Adventure Collective
Explore Auckland’s Black Sand Beaches and Native Forests: A Small Group Adventure - Auckland

Explore Auckland’s Black Sand Beaches and Native Forests: A Small Group Adventure

Aucklandmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

8 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical shape to walk several kilometers on uneven surfaces with some elevation gain.

Overview

Discover Auckland’s unique blend of volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, and native forests on this immersive 8-hour small group tour. Experience the city’s natural wonders and cultural heritage all in one day.

Auckland, Auckland

Small Group Tour: Auckland City & Native Forest Experience

All Ages • 8 hours

Boat Tour
City Tour
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About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour small group tour of Auckland, exploring stunning beaches, historic sites, and breathtaking views from Mt Eden. Discover the wild west coast's black sand beaches and lush rainforests, while enjoying immersive activities and local interactions. Capture memorable moments in this vibrant city and its natural beauty.

Highlights of all the best spots in Auckland

Tour Duration

8 hours

Tour Summary

Join us for a unique, fun, and informative small group city tour of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city! With an exceptional value, our comprehensive tour covers all the best sights with plenty of stops for photos. Discover our sparkling harbour, view the iconic Harbour Bridge, cruise through to Tamaki Drive, stunning beaches, historic buildings and admire panoramic views from the summit of our highest volcano, Mt Eden. Walk through the sacred native rainforest, the rugged coastline and windswept, black-sand beaches. Home to unique wildlife and towering ancient trees, and some of the most breath-taking views you’ll ever see! The ‘wild west’ feels like another world away. Experience the untamed beauty and indulge in breath-taking panoramic viewpoints over the Tasman Sea, which separates New Zealand from Australia.

Tour Highlights

  • Discover Auckland's highlights including the wild west coast native forest and black sand beach.

  • Take in great views of the Hauraki Gulf, the Harbour Bridge, spectacular ocean vistas and the Rangitoto Island.

  • Drive past Westhaven Marina, one of the largest marinas in the Southern Hemisphere.

  • Cruise through the city to Tamaki Drive, Auckland Domain, the suburb of Parnell.

  • Take in stunning views at Auckland's iconic vistas at Bastion Point.

  • Enjoy the picturesque and historic suburb of Parnell and the beautiful oasis of Parnell Rose Garden.

  • Admire panoramic views from Mt Eden Summit.

  • Escape the city and relax in the peace of the rainforest, mountain, and Piha Beach.

  • Visit and admire magnificent views from The Arataki Visitor Centre.

  • Soak up spectacular ocean vistas along Auckland’s wild West Coast.

  • Wander in a native rainforest and see the amazing Kauri Trees.

  • Walk on the soft, black sand on an awe-inspiring beach.

Journey Inclusions

  • Fully guided return transfers from Auckland.

  • Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD.

  • Complimentary refreshments and water onboard.

  • Complimentary high-speed internet onboard the minibus.

  • A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.

  • Luxurious temperature-controlled transportation in a minibus.

  • Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities.

  • Built-in leisure time, to explore destinations as you wish.

Tour Inclusions

  • Visit to Auckland city highlight spots (Auckland Harbour Bridge, Parnell Village and Waterfront views).

  • Visit to Auckland city highlight spots (West Haven Marina, Bastion Point, Achilles Point, Mt. Eden Summit).

  • Admission to Arataki Visitor Centre & rainforest walk.

  • Visit to lookouts over Lion Rock at Piha beach.

  • Visit to black sand beach at Piha.

Tour Requirements

  • This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
  • Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, sun protection, jacket/warm layer & essential personal items.
  • You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
  • Suitable for people of all ages and Easy and good fitness level required.
  • Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as this is the perfect place to get some great experiences photos.

Adventure Tips

Bring sturdy walking shoes

The mix of volcanic terrain and forest trails can be uneven and slippery, so wear comfortable, supportive footwear.

Carry water and snacks

Though the tour includes some stops, having water and snacks ensures energy for the full 8 hours outdoors.

Pack sun protection

Exposure at Mt Eden’s summit and open beaches requires sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to stay safe.

Charge your camera

You’ll want to capture panoramic views and native forest scenes, so make sure to have plenty of battery or memory.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Tui
  • Kereru (New Zealand wood pigeon)

History

Mt Eden is a dormant volcanic cone integral to Auckland’s formation and holds cultural significance to the Maori people.

Conservation

Efforts are ongoing to protect Auckland’s native forests and coastlines from invasive species and human impact, encouraging responsible tourism.

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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Hiking shoes

Essential

Provide traction and comfort on volcanic rocks and forest trails.

Light rain jacket

Essential

Spring showers are common, so a rain jacket will keep you dry.

spring specific

Sun hat

Essential

Protects from strong sun exposure on beaches and ridgelines.

summer specific

Insect repellent

Helps avoid bites in the native forest areas.

summer specific