Top Auckland On the Water

Certain waters near Auckland offer a hidden attraction to delight unsuspecting travelers. On this guided kayak tour, paddle out off the shore of Auckland at night and watch as the waves start to light up as you glide through the waters, lit up by bioluminescent plankton which swirl with blue light when disturbed. This easy, 2-hour tour is not recommended for travelers with back or heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

Experience Auckland's stunning skyline and iconic landmarks from the water on a 1.5-hour scenic cruise with The Red Boats. Glide across the picturesque Waitemata Harbour on one of or iconic wooden vessels while enjoying informative commentary about the area's history and highlights. With comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, this cruise is ideal for taking photos or simply relaxing amidst breathtaking views. A fully licensed bar is available on board for drinks and snacks, making it perfect for families, tourists, and group outings. All cruises are subject to weather and sea conditions. For your safety and comfort, itineraries may be adjusted if required.

Experience Auckland’s harbour at its most beautiful with a relaxing Sunset Cruise aboard a classic wooden vessel with the The Red Boats. Enjoy panoramic views as the sun sets over the city skyline, sail beneath the iconic Harbour Bridge, and take in live commentary highlighting local landmarks and history. With a fully licensed onboard bar, open deck viewing, and a friendly Kiwi crew, this is the ultimate way to unwind and see Auckland from the water. All cruises are subject to weather and sea conditions. For your safety and comfort, itineraries may be adjusted if required.

Enjoy an America’s Cup sailing experience aboard an authentic racing yacht on Auckland's scenic Waitemata Harbour. Feel the exhilaration of yachting as you take the helm and participate with the professional crew, or just sit back and soak up the harbor views. No sailing experience is necessary and this is a fun activity for keen sailors and complete beginners alike. Wet-weather jackets and sunscreen keep you comfortable.

Enjoy views of Auckland you can’t get from land while sailing on a yacht in the Waitemata Harbour. Your Auckland cruise sets sail from the Viaduct Harbour, passing Auckland Harbour Bridge, Westhaven Marina, and Devonport while you listen to informative commentary on the sights. Relax as you take in the views or help the crew sail the vessel—it’s up to you. Provided snacks and hot drinks keep you energized.

- Opportunity to view a variety of marine animals including dolphins, whales, seals, birdlife and more - Marine mammal viewing guarantee - come again for free if we don’t spot any marine mammals during your cruise^ - Included Island Stop at either Rotoroa Island or Man O' War Vineyards - Learn about the history and conservation efforts on the volcanic peaks, many islands and extended coastline of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park - Hear fascinating stories on the origins and histories of land, sea and Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki – original inhabitants of Tāmaki Makaurau

Sail away on a harbor cruise in Auckland and enjoy a 3-course dinner as you sail past Waitemata Harbour highlights, including the Sky Tower and Auckland Harbour Bridge. Board your yacht at the Viaduct Harbour and enjoy a welcome drink. Learn about Auckland and its scenic sights from your captain. As evening falls, dinner is served onboard while you sail.

Discover the vibrant Auckland Harbour on a lively 2-hour Nightlights Harbour Cruise. Set sail from for a casual night out with friends, complete with music and an inviting atmosphere. Enjoy a complimentary drink and finger food. All cruises are subject to weather and sea conditions. For your safety and comfort, itineraries may be adjusted if required.

As New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland has one of the country’s most impressive skylines. Lots of tours help you take in the view, but not many let you spy the Sky Tower lit up against a golden sunset while you kayak along Westhaven Marina. On this small-group kayaking tour, experience cityscape views, paddle by superyachts, and take in some of the city’s most popular landmarks from a unique vantagepoint.

Take in the highlights of New Zealand’s largest city on this half-day tour of Auckland and benefit from your guide’s commentary. Admire views of Auckland Harbour and drive over the Harbour Bridge; gaze out over the city from the top of Mt. Eden; and see spectacular views of the Mission Bay beaches—all in just half a day, with plenty of photo stops along the way.

Explore the Waitakere Ranges and Auckland’s rugged west coast, including Piha Beach, during an afternoon tour with a guide knowledgeable about New Zealand flora and fauna. From the Arataki Centre, admire sweeping views of the ocean and distant city. Learn about Māori history, stroll on the black-sand beach, and take a nature walk through a lush rainforest while you experience one of Auckland's largest regional parks.

