling or clear kayaking (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor ) .

For more activities in the area, check out the 10 Places You Can’t Miss on the Matakana Coast and 5 Fun Things to Do at Goat Island Marine Reserve .

Waitakere Ranges

The best day trip from auckland for families.

Travel time by car : 40 minutes to 1 hour one-way Relevant tour : Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour with Bush and Beach (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor ).

Escape the city to the wild side of Auckland on a road trip to the Waitakere Ranges . Home to a myriad of bushwalks, waterfalls and black-sand beaches, the Waitakere Ranges offer some of the most diverse scenery in Auckland. You’ll find short walks suitable for all ages, such as the Kitekite Falls Walk and the Mercer Bay Loop Track . Alternatively, just enjoy a great day at the beach.

For more ideas on what to do, take a look at the 6 Priceless Things to Do in Piha and Waitakere Ranges – Guide for Backpackers .

Rangitoto Island

The best day trip from auckland for budget travellers.

Travel time by ferry : 25 minutes one-way

Accessible via ferry from the Auckland downtown ferry terminal, Rangitoto Island is an easy day trip. Rangitoto Island was formed some 600 years ago making it Auckland’s newest volcano, which is evident through the lava fields and caves you can explore along the walking trails . Take your own lunch as there are no facilities other than toilets on the island.

For more information on this day trip from Auckland, check out The Guide to Rangitoto Island and Motutapu Island . Plus, see more island day trips in The 10 Best Islands in Auckland to Visit .

Waiheke Island

The best day trip from auckland for luxury travellers.

Travel time by ferry : 45 minutes one-way Travel time by helicopter/seaplane : 10 minutes one-way Relevant tour : Fly & Dine with Auckland Seaplanes (more info on Klook , Viator and Tripadvisor ).

Expansive beaches, vineyards decorating the landscape, and the glistening waters of the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island certainly provides a treat-yourself day trip. Either take the ferry from the downtown ferry terminal and hop on an island winery tour (more info on Viator , Tripadvisor and Klook ) or indulge in a flight and dine package (on Klook , Viator and Tripadvisor ) .

See the 9 Glorious Things to Do on Waiheke Island for more ideas for your Auckland day trip.

Hunua Ranges

The best day trip from auckland for couples.

Travel time by car : 50 minutes one-way

Another excellent city escape is the Hunua Ranges , which is Auckland’s largest tract of native forest. Find a picturesque waterfall, glowworms and verdant forest on its array of hiking trails. Some of the walks also lead to impressive reservoirs and dams, which make up much of Auckland’s water supply.

For more information on the Hunua Ranges walks, check out the Auckland Suburbs – Guide for Backpackers .

More About Auckland Day Trips

That’s it for the best day trips from Auckland. For more day trips, you might like to hit the following destinations:

  • 20 Auckland Parks You Can’t Miss
  • 5 Auckland Road Trips You Can’t Miss
  • 10 Wonderful Things to Do in Warkworth
  • 5 Fun Things to Do in Pukekohe
  • 10 Outstanding Things to Do in Orewa

Finally, find more experiences in Auckland using our  20 Best Things to Do in Auckland .

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.

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New Zealand Travel Tips

10 of the best day trips & getaways from Auckland – Perfect for quick breaks

Plan an adventure out of the city with our top day trips from Auckland.

New Zealand’s ‘City of Sails’ is stunning, and is of course a must-visit during any trip to New Zealand.

There are so many amazing things to do in Auckland but if you have a few extra days, it’s also the perfect base for exploring other areas of the North Island.

There are an array of scenic landscapes and rugged coastlines lying just outside the city, waiting for you.

In this article, we’re going to go through the most popular day trips from Auckland (and a few that can be organised within regional Auckland too).

Whether you’re looking for a good hike, to explore a movie set or a relaxing day on the beach – there will be something on this list for you!

The only question is where you will go first?

Some businesses are experiencing staffing challenges post-COVID. If you want to guarantee a space at a restaurant or attraction, we suggest pre-booking.

A man on an inverted position while riding the zip line in Rotorua Canopy Tours.

When you book through our links, you’ll often get a discount and we may earn a commission. Your support also allows us to run our Facebook community and create helpful content at no cost to you. Thank you!

Table of contents

Day Trips from Auckland

1. hobbiton.

One of the most popular day trips from Auckland is the famous Hobbiton Village .

Hobbiton is the original movie set from J.R.R Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in New Zealand. Fortunately, it’s accessible from Auckland.

During the tour, you’ll get to explore the Shire including the hobbit holes, see the party tree and walk down the same pathway that Frodo followed!

You can also get a pint of Oatbarton brew or Frogmorten ginger beer at the Dragon Inn.

Only guided tours can be taken into the set, but you are free to explore to your heart’s content once the tour has finished.

This place is a must whether or not you’re a fan of the Lord of the Rings franchise, as the set has intricate detail and the scenery is simply beautiful.

Hobbiton is a 2-hour drive from Auckland.

501 Buckland Road, Matamata 3472

A person knocks on the house of a small, blue, and circular door of the Hobbits.

2. The Coromandel Peninsula

The Coromandel Peninsula is a great day trip from Auckland. On a clear day, you can even see the peninsula from the city.

This area is very secluded and isn’t as touristy as some other parts of New Zealand. This makes it the perfect place to relax after a few busy days in Auckland.

The Coromandel Peninsula is a large mountain range covered in ancient forests, so you can imagine the views are pretty spectacular.

It’s also famous for its beautiful white-sand beaches with Hot Water Beach, Hahei Beach and New Chums being some of the most popular.

If you’re looking for more things to do then why not take a cruise out to Cathedral Cove, walk the Coromandel Coastal Walkway or visit Donut Island?

The Coromandel Peninsula is a 2.5-hour drive from Auckland.

A family making a pool on the beach by shovelling the sands.

3. Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo Caves are a large network of underground caves. It is also one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions with so many things to do .

The caves can only be visited with a guide who will give you information about the local area, the history of the caves and the cave formations.

You will then get to take a magical boat tour through the caves, where thousands of glowworms will light the way.

If this sounds a bit too tame for you, there is also the option of black water rafting. This means you’ll raft through the caves in pitch black (whilst floating in the water, in an innertube), with only the glowworms to guide you.

Most commercial operators don’t allow photography allowed within the caves, so just sit back and enjoy the experience! But there are specialty tours that allow it so you must learn how to photograph glowworms .

Waitomo Caves is probably one of the more unique day trips from Auckland and a must-visit in New Zealand.

Waitomo Caves is around a 2.5-hour drive from Auckland.

39 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Caves 3977

Rafting inside a cave with glow worms hanging overhead.

4. Karangahake Gorge

Karangahake Gorge lies between the Coromandel and Kaimai Ranges and is a great day trip from Auckland.

The best way to explore the gorge is to walk the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway which follows the old Paeroa to Waihi railway line. The rest of the walk follows the Ohinemuri River and eventually comes to Owharoa Falls.

To further explore the gorge you can walk the Windows Walk Trail which takes you through the old gold-mining trail which dates back to the 1880s.

It’s also possible to head down into the Karangahake Tunnels. The tunnels follow the old underground railway track and are a great experience – just be sure to have a torch on you.

Waihi Beach is also only a 20-minute drive away from Karangahake Gorge, so you can hit the waves whilst you’re in the area.

Karangahake Gorge is a 1.5-hour drive from Auckland.

State Highway 2, Karangahake 3674

A couple walks on a trail beside a rocky cliff and a rocky river in Karangahake Gorge.

5. Matakana

Matakana is a huge hit with foodies as it has plenty of beautiful wineries and quirky pubs.

We also recommend heading long to the Matakana farmer’s market to taste delicious local cheeses and fresh produce.

If you’re looking for a unique experience in the area, swing by the New Zealand Honey Centre. There, you’ll learn all about the special mānuka honey, and the strict quality control that comes into effect when producing it.

Aside from tasty cuisine, there are also plenty of shops and art galleries located within the town centre.

As an added bonus, the beautiful coastal town of Leigh is only a 15-minute drive from Matakana. From there you can take a trip out to Goat Island or go snorkelling in New Zealand’s first marine reserve.

The popular beach of Omaha is also only an 8-minute drive away too!

Matakana is a 55-minute drive from Auckland.

A waiter stands among the tourists eating and drinking in Sawmill Brewery.

The town of Rotorua is located on Lake Rotorua and is famous for its geothermal activity, adventure activities and Māori culture .

Rotorua has a number of incredible geothermal attractions including Hell’s Gate and Te Puia . They are home to different colourful hot springs, boiling mud pools and geysers – each offering something uniquely wonderful.

There’s also the opportunity to go skydiving, zip lining , bungy jumping and zorbing in Rotorua. It is, after all, known as the adventure capital of the North Island.

If you’re looking for something more relaxing, why not head to one of the many thermal spas or hike into the native redwood forest?

As the town is full of geothermal activity, there is a distinct smell of rotten egg/sulphur. It can take some getting used to but it’s well worth it.

Rotorua is one of our favourite tourist towns in all of New Zealand. The fun here doesn’t stop even if the sun sets. In fact, there are many things to do in this region during nighttime in case you choose to stay over.

Rotorua is around a 3-hour drive from Auckland.

Pro Tip: We would generally suggest overnighting in Rotorua as there’s so, so much to do there. With that said, if there’s one particular activity/attraction that you’d like to see, there’s no reason it can’t be done in a day.

Tourists standing at the corner of a wooden platform while watching the steamy waters of Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

Day Trips in Auckland

If you’re looking for something exciting to do that’s a little closer to home, there are a number of fantastic day trips that can be organised within Auckland too.

7. Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is one of the most popular day trips from Auckland and it’s not hard to see why!

With an impressive size of 92 km² (36 sq miles), you won’t run out of things to do here.

The island is home to pristine beaches and plenty of walking trails, so make sure to make the most of your visit. Though we’ve included it on this day-trip list, it’s easy to spend a weekend or even longer there.

Of course, it’s not just the natural scenery that Waiheke is famous for. The island is also known for its wine tasting and delicious cuisine.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, there are so many wonderful things to do there . You’ll have the opportunity to go ziplining , mountain biking, horseback riding or try your hand at archery.

You can also choose to go on a segway tour of the island if you’re looking for something more unique.

The ferry from Central Auckland to Waiheke takes about 40 minutes.

Happy couples linking hands while drinking a glass of wine.

8. Motutapu Island

Motutapu Island is an impressive 178 million years old making it one of the oldest islands within Hauraki Gulf.

It’s one of the lesser-visited gulf islands so is perfect for a quieter escape from the city.

After the world’s largest island pest eradication programme, the island is now predator-free. This makes it one of the best spots in Auckland to spot native birds including the tīeke (saddleback) and the takahē – two of New Zealand’s rarest birds.

There are also plenty of other sites to visit on the island including the old WWII military sites, Islington Bay, and Mullet beach.

Motutapu Island connects to Rangitoto Island via a causeway, so you can visit both on the same day.

The ferry from Central Auckland to Motutapu takes about 25 minutes.

Pro Tip: If you really want to see stunning bird life, we recommend heading over to Tiritiri Matangi Island – another fabulous day trip.

Tourists walking along the grassy hills of Motutapu.

9. Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is located within the Hauraki Gulf and is probably one of the most iconic islands in Auckland.

Easily accessible by ferry, the island has a very distinctive shape and is the largest volcano in the Auckland Volcanic Field .

Not only that but it’s estimated to be the youngest volcano in the gulf, at only around 600 years old.

The most popular activity on Rangitoto is to climb right to the top, where you will get scenic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.

You can also explore the lava fields and caves (be sure to have a torch) and the coastline.

It’s important to note that there are no restaurants or shops on the island, so make sure you come prepared with a picnic , plenty of water and a sun hat.

The ferry from Central Auckland to Rangitoto takes about 25 minutes.

A man sitting on the ballutrade of a wooden bridge while his partner holds him.

10. Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

Waitakere Ranges Regional Park covers an impressive 16,000 hectares running from its rugged coastline to the rainforest located high in the hills.

Known as ‘Auckland’s Wild West’ this is the perfect day trip from Auckland if you’re looking for incredible scenery.

If you love hiking, this is a great place to visit!

There is over 250km of walking trails found within Waitakere Ranges ranging from short 10 minute trails to multi-day hikes (though these are currently closed – check which trails are open before heading out).

There are also lots of shorter (but equally fantastic) walks including the Upper Huia Reservoir Walk, Mercer Bay Loop Track and the Te Henga Walkway.

Waitakere Ranges Regional Park also has plenty of beautiful beaches on its doorstep for you to visit. Some of the best include Piha beach, Karekare beach, and Muriwai beach.

Waitakere Ranges Regional Park is a 30-minute drive from Central Auckland.

300 Scenic Drive, Nihotupu, Auckland 0604

A long coast and haze forming on top of the waters of Bethells Te Henga Beach.

As you can see there are so many amazing day trips from (and within) Auckland!

We hope this list has added some amazing destinations to your New Zealand bucket list. With so many wonderful options on our doorstep, there’s no need to spend your next day off at home.

Whether you’d prefer to sunbathe on a beach or take a ferry to a nearby island, the options are endless.

Have you been to any of these incredible spots?

If you have then please drop a comment below of your experience!

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Auckland

Day trips from auckland.

  • Auckland to Matamata
  • Auckland to Rotorua
  • Auckland to Auckland Central
  • Auckland to Waitomo Caves
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

great day trips from auckland

1. Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

2. Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

3. Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

4. Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

5. Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Options - Smaller groups

great day trips from auckland

6. Hobbiton & Rotorua including Wai-O-Tapu - Small Group Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

7. Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves - Start or Finish Auckland or Rotorua

great day trips from auckland

8. Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland -Smaller Groups

great day trips from auckland

9. Waitomo Caves and Otorohanga Kiwi House Day Trip from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

10. Auckland Fullday City Tour

great day trips from auckland

11. Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

12. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour with Optional Extra Activities from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

13. Hot Water Beach & Cathedral Cove Day Tour From Auckland

great day trips from auckland

14. Day Tour Hobbiton + Rotorua from Auckland in Luxury Minibus

great day trips from auckland

15. (Private) Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

16. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

17. Waitomo Glowworm Caves In a Private Small Group Tour-Auckland.

great day trips from auckland

18. Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Fully Guided Day Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

19. Private Full-Day Rotorua Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

20. Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour (One Way)

great day trips from auckland

21. Redwood Forest , Blue Springs & Huka Falls Day Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

22. Full Day Hobbiton Movie Set and Hamilton Gardens Small Group Tour

great day trips from auckland

23. Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour (One Way)

great day trips from auckland

24. Private Trip to Coromandel

great day trips from auckland

25. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour Including Te Puia from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

26. Sheep World Country Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

27. Auckland City Highlights Full Day Tour

great day trips from auckland

28. 5-Day New Zealand North and South Island Highlights Tour

great day trips from auckland

29. Waitomo Caves & Hobbiton Small Group Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

30. Piha Beach

What travelers are saying.

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  • Hobbiton & Waitomo Small Group Tour - EX Auckland
  • Wine on Waiheke PREMIUM WINE full days scenic and wine tasting
  • Afternoon Black Sand Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland
  • Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland
  • Auckland & Beyond Tours
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  • eRide Waiheke Bike Shop
  • Stevong Travel
  • WaiTiki Tours
  • Auckland Scenic Tours
  • Habitat Tours
  • Bush and Beach
  • Waiheke Wine Tours Ltd
  • Sunrise eBikes Waiheke
  • Phoenix Charters
  • Heletranz Helicopters
  • Auckland Fine Wine & Food Tours

Auckland: Day Trips Information

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9 Best Day Trips from Auckland

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Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, has many things going for it. It’s home to the world’s largest Polynesian population. It’s built on an active basaltic volcanic field – the only such city in the world. It’s got great museums, the southern hemisphere’s largest marina, and a fabulous aquarium.

Still, there’s a lot to appreciate outside the city limits. Great black sand beaches and rainforests are easily accessible on day trips from Auckland. You can also drift down an underground river illuminated by glow worms. Oh, the scenery outside of Auckland is pretty spectacular, too.

Map of day trips from Auckland

Map of day trips from Auckland

9. Matakana

Matakana

New Zealand produces some nice wines and what better place to sample them than the vineyard. Matakana is home to more than 30 wineries where you can taste the fruits of the vine. Matakana also is a good place to sample local produce, perhaps buying the fixings for a picnic on a nearby beach.

At the Saturday farmer’s market you can buy foods, including local cheeses and fresh baked breads, direct from the farmers, as well as pick up locally made handicrafts. You’ll also find quaint villages on your day exploring the Matakana coast.

Getting to Matakana

  • Just under an hour’s drive north of Auckland, Matakana is very easy to visit by car. Simply hop on State Highway 1 and follow it to Warkworth, where you turn off and follow signs to Matakana. From here, there are a number of nice beaches worth visiting, such as Tawharanui and Snells; these are only a short drive away.
  • As the area produces a lot of great wines and local foods, an excellent way to see Matakana is to take a guided tour of its wineries and chocolate factory, where you’ll get to taste some delicious samples. In addition to this, tours also take you to the impressive Brick Bay Sculpture Park and to a honey center, where you can sample honey wine.

8. Coromandel Peninsula

Coromandel Peninsula

On a clear day, you can see the Coromandel Peninsula from Auckland 55 km (34 miles) away, but a day trip there will be a lot more fun. The picturesque peninsula is named after the British navy ship that stopped there in 1820 for supplies. Today, it’s one of New Zealand’s hottest travel destinations, especially if you’re an ecotourist, yachter or scuba diver.

A popular destination is Cathedral Cove (an arch through a limestone cliff looks like a cathedral), but it’s only accessible by foot or boat. You can also go offshore canoeing, walk through a rainforest or on white sand beaches.

Getting to the Coromandel Peninsula

  • Jutting out into the Hauraki Gulf, Coromandel Peninsula is about a two and a half hour drive from the center of Auckland. First, head south on State Highway 1 to Pokeno, where you turn off onto the 2. After following this for a while, continue on to the 25 and follow it to Kopu. From here, you can either drive up the west coast of the peninsula or continue on past Coromandel Forest Park to the east coast and Cathedral Cove – one of the most popular places to visit on the peninsula. The scenery is beautiful wherever you go; by car, you can stop off at any of the lovely sights you come across on your drive, with Hot Water Beach being another popular spot to head to.
  • To see as much in one day as possible, many people decide to take a guided tour to the peninsula. Along with visits to Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach, tours also take you on a lovely railway ride to a viewing platform, which offers up stunning panoramas of the Hauraki Gulf.

7. Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands

If you come to see spectacular scenery in New Zealand , the Bay of Islands won’t disappoint you. With 141 islands, it’s easy to see why Captain Cook, the bay’s first European visitor, named the islands Bay of Islands in 1769. It’s one of the most popular sailing and fishing destinations in New Zealand.

If you have time, take a boat ride out into the bay following the historical “cream” route that brought cream from the islands to town. Russell, a quick ferry ride from Pahia, is worth a side trip, if only to visit the cemetery with its quaint tombstones.

Getting to the Bay of Islands

  • As it is quite a distance away, the best way to visit the Bay of Islands is by taking a guided tour; this will help you make the most of your time there. After a scenic three-hour bus journey to Paihia, you’ll visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, see a Maori war canoe and a beautiful meeting house, before exploring the charming town of Russell. With a professional guide on hand, you’ll learn a lot about the fascinating Maori history and culture, as well as how New Zealand was founded.

Muriwai

With its 50 km (30 miles) of unbroken beach, this black sand beach is one of the most popular beaches near Auckland, extending up to the Tasman Sea coast. Surfing is the most popular activity here, but you can also go hang gliding, fishing, “bush hiking” on a boardwalk or paragliding.

Because the sand is so firm, you can also drive on the beach. You’ll also not want to miss the gannet colony on the steep cliffs at the southern end of the beach.

Getting to Muriwai

  • Located on the west coast of North Island, Muriwai is a 45-minute drive from the center of Auckland; in no time at all, you’ll find yourself overlooking the glorious coastline that borders the Tasman Sea. Simply head west on State Highway 16 and turn off at Waimaku, where you’ll see signs pointing you to Muriwai. On the drive back to Auckland, you could stop off at one of the area’s fantastic vineyards to sample some local produce.
  • Many people who visit Muriwai opt to take a guided tour. These enable you to taste and learn about some of the surrounding area’s delicious wines, while also visiting the landscapes’ many impressive viewpoints. Walking along Black Sand Beach is just one of the many highlights that the tour offers.

5. Waitakere Ranges

Waitakere Ranges

Waitakere Ranges is a good place to savor the outdoors while breathing in some fresh Kiwi air. Administered by the Auckland Council, this regional park has much to tempt the recreationalist in you. There are plenty of rainforest walking and hiking trails, including the Hillary Trail for the more adventuresome.

Some walks, like Kitekite Track, are suitable for the whole family. You can also swim in a pond underneath one of the park’s pretty waterfalls, go fishing, or tramp along the black sand beaches. The waves are good for surfing.

Getting to the Waitakere Ranges

  • Lying to the southwest of Auckland, the beautiful Waitakere Ranges are just a half hour drive from the city. From the center of town, head west on State Highway 16 before turning off onto Ash St and following it as it turns into Titirangi Road. After a while, this turns into the aptly named Scenic Drive, which will take you all the way to the Arataki Visitor Centre – the gateway to the park. After exploring the spectacular Waitakere Ranges, you could drive 20 minutes further on to Karekare Beach – one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
  • To gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the area’s diverse fauna and flora and incredible landscapes, many visitors take an eco-tour with a professional guide. As well as exploring the wonders of Waitakere Ranges, tours also take you to the majestic Black Sand Beach.

4. Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island, the second largest and most populated island in the Gulf of New Zealand, has been getting a lot of media attention in recent years. In 2016, Lonely Planet named it the world’s fifth best travel destination while Conde Nast named it the world’s fourth best island to visit.

Accessible by ferry from Auckland, Waiheke Island has several nice beaches, including Oneroa and Cactus. Should you tire of beach activities, you might want to visit Stony Batter, World War II fortifications or an outdoor sculpture display known as Heartland: Sculpture on the Gulf.

Getting to Waiheke Islamd

  • From the Downtown Ferry Terminal in Auckland, there are a number of ferries that you can catch to Waiheke Island; the journey should only take around 40 minutes. It is a very scenic ride through the Tamaki Strait, and once you arrive on the island, you can take a bus or taxi.
  • If you want to sample Waiheke’s culinary delights, you may want to take a food and wine tour to the island. Alongside the fantastic wine and oil tastings and lunch that take place at various picturesque estates and vineyards, a bus pass is also included, so you can explore the rest of the island’s delights at your own leisure.

3. Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves

Drifting down an underground river through limestone caves is an adventure not to be missed, especially if it’s the Waitomo Caves. This is how most tourists will visit the caves. Don’t like black water rafting? You can also walk through parts of the cave system; extreme sports enthusiasts can cave crawl through more difficult caves.

What makes Waitomo Caves so special is the lighting system: gazillions of glow worms. You’ll also see stalactites and stalagmites, but it’s the glow worms that will grab your attention.

Getting to the Waitomo Caves

  • Lying almost 200 kilometers to the south of Auckland, the amazing Waitomo Caves are very easy to get to by public transport. Buses departing from Auckland Central take just under three hours to get to the caves. The bus passes through some lovely countryside, and on the way, you’ll learn a lot about the history and culture of New Zealand thanks to the informative commentary.
  • It is just as easy to reach the caves by car; all you need to do is drive in a straight line south. Head out of the city on State Highway 1 and keep going until you reach Taupiri, where you then continue on the 39. Just after Otorohanga, you should see signs pointing you to the spectacular glowworm caves. All in all, this should take around two and a half hours. The nearby Marokopa Falls and Mangapohue Natural Bridge are well worth visiting when you’re in the area.
  • Yet another option to visit Waitomo Caves is to take a guided tour. With stops at a working farm and a local arts and crafts institute included, alongside a visit to the geysers and hot springs of Rotorua, it is a great way to see as much of this beautiful part of New Zealand as is possible in one day.

Rotorua

Drive three hours southeast of Auckland, and you’ll approach Rotorua. Settled by Maoris in the 14th century, Rotorua is a major tourist draw in North Island. It’s best known for its Maori culture and geothermal activity , including geysers and hot mud pools, since it’s on a caldera. (Some of the hot springs smell pretty bad because of high sulfur content.)

It gets its name from nearby Lake Rotorua, one of 17 lakes in the region. Rotorua has been a tourist spa since the 1800s because of the curative powers of its natural hot springs. Government Gardens is also worth a visit.

Getting to Rotorua

  • Although Rotorua is a three-hour drive away, the journey will pass by in no time at all as you marvel at all the amazing landscapes you pass on the way. To get there, head south out of Queensland on State Highway 1 before turning off onto the 2. When this merges into the 27, simply keep going straight and follow it until Matamata, where you turn off onto the 28. The final stretch of the journey is completed on State Highway 5; this takes you straight to the awe-inspiring Rotorua.
  • A great way to see both Rotorua and the glittering glowworms of Waitomo Caves in just one day is to take a guided tour; these often combine the two together. In addition to this, guests also get to visit a working farm and a Maori Arts and Crafts Institute to learn more about life in the country.

1. Hobbiton Movie Set

Hobbiton Movie Set

If you’re a fan of J.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and Hobbit, you’ll definitely want to take a day trip from Auckland to the Home of Middle-earth at Hobbiton Movie Set. More than 150 locations in New Zealand were used to film the two movie series, but a significant number were filmed at Hobbiton Movie Set on a family farm near Hamilton.

Movie officials picked this site because it reminded them of ancient England. The set is available through guided tours, which must be booked in advance. You’ll visit sets such as hobbit holes and Bagshot Row.

Getting to the Hobbiton Movie Set

  • Just over two hours away by car, the Hobbiton Movie Set is very simple to drive to. On the way, you’ll pass through some lovely scenery. To start off, head south out of Auckland on State Highway 1. Just before Pokeno, turn off onto the 2. After a while, this turns into State Highway 27, then you merely have to follow this all the way south until you see signs directing you to the Hobbiton Movie Set just past Matamata. Make sure you book a tour beforehand, as only visitors on a guided tour are allowed to visit.
  • As you have to take a tour to visit Hobbiton, many people opt to take a combi tour and combine it with a trip to the Waitomo Caves to see the glittering glowworms. With a professional guide on hand, you’ll learn about the countryside you travel through as well as the history and culture of New Zealand.

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15 Best Tours & Day Trips from Auckland

Auckland is not just New Zealand’s largest city; there are so many amazing things that come with the sprawling metropolis. For starters, its geographical location makes it a perfect starting point for most day trips.

If you are looking to connect to other major towns in NZ, you have an ideal departure point in Auckland.

Additionally, the city is supplied with some truly outstanding natural beauty. These sites are just amazing for day trips. Whether you want to take a group tour with family or just crave a solo adventure – such as kayaking, a bus ride, or hiking – there are many spectacular spots around Auckland.

To get to most of them, you only need a few hours or a couple of minutes, depending on your means of transport.

If you are more into learning than adventuring, there are several cultural centers and museums that you can tour in a day to learn a few things about the local culture.

Here are 15 wonderful day trips from Auckland that we recommend.

Related articles: Check out our guide of Where to Stay in Auckland: The Best Areas In Auckland for just a couple of days? Then you’ll need our 48 Hours in Auckland Itinerary! 

1 – West Coast Day Tour

great day trips from auckland

If you have eight hours free to spend on an exciting tour, you should explore the West Coast. This day trip from Auckland allows you to sample some of the finest BBQ and wines that New Zealand has to offer.

Other key highlights of the tour are lovely lakes, amazing sand dunes, and historic sites.

A visit to the West Coast is the kind of day trip that you never forget; every moment is special. Whether you head indoors or outdoors, it doesn’t matter – a memory is created every single minute that you are on tour.

Click below for more information!

2 – Matakana Day Trip

great day trips from auckland

Located just a 45-minute drive from the city, making it one of the easier day trips from Auckland, Matakana is a popular tourist getaway for several reasons.

For one, the destination is supplied with beautiful beaches and vineyards that you can tour to cool off or look for inspiration.

Secondly, the tour takes you through truly gorgeous, scenic landscapes; every natural feature along the way is strategically positioned and has a stunning and unique look.

Lastly, Auckland is historically known as the mother city of the best wineries, handicrafts, and farm produce. On the tour, you will have the opportunity to sample them all in the local market.

3 – Rangitoto Island Tour

great day trips from auckland

Have you ever thought of taking a tour to the top of a volcano? If you haven’t, it’s time to do just that.

You can get there in 30 minutes via a ferry from the central city. Rangitoto is a rugged destination awaiting exploration. You not only have the opportunity to climb the 90-foot volcano, but also to learn a few things about its eruption five and a half centuries ago.

The island has amazing walking trails that you can walk alone or in groups. If you have the stamina to follow the trail to the volcano’s peak, you will see stunning panoramic views of the city and the Hauraki Gulf.

4 – Sky Tower Auckland Trip

great day trips from auckland

There are few better ways to view Auckland City than from the iconic Sky Tower. This incredible viewpoint stands at 220 meters and gives you a panoramic view of Auckland’s major streets and buildings – as well as out over the sparkling blue harbor and harbor bridge. You are also able to view nearby landmarks, mountains, and historic spots.

For the adventurous, you can strap in and walk around the outside of the tower top, or take a bungee jump to plummet towards the pavement.

If you visit at night, the attached casino and variety of restaurants – including a revolving one at the top – will keep you entertained. This might not be a day trip from Auckland as such but is worth adding to this list.

5 – Waitakere Ranges

great day trips from auckland

As a day tripper, you cannot ignore the isolated treasures of Auckland. Situated 40 minutes away from the city center, the Waitakere Ranges are packed with wonderful natural beauty. There are over 16,000 hectares of natural rainforests popular for hiking.

You can go on a real outdoor adventure to breathe the cool, fresh air. Some trails within the ranges are ideal for families – a good example is the Kitekite Track.

There are also great waterfalls within reach, such as Fairy Falls and Karekare Falls.  You can see these cascades up close when walking the trails.

6 – Hobbiton Movie Set Day Trip

great day trips from auckland

Hobbiton is the coolest place you could tour for a movie experience. If you are a die-hard fan of The Hobbit series or the Lord of Rings, you have to add Hobbiton to your list of day trips from Auckland.

The site was chosen to showcase the two historic series because it reminds people of ancient England – and featured in the famous movies filmed entirely in New Zealand.

If you want to join the guided tour, you will need to book in advance.

If you take a bus from the city, you’ll arrive at Hobbiton in around two hours.

7 – Coromandel Peninsula

great day trips from auckland

About 1.5 hours from the city, the Coromandel Peninsula is New Zealand’s pride and joy. It’s a scenic spot that attracts local and international tourists in droves.

If you are looking for a major highlight, you’ll love the natural hot water experience at the beach, where you can dig holes in the sand at low tide that bubble full of hot water for you to relax in.  

You’ll fall in love with the pristine coastal waters and the white sands here. Visit iconic Cathedral Cove via kayak or boat – or walk the easy trail if you prefer.

8 – Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

great day trips from auckland

You only need one bus ticket to tour the entire city in just a day. You can start from Mt. Eden to see Auckland from high. Next, pop into the Parnell Village to learn about the city’s oldest neighborhood before heading to the Auckland Museum to learn about Maori Culture.

Other popular stops include the Rose Gardens for a nature walk and the Sky Tower. Overall, there are at least 14 stops to make with a single bus ticket so can start this day trip around Auckland from anywhere in the city. 

Generally, the bus tour is great for someone who is new to Auckland and short on time. It’s a great way to see the city on a budget.  

9 – Puhoi Kayak Day Trip

great day trips from auckland

A few miles from Matakana is the beautiful town of Puhoi. The town is popularly known for its bohemian heritage. A day trip from Auckland here allows you to learn a few things about its history; however, the real fun is kayaking. Paddle on the cool waters of the Puhoi River until you reach the historic and iconic Puhoi Pub for a cold beer.

If you are looking to escape the bustle of the city, there is no better getaway experience than the Puhoi Day Tour.

10 – Waiheke Island Ferry Tour

great day trips from auckland

A quick ride on a ferry is all it takes to reach Waiheke island. The island is not only the second largest but also the most populated in the Gulf of NZ. Explore some of the popular wineries like Mudbrick and Cable Bay, or visit the lovely beaches to cool off after a long day.

Take a tour of Stony Batter to see the historic World War II displays and sculptures. Every experience in Waiheke Island – whether it’s wine tasting or a stretch at the beach – is memorable.

11 – Whangarei Falls Day Tour

great day trips from auckland

If you really want some solitude in the middle of nature, consider heading to Whangarei Falls for one of your day trips from Auckland. The natural attraction is just 2.5 hours drive from the city.

Home to easy walking trails, the fall itself is 85 feet tall. If you opt to walk, it will take you 30 minutes or so to complete the tour. The trip takes you across multiple bridges and through natural bush as you head to the falls. During the summer, you can swim in the pool at the foot of the waterfall.

12 – Waitomo Caves Day Trip

great day trips from auckland

Waitomo is New Zealand’s most famous caving location making it one of the more popular day trips from Auckland. Luckily it is only around 2.5 hours drive from Auckland.

The highlight of the tour is the glow worms. What can be more exciting than donning a head torch and rushing into the caves to chase glow worms?

This is the kind of experience you get when you tour Waitomo. In addition to the glowworms, the trip allows you to enjoy a bungee jump and a paragliding experience.

13 – City Express Day Tour

great day trips from auckland

A visit to Auckland is never complete without an authentic Kiwi experience. This tour guarantees you an informative local guide with English language commentary.

The express trip allows you to enjoy panoramic views from the peak of Mt Eden. This viewpoint allows you to see Auckland’s most valuable homes and you will also learn a bit about Maori tradition. Every experience during the City Express Day Trip is one to remember for days to come.

14 – Rotorua Day Trip

great day trips from auckland

It takes three hours to drive southward from Auckland to Rotorua and is one of the most distinctive day trips from Auckland. Here, the major highlights are geothermal activity, such as hot mud and geysers.

Since the 1800’s, the tour site has seen more visitors than any other place in New Zealand – primarily because of the awesome hot springs, geysers and bubbling mud pools.

If you have exhausted the hot springs, tour the Government Gardens for a relaxing experience or check out the historic center to learn a few things about Maori Culture.   

15 – West Coast Beaches

great day trips from auckland

Lastly, you can either walk for about four hours to the West Coast Beaches or take a short drive. The beaches are Auckland’s most celebrated black sand beaches. The most popular spot is Piha Beach – a rugged and wild spot that is simply spectacular.

The highlights include surfing, walking trails, and panoramic views. The West Coast Beaches are generally a great fit for family tours, group excursions and any other type of day trips from Auckland.

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Auckland's geographical location makes it a perfect starting point for awesome day trips. Here are 15 of the best day trips from Auckland that we recommend.

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The 11 Best Day Trips From Auckland

Auckland, a sprawling metropolis, doesn’t boast many world-famous attractions, but it’s a great base for excellent day trips showcasing New Zealand’s breath-taking nature, vibrant dining scene and famous laidback lifestyle. Here is the list of the best day trips from Auckland, from remote beaches and stunning hiking trails to nearby islands and famous movie sets.

Disclosure:  Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please note, I only recommend products and services that I know and love. Read full Privacy Policy  here .

Day Trips From Auckland – Up To 1 Hour One Way

Waiheke island.

Although Waiheke is technically part of Auckland, it feels like it’s a world away from its busy neighbour. Just a 40-minute ferry ride from the city centre, the bohemian island is famous for its numerous wineries. With its tranquil scenery, quirky art galleries and picturesque beaches, there is also plenty to do in between wine tastings. 

Thanks to the regular ferry service, getting to Waiheke is relatively easy. However, getting around the island is less straightforward. You can bring your car over, but this option is pricey and probably not the best if you’re planning on visiting the wineries and don’t have a designated sober driver. There are also taxis, but they can be quite expensive. 

There is a bus network that connects the main ferry terminal with the main towns like Oneroa, Surfdale and Ostend. Some bus routes will also take you to a few popular wineries. You can use the pre-loaded AT Hop Card that you would normally use in Auckland. Just make sure you check the bus schedule beforehand as some services are not the most regular.

One way of taking the hassle out of getting around Waiheke is to join a guided tour. For example, this half-day tour of Waiheke features a visit to three vineyards, lunch and a stop at the beautiful Onetangi beach.  

Waiheke Island is a popular option for day trips from Auckland

Waitakere Ranges

Another popular destination for day trips from Auckland is the Waitakere Ranges. A playground for nature lovers, this region is home to a lush forest, unique wildlife, beautiful waterfalls and incredible black sand beaches. 

If you’re after a relaxing day out, head to Piha or Muriwai beach where you can enjoy a swim or even a surfing session. If you’d like to be more active, hit one of the many walking trails available in the region. From short scenic strolls to challenging hikes, there is something for every level of fitness.  

Getting to the Waitakere Ranges can be a little challenging if you don’t have a car as the public transport network is limited there. Renting a car for the day will give you the most flexibility. Alternatively, there are some day tours with pick-up from central Auckland. For example, on this Waitakere Ranges Wilderness Experience tour you’ll be able to see the highlights of the region and enjoy a kiwi-style afternoon tea.

Muriwai Beach in the Waitakere Ranges

Rangitoto Island

Another spot that’s technically in Auckland, but does require at least half a day for exploration, is Rangitoto Island. Just a short ferry ride away from the city, its distinctive symmetrical cone is actually the youngest and largest volcano in the Auckland volcanic field. It is perfect for hiking and scenic views over the city and Hauraki Gulf.

The most popular walking trail leading to Rangitoto’s summit will take about an hour one way. You can also explore the coast of Rangitoto or walk to the adjoining Motutapu Island. Guided walks are available in case you’d like to learn more about the history and unique nature of this beautiful day trip destination. 

You can book your Rangitoto Island round trip ferry pass on the Fullers website (the official ferry service).

Rangitoto Island makes for an easy day trip from Auckland

Although this small town may technically be within Auckland’s ever expanding boundaries, it definitely feels like it’s a world away. Just an hour’s drive north of the city centre, Matakana should be on every foodie’s list. 

Matakana is famous for its Farmers’ Market. Open every Saturday between 8am–1pm, this is the place to stock up on fresh produce, artisan pastries, organic olive oil, wine and more. It is also a popular brunch spot with excellent coffee. Aside from the Farmers Market, Matakana is a great place for antique and art shopping with plenty of little galleries and quirky shops to check out. 

The town is also a great starting point for exploring local vineyards. The Matakana region is famous for its wine, so you’ll be spoilt for choice if you decide to spend an afternoon wine tasting. One of my favourite vineyards in the area is Brick Bay which features an architecturally-designed restaurant and a sculpture trail. 

The easiest way to reach Matakana is by car. Another option is to join a guided tour. This Horse Riding and Wine Tasting Tour offers a different way to experience the region and includes a visit to a local winery. 

Day Trips From Auckland – 2 Hours and Under One Way

Tiritiri matangi.

Another beautiful Hauraki Gulf island perfect for a day trip is Tiritiri Matangi. Just a 75 minute ferry trip away from central Auckland, it is a great spot for nature lovers and bird-watchers. 

Tiritiri Matangi is one of New Zealand’s most successful conservation projects. It is a wildlife sanctuary that is home to many rare bird species, many of which can only be found in New Zealand. Aside from wildlife, you can also check out various walking trails, pristine beaches and New Zealand’s oldest operating lighthouse. 

Visitors to the island can also join a guided walk with a local volunteer that starts right at the wharf. The tours will help you to learn about the island’s unique flora and fauna as well as its history. As a person with limited knowledge of birds and plants, I really appreciated the information on what I was seeing and hearing. So I highly recommend joining these, especially if you’ve visiting Tiritiri Matangi for the first time. 

You can purchase the tickets to the island on the ferry operator’s website . Adult tickets are $82 (53 USD) per person. Guided tours are an additional $10 (6 USD) per person. 

Tiritiri Matangi

Hobbiton Movie Set

A visit to the Hobbiton movie set is probably on many travelers’ New Zealand bucket lists. Located on the outskirts of a sleepy town called Matamata, a two hours drive south from Auckland, Hobbiton can be easily done on a day trip. 

The only way to visit the set is by joining a guided tour. The standard Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour takes about two hours and includes a walk around the set accompanied by behind-the-scenes stories. There are lots of photo opportunities to capture the memories of the visit. 

There are other Hobbiton experiences that will allow you to spend more time on the set. For example, you can add on a lunch or a dinner banquet after the guided tour itself. I imagine if you’re a big fan of the Lord of the Rings universe, these options might be a great way to make your experience even more special. 

To be honest, I initially had mixed feelings about this experience. I enjoyed Peter Jackson’s original Lord of the Rings movies as they still contained the spirit of Tolkien’s books. I did not enjoy the Hobbit trilogy that much though and thought it was a mess only driven by a desire to make more money. That’s why I was worried the Hobbiton would be a tacky let down. 

However, it was actually a fun day out. Our guide was enthusiastic and the place felt quite lived in. It seemed like the characters were about to step out of their homes to greet the tourist crowds. I especially enjoyed a drink at the atmospheric Green Dragon Inn, which was included in the tour.

Hobbiton Movie Set - a great option for a day trip from Auckland

Another great day trip from Auckland for those who are after a more laid back pace of life is Raglan. This bohemian surf town is situated on the West Coast of North Island, just a two-hour drive from the city. It is famous for its black sand beaches, stunning natural landscape and vibrant art scene. 

Raglan has great options for both seasoned surfers and newbies. There are Surf lessons for those who would like to try this sport out for the first time. Water based activities are not limited to surfing though. Kayaking, paddle boarding and cruises are also available and are a great way to experience Raglan’s beautiful surroundings.   

If you prefer to stay on dry land, Raglan offers many hiking trails, with something for every fitness level. When you need to refuel, the town has a great selection of dining options, from café classics to excellent seafood. 

A beach in Raglan

Day Trips From Auckland – Under 3 Hours One Way

Waitomo glow worm caves.

Just a two and a half hour drive away from the city, Waitomo is a unique natural attraction that is a popular destination for day trips from Auckland. It is a network of caves featuring fascinating limestone formations, underground rivers and grottos with luminescent glow worms.

The easiest way to experience Waitomo is by joining a guided tour. There are actually three caves you can visit. The most popular option is the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves. It consists of two levels. The upper level is dry so you will get to explore it by foot. On the lower level you will take a boat which will take you through the magical glow worm grotto. You can book this tour in advance on GetYourGuide .

The other cave that is open to visitors is Ruakuri Cave, the largest in the Waitomo area. Although Ruakuri doesn’t have as many glow worms as the Waitomo Glow Worm Cave, it is spectacular in its own right. To access the cave, you will descend through a stunning man-made spiral entrance. You will then walk through its network of caverns and passages, marvelling at the unique limestone formations. Ruakuri Cave tours need to be booked separately from the Waitomo Caves experiences.

