Auckland’s Top Things to Do and Best-Kept Secrets
Kia Ora! Welcome to Tāmaki-makau-rau/Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand and a destination packed with exciting experiences.
Whether you’re into nature, adventure, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone here. While there are many well-known attractions in the city, there are also plenty of hidden gems that are worth checking out. Let us take you through some of Auckland’s top things to do and best-kept secrets, so you can add them to your itinerary and make the most of your time in the city. Let’s dive in!
If you’re a nature lover, Muriwai Beach is a hidden gem that you won’t want to miss. This beautiful black sand beach is located just a short drive from the city and is home to a large gannet colony. Watching these beautiful birds in their natural habitat is a sight to behold, and a visit to Muriwai Beach is not complete without taking a stroll to the Gannet Colony. With over 1,200 pairs of Australasian Gannets, it’s one of the largest colonies in the world. You might even spot some other interesting birds like terns, shearwaters, and Australasian gulls. Muriwai Beach is a beautiful location for bird watching and other outdoor activities, and it’s open year-round, but access may be restricted due to fire danger or nesting seasons.
Muriwai Beach is a must-visit for nature lovers, and it’s even better if you plan your trip during the Australasian Gannet’s nesting season, which is from August to March. During this time, you’ll get a chance to see the fluffy baby chicks and their parents coming back to feed them. The gannets are located at the cliffs, with barriers up around all the walkways to keep them safe, so you can get up close to these majestic birds without disturbing them.
Not only is Muriwai Beach a great spot for bird watching, but it’s also a popular surf beach. If you plan on swimming, make sure to do so between the flags as west coast beaches can be notoriously dangerous. And don’t forget that the sand is black, which can be a unique experience for many visitors. In the summer months, the sand can also get quite hot, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear.
After a day of exploring and enjoying the beach, why not indulge in some classic Kiwi cuisine? Grab some Fish and Chips or a Tip Top scoop ice cream cone from the takeaway shop and take a stroll down to the beach.
Auckland is known as the City of Sails for a reason – it’s home to one of the biggest regattas in the world, the Port of Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta, and has played host to multiple America’s Cup Yacht races. And now, you can experience the adrenaline rush of sailing on an America’s Cup yacht on Waitemata Harbour.
It’s a thrilling experience that offers a chance to feel the wind in your hair and the sea spray on your face as you navigate the harbour on one of the world’s most famous racing yachts. With the guidance of an experienced crew, you can participate in the sailing and get an up-close look at the Auckland waterfront and surrounding islands. Don’t miss out on this exhilarating experience – grab some sailing gear and join the America’s Cup action on the Waitemata Harbour. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-timer, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
The Hauraki Gulf is home to numerous islands, each with its own unique history and geology. One of the most fascinating is Rangitoto Island, one of the youngest volcanoes in New Zealand, emerging from the sea just 600 years ago. This volcanic island offers a range of hiking trails for visitors of all fitness levels, with the hike to the summit of the volcano providing stunning panoramic views of the Gulf and the city skyline.
Rangitoto Island is also home to the world’s largest Pohutukawa forest, a tree that is otherwise known as the NZ Christmas tree due to its spectacular crimson blooms and green leaves on show during summer. It’s a sight to behold and a great opportunity for nature lovers to see the beauty of New Zealand’s flora up close.
As there are no shops on Rangitoto Island, it’s important to take all your supplies with you, and plenty of sunscreen. The terrain is rugged lava surfaces, so sturdy walking shoes are a must. But the effort is worth it – Rangitoto Island is a must-visit for those who love hiking and exploring.
For those who want to experience something truly unique, there’s also the opportunity to go camping on Motukorea Island. This is a great way to experience the beauty of the Gulf and its islands up close, with the chance to see some of the unique wildlife that call these islands home. Whether you’re hiking on Rangitoto or camping on Motukorea, the islands of the Hauraki Gulf offer a truly unforgettable experience for visitors.
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Auckland’s Eden Garden is a hidden gem worth exploring. Once a quarry, the garden has been transformed into a peaceful oasis that offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature. The garden features a range of exotic and native plants, as well as a stunning waterfall and pond. The garden is also home to a range of birdlife, making it a perfect spot for birdwatchers. With its award-winning design and tranquil atmosphere, Eden Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
If you’re looking for a scenic locale to get away from the crowds, look no further than Shakespear Regional Park. This stunningly beautiful park just outside of Auckland boasts some of the most spectacular beaches, walking trails and wildlife encounters that New Zealand’s North Island has to offer. Whether you choose to be active or just unwind and enjoy your surroundings, Shakespear Regional Park has something for everyone.
This lush oasis is located just a short drive from downtown Auckland and offers visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Shakespear Regional Park is home to a variety of native flora and fauna, making it a perfect place for nature lovers to explore. For those who love to birdwatch, Shakespear is also home to a variety of native birds including tuis, kakas, and kereru. There are also several hiking trails winding through the park, offering views of the coastline and nearby islands.
Another major draw of Shakespear Regional Park is its long stretches of white sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters. So if you’re looking for a spot to relax and soak up some sun, this is the place to go.
Pro tip: don’t forget to pack your swimwear, because you’ll definitely want to go for a dip after your walks!
If you’re planning a trip to Tāmaki-makau-rau/Auckland and are looking for the perfect place to call home during your stay, consider staying at one of our two Haka Houses: Haka House Auckland City, and Haka House K’Road. With their convenient locations and comfy rooms, they offer an ideal base from which to explore the city and its surrounding region. Whether you’re interested in the bustling city centre or the stunning natural landscapes just outside the city limits, Haka House is the perfect launching pad for your Auckland adventure. So pack your bags, book your stay, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this beautiful corner of the world.
If this has inspired you and your travel buddies to make awesome memories while exploring Tāmaki-makau-rau/Auckland, check out our other blog posts.