Get out of Auckland for the night, away from the harsh neon lights, and experience a natural light party on this kayaking adventure. Paddle along the northern coast of Auckland and witness the bioluminescent plankton that live in the ocean. Watch as it lights up the beach at night, with only the sounds of the Hauraki Gulf and the native birds in the background.

Sitting majestically off the coast, Rangitoto’s distinctive symmetrical cone rises 260m over the Hauraki Gulf. Boasting a unique landscape of rugged lava crops, lush native bush and sandy coves. This not to be missed walk to the summit takes about an hour at an easy pace. Lookouts along the way provide stunning views as you climb - make sure to leave enough time to detour and explore the lava caves. Plan your visit in advance and ensure you arrive with plenty of time to meet the return ferry to downtown Auckand.

Visit two of New Zealand's must-see attractions on 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 café lunch. In the afternoon, explore Māori myths and history on an underground boat ride at Waitomo, surrounded by thousands of glowworms.

The fictional, yet globally famous, village of Hobbiton™ and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves rank among New Zealand’s top attractions. Visit both sites in one day on a small-group tour that includes hotel pickup, a delicious lunch, and personal attention from your guide. Avoid the hassle of self-driving from Auckland and admire scenic views en route. A must-do tour for nature and movie lovers short on time in the North Island.

Explore the Hauraki Gulf on this relaxing half-day kayaking tour that departs from central Auckland. Private boats and kayaks are the only ways to access Motukorea/ Browns Island, one of the best-preserved volcanoes in the Auckland Volcanic Field. After arriving on the island, hike to the summit to see picturesque views and learn about the island's history.

Visit two of the North Island’s most popular attractions in one day on this small-group tour from Auckland. First, hear behind-the-scenes stories from the making of "The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” films on a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. In the afternoon, continue to Rotorua to explore the city and visit the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland where highlights include geysers, volcanic mud pools, and geothermal craters.

Kayak across the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbor and reach Rangitoto Island - Auckland’s youngest and largest volcano. A leisurely walk to the bush-clad island’s summit across offers panoramic views of the Auckland city skyline and its many surrounding beaches and bays. Enjoy a healthy and hearty barbecue lunch on the shore of Rangitoto before paddling back across the water to Saint Heliers Bay.

Fasten your seatbelts for a thrilling 35-minute Auckland Adventure Jetboat ride. Just kidding we don't have seatbelts. Experience Auckland's premier and only jetboat ride with views that rival other cities. Leaving the Southern hemispheres largest marina it's not hard to see why Auckland is called the city of sails. Once outside the marina we start opening up the throttle unleashing 900hp and speeds of nearly 100kmh drifting and spinning while soaking up the stunning skyline views & highlights. This is a family friendly low impact jetboat ride giving everyone the thrill while actually showing you the best views of Auckland's Waitamata harbour.

Discover Browns Island's rich history near Auckland. Horses were swum across the harbor by early settlers, while Māori thrived with farming and fishing centuries ago, leaving behind remnants of pā sites. Even more intriguingly, remnants of the Sydney mud cockle were found within volcanic shell beds. In 1909, New Zealand's aviation history took flight as Alex and Claude Barnard launched a homemade flying machine from the island's peak, marking the nation's first aeroplane trials. Browns Island is a volcanic cone from an eruption 25,000 years ago, part of the active Auckland Volcanic Field. Now uninhabited, it's a recreational reserve turned wildlife sanctuary, home to native birds like tūī, pūkeko, silvereye, as well as unique wildlife such as skinks and geckos. For students and researchers, Browns Island offers educational opportunities in volcanology, geology, and environmental conservation, making it an ideal field study destination.

Head out to the Auckland landmark of Rangitoto Island on this evening kayaking tour. After crossing the Waitemata Harbour to Rangitoto, embark on a leisurely walk to the summit to catch the sunset over Auckland and the Waitakere Ranges. You’ll then paddle back in the dark with the help of your guide, taking in the city lights along the way.

This small-group day trip from Auckland features the highlights of Rotorua. Visit the Māori Arts and Crafts Institute of Te Puia and tour the city with a knowledgeable guide. Opt for free time to explore on your own or upgrade with several options, including spa time, a Māori concert, geothermal wonders, or a walk among the redwood trees. A buffet lunch at Te Puia is included.

Auckland’s East Coast is known for its calm and consistent surf, and the sandy beach of Te Arai is the ideal spot for beginners. Learn the basics of surfing or hone your existing skills under the guidance of a professional instructor with this 2-hour surf class. Your private lesson can be completely tailored to your ability, allowing you to learn at your own speed and benefit from one-on-one instruction.