The third cave you can visit is Aranui Cave. As it doesn’t have any water, there are no glow worms there. However, it features spectacular pale brown, pink and white stalactites and stalagmites that will delight those who appreciate geology. Aranui Cave tours also need to be booked separately from the other cave visits.

If you’re short on time, you can even combine visits to Hobbiton and Waitomo with this full-day trip that departs from Auckland .

The Coromandel

Another popular destination for day trips from Auckland is the Coromandel peninsula. A two hour drive away from the city, this area is famous for its stunning beaches, lush forests and an all-round chilled vibe. It’s popular with both kiwis and international visitors.

To be honest, I’m not sure if a day trip will do the Coromandel justice. However, if you are strapped for time, there are a few spectacular spots that are close to each other and can easily be visited in just one day. If you’re not keen on a long drive, you can instead join a full day guided tour that will take you to most of these locations.

Start the day by visiting the popular Hot Water Beach located on the east coast of the peninsula. There you can enjoy an area of thermal water just underneath the sand. Please note, it is only accessible at low tide. It is a popular spot, so expect to be surrounded by a few people. 

Then head to the Hahei village which is a 10-minute drive away from the Hot Water Beach. Hahei has a beautiful beach of its own, but It is also a starting point for walks and boat tours to the famous Cathedral Cove beach that was featured in the Narnia films. The nearby town of Whitianga is perfect for a lunch stop or even a relaxing session at the Lost Spring thermal spa .  

You can probably include a couple of other stops on the day, but driving in the Coromandel might be challenging due to its winding country roads. For a day trip, I would focus on the quality rather than quantity of experiences. 

Cathedral Cove Beach in the Coromandel

Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway

The Coromandel is also a great destination for day hikes and Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway is one of my personal favourites. It is situated at the southern end of the peninsula, a one and a half hour’s drive from central Auckland. You can easily combine the gorge and a Coromandel beach on a day trip from Auckland. 

The walkway follows the old railway line between the towns of Paeroa and Waihi. Along the way, you can spot old mining and railway relics while enjoying the beautiful natural setting. The main track is easy and will take about 4 hours (return).

For more information about the track, check out the Karangahake Gorge page of the Department of Conservation’s website.

Another great place to add to your list of possible day trips from Auckland is Rotorua, a small town that lies on the shores of a tranquil lake of the same name. A two and a half hour drive from the city, it is famous for its geothermal activity, beautiful landscapes and Māori culture. 

You can experience the geothermal wonders of the area by visiting attractions such as Wai-O-Tapu or Te Puia . These geothermal parks feature otherworldly landscapes, bubbling mud pools and powerful geysers. Te Puia is also a great place to experience traditional Māori arts and crafts. 

Another way to enjoy Rotorua’s geothermal waters and mud is to book yourself into one of the many spas. The most famous ones are the Polynesian Spa and Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park & Mud Spa. I’m not sure if the mud and waters truly have the health benefits the spas claim they do. Even if they don’t, an afternoon at one of these spas is a great way to unwind after all the adventuring.  

If you have the option of staying there for a few days, there is more than enough to see and do in Rotorua. However, you will still be able to experience the highlights of the area on a day trip. If you don’t want to do the long drive to Rotorua yourself, there are full-day guided tours that depart from Auckland. 

This Get Your Guide tour allows you to tailor your itinerary with different activities so you can see the attractions that you’re most interested in. You can actually visit Rotorua , Ho b biton and Waitomo Caves on a full-day guided tour . It’s a long day, but could be a good option if you don’t have much time on the North Island.

Wai-o-Tapu geothermal pools in Rotorua

Final Thoughts

As you can see, Auckland is a great starting point for exploring many beautiful parts of New Zealand. My personal favourites from this list of the best day trips from Auckland are Tiritiri Matangi, Waiheke and Waitomo Caves. I visited Waitomo Glow Worm and Ruakuri Caves on the same day and, although pricey, it was a memorable experience. 

Have you been to any of these destinations? What’s been your favourite? Let me know in the comment section. 

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Ksenia is the creator and writer behind Explore with Wonder. As an avid traveller, she has ventured to more than 20 countries and resided in four. Currently based in Manchester, she has a passion for exploring both the UK and exciting destinations worldwide.

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8 Of The Best Day Trips From Auckland You Need To Tick Off In 2024

By Grace Noles 25th Jan 2024

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Rear View Of Woman Looking At Sea Against Sky in Maraetai.

No matter how great the City of Sails is, there’s always the impulse to hop in the car and head out of Auckland on a road trip… it’s part of our DNA.

Whether you want to unwind in nature, have an adventure or soak in the sights before stopping for something to eat and drink, we have it all at our fingertips.

Here are eight epic day trips from Auckland for you to tick off one by one.

Elevated wide angle looking down over Puhoi historic village and valley, late afternoon sun, autumn. Puhoi is one of the best day trips you can take from Auckland.

Head 50km north of Auckland city to historic and beautiful Puhoi. Immerse in nature with a stroll via the Puhoi Domain to the Puhoi Lookout Loop Track . The forty-minute loop climbs through native bush (via a detour due to damage to the swing bridge) to a lookout and memorial tribute to Puhoi resident, Arthur Dunn. It’s part of the famed Te Araroa Track, one of the longest tramps in the world. 

Alternatively (or additionally if you’re keen to pack in the adventure), you can hire a kayak and take a gentle ride down the river to Wenderholm, a gorgeous beach and Pohutukawa grove with historic sites of its own like the Wenderholm homestead and gardens. 

If shopping is more your thing, there are a couple of speciality stores to explore. The Slow Water Trading Post sells Native American treasures or, head to the Puhoi Village Market— 2024 dates here —for fresh produce, coffee, bread, cakes, olive oil and so much more. There are also plenty of craft items for sale, including jewellery, soaps, knitting and beauty products.

No day trip from Auckland to Puhoi is complete without living your best country gent/lady dreams with a few cheeky scones and cups of tea at the  Puhoi Cottage Tea Rooms . Grab a possie outside by the river or in the lovely cottage and get ready to raise those pinkies. Delicious. 

The Sculptureum Experience is made up of three sculpture gardens and six art galleries spanning over 1.5km of flat paths. There is also a vineyard, function centre and the aptly titled bar and restaurant, Rothko.

A little further up the road, head to the Matakana Farmers' Market  and shop up a storm. At these markets, you can find unique, one-of-a-kind handmade treasures, as well as iconic Kiwi eats like whitebait and paua fritters. Fill your shopping bag with artisan cheese, homemade bread, honey, fresh produce, deli treats, and sugary nibbles and head to the beach for a gourmet picnic.

Matakana Village is an eight-minute drive from one of the most popular beaches in the region, Omaha. The white sand beach has clear blue water, and a dolphin guest every now and then, making it the perfect spot to snack on your market offerings and watch the waves for some friendly visitors.

Head back into town and you’ll find a collection of Matakana shops open all year round. Browse for hours through the beauty and tonic stores, home and design shops, and art galleries unique to Matakana.

Spend the rest of the day wandering Sculptureum  (pictured above), the New Zealand-famous gallery and gardens with colourful creative artwork from all parts of the globe. The outdoor art gardens are second to none and the winery next door is an added bonus.

A trip to Matakana is never complete without a real fruit ice cream. End the day with a pit stop at Charlies Gelato  on the way back to town, for your fresh gelato fix—no wonder they've made our list of Auckland's best ice cream .

The stunning entrance to the Ruakuri cave in Waitomo.

Stalagmites or stalactites? Bring back those memories from high school science class and drive two-and-a-half hours south of Auckland to the Waitomo Caves . These spectacular caves with glow worms will have you oo-ing and ah-ing in amazement. 

The Waitomo Glow Worm Tour takes you on a boat after walking through several impressive caves, under the luminescent ceilings. It’s a tick-off-the-bucket list deal, seeing the galaxy of glow worms in their natural habitat.

Alternatively, take the impressive spiral staircase down to the Ruakuri Cave , a vast cave naturally decorated with limestone formations, waterfalls, and glow worms.

If you prefer something a little more adventurous, Waitomo Caves is full of experiences. Take your pick between black water rafting , or really up the ante with this five-hour black water experience . 

All this adventuring is sure to build up your appetite, so hit up HUHU Cafe for some of the best eats in town. The sleek interior overlooks the Waitomo Village, with a cosy wood fire in winter, or an open-air deck in summer. Choose from a set dining menu, or graze to your liking from the standard lunch menu. Each dish has a wine to match, as well as Huhu’s collection of boutique New Zealand beers and ciders to choose from.

After lunch, take a relaxing stroll around any one of Waitomo’s scenic walks. The options are endless. From the Waitomo Walkway  outlining the famous limestone formations to the Waikawau Tunnel —hewn through the rock by men with picks and shovels back in 1911—with white cliffs and is the only route to access the beautiful Waikawau Beach.

People look at the stalls at The Shed Collective in Oratia.

Another market to hit and this time out west is the Oratia Farmers' Market  each Saturday morning. Here you'll find delicious fresh, local produce including pies, pastries, cheeses, seasonal fruits, oysters, bread, meats, and organic locally roasted coffee. Brunch is sorted, and you’ll be able to stock up the pantry for the week ahead.

Once done, make sure you go back on the main road and visit Just Plane Interesting , which is filled with second-hand goods that are, yes, just plain interesting. You’ll find weird and wonderful treasures from retro decor to old army uniforms. There’s even a dark mysterious room, home to a mummy if you’re brave enough.

After your visit, stretch those legs with a hike through the Waitakere Ranges . The hills run along Piha, Muriwai, Te Henga, and Karekare filled with hidden natural gems along the way, just be sure to follow the latest advice before setting out on the track of your choice, as some have been closed due to kauri dieback. Here are some of our favourite walks around Auckland.

Tackle one of the harder hikes, or take things a bit slower and beach hop the black sand coast. End the day with a bite to eat at one of Piha’s legendary eateries, or take a short drive up to Riverhead and claim a table at NZ's oldest riverside pub  The Riverhead  for stunning sunset views.

The Landing Restaurant is the venue’s restaurant, with tables on the deck above the river. The menu is comprised of fresh, seasonal dishes. Everything is made from scratch at the down-to-earth gastropub. Choose from one of the Riverhead’s famed dishes such as the Riv’ Ribs coated in smokey BBQ sauce, or if you're plant-based you'll be thrilled to find an entire section of the menu dedicated to vegetarian and vegan tastes.

Karangahake Gorge

Water rushing over rocks at the fantastic Karangahake Gorge.

A slice of magic just two hours south of Auckland, Karangahake Gorge is filled with cliff faces with sheer drops, native bush, gushing waterfalls and the mighty Ohinemuri River. The gorge has multiple bush walks, each with a different unique aspect.

The Windows Walk trail leads you through the gold-mining trail dating back to the 1880s, including remains of the old Talisman Battery Plant. Or, venture deep down into the Karangahake Tunnels which take you along the old underground railway track used for mining back in the day. Pro tip: take a torch. Cool off after your walk with a visit to  Owharoa Falls , a stunning staircase waterfall in the gorge. The scenic spot is accessible from the road.

After learning some gold mining history and discovering all the secret spots in the gorge, make a beeline to Bistro at The Falls Retreat for a bite to eat. The Falls is a retreat from busy city living, with a relaxed and elegant setting. The menu changes seasonally, with ingredients coming straight out of The Fall’s very own veggie garden, as well as eggs fresh from their chickens.

Their flavour-packed wood-fired pizza is famous in the region, with flavours such as BBQ chicken, pickled jalapenos and sundried tomatoes, or daily catch, shrimp, smoked salmon with parsley and caper gremolata. The entire menu is diverse with a dish to suit every palate and picky eater.

Maraetai Beach near Duder Regional Park is seen completely empty at sunrise.

Technically still in Auckland (it’s the most eastern town), Maraetai has a stunning beach to soak in the rays and have a splash in the water. With the equally awesome Duder Regional Park nearby, the beach stretches six kilometres along the Pohutakawa Coast, so you’ll be sure to find a space along the golden sand.

The water is crisp and clear, with the perfect set-up for wharf jumping at the west end of the beach. After a sunbath and dip, you’re faced with the dilemma of where to eat. Maraetai is spoilt for choice. Cross the road and take your pick from the local cafes or a fish and chip offering if you’re heading back to the water. Otherwise, take a short drive up the road to Beachlands where you’ll find the Beachlands shops.

Home to The Franklin from the owners of the beloved Marina Cantina and Grangers, The Franklin is a modern taphouse and kitchen pub. They do small plates, sharing platters, pub classics, and burgers n’ dogs. As well as wood-fired pizzas from Friday to Sunday. The menu is never-ending, with an extensive drinks menu to complement it. After filling your belly, take the scenic backroads to Clevedon.

The Clevedon Village Farmers' Markets brings in visitors from near and far. The market has everything from fresh fish and poultry to German pretzels and pastries. With more 60 stalls, you can spend hours filling your bag with fresh produce to take home and graze on for days. It is open on Sundays from 8.30am to 1pm. 

Someone holds up amazing-looking doughnuts with a cake in the foreground.

Brave the wild winds and oceans and head West to Muriwai for a fun day out. The towering cliffs pump adrenaline through your body as you walk along the coastline. Pop into the delicious  Muriwai Deli  for some next-level eats then catch some waves at the surf beach, or bake under the sun—just remember to stay protected under the hot New Zealand ozone.

The sweeping black sand beach also has a little estuary to dip your toes in if the ocean is too wild and there are caves to explore, too. The famous Gannet Colony  resides at Muriwai, with hundreds of white, black, and orange birds nesting there between August and March each year. They’ll be hard to miss. While the track is temporarily closed due to cyclone damage you can still marvel at the masses in their natural habitat before claiming a spot at the black sand beach. 

If you want another way to see the entire stretch, take a trek along the beach on horseback. Muriwai is known for its horse-riding trips . Sun on your face, wind in your hair, it’ll offer a whole new perspective of the West Coast.

Once you’ve built up an appetite, take a short trip to Waimauku near Kumeu and drop by the lush 80-acre estate  The Hunting Lodge . With a huge garden to enjoy during the warmer months with regular events held at the cellar door and lawn bar, you can snuggle up for a feast to remember in the historic villa during wintertime. An experience you won't forget.

Two people with their surfboards on Ngarunui Beach.

Head south until you hit Raglan. It’s high on the must-do list for surfers, but it’s not just about the incredible breaks because there’s plenty to do in this little town.

The first stop is the Te Toto Gorge Lookout . Take it nice and slow as you drive up the narrow gravel path before reaching the car park. From there it’s a short walk up to the viewing platform where you’ll see breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea and a towering cliff drop below. If you’re up for a swim, this may not be the place.

Luckily, Ngarunui Beach is just a short drive from the gorge. Another black sand beach on the list, but just as amazing. The waves are perfect to give surfing a go or have a quick dip close to shore. The sunsets are second to none at Ngarunui, with the sun slowly creeping behind the cliffs and turning the Tasman Sea a deep shade of orange.

If you’re feeling peckish, swing by the Rock-It Kitchen on Wainui Road for a rustic dining experience. The cafe is set up in an old woodshed, but don’t let that deter you—its modern makeover is an Instagrammer’s dream. Take your pick of the indoor booths, deck tables, or lawn seats to enjoy your meal. Rock-It Kitchen has a lunch and dinner menu, both packed with organic and seasonal dishes.  The menu has plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options as well as the infamous Raglan Roast Coffee for the strong brew.

Make the final stop of the day at Bridal Veil Falls . The 55m high waterfall cascades to look like a bride's veil, and is one of the most scenic spots in Raglan. Take a short walk to the viewing platform above the falls, or venture down the staircase to the (not swimmable) pool at the bottom. Can't bear to leave? Check out these rad accommodation options in town.  

Hungry for more? Eat your way around town with the best restaurants and cafes in West Auckland .

Main image credit: Maraetai Beach by Ryan Kang / EyeEm | Getty Images

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19 Best Day Trips from Auckland

There are many great day trips from Auckland, all offering a lot of variety for those of us who work in the city and need a break. From coastal scenery and beach day trips to countryside hikes and unique attractions, Auckland has many amazing sights just a stone’s throw away. Since some of us prefer a short day trip from Auckland, and others are after a 2-day trip or even a 3-day road trip from Auckland, I’ve split these day trip ideas into categories based on driving time.

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

I have split this post into 3 simple categories:

  • Day trips within 1 hour of Auckland
  • Day trips within 2 hours of Auckland
  • Day trips within 3 hours of Auckland

Table of Contents

DAY TRIPS WITHIN 1 HOUR OF AUCKLAND:

The first options on our list are perfect half-day trips from Auckland! The shorter drive times make them perfect for an easy getaway or family day trip.

DUDER REGIONAL PARK

Countryside lovers will adore the walk around Duder Regional Park, only a 50-minute drive out of Auckland. You can choose the coastal walk , the 2.5-hour Farm Loop Walk, or one of the several others. Take a detour to the deserted beaches here to relax too. I meant to choose the Farm Loop walk but completed my hike in an hour, so I’m guessing I went the wrong way hehe. Either way, it was terrific. The scenery here is unbeatable on a sunny day. I enjoyed seeing all the sheep, too, haha.

You could also go further South to Waitawa Regional Park, which has even more walks to choose from and stunning ocean views. and the black-sand Kawakawa Beach.

You can also combine a Duder Regional Park day trip with Hunua Ranges below de to their close proximity.

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HUNUA RANGES

Hunua Ranges Regional Park makes for an easy day trip from Auckland since it’s just a 50-minute drive from the city. The ‘must-see’ is Hunua Falls, only a 2-minute walk from the car park. However, you can also do the longer 20-minute Falls Track to the top platform for a great view of the Falls as well. This walk follows along the Wairoa River under the cover of forest as you approach the viewpoint. 

The Cossey-Massey hike is one of the best-known trails in the Hunua Ranges, winding 8.0km through the native forest from Cosseys Gorge to Masseys Road. This loop walk also starts from the Hunua Falls car park and begins with an uphill climb but eventually evens out. Though the first hour feels deep within the forest, eventually, you’ll reach the view over the Cossey Dam about an hour in. You’ll also see the Cossey’s Reservoir, and the Wairoa stream, though this hike has fewer open views than some alternative day trips. 

An alternative is the Wairoa Dam Lookout Loop – both these hikes take just under three hours to complete. The Suspension Bridge Loop Walk is an excellent 90-minute alternative.

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RANGITOTO ISLAND

At a dainty 600 years of age, Rangitoto is the youngest volcano out of Auckland’s 47 volcanic centres. However, it’s also the largest – Rangitoto’s low cone shape is the backdrop to many views from Auckland, so it’s great when you finally visit the island.

Take the 25-minute ferry from Britomart – and make sure you arrive early since there are only three or four ferries a day, so you don’t want to miss the boat! This especially goes for your departure from Rangitoto, since there are no facilities on the island, and you don’t want to get stuck there. Take your own lunch, snacks, water and sunscreen too.

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Once you’ve arrived at the island, you can choose from one of the many hiking trails, with the Summit Track being the most popular. After looking over the volcanic crater, you have amazing views over Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf from the Summit Lookout. 

It’s definitely worth taking a detour to the Lava Caves – which you can read more about here in my Rangitoto Day trip post. I also go into more detail about the Beacon Lighthouse, Historic Baches, and alternative trails which I enjoyed on my own visit to Rangitoto. 

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Piha is perhaps the most famous day trip within the Auckland region itself, and even tourists who generally don’t spend long in Auckland on their road trips have often taken an excursion to Piha’s black sand beaches.

Piha is a must-do for surfers, with its great waves, but anyone can have an awesome day trip here. If you want to try surfing for the first time, you can try a group surfing lesson with Piha Surf Academy . They also offer private surf lessons for a slightly higher price.

 Whether you just want to relax on the beach and do the 5-minute walk up Lion’s Rock, or do a detour to Kitekite Falls , it’s a perfect day out that feels miles away from Auckland. 

My personal favourite thing to do in Piha was the Mercer Bay Loop trail , a 40-minute walk that has simply breathtaking coastal scenery all around, and is potentially one of the most beautiful places in the North Island .

Discover more things to do in Piha here .

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MORE DAY TRIPS IN THE WAITAKERES AND WEST COAST BEACHES:

There are many more things to do in the greater area around Piha!

BETHELLS BEACH

  • Relax on Bethells Beach and see Bethells Cave
  • Walk up the massive sand dunes (or sandboard down them!)
  • Walk through the stream to Lake Wainamu.
  • Walk from Bethell Beaches to Muriwai Beach along the Te Henga Walkway

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MORE WAITAKERE RANGES DAY HIKES

Outside of the stunning Kitekite Falls hike or the coastal scenery of the Mercer Bay Loop, which I visited on Piha day trip, there are many more hikes to consider in the Waitakeres.

  • Nihotupu Dam Track – a 2.5km track passing the Nihotupu Dam and two small waterfalls
  • The easy 0.8km walk to Karekare Falls
  • Fairy Falls Track – a 5km, return track from the Atataki visitor centre, involves crossing streams and following a partially maintained track through the native forest before eventually arriving at Fairy Falls.
  • Walk along the huge Muriwai Beach, which stretches along for 60km, or go surfing
  • Visit the Muriwai Gannet Colony (from August to March you could see over 2000 gannets here!)

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WAIHEKE ISLAND

Waiheke Island is a 50-minute ferry away from Auckland. With many fun activities to enjoy on a Waiheke Island day trip , it’s a beautiful place to visit.

