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Auckland staycation Hauraki Gulf Island

Auckland staycation Hauraki Gulf Island hopping, Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi & Great Barrier Island. Welcome to an island escape with a get out clause; a leisurely Auckland city lunch and explore Aotearoa New Zealand’s vibrant Pakisfica city.

Trip Overview

Welcome to an island escape with a get out clause; a leisurely Auckland city lunch


Duration: Auckland
Start 4 days
Finish 3 nights

Discover a natural predator barrier* the ocean creating sanctuaries for New Zealand’s native flora and fauna to flourish. It’s up to visitors to ensure pests are not re-introduced as they disembark from private vessels or public ferries.

Hauraki Gulf Island highlighs

  • Remote quiet places where you can camp or stay in a heritage bungalow
  • Soak in the serenity of an island with its views of twinkling Auckland in the distance
  • Swim, snorkel, climb volcanic summits and spend time listening to bird song
  • Volunteer or donate supporting ongoing projects
  • A day exploring a recent volcanic eruption (600 years ago), one of New Zealand’s youngest volcanoes with its majestic cone dominating the Hauraki Gulf horizon
  • Explore an island where native flora and fauna flourish. Tiritiri Matangi is a sustainability success story in the Hauraki Gulf
  • Spend a day or two relishing a quiet haven where a bird song chorus greets the day and you ponder whether to return to the naturally heated geothermal pools nearby. Great Barrier Island, Hauraki Gulf is a place you don’t want to miss.

* Although pesky ships rats have learnt to swim long distances.

The Hauraki Gulf Islands offer unique staycation or short break opportunities. Auckland’s Hauraki gulf harbour waters and islands are an antithesis to the bustle of city life. The Hauraki Gulf is a must-go destination for visitors intent on relaxing into the timeless pleasure nature and the outdoors offers.

Let’s get you started …

A day on Rangitoto Island, Hauraki Gulf Auckland

Rangitoto island volcanic area, Auckland, New Zealand
Rangitoto island volcanic area, NZ

Rangitoto island top sight

  • Extraordinary geological features showcasing recent volcanic activity (600 years ago)
  • Superb views of the Waitemata Harbour and Auckland skyline
  • Rangitoto is home to interesting walking trails in New Zealand
  • Historic baches are now under the watchful eye of the Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust

A volcanic dormant island is a visitor drawcard. The popular destination is a must-go day trip from the Auckland Downtown Ferry terminal. New Zealand’s latest volcanic upstart is a witness to New Zealand’s place on the Pacific ring of fire. It is a fascinating place to observe the natural plant colonisation of a volcanic island. The walks and views as well as the island’s proximity to Auckland make Rangitoto a favourite day trip destination. For overseas visitors a chance to get up close and personal with very recent lava flows.

Auckland beaches, highlights

Mission Bay which is located at Auckland, New Zealand
Mission Bay, NZ
  • Mission Bay with award winning restaurants a slow sandy stroll from the promenade
  • Auckland North Shore’s Takapuna Beach is where shopping is a breeze for the latest swim gear
  • Collapse on a beach in the Hauraki Gulf rich in bird life, from Rotoroa Island to Great Barrier
  • Explore Regional Parks where beaches, marine reserve and lowland forest offer walking trails to waterfalls
  • Discover Snells Beach where Auckland locals hang out in the weekend

… learn more about New Zealand Auckland beaches places to visit and where to go – Best Bits

BEST BITS TRAVEL GUIDE

Best Bits travel guide is published by nzjane.com. Owned and managed by PacificJane Ltd.

 

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