Coast to Coast Eco Tour with Auckland & Beyond Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks on flat and uneven terrain with rest breaks.
Overview
Discover Auckland’s striking west and east coasts in one immersive day. From the black sands and gannet colony of Muriwai Beach to the historic Winter Gardens, Auckland & Beyond Tours offers a seamless blend of nature and city highlights.
Coast to Coast Eco Tour Private Tour
All ages • 8 hours • An experience to remember! • Minimum 2 people
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About This Adventure
Experience the stunning contrast of Auckland's coastlines on this immersive tour. Visit the iconic black sand Muriwai Beach, encounter gannets up close, and enjoy a relaxing picnic. Discover city highlights along Tamaki Drive and explore the enchanting Victorian Winter Gardens, making for a memorable day of nature and culture.
West Coast Black Sand Beaches and Auckland Highlights in One Day!
Duration
8 Hours
Tour Highlights
- Pick up & Drop Off at Auckland CBD
- Complimentary Snacks & water
- Muriwai Beach & the Gannet Colony
- Picnic Lunch
- Bastion Point (MJ Savage Memorial)
- Drive through Mission Bay Suburb
- Achilles Point
- Winter Gardens (Auckland Domain)Tour
About
Explore the diverse nature of Auckland’s beaches on this tour and see for yourself how the West coast is different from the East coast in Auckland.
Muriwai Beach is one of the most famous black sand beaches in NZ known for surfing and home to the beautiful seabirds “Gannets”.
With different lookouts surrounding the area, you will have a close encounter with the gannets at Muriwai Gannet Colony and on Motutara Island (Gannets season is from Aug until March every year).
Relax at the beach, enjoy a pre-packed Picnic Lunch & even go for a swim if you wish.
We will then head to the beautiful Tamaki Drive along the eastern coast of Auckland City all the way up to Bastion Point, known as Michael Savage Memorial, discovering some of the City’s highlights including Achilles Point.
Before heading back we will visit The Historical Victorian Style Domain Winter Gardens, which are a complex of gardens located within the Auckland Domain.
Please note
- This tour require minimum 2 people
Due to Cyclone Gabriel (February 2023) the walking track to the Gannet Colony is closed. The Gannets are still visible from a distance only.
Adventure Tips
Bring comfortable footwear
The tour involves walking on uneven coastal paths and paved city stops, so sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Pack sun protection
Coastal exposure and time outdoors mean sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are vital, especially during summer months.
Carry a light jacket
Weather can change rapidly along the coast; a waterproof or windbreaker layer helps stay comfortable.
Respect wildlife viewing distances
While the Gannet Colony is visible from lookouts, avoid attempting to approach restricted areas to protect sensitive habitats.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Northern gannets
- Fantail birds in Auckland Domain
History
Bastion Point holds cultural significance as a site of historical Māori land activism and features the Michael Joseph Savage Centennial Memorial.
Conservation
Auckland & Beyond Tours emphasizes low-impact travel, encouraging guests to respect wildlife boundaries and minimize environmental footprint during their tours.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides reliable footing on mixed terrain from rocky beaches to city sidewalks.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Essential to protect from high UV exposure on open beaches and coastal paths.
summer specific
Light waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry and warm against sudden coastal rain and wind.
spring|fall|winter specific
Camera or smartphone
To capture dynamic landscapes and wildlife moments throughout the tour.