Even with limited time to spare, you can still enjoy the beaches, go hiking in Whakanewha National Park , and finish the by day enjoying a drink at one of Waiheke’s wineries!

Nature lovers can enjoy bird watching or snorkelling, and I’d also love to go diving someday. If you feel adventurous, you can go on the ziplines or enjoy the art trail and sculpture park for a more laidback activity.

DAY TRIPS WITHIN 2 HOURS OF AUCKLAND:

There are so many places to visit within 2 hours of Auckland!

Mangawhai is one of my personal favourite day trips from Auckland. A two-hour drive North of the city, Mangawhai is a spectacular coastal haven for hiking enthusiasts or beach lovers. 

Whilst enjoying a relaxing stop at Mangawhai Heads Beach, you have to do the 9km-return Mangawhai Cliff Walk – or at least the first 20-minutes to the first lookout! The views over the coast here are absolutely stunning. For more hiking, take on the Tanekaha Walking Tracks . This hike winds through luscious greenery, towering trees, and several small waterfalls. It’s not the easiest track, so grab your hiking boots and take water along. If you have time, you can also visit the nearby Te Arai Beach Reserve. The rock formations here make for a spectacular sunset spot and the waves are great for surfing too. 

Read more information about planning a trip to Mangawhai here.

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While many day trips on this list will get left out by non-locals, Hamilton is home to a couple of unique spots that even brief holiday-goers will want to squeeze into their New Zealand itinerary.

Firstly, Hamilton Gardens is a worthwhile stop for everyone! Apart from a traditional garden visit, Hamilton Gardens comprises many different ‘themed gardens’ that make you feel as if you’re both travelling the world and visiting diverse movie sets all in one day! From the Alice in Wonderland-esque Surrealist Garden to the peaceful Chinese Scholar’s Garden and the fantastic Italian Renaissance Garden, it’s hard to choose my favourite spot here!

You can also enjoy a Waitomo River Cruise , visit several walking trails or hunt for Hamilton’s vibrant street art while in the area. 

I recommend a detour to Bridal Veil Falls, a 55-metre high waterfall with four spectacular viewing platforms. If you’ve got time to make it a weekend trip, drive further into Raglan, a charming surfing town with spectacular coastal scenery.

Read more information about my Hamilton day trip.

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AWHITU PENINSULA

Depending on where you visit the Awhitu Peninsula, the driving time could vary from 55 to 90 minutes. But realistically, it’ll end up being the latter, since the Manukau Lighthouse is the must-see at the tip of the peninsula. This 140-year-old attraction has displays describing its history, as well as fantastic views from the lighthouse balcony. At the other end of the peninsula, is Waiuku, a historic town, where you can visit the Glenbrook Vintage railway and take a 15-km steam train ride. Don’t miss Kariotahi black-sand Beach and the 4km Awhitu Regional Park Walk on your way to the lighthouse too. 

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THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA

At just two hours from Auckland by car or ferry, The Coromandel Peninsula is another excellent spot for Aucklanders craving coastal scenery. It’s a popular weekend getaway for Aucklanders, especially in sunny weather! The best-known thing to do here is Cathedral Cove – I recommend the walk from Hahei Beach to enjoy the ocean views along the way. Cathedral Cove is a picturesque natural archway surrounded by several other unique rock formations that appear to balance precariously as they jut out from the ocean. Hot Water Beach is the other star attraction here since the thermal water beneath this sandy beach reaches up to 64 degrees Celcius! Humans have thus put the beach to another use and dug holes in the sand to create natural hot tubs! Visit in low tide to join in.

I finished my Coromandel Peninsula day trip with a walk-up of Paku Hill Summit, which has incredible regional views. Other things to do here include snorkelling or diving, relaxing at New Chums beach , or hiking along the Coromandel Coastal Walkway or the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail through the distinctive Pinnacles.

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DAY TRIPS WITHIN 3.5 HOURS FROM AUCKLAND :

These beautiful places are worth the drive, though you could also make the most of your weekend and make them a 2 day or 3 day trip from Auckland!

A 2.5 drive from Auckland, Tauranga is a lovely beach town. You may have seen photos of the view from Mt Maunganui back over the coastline. This hike is a 30-minute walk to the summit and a fab sunrise location. From Mt Maunganui’s main beach, you can also walk across the footpath to Leisure Island and follow the 10-minute track to see the blowholes. For an alternative hike, take on the Papamoa Hills Walk (the views look wonderful). 

Aside from the beach, you can visit McLaren Falls and Kaiate Pools, or if you want to treat yourself, visit one of the hot pools. Mount Hot Pools is just $14 entry, or Mount Hot Pools is $13.

Within the city itself, you can visit the Tauranga Art Gallery, spot the city street art, and stroll through the historic village. For something unique, take a detour to Te Puna Quarry Park or do an evening glow worm kayak around Waimarino! 

But best of all? Tauranga’s beaches are gorgeous – so if all that sounds too hectic for you, just sit back and relax!

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BAY OF ISLANDS

A fantastic coastal getaway, the Bay of Islands is the perfect retreat for anyone needing some rest outside the big city. Admittedly, this option is better as a weekend trip if you’re hoping to relax since it is over a 3-hour drive from Auckland to get here.

Snorkelling, diving, dolphin spotting and island hopping are great ways to enjoy the coastline, though they can be a bit pricey. Thankfully, during my trip, I found plenty of free activities and enjoyed my budget-friendly stay at Pagoda Lodge campsite. (They also have glamping facilities.) The site is based in Kerikeri, which is home to some historic sites such as the Stone Store and Kent House. I also walked from my tent to Rainbow Falls (a 3-hour round trip).

While the Bay of Islands is heaven for beach lovers, the sheer amount of both natural attractions and historical places (did you know that Russell was the first capital of New Zealand?!) makes it a really well-rounded destination.

My highlights were seeing the amazing coastal scenery, such as during my visit to Tauranga Bay and Matouri Bay. I also spent a day exploring the next town along, which is also home to the important Waitangi Treaty Grounds… I’ll be updating this post shortly with more information on the Bay of Islands – as well as a dedicated blog post – to give you the full scoop on the area!

Between Auckland and the Bay of Islands, there are some great stops on the way, such as Matakana (which can also be done as a Matakana day trip ), Mangawhai (above) and Whangarei.

Bay Of Islands day trip

The beautiful subtropical destination of Whangarei is home to more of the Northland’s gorgeous coastlines. It lies just 40-minutes south of the Bay of Islands, making it a great stop along the way. In the heart of the main town are the beautiful Whangarei Falls, but for the best of this region’s natural attractions, head further down to the Whangarei Heads Peninsula. Here you’ll find some truly breathtaking coastal hikes with views over the bays on one side and the South Pacific Ocean on the other. You can explore the Abbey Caves, spot glow worms, and climb Mt Manaia for more peak panoramas. Back in the main town, many family-friendly activities such as a kiwi house and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf. For something unique, I recommend the Whangarei Quarry Gardens. I respected how they had turned a disused quarry into an absolutely gorgeous garden, with many paths to choose from and a vast variety of plants and trees.

HOBBITON & WAITOMO

Hobbiton is around a 2 to 2.5-hour drive and a popular day tour from Auckland. As a huge ‘the Lord of the Rings’ fan, I was terrified of visiting Hobbiton. What if it doesn’t live up to expectations? What if the other visitors there aren’t big fans? But truthfully, the idea of visiting without a good friend to enjoy the experience with is what’s stumped me for my first two years in Auckland.

But then, the borders opened! And I was finally able to get to all the North Island Lord of the rings locations of my dreams ! I highly recommend Hobbiton for movie fans and novices alike – it’s a truly stunning destination!

Waitomo is often combined on a day trip with Hobbiton since it’s only an 80-minute drive away, though alternatively, it’s under three hours away from Auckland.

The most famous thing to do here is the Waitomo glow worm caves, although they get notoriously touristy. You can also see the limestone cliffs which make up these caves on the 45-minute Ruakuri Bush Walk. Alternatively, the Mangapohue Natural Bridge Walk or Marokioa Falls walk make for a tremendous Waitomo day trip surrounded by the great outdoors. There are so many hikes and waterfalls to visit in Waitomo, so once you’ve had enough of the glistening glowworms, don’t hurry away from Waitomo too quickly.

Around a 3-hour drive, Rotorua is another one best enjoyed as a weekend trip from Auckland. Rotorua is best known for its unique natural attractions, such as the giant redwood forest and the vibrant geothermal hot pools. Kuirau Park is a fantastic way to explore the crater lake, mud pools and unique natural hot springs . More fun and free activities include the Skyline Nature History Walk, the Kerosene Creek and Okere Falls. 

If your budget isn’t so tight, visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley with its amazing views, crater lake and mesmerising rock formations – is likely worth the $45 entry fee (or just 14$ for children). If you want to dip in some of the area’s famous hot springs , adult tickets to Waikite Valley Thermal Pools begin at $20. 

I have to admit… I can’t wait to visit Rotorua and hope I can give you a personal overview of the area before too long. I’d probably combine it with Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park too (hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is going to be epic)!

Best Day Trips in Auckland - one hour from Auckland

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Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

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17 comments.

New Zealand is such a beautiful place!

I’ve always wanted to visit New Zealand. These are great suggestions near Auckland!

This is so great! I want to live in Auckland one day and can’t wait to visit all these places 🙂

The pictures are so gorgeous! I really wish I get to visit Auckland and the day trips mentioned in your post someday. 🙂

Ahhh I’m tormenting myself with places I missed in New Zealand and this has made me want to plan my revisit right now! Hamilton Gardens sound incredible, I totally missed this.

Great post! It’s nice to know that you can do many day trips from Auckland. Looks like I’m going to enjoy it because of the nature.

Love this. So many amazing places I’ve never heard of but of course I would NEED to visit Hobbits. Great post!

I loved the fact you’ve divided the post into the length of trip – super helpful when I need to plan. I’ve been to a few other places in NZ, but never Auckland and now I definitely want to go back!!

So many unique destinations! I’ve always wanted to visit Hobbiton!

Waitomo and Hobbiton look so much fun! Hopefully I make it some day. The other easiest day trips closer to Auckland are really underrated I think – I’ve really loved exploring around here!

hope you make it! Lots to do around Auckland even though it’s often missed on people’s holidays!

The Coromandel is a wonderful day trip! Honestly so much to do around Auckland!

That’s my dream! Not sure if I will be able to go to those places this time around… let’s see!

These are some gorgeous photos! My husband and I cannot wait to go to New Zealand to visit Hobbits and do the Lord of the Rings tour!

I am itching to go back to New Zealand after reading your post! The Coromandel has been on my bucket list for a long time.

This gives me so many ideas! Would love to go in 2021!

Waitomo & Hobbiton were BOTH on my NZ area bucket list… but I had no idea they were kind of close to one another!! How cool! I’m using your blog as a planning guide for the Auckland trip I’m hoping to take in 2021.

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great day trips from auckland

9 best day trips from Auckland

Zi @Craving Adventure

  • October 24, 2023
  • New Zealand , Oceania

During my brief stint in Auckland, I quickly learned that Auckland’s true beauty lies in its outskirts and surrounding area. The hustle and bustle, cultural offerings, top-notch food scene and vibrant waterfront were all great, but I couldn’t resist the urge to escape the urban jungle whenever possible.

Beyond Auckland city, you’ll find a mix of lush rainforests, mystical black sand beaches, volcanic landscapes and so much more!

Best way to go on day trips from Auckland

Where to stay in auckland, waiheke island, waitomo caves, cathedral cove, waitakere ranges and piha beach, muriwai beach, rangitoto island, northern explorer train journey, getting to auckland, getting around auckland, best time to visit auckland, new zealand, planning a trip to nz north island, new zealand travel insurance.

Below I list the absolute best day trips from Auckland, ranging from destinations just a short skip and a hop from downtown to some that require a bit more of a drive (which you might choose to turn into a weekend getaway).

great day trips from auckland

In a hurry? Book the best day trips from Auckland:

Waiheke Island Gourmet Tour   Rotorua from Auckland Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo tour Coromandel Peninsula Highlights Muriwai Scenic Wine Tour Northern Explorer train ride

Many of the day trip destinations mentioned below are accessible whether you opt for the flexibility of a rental car, the convenience of organized tours, or the budget-friendly choice of public transportation.

Organized tours

Guided tours from Auckland make exploring a breeze! With organized transport and expert guides leading the way and sharing local insights, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.

Own transport

Having your own wheels grants you the liberty to explore as your heart desires. However, driving in New Zealand may not suit everyone, especially if you’re not accustomed to left-side driving on narrow, winding roads.

Public transport

Auckland’s public transport network of ferries, busses, and trains is an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for exploring nearby attractions. However, this is the least flexible option and can be a bit of a hassle for some of the trips mentioned below.

For your stay, I highly recommend you pick an accommodation that is fairly central. The areas around Queen Street, the Sky Tower, Britomart, and Viaduct are perfect and here you’ll find a great selection of hotels.

Chic Princes Wharf Studio

HOME WITH VIEWS

This studio offers a chic escape in the heart of the action, with stunning harbor views and easy access to the city’s top attractions.

CHECK PRICES

SO/ Auckland

STYLISH & CENTRAL

Fusing urban luxury with creative design, avant-garde décor, exciting events, and delicious food, SO/Auckland brings a whole new level of fun to your stay.

Park Hyatt Auckland

HARBOUR LIVING

An exquisite waterfront retreat with world-class amenities, stunning vistas, and unparalleled hospitality in the heart of the city.

Read next: Where to stay in Auckland

great day trips from auckland

Best day trips from Auckland

Waiheke Island, just off the coast of Auckland, is known for its stunning beaches and fantastic wineries. It is a popular escape from the busy city among locals and tourists alike.

In the morning, check out of your accommodation and make your way to the wharf to take the Passenger Ferry to Waiheke Island. The ferry goes every half an hour, takes about 45 minutes to get there. Buy your ferry ticket here .

You can start the day at the beach – either Oneroa Beach, which is a nicely sheltered beach but tends to get quite busy, or Onetangi Beach, the island’s largest beach that is great for swimming and has lots of cafés and restaurants around.

When you’ve soaked up enough sunshine, let’s taste some of that wine that Waiheke Island is so famous for! Book your hop-on, hop-off bus ticket to explore the wineries on your own or join this wine tasting tour if you’d like some company.

There are countless wineries to choose from, but Tantalus Estate also offer delicious craft beer on top of the wine. Alternatively, take a look at Obsidian. We love them for their down-to-earth simplicity and incredible wine.

In the evening everyone heads to Charlie Farley’s for a drink. Located right next to Onetangi Beach this is arguably the island’s most popular pub. We’re sure you’ll understand why once you’re sitting on their deck with a drink and watching the sunset.

Book your experience: Waiheke Island ferry ticket Waiheke Island wine tasting tour Hop-on, hop-off bus ticket Ferry and Bus pass

great day trips from auckland

Hobbiton is the film set where they filmed the scenes that took place in the village of Hobbiton and parts of the Shire. The Hobbiton film set is the only film set from the movies that hasn’t been broken down after filming, instead, it has been turned into an open-air museum.

Live out your Middle-earth fantasies as you explore the lush, rolling hills of the Shire, home to the iconic hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn. Take a  guided tour through the Hobbiton village and enter the Hobbit Hole of Bag End.

Hobbiton is located near the village of Matamata, about two hours from Auckland. You can drive there on your own accord or join this organized tour from Auckland. There are also options to combine the Hobbiton visit with Rotorua, Waitomo, or both.

Book your day trip: Hobbiton Movie Set from Auckland Hobbiton and Rotorua trip Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves

Read next: Best LOTR filming locations in NZ

great day trips from auckland

Rotorua is known for three things: the smell of sulfur (and accompanying geothermal landscapes), Maori culture, and as the Adventure Capital of the North Island. It is the perfect mix of nature, culture, adventure, cuisine, and otherworldly landscapes.

I love Rotorua so much that I’d suggest you pack up and head to Rotorua for a few days and follow this itinerary. It would be a perfect weekend getaway!

However, when you’re short on time, this day tour of Rotorua from Auckland is the perfect introduction to this incredible destination and includes a visit to Te Puia.

If you’re a LOTR fan, opt for this Hobbiton and Rotorua trip for a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set along with the magical Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland.

For those on a time crunch, this tour of Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves has you covered. But if you can spare an additional day, I’d recommend you split this into two trips as it’s quite a lot for just one day.

Book your day trip: Rotorua from Auckland Hobbiton and Rotorua trip Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves

Read next: Rotorua itinerary Things to do in Rotorua Where to stay in Rotorua Best LOTR filming locations in NZ

great day trips from auckland

There are over 300 known caves in the Waitomo area. These caves are famous because of glowworms, illuminating the dark passages like a starry night.

This day tour from Auckland includes Waitomo and Ruakuri caves for the ultimate experience. But there are many more caves for you to explore.

If you’re visiting on your own accord I recommend this black water rafting tour  for the ultimate experience. The raft is actually an inflatable donut and you’ll be leisurely floating down an underground stream while looking up at a starry sky of glowworms. Trust me, it’s magical!

Book your adventure: Waitomo Black Water Rafting Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Hobbiton and Waitomo Day Tour Waitomo Glowworm Cave Experience Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves

great day trips from auckland

Pristine golden beaches, secluded bays, misty rainforests, beautiful waterfalls and cliffside views make the Coromandel Peninsula an ideal destination for a memorable day trip. And the iconic Cathedral Cove is its crown jewel.

Cathedral Cove Beach is a true gem of New Zealand’s North Island. With its stunning natural archway and golden sands, this coastal paradise has graced many a postcard.

Getting there is a bit of a drive for just a day but oh-so-worth-it! Join this guided day tour to Cathedral Cove or, if you can spare a few days, explore Coromandel on your own accord.

Once in Ha Hei, you can reach Cathedral Cove via the Cathedral Cove track or via water by water taxi or on a kayak tour.

Book your adventure: Coromandel Peninsula Highlights from Auckland Cathedral Cove Classic Kayaking Tour

Read next: Your guide to the Coromandel Peninsula Where to stay on the Coromandel Your guide to Cathedral Cove

great day trips from auckland

The Waitakere Ranges, sprawling over 16,000 hectares of protected land, are a spectacular natural playground just a short drive west of Auckland. This lush rainforest is filled with waterfalls and hiking trails, over 250 kilometers of hiking trails to be precise.

You can visit Piha Beach in an afternoon or combine your visit to Waitakere Rainforest with a wine Wine Tour or

Be sure to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking Kitekite Falls, a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall cascading down a total of 40 meters (131 feet).

Then, hit Piha Beach. Its black sands (the result of iron-rich magnetite deposits) are a popular spot for sunbathing while the ocean provides perfect surf conditions. This is the perfect place to take surf lessons.

Piha’s most iconic feature is the Lion Rock, an ancient sentinel that guards the shore. Climbing Lion Rock rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the untamed Tasman Sea and the rugged coastline.

Book your adventure: Piha Beach & Waitakere Ranges Piha Beach, Waitakere Rainforest and Wine Tour Piha surf lessons

great day trips from auckland

Muriwai Beach is where endless black sands meets epic surf and scenic cliffs. There is also a safe swimming area with lifeguards and you can take surf lessons here.

But the real headliner here is the gannet colony that calls Muriwai home. These feathered divas put on quite a show, and trust me, their homes with million-dollar ocean views are worth a squawk or two. And if you visit from August to April you might even spot adorable baby Gannets.

Visit Muriwai on this eco-tour, or combine your visit with wine tasting for the ultimate day of fun and scenery.

Fun fact! The black sand, dense with iron in the form of magnetite (Fe₃O₄) is actually magnetic.

Book your day trip: Muriwai Scenic Wine Tour Eco tour to Muriwai Beach & Gannet Colony

great day trips from auckland

Rangitoto Island is Auckland’s youngest and largest volcano. Its landscape is marked by rugged lava fields, which have been frozen in time, offering a window into past eruptions. The island’s shoreline is a mix of dark volcanic sands, lava rocks and hidden coves waiting to be explored.

You can reach Rangitoto Island by ferry or by joining a kayak tour. For a unique experience, consider this sunset kayak tour allowing you to paddle back as the sun dips below the Auckland skyline while the city’s lights begin to twinkle.

The island’s diverse flora and fauna have been lovingly nurtured since it became a reserve in 1890. Its growing pohutukawa forest is a fiery display of crimson blooms during the summer months.

As you hike up to the island’s summit you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of Auckland’s skyline and the Hauraki Gulf.

Book your trip: Rangitoto Island ferry Morning kayak tour Sunset kayak tour

great day trips from auckland

The Northern Explorer is one of New Zealand’s most iconic train journeys. This scenic railway offers a front-row seat to some of North Island’s most stunning landscapes, including the volcanic plateau of Tongariro National Park and the stunning Kapiti coast.

The Raurimu Spiral near National Park is undeniably one of the highlights. This series of tight loops and tunnels enable trains to conquer a 139-meter vertical ascent in a mere 8 kilometers,

As you take in the views through the large panoramic windows or from open-air viewing platforms, you’ll get GPS-triggered audio commentary on the sights you encounter.

Now, the ride all the way to Welly takes 11 hours so you might as well spend some time there and catch a flight back.

Book your ticket: Northern Explorer ticket

great day trips from auckland

Auckland is the primary arrival gateway for most travelers entering New Zealand and is well connected with the rest of New Zealand and the world.

By Air: Auckland is served by Auckland Airport (AKL), the country’s largest and busiest international airport. It offers connections with numerous international and national destinations. From the airport, it’s just a short shuttle drive to the city center.

By Sea: Auckland’s harbor is a hub for cruise ships, making it a popular port of call for international cruise travelers. The ships dock in the heart of Auckland so exploring the city is easy, even on foot.

By Car: If you’re traveling from within New Zealand, you can conveniently reach Auckland by car, or motorhome. The city has an extensive road network, and major highways like State Highway 1 connect Auckland to other regions.

By Bus: Getting to Auckland by bus is a convenient and budget-friendly option for travelers within New Zealand. The city is well-connected to various regions through an extensive bus network and the bus stop is conveniently located within easy reach of the city center.

By Train: Auckland is also accessible by train, offering a relaxed and eco-friendly way to travel to the city. The scenic Northern Explorer train from Wellington is known for its breathtaking views, including picturesque countryside and coastal vistas.

great day trips from auckland

Auckland boasts an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries, making it easy to explore the city and its surrounding areas. You can also rely on ride-sharing services and taxis for convenient and flexible transportation. This hop-on hop-off bus is a great way to explore the main highlights.

Auckland is a great destination year-round, but you’ll get longer days and warmer temperatures when visiting between mid-November to late April.

Considering Auckland’s geography, it’s not uncommon to get 4 seasons in a day, no matter the time of the year. It can be raining one minute and you’ll get sun burnt the next, especially if you’re not yet used to the strong sun in New Zealand.

New Zealand’s North Island is beautiful and incredibly diverse, and there is so much to eplore! Follow this New Zealand North Island itinerary for the adventure of a lifetime. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of  New Zealand travel guides .

NZ Itineraries:   2&3 week North Island itineraries 2 & 3 week South Island itineraries

Auckland: Auckland Itinerary Where to stay in Auckland

Rotorua: Rotorua itinerary Things to do in Rotorua Where to stay in Rotorua

Coromandel: Your guide to the Coromandel Peninsula Where to stay on the Coromandel Your guide to Cathedral Cove

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

ACC in New Zealand covers you for accidents but if you get sick or lose your luggage you’ll need good insurance to cover it for you.

We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go-to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

Travel and adventure have always been a big part of Zi’s life. She spent her childhood summers sailing around the Croatian islands and winters snowboarding in the Alps.

Before she even started Craving Adventure she already visited 20+ countries, lived in three of them and in six different cities across the globe. Zi took her first ‘solo’ trip when she was only 11 years old (summer camp in England) and one way tickets have become her norm. It’s safe to say that Zi has always been a travel enthusiast and a nomad.

Zi usually walks down the street with a camera in hand, edits photos or writes blogs late into the night. She does web design tweaks on the go (she also holds a master’s degree in Communication & Media), but crashing drones is her real superpower.

Discover the world:

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Your guide to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

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Where Angie Wanders

Best Day Trips from Auckland for Fun Lovers

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: January 18, 2024

Best Day Trips from Auckland for Fun Lovers

Are you visiting New Zealand and want ideas of some fun Auckland day trips you can do? This post has the answers! From self drive day trips from Auckland to guided day tours with small groups, you will find the perfect day trip from Auckland to suit you.

It is so easy to arrange day trips from Auckland Central, and as the largest city in New Zealand, it is the perfect base to travel from to other parts of New Zealand’s North Island.

And while there are plenty of amazing things to do in Auckland, a day trip can help escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Discover glorious beaches, mountains, forests, waterfalls and rivers. Enjoy the great outdoors with walking, hiking, and cycling trails and delight in wine tours and mouthwatering dining options.

Put your nerves to the test with adrenaline sports such as parachuting, white-water rafting and bungee jumping.

But most of all, immerse yourself in the natural elements that make New Zealand one of the best travel destinations in the world.

Ready to venture out of Auckland? Looking for some fun? Here are ten of the best Auckland day trips to discover.

This article may contain affiliate links – Please read the full disclaimer here.

Need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Check out my resources page to help you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Map of the Best Day Trips From Auckland NZ

Bay of Islands Day Trip #1

Drive Time from Auckland to the Bay of Islands – 3 hours

Flight time from Auckland to the Kerikeri Airport Bay of Islands – 50 minutes

Guided Day Tour – Bay of Islands with Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The Bay of Islands comprises 144 islands and several beautiful boutique towns: Paihia, Russell, Opua and Kerikeri.

A drive from Auckland will take around 3 hours, but don’t worry; there are plenty of interesting places to stop along the way.

At the end of your drive, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the islands rising majestically from the sea.

On a day trip, there are many exciting things to do in the Bay of Islands, both cultural and natural. 

Of course, being out on the water is the best way to experience one of the loveliest places in New Zealand.

Hire a boat and sail to one of the beautiful sandy beaches, or join a dolphin cruise to get close to these fascinating animals.

Speed freaks will love the thrilling jet-boat ride to the Hole in the Rock or the chance to experience the ultimate coastal day trip aboard a Sailings on The Rock cruise.

On dry land, visit the Maori cultural centre at  Waitangi Treaty Grounds and learn about New Zealand’s indigenous people’s history and traditions.

Enjoy two museums, the Treaty House, carved Meeting House, carving studio and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe to gain an insight into the people of Aotearoa: Land of the Long White Cloud.

View of the Bay of Islands

Rangitoto Day Trip #2

Ferry Time from Auckland to Rangitoto – 25 minutes 

Rangitoto Island is New Zealand’s youngest volcanic island at just 600 years old, and a speedy ferry crossing from Auckland lets you explore this fascinating island at your own pace.

Rangitoto is one of the best short trips from Auckland and is perfect for walkers and nature lovers.

Native flora, fauna and wildlife cover Rangitoto, and you can climb a dormant (but not extinct) volcano and walk through the world’s largest pohutukawa forest. 

If you complete the Rangitoto Summit walk, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views from the Summit Lookout to Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.

In addition to walking and hiking, there are other enjoyable things to do on Rangitoto island , ranging from a saltwater swimming pool, mangrove boardwalks and fern groves to explore.

View of Rangitoto volcano from Auckland

Waiheke Island Day Trip #3

Ferry Time from Auckland to Waiheke Island – 40 minutes

Guided Tour – Waiheke Island Wineries Tour

If you love wine, Waiheke Island must be on your bucket list of places to visit in New Zealand.

After a short ferry crossing from Auckland, arrive on the island and prepare for a fun-packed day exploring some of the best New Zealand wineries .

Leave enough time to enjoy a sumptuous meal at one of the inspiring restaurants; you won’t regret it!

Waiheke isn’t just for wine lovers; it also has amazing walking trails and adrenaline sports such as zip-lining and mountain biking to take part in, so there really is something for everyone.

You may feel one day isn’t enough for you and decide to stay overnight. With so many beautiful Waiheke hotels , you will be spoilt for choice.

And don’t forget to pack your swimwear, as Waiheke has some of the most sensational beaches in New Zealand .

View of Waiheke Island from the ferry

Day Trip to Piha #4

Driving Time from Auckland to Piha – 1 hour

One of the best short drives from Auckland is Piha on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island.

It is in Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, nicknamed Auckland’s Wild West.

With a rugged coastline, great hiking trails, unique wildlife opportunities and New Zealand’s most famous volcanic black sand surf beach, it is the perfect destination for a day trip from Auckland. It also makes the list as one of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches .

Adventurous day-trippers may like to scale the enormous dunes at Bethells Beach or hike the circular route to Kitekite Falls  or Mercer Bay Loop Walk . 

For animal lovers, Tasman Lookout Track is a short but popular trail suitable for all skill levels and an excellent place for birdwatching.

A trip to the gannet colony in Mariwai should also feature on your list of things to do in Piha during your day trip.

As the evening closes in, enjoy a cocktail, beer or dinner at one of the restaurants or beach bars in Piha while choosing which day trips from Auckland you want to discover next.

Piha Beach

Coromandel Peninsula Day Trip #5

Driving Time from Auckland to the Coromandel Peninsula – 2 hours 30 minutes 

Guided Tour – Full-Day Coromandel Tour from Auckland

A day trip to the Coromandel Peninsula from Auckland will give you a taster of all the wonderful things to do in this beautiful coastal area.

Away from the stunning Coromandel beaches, the extensive mountain range covered in ancient New Zealand forest makes a refreshing change from the city.

The Coromandel is a great place for family day trips from Auckland, as it has a good balance of fun things to do.

Head to Hot Water Beach and dig a hot pool ; it’s one of the must-do experiences in New Zealand!

Wander around Whitianga before boarding a cruise to Cathedral Cove (made famous by Captain Cook!).

Afterwards, relax on Hahei Beach before exploring Waiau Kauri Grove, famed for its towering Kauri trees and picturesque waterfall.

Cathedral Cove Beach in the Coromandel Peninsula

Mount Maunganui Day Trip #6

Drive Time from Auckland to Mount Maunganui – 2hrs 45 minutes

Mount Maunganui, known as “the Mount” by locals, is a seaside gem along the Tauranga coastline. It has sandy beaches for sun worshippers, watersports for the adventurous, and mouth-watering eats for food lovers.

It is a popular destination for Aucklanders to chill out and unwind.

Day-trippers and those wanting to stay longer will find plenty of things to do in Mount Maunganui.

Hike to the Maunganui’s summit for sensational 360° views of the Bay of Plenty coastline, or head to McLaren Falls Park to discover glow worm caves, native forest and the best botanical collection of trees in New Zealand.

Want to relax after a hike? Head to Mount Hot Pools, the only hot ocean water complex in the world  or join a dolphin and wildlife cruise before heading back to Auckland after the perfect day out in Mount Maunganui.

Mount Maunganui Beach

Hobbiton Film Set Day Trip #7

Driving Time from Auckland to the Hobbiton Film Set – 2 hours

Small Group Tour – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

No true Lord of the Rings fan could visit New Zealand without visiting the Hobbiton film set. Located in the countryside of Matamata, this is another New Zealand bucket list adventure that needs to be seen to be believed.

Walk in the footsteps of Bilbo Baggins and Frodo and be guided around the village of Hobbiton.

Find out about the filming of the trilogy and some behind-the-scenes secrets! Step inside a hobbit house and run down the pathway that took Frodo on his adventures.

During the day, Hobbiton Film Set Tours can get extremely busy, so I opted for the Hobbiton Evening Banquet Tour.

Smaller groups, great photo opportunities without the crowds, and the most delicious 3-course banquet served in The Green Dragon. This is one of my favourite places to visit within 2 hours of Auckland and a must for LOTR fans.

Hobbit House on the film set at Hobbiton

Rotorua Day Trip #8

Driving Time from Auckland to Rotorua – just under 3 hours

Guided Tour – Day trip to Rotorua from Auckland

Rotorua is a stark contrast to Auckland and celebrates the captivating Maori culture and natural geothermal wonders of New Zealand.

But get ready for the lingering odour of sulphur (eggy smell) that permeates Rotorua; it is intense!

Rotorua’s main tourist attraction is  Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland , spreading 18 square km across the geothermal area.

Explore the colourful hot springs, including the Lady Knox Geyser, Champagne Pool, Artist’s Palette, Primrose Terrace and boiling mud pools.

Daily demonstrations of hot water and steam spouting from the geysers are fun to watch.

Besides the thermal attractions, Rotorua has other brilliant things to do on a day trip or as part of a longer 7-day North Island itinerary .

Adrenaline junkies will love zorbing and parachute jumping activities, while nature lovers will enjoy some incredible walks in Rotorua through native redwood forests and around the thermal areas.

Best Combined Rotorua and Hobbiton Day Trips from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

Waitomo Caves Day Trip #9

Driving Time from Auckland to the Waitomo Glow Worm Cave – 2.5 hours

Guided Tour – Waitomo Glow Worm Caves and Eco Tour

Waitomo is one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions and is a great place to visit on a day trip from Auckland. Take a guided boat ride and marvel at thousands of magical glowworms lighting up the extensive cave system.

Learn how glow worms produce their luminescent light (you may be surprised!) and hear your guide bring the glowworm caves to life through the history and legends of the Maori culture.

If you love caves, you will enjoy the 2-hour guided underground tour of Ruakuri Cave . The longest guided underground tour in New Zealand showcases underground waterfalls and natural formations.

If you are brave, you will want to visit Aranui Cave, with its colony of wetas. This is not for the faint-hearted, as a weta is one of the largest insects on the planet!

waitomo underground cave

Driving Time from Auckland to Taupo – 3.5 hours

Flying Time from Auckland – 50 minutes

Taupo is the longest drive from Auckland, but it can still be done in a day if you rise early. It is also a perfect destination to add to a New Zealand North Island Road Trip Itinerary.

Lake Taupo, the largest lake in Oceania, is the centrepiece of the town of Taupo.

Take a lake cruise , enjoy the watersports or hire a bike and cycle around the 10km Great Lake Walkway.

For thrill-seekers, head to Huka Falls and blast along the Waikato River on a jet boat ride . Afterwards, head to Taupo Spa Thermal Park and enjoy a free dip in its swimming pool.

To experience the beauty of Taupo, a flight over the volcanic Mount Ruapehu will give extraordinary views.

Or how about an 18,500ft skydive experience ? Taupo is one of the best places in New Zealand for adrenaline activities.

Tongariro National Park is just south of Taupo. Hikers will enjoy exploring its magnificent volcanic alpine landscape and can ski on its slopes if visiting in winter.

Make sure to get a selfie at the #LOVETAUPO lettering, which can be found on Lake Terrace, before heading home. It’s a lovely momento of your day trip to Taupo.

View of Lake Taupo with #ILoveTaupo Lettering

I hope this post has helped to give you some ideas of great day trips to take from Auckland.

Please PIN for future travel to New Zealand.

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If you are looking for a beach walk to do in New Zealand, you may like to read: Hahei Beach to Cathedral Cove Trail

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Sunday 17th of January 2021

This list is amazing! I’ve always known New Zealand to be incredibly beautiful but never thought that the landscapes are so varied. The Bay of islands might need more than a day with 144 islands! Hobbiton sounds positively exciting too!

Friday 15th of January 2021

New Zealand is still on my dream list. I'd love to see it. Therefore, I am reading this article with interest—great ideas for trips and valuable tips to help plan a trip. I would love to see Rangitoto Island, the youngest volcanic island at just 600 years old. I also add to my bucket list stunning Coromandel beaches and one of the hidden gems - Piha.

WhereAngieWanders

I am really pleased that you found some day trips on the list that you would love to do. It is hard to pick favourites because they are all so wonderful but the 3 you have mentioned are good choices.

Thursday 14th of January 2021

New Zealand has always been on our bucket list and topping our list of activities is Hobbiton! We just finished binge-watching all of the LOTR and Hobbit movies and what an amazing experience to walk on this film set! Still hope to go one day!

I hope you read my post on the Hobbiton Evening Banquet Tour that will definitely make you want to visit!

Debra Schroeder

Wednesday 13th of January 2021

New Zealand is on my bucket list. I didn't realize there were so many cool places to day trip from Auckland. Loved the handy sharable Google map and how you listed how long it would take to drive, fly, or take a ferry to each day trip. Can't decide if the wineries or Mount Maunganui should be my first stop...

Glad you found it useful Debra. I would definitely head to the wineries!!

Sherianne Higgins

You had me at beaches and waterfalls. Bay of Islands looks gorgeous and worth the 3-hour drive. I really want to dig a hot pool on Hot Water Beach and check out the waterfall at Waiau Kauri Grove. Mount Maunganui is another spot I will need to add to my itinerary, I have always wanted to visit a glow worm cave and I’m curious about the hot water ocean. Great ideas!

10 top day trips from Auckland, New Zealand

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: November 25, 2020  - Last updated: August 23, 2021

Poster for day trips from Auckland article

The city of sails lies on a narrow isthmus of land between the Waitemata Harbour on the east coast and the Tasman Sea on the west coast. The location makes it ideal for exploring the many diverse areas of natural, historical and cultural interest on day trips from Auckland.

day trips from auckland

A few of these destinations have driving distances that are on the longer end for a day trip, up to a 3-hour drive from the city. That said they can be done and we have done them as a single day trip, particularly when we’ve had overseas visitors who wanted to see a bit more of the area with only limited time.

We’ve included the travel times on each destination and if they feel a bit rushed consider combining them into a multi-day road trip or extending out with a night or two at the destination.

Each place is shown on the map below to help you visualise the relativity of the various destinations to each other and from an Auckland base.

Table of Contents

1. Waiheke Island

2. muriwai and the west coast beaches, 3. rangitoto island, 4. waitomo caves, 6. hobbiton movie set, 7. matakana & omaha, 8. waitakere ranges, 9. tiritiri matangi, 10. mt maunganui.

One of the most popular day trips from Auckland for both visitors and locals is heading out by ferry to Waiheke Island which offers a range of options from beach days and walking tracks to winery tours with million-dollar views of the harbour.

Mud Brick winery on Waiheke Island

This view is from the Mudbrick Vineyard, the outdoor seating is part of the bistro. You can choose to sit inside of course but these our pick and are understandably popular on a sunny afternoon. The restaurant here is excellent too, inspired by the local bounty it really is New Zealand on a plate whether you opt for the degustation or a la carte option.

You can take a wine tour to Waiheke Island which includes a stop at Mudbrick or head out on your own on foot, by cycle or on the island bus to explore the beaches, cliff top walking tracks, art galleries and some excellent foodie options.

Getting here: If you take one of the tour options, as mentioned above, they will generally include transport from the central city.

The most popular crossing is the Fullers ferry. It leaves from the ferry building downtown, takes around 40 minutes, runs frequent crossing and costs $42 for a return ticket.

If you want to take a car across that is the Sealink ferry and it leaves from Half Moon Bay taking around an hour to make the crossing. If you are using a rental vehicle it’s worth checking that your rental agreement allows the vehicle to be transported on a ferry.

A trip out to Auckland’s west coast for the day offers plenty of options for those who love to surf, enjoy spectacular views and spending time in nature. Murawai is a great west coast beach with dramatic black sand caused by the iron in the volcanic rock as it breaks down.

Take the Takapu Refuge Walkway from the carpark and toilets at the top to get some stunning views of the coastline to the north and south. It takes you through a section of bush to lookouts above the gannet (takapu) colony. You can then continue on down the track to the beach.

Murawai Beach

Other beaches nearby include Piha and Bethalls (Te Henga). While all 3 beaches offer rugged scenery, surf and black sand they each offer something more.

Muriwai is the starting point for the Goldie Bush Circuit , a 9 km hike that links up three trails, the Goldie bush walkway, the Mokoroa stream and the Mokoroa falls track. It a pretty circuit with native bush, nikau palm groves, stream crossings, a waterfall and a swing bridge, you name it this track has it.

Bethalls is south of Muriwai and for something different here you can take a hike through to the giant sand dunes, Wainamu lake and waterfall . The dunes are perfect for sledding down and the walk around the lake is very picturesque.

There are two ways to get out to the lake either over the sand dunes or along the creek. The creek is of course flatter if you don’t mind getting your feet wet. This was where I saw the biggest eel in all my years of calling NZ home. It was enormous and presumably female as it was well over a metre long.

Piha surf beach is slightly further south again and from here you can do the short 1-hour return track to Kitekite falls. It’s a relatively easy walk on a well-formed track and the falls are really pretty. The trail can get a little muddy and slippery in parts after a good rain but the falls will be at their best so it’s a trade-off. You can get to both the top and base of the falls and it’s a good swimming spot.

Read more: Exploring Muriwai Beach in Auckland

Getting here: Although Muriwai is part of greater Auckland getting out here by public transport isn’t really an option, but that is why it feels so blissfully remote and beautiful. By car, it will take you around 45 minutes to drive out from the inner city.

Another option is to join a Muriwai tour from your city accommodation and spend the day taking in the scenery, riding a horse along the black sand at the surfs edge and stop in at a local winery and bistro on the way back to the city.

This Auckland icon can cause visitors to the city to become a bit disoriented, it’s visible from many different vantage points but being almost symmetrical it looks the same whether you are on the city side, the north shore beaches or out on the water.

Rangitoto Island Auckland

The most common and comfortable way to make the 25-minute trip out to Rangitoto island from the city is on the Fullers ferry . You’ll need to take what you need for the day with you as there aren’t shops and cafes out there. There’s also not much shelter from the elements but it’s a great spot to hike or just spend the day.

Rangitoto is an active volcano having last erupted 600-years ago but there have been no recent signs of activity. There are good walking tracks on the island but it is mainly scoria rock so wear shoes that will be comfortable to walk in and will protect your feet.

We suggest you follow the coastal track, then climb up to the summit for its fabulous views and bragging rights before continuing across the causeway to Motutapu Island to experience the contrast in landscape from volcanic cone to green farmland.

The glow-worm caves in Waitomo are known around the world, they are spectacular, well managed from an environmental point of view and generally considered a ‘must-do’ on the itinerary for any visitor to New Zealand.

Cave on Ruakuri walk in Waitomo

The cave system in Waitomo is extensive but the caves known as the Waitomo glowworm caves are one section of it that you can only visit with a guide. You will learn about the local area, history of the caves, some of the cave formations and then take a silent boat tour under an extensive canopy of glowworms.

There is no photography allowed inside but it is one of those life experiences that is so unique you won’t forget it and a photo would never have done it justice anyway. If you can’t tell we highly recommend this tour, the way it is run is quite commercial but it really is something unique.

That’s not to say you won’t also see glow worms in other caves and even along walking tracks in Waitomo, this species is unique to New Zealand and the area has the most intense population of them.

