The best way to enjoy Auckland to its full is to put on whatever is appropriate, be it a T-shirt, shorts and jandals, or a fleece and waterproof jacket, and get out there. New Zealand is an outdoor country and Auckland is an outdoor kind of city. You can hit one of the beautiful West Coast beaches such as Bethells or Muriwai to wonder at the black sand or peep at the baby gannets. Or have a surf! In the Waitakeres you can trudge through the bush for an hour's walk or a two day tramp. Be sure to check in at the Arataki Visitors Centre beforehand for maps and wildlife information. Or, what about volcanoes? Climb up Mt. Eden or One Tree Hill in Cornwall Park. And there is always Rangitoto. That sleeping giant you can see out in the harbour makes for a wonderful day out exploring. You can get there by ferry or go to Ferg's Kayaks and paddle you own way out. You'll need a good level of fitness for that! More offerings that include water are to take up a whale and dolphin safari cruise, or imagine yourself as a part of an America's Cup team and go out for a sail on the "Ultimate America's Cup Experience".
Scenic Drive
Waitakere
Educational introduction to the Waitakere Ranges...
Bethells Road
Waitakere
Wild West coast beach...
Muriwai Beach
Muriwai Beach
View up Muriwai Beach...
Waitakere City
Take a hike in the hills out west...
Mount Eden Road
Trig station...
Green Lane
Maungakiekie
Beautiful park surrounding One Tree Hill...
Hauraki Gulf
Youngest volcano in Auckland...
12 Tamaki Drive
Okahu Bay
Kayak the harbour...
Quay Street
Dolphins and whales!...