Day Trips from Auckland to Piha Beach

Escape Auckland for a full-day private ride to the city’s wild west coast, home to rainforests, waterfalls, and dramatic black-sand beaches. Start at Arataki Visitor Centre in the Waitākere Ranges, enjoying forested valley views and learning about Māori legends and native flora. Continue to Karekare Falls & Rainforest Walk, a serene cascade accessed via an easy trail through nikau palms and tree ferns, then visit Karekare Beach, where striking black sands and sculpted dunes create a cinematic setting. Next, explore Piha Beach & Lion Rock, an iconic surf spot with the volcanic monolith rising from the shore, plus time for a local café stop. Conclude at Te Waha Point or Mercer Bay Loop, dramatic lookouts offering endless coastal vistas. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking fresh air and scenic escapes from urban Auckland.

Leave the hustle and bustle of the City behind, come and enjoy our native Waitakere Ranges, Arataki Visitor Centre, local nature, flora and fauna, Māori history, and stunning panoramic views of both harbours, then continue onto Piha Beach with its black sand, volcanic cliff faces, wild surf and a few other hidden gems along the way, paradise at its finest. (Min 2 pax)

Experience for yourself why Auckland is ranked as one of the world's most livable cities. Explore some of the city's many beaches and its native rainforest and learn about its cultural history. Have panoramic views from the summit of our highest volcano, Mt Eden and the Harbour Bridge, the CBD, Bastion Point and more.

Explore Auckland's West Coast, walk through the native rainforest, and experience the rugged coastline and windswept black-sand beaches. Discover unique wildlife, towering ancient trees, dramatic waterfalls, and sweeping views of the Tasman Sea. Marvel at Lion Rock and its Māori carvings, get the perfect picture of the rushing Kitekite Fall and more.

Explore the Waitakere Ranges rainforest and Auckland’s rugged west coast, including Piha Beach or World famous in New Zealand: Gannet Colony, Muriwai Beach, during an this tour with a guide who is knowledgeable about New Zealand flora and fauna. From the Arataki Centre, admire sweeping views from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Learn about Maori history, stroll the beach and take a nature walk through a lush rainforest while you experience Auckland's largest regional park. Admire the amazing Waitakere Ranges on this tour from Auckland Visit Arataki Center, gateway to the Waitakere Ranges Breathtaking panoramic views of the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean.

Auckland is a big city, but this handy small-group tour makes it easy to get out of the urban jungle and experience its more natural side. Ideal for cruise-ship passengers, the tour picks up from hotels or the cruise port. Head west to Mt. Eden volcano, walk on black-sand Piha Beach, admire gushing Karekare Falls, and visit a winery for an including wine tasting.

Experience the best of Auckland in a single day with this relaxed full-day combo tour. Begin your morning with a short hike up to the iconic Mt Eden volcano, with epic views over Auckland city. Continue to the wild West Coast, exploring black-sand beaches, rainforest lookouts, and short scenic walks that showcase the rugged beauty of the region. After a break, continue your adventure in the charming seaside village of Devonport. Explore North Head, a British fortress built inside an extinct volcano, and enjoy multiple viewpoints over the harbour. This tour is perfect for travellers who want to see more without rushing—combining nature, history, and iconic scenery in one easy, comfortable experience suitable for all fitness levels.

Experience Auckland's wild side on this half-day private tour from Auckland. Visit the iconic Mt Eden volcano before travelling to Piha Beach. Walk on the black sand, then take a short guided hike through the rain forest to picturesque Karekare Falls. Stop to pick up lunch at a local bakery (at your own expense), and visit a winery for a free tasting of five boutique wines. At the end of the tour, we can drop you off anywhere in the city, at the zoo or museum, or Mission Bay beach.

Discover New Zealand’s iconic Piha Beach on our West Coast Discovery tour! Starting with a pick-up from the 4 hotels listed in Auckland CBD, enjoy a 30-minute scenic drive through the Waitakere Ranges. Our first stop is the Arataki Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn about New Zealand’s native trees and enjoy sweeping views over the ranges—an ideal start to exploring the west coast. Next, we take a 20-minute drive to Karekare Waterfalls, where a short, easy walk leads you to this stunning natural site, perfect for photos. Then, we head to the famous Piha Surf Beach, known for its black iron-sand and thrilling waves from the Tasman Sea, where you can go for a swim or just relax and enjoy the stunning views. Be sure to visit Lion Rock, located at the heart of the beach, for breathtaking views and unforgettable photo opportunities. After that, we head back to Auckland CBD.

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.

Experience the highlights of Auckland on a city sightseeing tour in the morning, combined with an afternoon wilderness experience in Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Learn how Aucklanders live and play as you explore the City of Sails with an informative guide. Then discover native flora and fauna on a beach stroll and forest walk, with a stop for afternoon tea.

See the untamed beauty of New Zealand’s west coast on this North Island day trip from Auckland, which saves you from having to navigate rugged roads on your own. Travel with a guide to the Waitakere Ranges, with a stop at the Arataki Visitor Centre overlook for views of the Tasman Sea out to the Pacific Ocean. Admire Maori carvings before a guided rainforest walk, then visit giant kauri trees and one of the area’s magnificent black sand beaches. A moderate fitness level is required for this active tour.