The Ruakuri Cave tour is another great option, you’ll see much more of the cave structure as you head deeper underground. You’ll also see glow worms in here. There’s an area where you stop in the pitch dark to see them illuminated over the river but you’ll also have the chance to see them close up where you’ll see the detail of their web and structure.

Other attractions to enjoy in the area are the Ruakuri walking track, a free bush walk with some interesting cave structures along the trail and a spot where you can see the glow-worms lit up in their natural environment on the river bank at night.

Blackwater rafting is also a popular option, floating down a river inside a cave in inner tubes and a wetsuit to see the caves and glow-worms from a completely different perspective with a bit of adventure thrown in.

For more ideas click through to read our guide to the Waitomo Caves and other things to do in the area.

Getting here: It’s around a 2.5-hour drive from Auckland to Waitomo on good roads. You follow state highway 1 through to Hamilton then join state highway 39 branching west through the Waikato to Waitomo.

If you are making a day trip to do the caves tours we recommend an early morning start to be in Waitomo in time for the first tour of the day if possible, it’s not essential but if you want to fit in a couple of the cave tours and the other attractions in the area you’ll want as much time as possible and that first tour is usually the least busy.

The scenery and unique geothermal parks of Rotorua make a great day trip, or longer stay if you have the opportunity.

Artists Palette geothermal pool at Wai-o-tapu

The natural hot springs in the area are really extensive, as you drive into town you’ll notice steam rising from the drains at the side of the road and ponds within parks. You’ll also most likely notice the smell of sulphur in the air, it’s totally natural, safe and common to all geothermal areas around the world. After a few hours, you’ll stop noticing it again.

While in Rotorua you’ll want to visit at least one of the geothermal parks. Wai-o-tapu is one of our favourites with a real diversity of scenery, dramatic colours and insta-worth views. It’s all contained into a series of interlinked loop tracks making it easy to cover as little or much as you want.

Looking for a bit of adventure in town? Consider taking a kayak trip out on the lake , taking in the stunning scenery from the water with a detour to float through glow worm caves and soak in a hot spring beside the lake that can only be reached from the water or after a significant hike.

Finally, we always find it hard to leave town without a stop at the Polynesian spa , a hot spring and spa treatment complex on the edge of the lake. There are private spas looking out over the water, a wide range of acidic and alkaline pools fed by different springs and a separate family area.

Getting here: Allow 3 hours to drive from Auckland to Rotorua. It’s an easy drive and there is a choice of routes allowing you to mix up the scenery and attractions along the way. A walk to the Blue Spring in Putaruru or Hobbiton (below) are popular options.

This movie set attraction from The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings has been restored and maintained with incredible attention to detail. Studio set tours can feel like they take away some of the magic but Hobbiton was the exact opposite. Rather than the illusion behind the big screen, you had the genuine feel of having walked into a Hobbit village.

Read more: Our review and top tips for planning a visit to Hobbiton .

Everything was exactly as it should be in the Shire, the party tree there in the middle, beautifully presented hobbit holes all throughout the hillside with their trappings of daily life. Beer on tap at the Green Dragon!

A Hobbit Hole

Getting here: The drive from Auckland is around 2 hours 15 minutes. It’s on good sealed roads and the final section through rural farmland is quite picturesque, you really could picture Bilbo running down any of these hillsides.

There are a variety of tour options from Auckland if you don’t have your own transport, either for entry and transport to Hobbiton alone or combined with the Waitomo Caves , another popular Waikato attraction.

This area is an hours drive north of Auckland city. This is a relaxed day out and you’ll find a variety of attractions here to add to your itinerary.

One of the best reasons to visit is the Matakana Markets held each Saturday morning from 8 am. They have a fabulous selection of local produce, artisan food items, baked goods and more. It’s a zero-waste so bring your own bags and be prepared to stock up. You’ll find some great coffee and everything you need for a gourmet picnic.

Sculpture in the dunes behind Omaha beach

Next head over to Omaha beach for a walk in the salt air and to enjoy those picnic goodies. It’s a lovely spot with white sand and safe swimming.

Along the way, you’ll find a variety of things to tempt you including Morris and James fabulous pottery, the galleries and gardens of the Sculptureum and an array of boutique wineries.

Over the years Ascension Winery has been a favourite for a family lunch with its a pretty vineyard on the rolling slopes behind, they offer great meals and regular live music events.

If you want to enjoy the wineries and tasting without the hassle of driving this winery and food tour of Matakana is an option.

The Waitakere Ranges Regional Park is a great place for visitors to the city to experience the diverse landscape.

The park consists of 16,000 hectares running from the rainforest high in the hills through to the rugged west coast. It is crisscrossed with 250 km of walking tracks ranging from short 10-minute trails through to multi-day walks like the 75 km Hillary Trail .

A number of the tracks in the Waitakere Ranges west of Auckland were closed in 2018 to protect the forest from the Kauri dieback disease. Theses are expected to reopen progressively in the future. Others tracks are still fully or partially open and are worth visiting including the Taraire track where you can take the 45-minute track as far as the Karekare Falls.

You can see a full list of the tracks that are currently open here.

You can help to protect New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna by making sure your shoes, boots and other hiking equipment are thoroughly cleaned between uses to prevent the spread of diseases from one area to another.

Getting here : The ranges are an easy 40-minute drive west of Auckland city and are easily accessed by private car. There isn’t an easy public transport option to the many and remote trailheads but there are some good small group tours.

Tiritiri Matangi is an island wildlife refuge and you can get the ferry out there from both Whangaparaoa Harbour and the Auckland city ferry building.

Similar to Zealandia Sanctuary in Wellington it’s been cleared of predators allowing the population of native birds and small reptiles to regenerate as they did in the centuries before Maori and European settlers arrived bringing with them animals and pests that threatened the native fauna.

Takahe - New Zealand native bird

Unlike Zealandia, Tiritiri Matangi is an island and has some natural barriers to predators because of that but it still needed substantial effort to remove the threats when it was established.

The Takehe is one of the most endangered birds in New Zealand. Like the Kiwi, it’s a flightless bird and based on 2017 data it’s believed there are less than 350 left in the wild. That compares to 68,000 across the 5 species of Kiwi. Wild sanctuaries like Tiritiri and Zealandia are essential to the survival of both species.

Getting here: While you are able to visit the scientific sanctuary by private boat the vast majority do so by ferry from either Whangaparaoa or Auckland city. The sailings are limited and popular so we would suggest doing as we did and pre-book tickets .

Once on the island, you have the choice to either take the map and explore the paths on your own or take the guided tour as an optional addition. The tour gives a lot of information but does mean you are walking in a group so if others are talking loudly you may find it difficult to hear your guide and spot some of the birds.

Mount Maunganui is in the Bay of Plenty and at almost a 3 hours drive from Auckland it’s one of the longer trips.

There is a range of things to do but you’ll likely start with a walk around The Mount itself. The base walk is a fairly flat 3.5 km loop and you can also climb up to the top for great views like this all around.

Looking down on Matakana Island from Mount Maunganui

In the village of Mt Maunganui, you’ll find a sizable collection of street art, there’s a map and more details here but hunting them down is a great opportunity to also scout out a cafe for lunch. You’ll not have any trouble but if you want a hint then watch out for eighty-eight cafe , Mixture Eatery or the newcomer the Mount Cafe !

After lunch head for the beach. You can’t come to town without taking a swim or surf at Mt Maunganui beach and then finish with a walk across the causeway to Moturiki (Leisure Island). Once a Māori pā it’s now a protected reserve with a blowhole that plays on the full tide.

Getting here: The drive from Auckland to Mount Maunganui will take around 2 hours 45 minutes.

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What are your favourite day trips from Auckland? We’d like to hear your thoughts so feel free to share in the comments below. If you have any questions about the area you can ask that here too.

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9 self drive day trips from auckland.

Date Modefied: October 9, 2020

Exploring the vines on Waiheke Island

Over the past couple of years, self-drive day trips have become incredibly popular as the getaway of choice. We’re extremely lucky in this country as no matter where you are, you can pretty much hop into a car and a short drive later, be somewhere extraordinary.

This is especially true our biggest city, Auckland – the city of sails, which has so many day trip destinations on its doorstep. While some articles we’ve seen suggest places like the Bay of Islands and the Coromandel Peninsula as day trip options, we think that 3+ hours drive each way is a little unreasonable for that.

So, we decided to pick our 9 favourite self drive day trips from Auckland that are no more than 2 hours drive (give or take a few mins) from the CBD to give you plenty of quality time while you’re there.

Pick up your car from either of our Auckland car rental branches and head out for the day.

33 minutes drive from the city

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Evelina Mar (@evelinamar26) on Jul 25, 2020 at 5:51pm PDT

Puhoi Village is a quaint little place with a fascinating and unique history. Established in the 1860s just off the picturesque Puhoi River, the settlers were migrants from Bohemia (now known as the Czech Republic). The Puhoi Heritage Museum shares many great stories about this which makes the perfect starting point when you arrive. Once acquainted with its history, there are plenty of choices for things to do with one of the more unique things being trying some of its world-famous (in New Zealand), Puhoi Valley Cheese at the local cafe and shop.

2. Whangaparaoa

42 minutes drive from the city.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mathilde 🦋✨ (@ethime) on Jan 28, 2020 at 11:14pm PST

Auckland has no shortage of peninsulas within a short drive of the city and one of the best is the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The Whangaparaoa Peninsula is said to be the first landing point for Maori when they first came upon these lands some 800 years ago. First impressions must have been very positive back then as Whangaparaoa has some spectacular bays and beaches to set your eyes on. It is also home to Shakespeare Regional Park, a beautiful sanctuary of conservation and recreation. For movie buffs, the coastline of Whangaparaoa was also used in the filming of the 2018 blockbuster, The Meg, which is a fun fact to take with you.

3. Hunua Ranges

48 minutes drive from the city.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bethany Murphy-Suddens (@bethanysuddens) on Oct 9, 2018 at 11:31pm PDT

The Hunua Ranges Regional Park is an awesome place to visit as the largest area of native forest in the Auckland region. On arrival, you’re greeted to the fantastic sight of the Hunua Falls and from there you can follow any number of different walking tracks that take you around the park including one that includes glow worms. As well as all the natural beauty you’ll see including the flora, fauna and birdlife, you’ll also get to see the spectacular reservoirs and dams that constitutes the main supply of water for Aucklanders. A great choice for nature lovers.

4. Matakana

1 hour drive from the city.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Matakana Market (@matakanafarmersmarket) on May 29, 2020 at 1:39pm PDT

Matakana has quickly become one of the most popular weekend getaway destinations for Aucklanders thanks to its fantastic Farmers Market every Saturday. This may be appealing or not for some people but it definitely adds to a great vibe with delicious food and produce available as well as live music, arts and crafts. The surrounding area is just as nice to explore as well with nearby vineyards like Brick Bay and Plume, beaches like Snells Beach and Omaha and a great little ice cream parlour called Charlie’s.

5. West Coast Beaches

All around 1 hour’s drive from the city.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Manon 🌺 (@manonbibi_photography) on Mar 25, 2020 at 8:27am PDT

The West Coast beaches are a great place to spend a day for an altogether different type of coastal experience. You won’t find the golden sands and calm shores present on the East Coast of the country. Here, you’ll encounter black sand beaches and an untamed coastline clashing against the powerful force of the sea. It’s an awesome sight to see and is one that offers a different type of scenery that is wild but calming in its own way. There are a number of beaches to choose from along the coast like Muriwai, Piha and Te Henga all with their own unique characteristics that include gannet colonies, surfing, walks, waterfalls and more. Each one of them is a winner in our book.

1 hour 15 minutes drive from the city

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ben Coombe | NZ 🇳🇿 (@ben_coombe_photography) on Jan 16, 2020 at 2:46pm PST

Awhitu is located on a beautiful peninsula just over an hour’s drive southwest of the CBD. It’s a lesser-known destination for Aucklanders which is great as it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle that comes with crowds. It has a lovely regional park that has some peaceful and serene coastal walks as well as some interesting historical sites as well. Driving to the top of the peninsula you can also visit the wonderful Manakau Heads Lighthouse which offers great elevated views across the Manukau Harbour and Tasman Sea. You might also be tempted to stop at Awhitu Wines Vineyard on the way back to take home a nice bottle of Peninsula Chardonnay too.

7. Hamilton

1 hour 28 minutes from the city.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hamilton Gardens, New Zealand (@hamiltongardens) on Sep 17, 2020 at 10:51pm PDT

The biggest city within driving distance of Auckland is Hamilton, a very easy drive down State Highway 1 and a nice place to spend a day too. Hamilton has some great natural features within its boundaries which include the mighty Waikato River (the longest river in New Zealand) and the picturesque Hamilton Lake Domain. It also has a spectacular display of natural beauty that’s been curated by hand in the Hamilton Gardens. Easily its most popular attraction, the Hamilton Gardens has over 20+ gardens and walks with a diverse range of flowers, plants, trees, arrangements and displays to see and enjoy. It’s an Instagrammers paradise and one you won’t want to miss.

8. Waiheke Island

2 hours (including car ferry) from the city.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Martin Mac Mahon (@martin.mac.mahon) on Jun 17, 2020 at 1:40am PDT

Most people think of Waiheke Island as a destination by foot and ferry but there is also a car ferry service that you can take as well. There are quite a few advantages to taking a car to Waiheke that might not be obvious at first glance. Waiheke is bigger than you might think and having a car makes it so much easier to get to attractions at different parts of the island, whether its the Man O War Vineyard on the Eastern side or Oneroa Village, 35 mins drive to the west. You can also bring more things with you, like a boot load of gear for the beach or goodies for a pleasant picnic in the sun. You’ll also have the freedom and flexibility to do things at your own pace without having to wait for the local busses and/or taxis which means you can make the most of all the awesome things to see and do there .

Bonus: In late June 2022, we opened our latest car rental branch on Waiheke. As well as bringing our award-winning customer service and modern fleet of rental cars to Waiheke, we are also offering bike and e-bike hire on the island – a great way to get around. Check out our all-new Waiheke car rental branch today.

9. Hobbiton

2 hours and 4 minute drive from the city.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hobbiton Movie Set (@hobbitontours) on Oct 8, 2020 at 10:35am PDT

The furthest day trip recommendation on this list is one that’s well worth the drive time. That’s because it literally takes you to another world – the world of Middle Earth. If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, Hobbiton will already be on your life’s bucket list if you haven’t been already. It’s an immaculate recreation of the actual set used in Sir Peter Jackson’s epic films with hobbit holes that looked like they’ve been lived in for years. If you’re really keen (as many fans are) you’re more than welcome to dress up as a character from Middle Earth to make the trip all the more memorable. We also recommend a pint or two of Hobbit ale at the Green Dragon Inn.

Some Great Self Drive Day Trips From Auckland

So there you have it. Our 9 favourite self drive day trips from Auckland for that quick, easy and fun getaway you’re looking for. Whether its the coastal beauty of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula or the fantasy world of Middle Earth you’ll have plenty of time wherever you go to create some wonderful memories.

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Forget shopping, forget lattes on the viaduct - if you want an activity in Auckland that really showcases the true kiwi spirit, then the Auckland Bungy Jump and Bridge Climb are not to be missed. Featuring stunning views of the Waitemata and with unparalleled access to the Auckland Harbour Bridge, this experience will thrill and surprise you; this is the most unique Auckland attraction so plunge boldly into the thick of life. Put another way, you've simply got to do it! * Not applicable on photo, video and shop.

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Feel the thrill of sailing an authentic America’s Cup yacht. Take the helm to help steer on course or work hard on the grinders to hoist the mainsail during this hands on sailing adventure on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour. Relax with the wind in your face as you sit back and chat to our professional crew about the techniques, tactics and principles of sailing these boats.

great day trips from auckland

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great day trips from auckland

  • Tours from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

As New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland has a huge range of activities and Auckland city tours to enjoy. It’s also a perfect place to base yourself while you venture out of the city and explore other New Zealand destinations. GreatSights tours from Auckland depart daily to top North Island attractions. You can take a day trip from Auckland to the Bay of Islands, Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton or Rotorua.

Take a trip north of the city and enjoy a Bay of Islands day tour, or head south from Auckland and explore the world famous Waitomo Caves and include a guided Hobbiton tour. Day tours from Auckland to Rotorua let you experience the best of the North Island all in one action-packed trip. With hotel pick-up and drop-off available on most Auckland day tours, it’s the most convenient way to see New Zealand.

7 Day Tours to experience

great day trips from auckland

Auckland Explorer Bus

  • Auckland's Original Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour
  • Operates 364 Days a Year

from $ 50 NZD

great day trips from auckland

Hobbiton & Te Puia Te Pō Day Tour (Auckland to Rotorua)

  • 13 hours 15 minutes
  • Guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
  • Unique Evening Experience at Te Puia

from $ 469 NZD

great day trips from auckland

Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari

  • 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Year-round encounters with incredible wildlife
  • Learn from our expert and informative commentary

from $ 199 NZD

great day trips from auckland

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour From Auckland

  • 9 hours 15 minutes
  • See Hobbiton, and Banquet Feast in the Party Marquee
  • Full day tour that operates daily from Auckland

from $ 233 NZD

great day trips from auckland

Hobbiton Day Tour (Auckland to Rotorua)

  • 7 hours 30 minutes
  • Hobbiton guided tour and lunch
  • Full day tour that operates daily

from $ 265 NZD

great day trips from auckland

Waitomo & Hobbiton Experience from Auckland

  • Full Day Tour
  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves guided tour
  • Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour

from $ 334 NZD

great day trips from auckland

Waitomo and Hobbiton Experience (Auckland to Rotorua)

  • 10 hours 15 minutes
  • Waitomo Caves guided tour
  • Tasty picnic lunch included

Free cancellation

You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 2 hours in advance of your tour experience.

New Zealand Tours

  • City Sightseeing
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Lord of the Rings
  • Dolphin Watching
  • Food & Wine
  • Glowworm Cave
  • Flightseeing
  • Tours from Christchurch
  • Tours from Rotorua

Destinations

  • Bay of Islands Tours
  • Auckland Tours
  • Rotorua Tours
  • Waitomo Tours
  • Hobbiton Tours
  • Wellington Tours
  • Christchurch Tours
  • Mt Cook Tours
  • Queenstown Tours
  • West Coast Tours
  • Milford Sound Tours

Travel Info

  • Our Drivers
  • Our Coaches
  • Hotel Transfers
  • Tour Commentary
  • Accommodation

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Auckland

Day trips from auckland.

  • Auckland to Matamata
  • Auckland to Rotorua
  • Auckland to Auckland Central
  • Auckland to Waitomo Caves
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

great day trips from auckland

1. Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

2. Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

3. Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

4. Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

5. Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Options - Smaller groups

great day trips from auckland

6. Hobbiton & Rotorua including Wai-O-Tapu - Small Group Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

7. Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves - Start or Finish Auckland or Rotorua

great day trips from auckland

8. Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland -Smaller Groups

great day trips from auckland

9. Auckland Fullday City Tour

great day trips from auckland

10. Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

11. Waitomo Caves and Otorohanga Kiwi House Day Trip from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

12. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour with Optional Extra Activities from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

13. Hot Water Beach & Cathedral Cove Day Tour From Auckland

great day trips from auckland

14. Day Tour Hobbiton + Rotorua from Auckland in Luxury Minibus

great day trips from auckland

15. Full Day Hobbiton Movie Set and Hamilton Gardens Small Group Tour

great day trips from auckland

16. (Private) Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

17. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

18. Waitomo Glowworm Caves In a Private Small Group Tour-Auckland.

great day trips from auckland

19. Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Fully Guided Day Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

20. Private Full-Day Rotorua Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

21. Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour (One Way)

great day trips from auckland

22. Redwood Forest , Blue Springs & Huka Falls Day Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

23. Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour (One Way)

great day trips from auckland

24. Private Trip to Coromandel

great day trips from auckland

25. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour Including Te Puia from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

26. Sheep World Country Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

27. Auckland City Highlights Full Day Tour

great day trips from auckland

28. 5-Day New Zealand North and South Island Highlights Tour

great day trips from auckland

29. Waitomo Caves & Hobbiton Small Group Tour from Auckland

great day trips from auckland

30. Piha Beach

What travellers are saying.

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  • Hobbiton & Waitomo Small Group Tour - EX Auckland
  • Wine on Waiheke PREMIUM WINE full days scenic and wine tasting
  • Afternoon Black Sand Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland
  • Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland
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Auckland: Day Trips Information

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17 Exciting Auckland Day Trips: Nearby Adventures Within 2 Hours of CBD

Map of the North Island of New Zealand highlighting Auckland day trips within 2 hours

Auckland, the city of sails, is a starting point for many visitors as well as being home to nearly one-third of New Zealand’s population. While there are plenty of things to keep one busy in the city, Auckland day trips to nearby destinations offer both a change of scenery and a lot of fun.

We are amongst the nearly 1.7 million people who call Auckland home. And while we love the city, Auckland day trips are often the quick getaway that we need.

Popular day trips from Auckland range from glowworms to geysers, from beaches to caves, and from Māori culture to hobbit holes. We make our Auckland getaways exciting. While many are located in the Auckland region, a number of our favourite places to go are in the Waikato.

While there are plenty of options, we focus on our favourites, which we believe are the best day trips from Auckland. They are all within a two-hour drive from the city. It’s the area highlighted in this map:

First, let us tempt you with some Auckland fun

As American expats who have been living in and exploring NZ for over 20 years, we see things from both a local’s perspective and from that of a visitor. Therefore, we understand what it’s like to come here and have things be similar, but not always exactly what we are used to. We share the information on this page from this perspective.

Auckland Day Trips

Looking for a day-long escape from Auckland, one that's far enough away to feel like somewhere else, but not so far that you can't easily do it in a day? Here are our favourites which include popular day trips from Auckland as well as some that are better known only by locals (like me).

waiheke3 1215114

Waiheke Island

An easy ferry ride from Auckland CBD or Devonport, Waiheke Island is a fabulous subtropical getaway. Many of the lush green rolling hills provide the ideal climate for wine grapes, which accounts for 30 or so wineries on this island.

We like it because it instantly feels like a holiday. Whether we enjoy a meal at a winery or just hand out at one of the several great beaches, we are happy. Of course, if we are feeling more adventurous, there is a massive zipline or an old military reserve to explore.

west auckland 8260297

Muriwai or Piha Beach

Head to the west coast if you are looking for bigger surf waves, black sand beaches, or the nearest subtropical rainforest. Piha is best known from the former TV show Piha Rescue for its wild surf.

Every year (August to March), we get to  Muriwai  to see the large colony of 1,200 Australian gannets that fly over to breed, to swim at the beach, or just enjoy the native bush. 

Either beach, we are never disappointed. And when we are feeling more energetic, there is the Te Henga Walkway to Bethels Beach.

tiritiri matangi Tui by Rhonda Albom iPhoto preview

Tiritiri Matangi Island

Tiritiri Matangi is a day of exploration, hiking, and birds. This open bird sanctuary island is just a 75-minute ferry ride from Auckland. Tiritiri Matangi is a protected island paradise thought to be one of the world’s most successful conservation projects.

It's an all-day activity that we love, with a morning ferry heading out from Auckland or Gulf Harbour to the island and an afternoon return. We have seen and photographed some interesting birdlife here.

Motuora Island hike up motuora

Any of the Islands of the Hauraki Gulf 

Although there are over 50 islands in the Hauraki, only a handful are accessible without a private boat. Two of our favourites are mentioned already: Tiritiri Matangi and Waiheke.

Two other popular options are Rangitoto and Kawau. Rangitoto Island is Auckland's largest and youngest volcanic field, as well as being home to the country's largest pohutukawa forest.

Kawau was purchased in 1862 by then Governor of New Zealand Sir Geroge Grey. He brought with him interesting animals, and we can still find wallabies there today.

Waipu Cave 2015209

Waipu Caves and Waipu Beach

Just under a two-hour drive to the north will bring you to the provincial town of Waipu. Here, you have two great options. First, we explored the caves where we were surrounded by stalactites, stalagmites, and if go beyond the first chamber, glow worms. (bring a torch, as it's dark beyond the first chamber)

Then, we headed to the coast and enjoy a beautiful beach. Personally, it's one of our favourite camping spots, as it's close to home, yet far away.

Shakespear Park 6050046

Shakespear Park

Shakespear Park is one of 27 Auckland Regional Parks currently open to the public. Each is special for different reasons. At Shakespear, we enjoy multiple beaches, hours of hiking trails, campgrounds, cows, sheep, and it is an open bird sanctuary.

An award-winning park, it's a great place to relax or stretch your legs. It's just less than an hour's drive from Auckland at the end of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula and the closest of the regional park to our home.

orewa greg 012

Orewa Beach

An easy Auckland day trip, Orewa beach is 3km of golden sand and safe swimming nestled against a charming seaside community well known for its variety of cafes, restaurants, and art galleries.

Only a 25-minute drive, it's also accessible by bus.

4158041

Riverhead Tavern

While one can easily drive to Riverhead from downtown in 30 minutes, I had loads of fun getting here on a 90-minute cruise along the river system leading out from Auckland. Reserve your Red Boats cruise to Riverhead here.

Once there, enjoy a meal at the Landing restaurant or a drink at the Portage, a neighbourhood bar. Best of all, if you can head here on a Sunday, you can enjoy live music at the Boat House.

Karangahake Gorge P4270205 4

Karangahake Gorge

Karangahake Gorge is a majestic mix of remnant goldfields and impressive nature. Once the site of New Zealand’s most lucrative gold strike, it is now a walking and hiking destination.

Swing bridges, former gold mine shafts, a historic cyanide treatment plant, and lush green forest led us to the gorge. Karangahake Gorge is a two-hour drive from the city and makes a great Auckland day trip. You can also reserve a day trip from Auckland with an eBike tour in Karangahake Gorge here .

Hamilton 988px Waikato River in Hamilton Central from Parana Park

Best known for its world-class themed Hamilton Gardens, there are actually a surprising number of cool things to do in Hamilton, New Zealand's fourth-largest city.

A tea plantation, a regional museum, a bird park (where I had a ruru perch on my arm), and Riff Raff Square are a few of my favourites. Hamilton is 125 km southwest of Auckland.

Cambridge nz P3140130

Rural charm and relaxation, Cambridge is the ideal, off-the-beaten-path spot to relax and unwind.

Unless you hit a big sports weekend, as it's home for key rowing and cycling events. It's not too far from Hamilton, so if you are heading out for longer than just typical Auckland day trips, you might consider both.

NZ LOTR Hobbiton Depositphotos 166497594 XL

Hobbiton Movie Set 

This is the Real Middle Earth. Hobbiton is a top destination for many Lord of the Rings  fans, and it's just under a two-hour drive.

Available by tour only, each two-hour tour of the 12-acre Hobbiton Movie set takes visitors to Hobbit Holes, the Old Mill, and the Double Arched Bridge.

We discover details about the movie set and how it was created. The tour concludes with a complimentary drink at The Green Dragon Inn. Hobbiton is as touristy as one would expect, yet movie fans love it.

Ngatea Water Garden 4270235 2

Ngatea Water Gardens

Ngatea Water Gardens is an eclectic mix of humour interwoven throughout a beautiful water garden. It requires a sense of humour to appreciate it. We laughed quite a bit.

Also located here is Arthur's Canny Museum. This display of over 11,000 cans is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. Ngatea Water Gardens is about an hour's drive from Auckland.

Auckland day trips a bit farther away

Personally, we prefer to spend at least a night, usually more when we head to any of the destinations below, but we live in New Zealand and therefore have endless time. While they are each more than 2 hours from the Auckland CBD, they all can be done in a day if that's all you have.

Raglan PB230022 1

Raglan is 173 km from Auckland, with a one-way drive time of 2 hourss.

Raglan is a coastal beach town full of surprises. It's got a relaxed atmosphere and I thnk it is the perfect getaway, whether you surf or not.

Located on the west coast of the North Island, it's just a short drive from Hamilton, yet a world apart. With big waves and frequent wind, it's a haven for adrenaline rush, but also a great place to relax with a coffee or craft beer.

coromandel P2240042 1

Coromandel Peninsula

Coromandel is 173 km from Auckland, with a one-way drive time of two hours and twenty minutes.

Bushwalks, forest hikes, natural hot springs, beaches, and a rugged coastline are what attracted us to the Coromandel Peninsula.

If you only have one day, I would recommend digging your own ‘spa’ at the natural hot springs of Hot Water Beach (at low tide) and heading to Cathedral Cove. We like to spend a lot more time here.

4 Waitomo Glowworm Caves Waikato

Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves is 190 km from Auckland, with a one-way drive time of 2 hours and 51 minutes.

The caves are lit by thousands of phosphorescent lights from a species of glowworm found only in New Zealand (Arachnocampa luminosa). We haven't done this in a while, but the magic is the same every time.

Entry into the Waitomo Glowworm Caves is via a 45-minute guided tour. Starting on foot, admire stalagmites and stalactites before boarding a small boat and drifting through the glowworm grotto in near silence.

If you are more adventurous, one of the most popular things to do is black water rafting.

Blue Spring Putaruru P3150184

Blue Spring

Blue Spring is located in Putaruru, which is 187 km from Auckland, with a one-way drive time of 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Home to the clearest waters on the North Island, the Blue Spring at Putaruru supplies 70% of New Zealand's bottled drinking water and is one of the most beautiful NZ locations I have ever seen.

Honestly, it's about the view and the photos, so click through and enjoy.

Bonus Destinations: Rotorua and Bay of Islands

Still possible for a long Auckland day trip, we strongly encourage you to spend at least a night in each of these two bonus destinations. Both Rotorua and the Bay of Islands are fabulous, but both are more than three hours in each direction from Auckland. 

We know some people recommend them, but we think they are just a bit too far for one day.

Auckland to Rotorua is 228 km, about three hours each way.

A geothermal wonderland and centre for Māori culture, Rotorua is also known for its extreme adventure options. Rotorua is like few other places on the planet and one of my favourite places to visit. If you have the time, spend at least a night here. There is more than enough to do in Rotorua to keep you busy.

If not, a visit to Te Puia will give you the highlights, including Pohutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere, erupting once or twice each hour. Te Puia also has bubbling mud pools, hot springs, silica formations, Kiwi birds, and the national schools of wood carving, weaving, stone, and bone carving.

Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands is a 232 km drive north of Auckland, with an over three-hour one-way drive time.

One of my favourite spots for a getaway, I think the Bay of Islands is a bit too far for a day trip. But if that is all you have, you will have to pick from all the things to do in Bay of Islands . If you haven’t been before, I would recommend Waitangi Treaty grounds and getting on a fast boat out to the hole in the rock.

Auckland skyline on a calm day seen from the bridge entrance

See more in a limited time with a tour

Whether you have limited time or you just prefer to have someone do the driving, there are a couple of Auckland day tours we recommend:

Auckland day trip to Hobbiton & Hamilton Gardens

This all-day tour will head first to Hobbiton for a guided exploration of the shire where both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed. Then, enjoy lunch just outside the farm at the Shire’s Rest Café (lunch is an additional cost). Next, drive to Hamilton and spend time exploring the lovely Hamilton Gardens. Reserve your often discounted Hobbiton and Hamilton Gardens tour here .

Auckland day trip to Hobbiton & Waitomo caves

This one is ideal for people who prefer fully escorted tours, really want to see both Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves, and have only one day for this adventure. It travels first to the Hobbiton Movie Set, then enjoys lunch at The Shire’s Rest Café (a Kiwi-style cafe), before driving to the Glowworm caves in Waitomo.

Both destinations are seen with guided tours. Please note the travel times. You will spend nearly 2/3 of this trip in transit. Reserve your day trip to Hobbiton and Waitomo .

Tips for taking day trips from Auckland

  • The weather is changeable and often unpredictable. It’s always a good idea in Auckland and the surrounding areas to dress in layers and bring a light rain jacket.
  • If you are travelling in summer, bring sunscreen. The hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica thins the atmosphere over New Zealand, making the sun that much more dangerous.
  • Carry water and a small snack. Even if your tour includes meals, they may not happen when you are hungry.
  • Bring a camera.
  • If you have more time,  head north to the top of the island , or head south from  Auckland to the nations capital city .

Save on your NZ trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

  • Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
  • Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), Bookabach (self-contained in NZ), or Hostelworld (budget).
  • Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
  • Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
  • Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
  • Activity discounts : we check Bookme.com for discounts of up to 70% on activities.
  • Private guides : we love the private guides at Tours by Locals .
  • Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

map of a 2 hour drive radius around Auckland to find the best Auckland Day Trips

Which of these Auckland day trips will you try?

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Disclaimer: We are frequently provided with complimentary entrances, tours, or sample items to aid in the writing of Albom Adventures and have worked in the past with Auckland tourism, then called ATEED. However, the opinions expressed here are strictly our own.

For more tips … join Explore New Zealand, the country’s largest NZ travel and photography group on Facebook (free).

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

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Reader Interactions

Lisa | Handmade in Israel

September 23, 2020 at 6:21 pm

You are really educating me about New Zealand! There seems to be so much to see and do. Some of these day trips sound amazing!

Ryan K Biddulph

September 14, 2020 at 3:52 pm

There is so much to do from Auckland, Rhonda. We only spent a few days there before flying back to the US 2 years ago but I can see from your post how we need to do a few proper trips from there, when we finally return to NZ. The place dazzles. We loved Opotiki so much on the North Island and its well off of the beaten tourist path.

September 11, 2020 at 3:25 pm

There are so many fun things to do around Auckland! I loved visitng Hobbiton (a must for Lord of the Rings lovers). A day on Waiheke Island is also great for wine lovers.

September 7, 2020 at 6:47 pm

I enjoyed reading this post so much! Thanks for sharing this tips I really like the way you describe the post..

September 7, 2020 at 4:23 pm

So many beautiful places making me miss home! I love Waipu, it’s such a gorgeous little spot!

September 7, 2020 at 7:57 am

So many amazing ideas for day trips! The Waipu Caves and a tour of Hobbiton sound like so much fun!

September 7, 2020 at 6:59 am

Wow, what a wonderful selection of day trips! There’s a bit of everything! Karangahake Gorge looks like a beautiful place to explore. I also love a trip to some caves! Thanks for the great guide!

September 7, 2020 at 5:27 am

Such a detailed post! Love it 🙂 Saving it for the future when I make my way to New Zealand!

September 7, 2020 at 2:38 am

You are so spoiled for choice that it’s almost not fair!! 😉 So many great options here. A visit to Hobbiton is a given, and we’ve read so much about Shakespear Park and Hamilton Gardens that they’re already on our wish list. But we love sailing, so all of the trips to nearby islands would be tops on our list. Well, right after Hobbiton. 😁

September 7, 2020 at 2:28 am

So many great choices! I would love to visit some of these islands and the those caves.

September 6, 2020 at 11:12 pm

Great trips to take from Auckland. would love to visit Hobbiton.

September 6, 2020 at 10:57 pm

All of these day trips look really great! Can’t wait to go on some of them when I visit New Zealand.

Nidia Lisic

September 6, 2020 at 7:49 pm

So many amazing things to see for a day trip! This number 2, Karangahake Gorge, looks like from some Indiana Jones movie, stunning. Would love to add that to the list.

Roy Stevenson

September 6, 2020 at 2:57 pm

Excellent roundup, Rhonda. As a former Aucklander (before I moved to the U.S.A.) I’ve been to all but 2 of those places. Will have to take the boat to the Riverhead Tavern & the ferry to Tiritiri Matangi island next time I’m back in Godzone! Good summary. Thank you. Regards, Roy Stevenson

Travelling Tam

September 6, 2020 at 2:34 pm

I always love your posts about New Zealand! It always annoys me though as I realise just how much I missed on my 2 month road trip haha! I love the look of Karangahake Gorge and Shakespear Park is right up my street too. I love green rolling hills! There is so much to do in such a short radius from Auckland!

September 6, 2020 at 1:51 pm

Wow! What awesome surroundings. So many options within a two-hour reach. I loved the gorge and the black sand beach. I hope to get there one day. Truly a beautiful country.

September 6, 2020 at 8:52 am

I want to go to New Zealand sooo badly!!! I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t mainly because of the Lord of the Rings, but it’s also such a GORGEOUS country. It’s truly breathtaking. I’d love to explore all of these spots!

September 6, 2020 at 7:42 am

This is such a great post with SO much information! I absolutely love any posts about day trip options from anywhere since I prefer to hang out in the same spot for awhile and just venture out from there. Waipu Caves looks like a really cool one! Would love to visit one day 🙂

L. Diane Wolfe

September 6, 2020 at 7:20 am

I’ve not been in a cave since I was 20 years old and would love to see Waipu Caves.

Alex J. Cavanaugh

September 6, 2020 at 3:46 am

Of course I would tour Hobbiton! But the gorge and caves would also be high on my list.

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Discover Auckland

The Best of Auckland's Attractions, Hotels, Cafes and Restaurants

one tree hill, Auckland - peak of hill with monument and tree

10 of the best day trips in and around Auckland NZ

Are you planning a trip to Auckland, New Zealand? We’ve got you covered! Auckland is not only a bustling city with plenty to see and do, but it’s also surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

From clear waters to lush forests, hobbit holes and majestic caves, there’s something for everyone to explore.

In this post, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best day trips in Auckland, NZ, so you can get out there and experience it all for yourself.

To make sure we’re showing you the best experiences, this is a mix of full and part days – and for the craft beer aficionados, it’s an evening. I’m sure you’ll forgive us.

Whether you’re into wine-tasting, caving, or beach-hopping, we’ve got a day trip for you. So, let’s get started!

Best Day Tours:

Sightseeing tours.

If you want that sweet introduction to Auckland’s highlights, this is the place to start. Tour by e-bike or in the comfort of a small minibus – these are interesting and action-packed.

The Classic: Most popular electric bike tour of Auckland’s Highlights

Enjoy cycling around Auckland without all the effort in the hilly city, on an electric bike tour.

Travelers with varying levels of fitness and cycling experience can ride together , making this a great family trip. You will be fitted with a headset so you can listen to your guide’s commentary as you cycle around the city and learn something new.

  • Use of electric mountain bike, helmets, and headsets is included
  • Suitable for cyclists of all levels of fitness – the electric bike does the work
  • Stay safe cycling in the city with an experienced guide
  • Receive souvenir photos to remember your tour by

Read more about The Classic: most popular electric bike tour of Auckland’s Highlights

Auckland Scenic Day Tour – A Full 8 Hours

Discover Auckland’s Take: An action-packed, quick-selling tour that consistently ranks well.

Make the most of your time in Auckland with a small-group tour that crams all the city’s best bits into just one day. Snap photos of Auckland Harbour Bridge, the Sky Tower and One Tree Hill; take in the views from Tamaki Drive and Mission Bay; explore vibrant neighborhoods like Ponsonby; and visit off-the-beaten-track attractions like Muriwai Beach, the Auckland Domain and Parnell.

  • Enjoy wine tasting at a local winery
  • Great-value tour includes hotel pick-up and round-trip transport by air-conditioned minivan
  • See Auckland Harbour Bridge, the Sky Tower and One Tree Hill
  • This tour is limited to a maximum of 11 or 14 persons

Read more about Auckland Scenic Day Full-Day Tour

For the foodies

The cream of the crop – but we have more Auckland food tours & winery tours if that’s your fancy.

musashi japanese restaurant review 6

Book this food tour

Auckland Insider Tour: Food Tour with Local Expert

Discover Auckland’s food and wine on a half-day tour with a local insider who shares the region’s freshest seafood, baked goods and other delectable treats. Enjoy morning tea, a light lunch and wine tasting of superb varietals. Guide and minivan transport around landmarks and markets included.

Visit the Auckland Fish Market and meet the talented artisan producers at a farmers’ market; and travel by minivan to key landmarks including Ponsonby Road, Mt Eden and the Auckland Domain.

  • Half-day food tour of Auckland with an expert guide
  • Travel by minivan around the city to visit a variety of excellent shops, markets and landmarks
  • Learn about the vibrant food and wine scene in Auckland from a passionate foodie
  • Enjoy a guided tasting of great New Zealand wines
  • Get an insider’s tour of the Auckland Fish Market with special behind-the-scenes access and a light lunch
  • Drive past landmarks including the Auckland Domain, Auckland War Memorial Museum, Mt Eden and Ponsonby Road
  • Small-group tour with a maximum of six people ensures personalized attention from your guide

Read more about Auckland Insider Tour: Food Tour with Local Expert

Matakana Wine Tasting Day Tour from Auckland

Enjoy wine-tasting in the beautiful Matakana area, just north of Auckland, without having to worry about who will be designated driver—everyone in your party can try some wine. You’ll visit three boutique, family-run wineries that specialize mainly in red wines. Have a delicious lunch at one of the wineries. Make several side-trips throughout the day, such as to a beach, a cheese maker, ancient trees, and more.

  • Lovers of good food and drink will enjoy this tour
  • Get out of Auckland city for the day and explore the countryside
  • Lunch and wine tastings at three wineries are included
  • Hotel transfers from Auckland city locations are included

Read more about East Coast ‘Matakana’ Wine Tasting Day Tour from Auckland

Auckland Urban Craft Beer Tour

Auckland’s craft brew scene is booming, as you’ll experience first-hand on this afternoon beer-focused tour. Start with a filling lunch so you’re well prepared for beer sampling all afternoon. Visit three breweries or venues where you’ll see beer being made, hear from the brewers and, of course, taste a variety of delicious and unique beers.

  • Make new friends on a fun group tour
  • Travel between venues by comfortable air-conditioned bus
  • Hotel transfers can be provided
  • Lunch, snacks, water, and alcoholic drinks are included
  • Your guide can recommend places to go to continue the party into the night.

Read more about Auckland Urban Craft Beer Tour

On the water

Auckland – the city of sails – wouldn’t be complete without getting out on the water. We’ve chosen the comfort of a whale watching safari, or the work of a kayak trip – complete with eco-island visit and a hot lunch!

There’s plenty more active Auckland tours , if you want to get the muscles going.

Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

Cruise the waters of Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in search of whales, dolphins and penguins on a half-day tour from Auckland. You’ll board a spacious catamaran at Viaduct Harbour and hear expert guides share informative commentary about New Zealand’s natural wonders.

