Planning to make the most of your stay in Auckland?
From black sand beaches and volcanic cones to Middle-earth, there’s truly something for everyone in New Zealand’s largest city. Most enticingly, it’s all within an easy day’s drive from the city centre – leaving you plenty of time for a leisurely brunch, shopping ‘til you drop and exploring Auckland’s bustling restaurant scene.
Pop on some tunes and wind down the windows – here are three must-do day trips in Auckland.
Hobbiton
Whether or not you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings, it’s hard not to admire the breakout star of the films – New Zealand’s stunning landscape. Don’t miss out on the chance to visit one of the iconic sets used in The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films, the Hobbiton Movie Set.
The site offers guided tours of the Hobbit dwellings seen in The Shire scenes from the films, as well as The Green Dragon and other locations on the 12-acre set.
Tours last two hours and depart every 30 minutes daily.
Don’t miss: If you’ve got some time on your hands, it’s worth driving the extra hour to visit Rotorua and the famous Waitomo Caves.
Travel time: 2 hours from Auckland central
West Coast Beaches
New Zealand’s South Island might get all the love in tourism brochures, but when it comes to rugged good looks it’s hard to beat Auckland’s spectacular west coast.
Visit the impressive Lion Rock on Piha’s famous surf beach; traverse the black sands of Muriwai; stroll along the expansive Karekare made famous in Oscar-winning film The Piano. Whatever your beach of choice is, this is one road trip you won’t forget.
Don’t miss: Bird-lovers will want to check out Muriwai’s gannet colony, which you can get right up close to with two viewing platforms.
Travel time: 1 hour from Auckland central
Volcanoes
Auckland’s 50-odd volcanoes are a truly breath-taking feature of its landscape, and offer its visitors plenty of views to admire.
Possibly the most distinctive of Auckland’s volcanic cones is Rangitoto Island, located a short ferry ride away from the city shore. Walking tracks lead you all the way up to the summit, taking you through lava fields, caves and forest.
Also worth a trip is the iconic One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie), a sprawling expanse of lush parkland and a historic former Māori settlement. Mount Eden (Maungawhau) is the highest of Auckland’s volcanoes, and offers panoramic views of the city.
Don’t miss: The Auckland Domain (Pukekawa volcano) is a great spot to have a rest and a picnic in between exploring. While you’re there, check out the Auckland War Memorial Museum and the beautiful Wintergarden.
Travel time: 5-30 minutes from Auckland central
