Top Auckland Seasonal & Special Occasions - page 3

Discover Auckland's stunning West Coast, filled with lush rainforests, iconic black sand beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and renowned wine trails. Join us on an adventure through the untamed beauty of New Zealand’s North Island, where you'll uncover one of the country's most breathtaking beaches. Experience the famous black sands of Piha Beach and take in the remarkable Lion Rock. Marvel at the cascading waterfalls nestled within the dense forest, offering truly unforgettable views. Visit the Arataki Cultural Centre, where you'll enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Waitakere Ranges and delve into the rich Maori heritage of the region. Finally, unwind at one of New Zealand’s oldest wineries for a delightful wine-tasting experience and lunch.

Around Auckland in 8 hours – seamless highlights from Auckland CBD. After pickup from Auckland CBD hotels, begin with the wild beauty of Muriwai Gannet Colony, where thousands of gannets nest on rugged cliffs above black-sand beaches and the Tasman Sea. Travel through scenic countryside to a local vineyard for a guided wine tasting among the vines, with an optional lunch stop to savour fresh local flavours. Return to Auckland via the picturesque Tamaki Drive, passing iconic waterfronts, the Harbour Bridge, and Achilles Point, offering stunning harbour views and photo opportunities. End the tour at Mt Eden, the city’s highest natural point, for panoramic 360° vistas of Auckland’s skyline, harbours, and islands. Comfortable transport, scenic stops, and a balanced pace make this tour perfect for nature, culture, wine, and unforgettable city experiences—all in one day from Auckland CBD.

Take a break from busy Auckland City and head to the countryside for a wine-tasting tour in Kumeu. Visit a couple of wineries in the wine region, where you can sample wine over lunch. Everyone in your group can enjoy a drink as you won’t have to drive yourself. After, head to nearby Muriwai, where you can visit the gannet colony beside the rugged beach before your return trip.

Explore Auckland’s natural landscapes and wildlife at a relaxed pace on this small group tour from Auckland's city centre. At your first stop of Mt Eden, walk the slopes of an extinct volcano and be rewarded with sweeping 360 degree views over Auckland. Next, head out to the west coast to discover dramatic black sand beaches and rugged coastal cliffs. Stroll easy coastal paths to viewpoints overlooking thousands of nesting Australasian gannets, with sweeping views of the Tasman Sea, then enjoy time to explore the beach below. Learn how Māori culture, volcanic geology, and powerful ocean forces have shaped this unique landscape. Lastly, enjoy a wine tasting at a small local winery, with the opportunity to stay for lunch, offering time to unwind before returning to the city via the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge. Please be aware that coastal locations are exposed and weather conditions can change. The gannets are present from August until late March.

Experience the perfect blend of nature and wine on this unique Muriwai Gannet Colony & Soljans Wine Tasting Tour. Begin on Auckland’s rugged west coast, where dramatic cliffs overlook the Tasman Sea at Muriwai. From safe viewing platforms, watch Australasian gannets soaring, nesting, and caring for their chicks (seasonal), set against black sand beaches, crashing waves, and wild coastal scenery. This rare wildlife encounter so close to the city offers unforgettable photo opportunities and insight into New Zealand’s natural environment. The tour then transitions to the peaceful Kumeu countryside at Soljans Estate Winery, a family-owned winery rich in heritage. Enjoy a guided tasting of premium local wines while learning about regional winemaking traditions. The contrast between untamed coastline and relaxing vineyard charm makes this experience truly special, showcasing two very different yet equally beautiful sides of New Zealand in one memorable journey.

Visit Middle Earth on a walking tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at the Green Dragon Inn, the Party Tree and so much more. Next, visit the Whakarewarewa Valley, the home to a living Māori village and the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. Admire the volcanic landscape, including bubbling mud pools and the erupting Pohutu Geyser.