During the whale and dolphin safari, keep an eye out for six types of whales that frequent these waters, as well as seabirds such as Australasian gannets, petrels and terns. 4.5-hour whale and dolphin watching cruise, from Auckland

  • Ride aboard a custom-built luxury catamaran for a superb viewing experience
  • Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and as many as six types of whales
  • Observe gannets that hunt by plunging into the water at speeds of up to 87 mph (140 kmh)
  • Listen to entertaining and informative commentary provided by your captain and crew
  • Departs from the Viaduct Harbour, conveniently located in downtown Auckland

Read more about Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

Motukorea / Browns Island Sea Kayak Journey

Explore the Hauraki Gulf on this relaxing half-day kayaking tour. Private boats and kayaks are the only ways to access Browns Island (or Motukorea), which is one of the best-preserved volcanoes in the Auckland Volcanic Field. After arriving here, head to the summit to see picturesque views and learn about the island’s history.

kayaks at st heliers auckland - in preparation for Browns Island trip

  • Plan ahead to visit this popular attraction in Auckland
  • No kayaking experience is necessary
  • Light refreshments are provided on the island
  • Pickup from the Auckland Ferry Building can be provided

Read more about Motukorea / Browns Island Sea Kayak Journey

To get out of the city

Head south, my friend! Within a few hours of Auckland CBD, you can experience the Hobbiton movie set, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, amazing forest canopy walks, ziplines, and more.

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland

split photo: left - blue hobbiton hobbit door; right - boat in waitomo caves with gloworms

Book this tour

Visit a pair of New Zealand’s must-see attractions with this combo tour from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Peek into Hobbit Holes, frolic in the Shire, and get a drink at the Green Dragon Inn on a guided tour of Middle-earth, followed by a Kiwi-style lunch.

In the afternoon, explore Maori myths and history on a boat ride through mesmerizing caves lit by thousands of glowworms, and finish with a drive through some of the North Island’s most majestic scenery.

  • Full-day combo tour to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves from Auckland
  • Enjoy a Kiwi-style lunch
  • Includes round-trip transport from Auckland CBD hotels
  • Small group limited to 14 ensures personal service

Read more about Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland

Rotorua Highlights – Small Group Tour In a day from Auckland

The lakeside resort town of Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal wonders and rich Maori heritage. On this full-day tour from Auckland, benefit from the personal touch of a small-group excursion and customize your itinerary with a choice of different tour options. Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the city , followed by free time to explore independently, or up to two extra activities, such as the Te Puia Maori Village, Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland, the Polynesian Spa, or the Agrodome.

  • Comprehensive guided tour of Rotorua for first-time visitors
  • Visit up to two top Rotorua attractions or opt for free time in the city
  • Hassle-free hotel pickup and round-trip transport from Auckland
  • Small-group tour with a maximum of 16 people

Read more about Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour with Optional Extra Activities from Auckland.

The Ultimate Canopy Experience Small Group Adventure Zipline Tour From Auckland

Get your adrenaline fix at one of Auckland’s most thrilling zip-line adventure courses, including round-trip transfers from the city. Explore the ancient forest landscape as you fly along ziplines, cross daring swing bridges, and tackle a 50-meter (164-foot) cliff walk and 18-meter (59-foot) abseil. Finally, pair up with a friend or go solo for the thrilling 400-meter (1,300-foot) long zipline.

  • Tackle a zip-line course with swing bridges, a cliff walk, and an abseil!
  • Receive included photos to remember your ziplining experience
  • Hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Auckland CBD hotel
  • Personalized small-group tour with a maximum of 11 people

Read more about The Ultimate Canopy Experience Small Group Adventure Zipline Tour From Auckland

How we choose the Best Auckland Activities (Ranking methodology)

Firstly, we’re Auckland locals who have spent years travelling around the world – we’ve even won awards for our travel writing. So we know what’s good here, and what’s good around the world. We ‘travel’ this city and take part in as many opportunities as possible. But we can’t do every experience.

We also use travel reviews from other people, and look for the best reliable reviews, fast-selling tours, and cross-reference online recommendations from several sources.

Finally, we get direct feedback from travellers, friends, industry folks, and readers who help us discover new options, remove options that are no longer as good as they were, and generally make Discover Auckland a better resource for you.

We may earn income if you book through links on our site, but we never recommend things that are poor value. It’s really important to us that you enjoy your trip, recommend us to friends, and come back to Discover Auckland to plan your next adventure.

Discover Other Auckland Tours

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, check out these other Auckland Tour opportunities:

  • 10 Best Day Trips in Auckland
  • Top 9 Shore Excursions in Auckland, New Zealand
  • 6 Amazing Food & Wine Tours on Waiheke Island, Auckland

Best Food Tours in Central Auckland. Really.

  • Active Auckland Adventure Tours 2023 – Fishing, Hiking, Diving, Island-hopping and more

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Auckland 4-Day Adventure: Discover the City's Best

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February 26, 2024 · 3 min read

Auckland 4 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 4-day Auckland escapade with Trip.com, where the city's natural beauty and urban delights come to life. Begin your journey at the Auckland Zoo, immersing yourself in wildlife for two hours before ascending Mount Eden for panoramic views. Spend an hour in the serenity of Eden Garden to wrap up your first day. Day two invites you to the lush expanses of Cornwall Park, followed by the historic One Tree Hill, and concludes with a celestial experience at the Stardome Observatory & Planetarium. Your third day is rich with culture at the Auckland War Memorial Museum and the charm of Farmers Queen Street, topped off with an exhilarating 4-hour Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour. The final day sets sail with the Auckland Sailing Club, dives into the underwater world at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, and relaxes at the picturesque Mission Bay. This curated itinerary ensures a blend of relaxation, education, and adventure, making every moment in Auckland unforgettable.

hotelStar

  • Day 1: Unveiling Auckland's Natural Charms

Auckland Zoo

arrow-image

Kickstart your Auckland adventure with a visit to the Auckland Zoo, a wildlife oasis nestled on Motions Road. As the first stop of your journey, allocate around 2 hours to wander through the diverse ecosystems that this zoo proudly showcases. Home to over 135 species and a leader in conservation efforts, the Auckland Zoo offers an immersive experience where you can witness exotic animals thriving in habitats that closely mimic their natural environments. Don't miss the chance to see the majestic Kiwi bird, a national symbol of New Zealand, in its nocturnal enclosure.

Attraction Info

  • Motions Rd, Western Springs, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 11/1-2/28,9:30am-4:30pm;Open from 3/1-10/31,9:30am-5:30pm,It is open every day except for Christmas, and the specific business status is subject to the opening situation on that day.

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Sidart Restaurant

After delving into the animal kingdom, ascend to the summit of Mount Eden, Auckland's highest natural point and a dormant volcano. Just a short drive from the zoo, reserve another 2 hours to soak in panoramic views of the city and harbor. The crater, a sacred site, adds a touch of ancient history to your visit. The grassy slopes are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, making it an ideal spot to reflect on the city's volcanic origins while enjoying a breathtaking backdrop.

  • Auckland, New Zealand
  • Open from 1/1-12/31(Summer),7:00am-8:30pm;Open from 1/1-12/31(Winter),7:00am-7:00pm

Frasers

Eden Garden

Conclude your day's exploration at Eden Garden, a tranquil haven located on Omana Avenue. With just an hour to spare, this award-winning garden is a picturesque finale, boasting a collection of perennials, vireyas, camellias, and magnolias. The vibrant floral displays and serene water features create a peaceful retreat from the urban buzz. It's a splendid spot to unwind and revel in the beauty of one of Auckland's best-kept secrets.

  • 24 Omana Avenue, Epsom, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-4:00pm

Eight Restaurant

Where to Stay Tonight

Alexander inn, alpers lodge & conference centre, spacious mount eden apartment, boulevard hotel.

  • Day 2: Auckland’s Green Spaces and Starry Skies

Cornwall Park

Kickstart your second day in Auckland with a serene morning at Cornwall Park, a verdant oasis nestled in the heart of the city. As you meander through the lush greenery, you'll find that this park is more than just a spot for relaxation; it's a slice of countryside with sprawling lawns, mature trees, and a working farm that offers a unique pastoral experience within the urban environment. Spend a leisurely three hours here, perhaps enjoying a picnic or simply soaking in the tranquility and natural beauty that surrounds you.

  • Green Lane West, Epsom, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
  • Suggested tour duration: 3-5 hour
  • Open from 7:00am-9:00pm

The Good Home Mt Eden

One Tree Hill

Just a stone's throw from Cornwall Park, continue your day's adventure to One Tree Hill, a significant memorial place for both Māori and other New Zealanders. While the lone tree that once stood at the summit is no more, the area remains a symbol of unity and heritage. Allocate an hour to explore the volcanic cone, take in panoramic views of Auckland, and reflect on the historical significance of this site. It's a perfect segue from the peacefulness of Cornwall Park to the celestial wonders that await.

  • 670 Manukau Road, One Tree Hill, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
  • Open from 7:00am-7:00pm

Stardome Observatory & Planetarium

As evening approaches, conclude your day with a visit to the Stardome Observatory & Planetarium, located right next to One Tree Hill. Here, you'll embark on a cosmic journey, exploring the stars and planets through their high-tech telescopes and immersive planetarium shows. Spend two hours discovering the mysteries of the universe, an experience that's both educational and awe-inspiring. It's an ideal way to cap off a day spent appreciating both the earthly nature and the heavenly bodies that watch over Auckland.

  • 670 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1345, New Zealand
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
  • Open on Wed-Sun,9:30am-5:00pm,6:00pm-10:30pm;Open on Mon,9:30am-5:00pm

Royal Residency

Dukes midway lodge, parklane motor lodge, epsom motel.

  • Day 3: Auckland's Heritage and Marine Majesty

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Begin your third day in Auckland with a visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum, a beacon of history nestled in Parnell. Dedicate a couple of hours to explore New Zealand's military past and the rich tapestry of the region's heritage. The museum stands as a tribute to those who served and offers a profound look into the country's wartime experiences, complete with compelling exhibits and poignant memorials.

  • Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
  • Open on Sat-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Open on Mon, Wed-Fri,10:00am-5:00pm;Open on Tue,10:00am-8:30pm

Farmers Queen Street

Next, immerse yourself in the local vibe at Farmers Queen Street, a characteristic neighborhood that captures the essence of Auckland's urban charm. Spend an hour meandering through the bustling streets, where the city's pulse is palpable. This iconic area is perfect for soaking up the metropolitan atmosphere and perhaps picking up some unique finds.

  • 210 Queen St, Cnr Queen and, Victoria Street West, CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
  • Open 24 hours

Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour

Conclude your day with an unforgettable Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour. Set sail from Quay Street for a four-hour marine adventure that promises sightings of majestic whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. This boat trip is not just a tour; it's a chance to witness the ocean's wonders up close, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

  • 175 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
  • Suggested tour duration: 4-5 hour
  • Open from 10:30am-3:00pm

Spacious 2Br Ocean Front View - Free Parking

The sebel auckland viaduct harbour, princes wharf 1br apartment - home away from home, sleek & spacious viaduct studio.

  • Day 4: Nautical Adventures and Marine Discovery in Auckland

Auckland Sailing Club

Kicking off the final day of our Auckland escapade, we set sail for adventure at the Auckland Sailing Club. Nestled at 8 Tamaki Drive, this club is a haven for yachting and sailing enthusiasts. With just an hour at this picturesque spot, you'll get a taste of Auckland's vibrant water sports scene. Feel the breeze and watch the sails flutter against the city skyline, capturing the essence of Auckland's maritime heritage.

  • 8 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour

Winona Forever

SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

Continuing our aquatic journey, we dive into the underwater world at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, just a stone's throw away at 23 Tamaki Drive. Spend an hour marveling at the rich marine life that thrives beneath the ocean's surface. From the majestic sharks to the delicate seahorses, the aquarium offers an immersive experience that's both educational and enchanting for visitors of all ages.

  • 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand
  • Open from 9:30am-5:00pm

Mission Bay

To wrap up our day and our unforgettable journey in Auckland, we'll unwind at Mission Bay. This coastal gem is the perfect spot to reflect on the past four days. With two hours to bask in the sun, stroll along the beach, or indulge in some local cuisine, Mission Bay is the ideal finale to our Auckland adventure, leaving us with lasting memories and a longing to return.

  • Auckland 1071, New Zealand

Stay Coastal - Mission Bay

Kohi beach bed & breakfast, the bays bed & breakfast, aarangi motel, top things to do in auckland-2024.

Sky Tower

As a landmark of Auckland, the Sky Tower is 328 meters high and is connected with other buildings to form a huge sky city. The Sky Tower has three transparent elevators, with a speed of 18 kilometers per hour, It only takes 40 seconds to the observation deck and Orbit 360° Dining, where you can overlook the entire Auckland city. You can watch a beautiful sunset and the night view of Auckland If you go there in the evening. Additionally, the Sky Tower is also a goodplace for a high-altitude walk, which is led and guided by a coach on the 192-meter-high outer ring platform of the Sky Tower.

great day trips from auckland

△ Climb the 328-meter-high Sky Tower

great day trips from auckland

△ Overlook the beautiful city night view

great day trips from auckland

△ Challenge more exciting projects

Mount Eden

Kelly Tarton's Auckland is an aquarium converted from an abandoned sewage plant. It was completed by New Zealand marine archaeologist Mr. Kelly Tarton for 10 years. There are 8 major themes on display with its own characteristics. In the fascinating winter wonderland, you can take the Icefield Expedition Vehicle into the viewing area at minus 2 degrees Celsius and watch the colonies of King and Gentoo penguin walking on the artificial snow or diving underwater. You can also experience the excitement of big sharks and Stingrays swimming by in the transparent glass landscape tunnel of the underwater world, and witness how the mighty giant lobster coexists harmoniously with its neighbors. If you want to see it up close, you can put yourself in a cage into the shark viewing tank, or even dive directly into the shark viewing tank.

great day trips from auckland

△ Watch giant sharks up closely

great day trips from auckland

△ Learn more about marine life in the Southern Hemisphere

great day trips from auckland

△ Watch the adorable feeding process of the colonies of King and Gentoo penguins

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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IMAGES

  1. 15 Best Day Trips from Auckland

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  2. 10 Absolute BEST Day Trips from Auckland

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  3. 12 Best Day Trips from Auckland, New Zealand

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  4. 7 Best Free Day Trips From Auckland New Zealand

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  5. 3 Days In Auckland: Perfect Auckland Itinerary

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  6. 9 Best Day Trips from Auckland (with Map & Photos)

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COMMENTS

  1. The 9 best day trips from Auckland

    How to get to the Waitomo Caves: It's a drive of 2½ hours from Auckland to the Waitomo Caves, or the destination can be combined with a longer visit incorporating Raglan or Hamilton (both one hour from Waitomo). Day trips from Auckland including the Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton can be booked with Bush & Beach. The incredible Cathedral Cove is ...

  2. 15 Best Day Trips from Auckland

    A great experience in a country famed for its adrenaline sports and attractions. Amazing combo tour: Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small-Group Day Tour from Auckland. 3. Waiheke Island. Source: Dmitri Ogleznev / shutterstock. Waiheke Island.

  3. 16 Absolute BEST Day Trips from Auckland

    Waiheke Island is a magnificent place to visit and one of the best day trips from Auckland! 10. Bay of Islands and Waipu Caves (Northland) Cruising around the Bay of Islands! Total Distance: 235 kilometers (146 miles), one-way. Time needed: 10 hours.

  4. The Best Day Trips from Auckland ️ [2024]

    Rangitoto Island The Best Day Trip from Auckland for Budget Travellers. Travel time by ferry: 25 minutes one-way. Accessible via ferry from the Auckland downtown ferry terminal, Rangitoto Island is an easy day trip. Rangitoto Island was formed some 600 years ago making it Auckland's newest volcano, which is evident through the lava fields and caves you can explore along the walking trails.

  5. 10 of the best day trips & getaways from Auckland

    Known as 'Auckland's Wild West' this is the perfect day trip from Auckland if you're looking for incredible scenery. If you love hiking, this is a great place to visit! There is over 250km of walking trails found within Waitakere Ranges ranging from short 10 minute trails to multi-day hikes (though these are currently closed - check ...

  6. THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Auckland

    4,290. Auckland is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Auckland, New Zealand directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 521,326 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Auckland to various ...

  7. 9 Best Day Trips from Auckland (+Map)

    8. Coromandel Peninsula. On a clear day, you can see the Coromandel Peninsula from Auckland 55 km (34 miles) away, but a day trip there will be a lot more fun. The picturesque peninsula is named after the British navy ship that stopped there in 1820 for supplies.

  8. 12 Incredible Auckland Day Trips & Weekend Escapes

    10. Karangahake Gorge. If you are looking for a half-day trip from Auckland, Karangahake Gorge is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors and get some fresh air and exercise. With numerous walks to suit most fitness levels and plenty of biking tracks, Karangahake Gorge is a beautiful spot not far from Auckland.

  9. 15 Best Tours & Day Trips from Auckland

    11 - Whangarei Falls Day Tour. If you really want some solitude in the middle of nature, consider heading to Whangarei Falls for one of your day trips from Auckland. The natural attraction is just 2.5 hours drive from the city. Home to easy walking trails, the fall itself is 85 feet tall.

  10. The 11 Best Day Trips From Auckland

    Tiritiri Matangi. Another beautiful Hauraki Gulf island perfect for a day trip is Tiritiri Matangi. Just a 75 minute ferry trip away from central Auckland, it is a great spot for nature lovers and bird-watchers. Tiritiri Matangi is one of New Zealand's most successful conservation projects.

  11. 14 best day trips from Auckland

    1. Waiheke Island. Location: 40 minute ferry from downtown Auckland. Highlights: Easily visit vineyards and beaches without a car. Waiheke Island is an easy day trip from Auckland, being only a 40 minute ferry ride from the central city. This is one of the best Auckland day trip options if you don't have a car.

  12. 8 Of The Best Day Trips From Auckland

    8 Of The Best Day Trips From Auckland You Need To Tick Off In 2024. No matter how great the City of Sails is, there's always the impulse to hop in the car and head out of Auckland on a road trip… it's part of our DNA. Whether you want to unwind in nature, have an adventure or soak in the sights before stopping for something to eat and ...

  13. 19 Best Day Trips from Auckland

    HUNUA RANGES. Hunua Ranges Regional Park makes for an easy day trip from Auckland since it's just a 50-minute drive from the city. The 'must-see' is Hunua Falls, only a 2-minute walk from the car park. However, you can also do the longer 20-minute Falls Track to the top platform for a great view of the Falls as well.

  14. 13 Epic Day Trips from Auckland For Your New Zealand Getaway

    The Waitakere Ranges sprawl out over the west coast of North Island, 30 minutes west of Auckland City. For outdoor adventure within quick reach, Waitakere Ranges is a fantastic side trip from New Zealand's biggest city. The Waitakere Ranges cover more than 16,000 hectares of native New Zealand rainforest and Tasman Sea coastline.

  15. 9 Best Day Trips From Auckland

    Below I list the absolute best day trips from Auckland, ranging from destinations just a short skip and a hop from downtown to some that require a bit more of. ... Best time to visit Auckland, New Zealand. Auckland is a great destination year-round, but you'll get longer days and warmer temperatures when visiting between mid-November to late ...

  16. Best Day Trips from Auckland for Fun Lovers

    Waitomo Caves Day Trip #9. Driving Time from Auckland to the Waitomo Glow Worm Cave - 2.5 hours. Guided Tour - Waitomo Glow Worm Caves and Eco Tour. Waitomo is one of New Zealand's best natural attractions and is a great place to visit on a day trip from Auckland.

  17. 10 top day trips from Auckland, New Zealand

    Waitakere Ranges. 9. Tiritiri Matangi. 10. Mt Maunganui. 1. Waiheke Island. One of the most popular day trips from Auckland for both visitors and locals is heading out by ferry to Waiheke Island which offers a range of options from beach days and walking tracks to winery tours with million-dollar views of the harbour.

  18. 12 BEST Day Trips from Auckland

    Hot Water Beach is located 175 kilometers (109 miles) from Auckland on the Coromandel Peninsula. It's about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive, depending on traffic. The easiest way to get there is to rent a car. Otherwise, you can get a bus to nearby Tairua that costs about $30 NZD and includes two transfers.

  19. 9 Awesome Self Drive Day Trips From Auckland

    Some Great Self Drive Day Trips From Auckland. So there you have it. Our 9 favourite self drive day trips from Auckland for that quick, easy and fun getaway you're looking for. Whether its the coastal beauty of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula or the fantasy world of Middle Earth you'll have plenty of time wherever you go to create some wonderful ...

  20. Tours from Auckland

    Travel from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set and see locations from the epic Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films. 9 hours 15 minutes. See Hobbiton, and Banquet Feast in the Party Marquee. Full day tour that operates daily from Auckland. from $233 NZD.

  21. THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Auckland

    Day Trips Photos. 4,290. Top Day Trips from Auckland: See reviews and photos of Auckland, New Zealand day trips on Tripadvisor.

  22. 17 Exciting Auckland Day Trips: Nearby Adventures Within 2 Hours of CBD

    Shakespear Park is one of 27 Auckland Regional Parks currently open to the public. Each is special for different reasons. At Shakespear, we enjoy multiple beaches, hours of hiking trails, campgrounds, cows, sheep, and it is an open bird sanctuary. An award-winning park, it's a great place to relax or stretch your legs.

  23. 10 of the best day trips in and around Auckland NZ

    Best Day Tours: Sightseeing Tours. The Classic: Most popular electric bike tour of Auckland's Highlights. Auckland Scenic Day Tour - A Full 8 Hours. For the foodies. Auckland Insider Tour: Food Tour with Local Expert. Matakana Wine Tasting Day Tour from Auckland. Auckland Urban Craft Beer Tour. On the water.

  24. Auckland 4-Day Adventure: Discover the City's Best

    Attraction Info. Motions Rd, Western Springs, Auckland 1022, New Zealand; Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour; Open from 11/1-2/28,9:30am-4:30pm;Open from 3/1-10/31,9:30am-5:30pm,It is open every day except for Christmas, and the specific business status is subject to the opening situation on that day.