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.

There’s a lot to see in Auckland but fitting it all into one day can be hard on your own as the city is so spread out. Visit central-city and further-afield attractions, including Mt. Eden, Westhaven Marina, Mission Bay, Piha Beach, and a lunch stop at Mission Bay (own expense). Travel in a comfortable private vehicle with hotel pickup included. The flexible itinerary is tailored to your interests.

This is the best way to experience the highlights of Auckland’s West Coast. Enjoy a private tour with no need to rush — the itinerary is always tailored to your pace and interests. We will visit Arataki Visitor center, Karekare Falls, Mercer bay loop and Piha beach We are happy to add destinations or adjust the schedule based on what you’d like to see. Minimum required for this tour is 2 people

Discover the natural beauty of Auckland’s west coast on this relaxed day tour. Visit four of the region’s most loved highlights in one easy and well-planned trip. Arataki Visitor Centre Enjoy beautiful views over the Waitākere Ranges, where forests, hills, and the ocean come together. A perfect introduction to the west coast. Karekare Waterfall Take a short walk to a peaceful waterfall hidden in the forest. A refreshing spot to relax and take great photos. Mercer Bay Loop Walk along dramatic clifftops with wide ocean views and fresh sea air. One of the best scenic walks on the west coast. Piha Beach Finish at Auckland’s famous black-sand beach. Watch the waves, walk along the shore, or simply enjoy the view. Why you will love this tour • Four west coast highlights in one comfortable trip • Relaxed pace with time at each stop • Ideal for first-time visitors and nature lovers This tour is a perfect way to experience Auckland’s west coast Minimum required for this tour is 2 people

Our private West Auckland tour blends natural beauty, cultural discovery, and personal comfort, creating an experience that goes far beyond standard sightseeing. Begin at the Arataki Visitor Centre, the welcoming gateway to the Waitākere Ranges, where a towering carved post, sweeping coastal views, and interactive displays introduce the region’s stories. From here, enjoy a rainforest walk among native trees, ferns, and gaining a sense of New Zealand’s unique ecosystem before pausing for a short refreshments break to recharge. The journey continues to Piha Beach, renowned for its volcanic black sand, dramatic surf, and the iconic Lion Rock. With the flexibility of private transport, you can take your time at each stop, enjoy free entry to attractions, and travel without the rush of large groups. Combined with friendly guiding and the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour offers a seamless, personalized way to connect with Auckland’s wild west coast.

Arataki Visitor Centre: Enjoy panoramic views and learn about native wildlife and Māori culture. Waitākere Ranges: Explore lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic walking trails. Piha Beach: Experience New Zealand’s iconic black-sand beach, surf, and dramatic coastal scenery. Sheepworld: Get hands-on with farm life through sheep shearing, dog herding, and interactive animal activities. Unique all-in-one experience: Combines nature, culture, adventure, and rural heritage for a true Kiwi adventure.

A true Auckland west coast wilderness experience in a single, well-curated journey that blends nature, culture, and relaxation seamlessly. • All-in-one coastal & rainforest experience From rugged black sand beaches to lush native bush and waterfalls • Iconic west coast highlights Visit Muriwai Gannet Colony, Piha Beach, Karekare Falls, and Arataki Visitor Centre efficiently without rushing. • Cultural immersion included Learn about Māori heritage, arts, and stories at Arataki, adding depth beyond sightseeing. • Relaxing wine & dining experience Enjoy premium local wines and lunch at Soljans Estate Winery in a scenic vineyard setting. • Perfect pacing for cruise passengers Thoughtfully timed to align with ship arrivals and departures, ensuring a stress-free day. Overall, it’s a premium, small-group style journey that captures the very best of Auckland’s wild west coast—without the need to plan multiple separate trips.

Follow an indigenous Maori guide around Auckland (Tamaki Makaurau) and the west coast of New Zealand on this full-day tour. Learn about Maori culture, myths, legends, and history. Lunch and round-trip transportation from your Auckland hotel included.

Discover Auckland’s natural wonders, dynamic neighborhoods, and ocean views as you explore the city from the comfort of a private luxury vehicle. Admire the views along Tamaki Drive, walk up to the top of Mount Eden, and visit the neighborhoods of Mission Bay and Parnell. Then, marvel at West Coast wonders, including the Waitakere Ranges, the black-sand Piha Beach, and Karekare Falls.

Discover the best of urban and rural Auckland on this full-day city and west coast tour. Travel through attractive districts including Devonport and Titirangi, and admire colonial-era homes in Parnell. Check out views over the Waitakere Ranges and explore black-sand beaches and dense rainforests, where native pohutukawa trees thrive. Enjoy personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour, which includes lunch and snacks to keep you energized.

Your Auckland Adventure Awaits! Craft your perfect day exploring Auckland's iconic landmarks with our customizable private tour. Our experienced guide will not only show you the sights but also capture stunning photos to commemorate your journey. Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers seeking a personalized and memorable experience.