This full day tour is for lovers of nature and walking. Your experienced local nature guide will take you on a range of rainforest, beach and clifftop walks. The black sand beaches and rainforest of West Auckland are unique in New Zealand and this tour is a great way to experience the best they have to offer.
After pick up from your Auckland city centre hotel we have a short (30min) drive to the Arataki Visitor Centre – gateway to the coastal rainforest. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the rainforest back to the city and across to Auckland’s southern harbour. The visitors centre is also home to some traditional Maori carvings and your guide will talk about them and explain their significance for the area.
Your eco-tour includes a guided walk in an area of original rainforest where ancient kauri trees tower over the unique trees and plants that have developed separately from the rest of the world for millions of years. Your experienced guide will explain about the local plants and animals as you stroll through the forest.
Next your guide will take you out to the west coast to enjoy a kiwi-style picnic lunch at a scenic location. After lunch walk the clifftop tracks with stunning views along the coast and out across the Tasman Sea.
Then walk in regenerating rainforest with giant tree ferns and palm trees growing alongside the picturesque stream to unwind by a spectacular cascading waterfall.
During the day we go to an awe-inspiring west coast beach where you can stroll along the soft black sand beach, watch the surf waves crashing in and feel the clear ocean breeze.
As well as keeping you entertained and informed, our guides will make sure you have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and make sure there are lots of photo opportunities. We have been running tours in this area for over 34 years so you will be being looked after by the local experts.
“Excellent in every way!” “We all really enjoyed the day!” Viator review 2016
* please specify at the time of booking if you have any dietary requirements
Also please note that there are three one-hour walks during the day and several areas of steps (stairs) so a good level of fitness is required.
Note – a minimum of 2 people are required for this tour to run
Child price for ages 2-11
The map is for indicative purposes only.