Waitakere Ranges Guided Walk from Auckland

Veer off the tourist trail to the North Island’s west coast, starting your day trip to the Waitakere Ranges with hotel pickup in Auckland. Passing through the artsy town of Titirangi, enjoy the short drive to this enchanting region, where native rainforest collides with a rugged coastline. 

Learn about the wildlife and lush vegetation of the Waitakere Ranges’ subtropical rainforest during a visit to the Arataki Visitor Centre, which boasts sweeping views over Auckland's cityscape all the way to Manukau Harbour. 

Then embark on a guided bush walk through a canopy of ubiquitous giant tree ferns and red-flowered pohutukawa trees (aka New Zealand Christmas trees). Learn from your guide’s illuminating commentary how the indigenous Maori used particular plants for medicinal purposes.

A visit to a spectacular waterfall and coastal lookouts for splendid views of the Tasman Sea is also included. The dramatic scenery was featured in 'The Piano,' an Oscar-winning movie by New Zealand filmmaker Jane Campion.

Depending on the weather, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch along the way. After lunch, continue your bush walk down to a beach covered in black sand, where you can stroll alongside the pounding surf or even dip your toes in the Tasman Sea if the weather allows.

Rest your feet on the return trip to downtown Auckland, with drop-off at your hotel.

• Veer off the tourist trail to the North Island’s west coast, starting your day trip to the Waitakere Ranges with hotel pickup in Auckland. Passing through the artsy town of Titirangi, enjoy the short drive to this enchanting region, where native rainforest collides with a rugged coastline.  Learn about the wildlife and lush vegetation of the Waitakere Ranges’ subtropical rainforest during a visit to the Arataki Visitor Centre, which boasts sweeping views over Auckland's cityscape all the way to Manukau Harbour.  Then embark on a guided bush walk through a canopy of ubiquitous giant tree ferns and red-flowered pohutukawa trees (aka New Zealand Christmas trees). Learn from your guide’s illuminating commentary how the indigenous Maori used particular plants for medicinal purposes. A visit to a spectacular waterfall and coastal lookouts for splendid views of the Tasman Sea is also included. The dramatic scenery was featured in 'The Piano,' an Oscar-winning movie by New Zealand filmmaker Jane Campion. Depending on the weather, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch along the way. After lunch, continue your bush walk down to a beach covered in black sand, where you can stroll alongside the pounding surf or even dip your toes in the Tasman Sea if the weather allows. Rest your feet on the return trip to downtown Auckland, with drop-off at your hotel.

Veer off the tourist trail to experience Auckland's west coast on a full-day trip to the Waitakere Ranges. Only 40 minutes from the city, you can amble through forests of ancient kauri trees to arrive at a beach covered in black sand, wind-lashed bluffs overlooking the Tasman Sea, and a hidden waterfall on a guided four- to five-hour walk. Along the way, spot New Zealand’s native flora and fauna, dip your toes in the ocean and refuel with a picnic lunch.

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
A moderate amount of walking (4-5 hrs) is involved over uneven terrain
Please dress appropriately depending on weather conditions of the day
Please bring good walking shoes, sun protection, swimming gear and your camera
Please note this tour is not bookable for ages under 4 years
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Infant seats available
Most travelers can participate
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers