places to visit near auckland

New Zealand » 8 Amazing Places to Visit Near Auckland

8 Amazing Places to Visit Near Auckland

What's In This Guide?

Planning a trip to Auckland and the surrounding area? You have definitely landed in the right spot. There are so many amazing places to visit near Auckland which shows just how diverse New Zealand’s North Island is.

However, we understand that travel time can be limited, so here we’ve selected eight of the best destinations.

Relax in the thermal hot springs and explore hidden caves a few hours south of Auckland. Or, discover black sand beaches and tropical rainforests just under an hour west of the city.

This article contains loads of useful information on these top destinations. You will probably even discover some destinations you would never have otherwise considered.

The best way to get to most of these destinations is to drive. I highly recommend checking prices on RentalCars.com . You will find all the big brands like Avis and Europcar listed here but with huge discounts on rental cars.

And of course, if you have any further questions, please ask us in the comments section below.

Islands Near Auckland – Hauraki Gulf

The Hauraki Gulf is framed by Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour in the west, the Hauraki Plains to the south, the protruding Coromandel Peninsula in the east, and the Barrier Islands to the north. For those with a little more time, we’ve covered nine great islands near Auckland in this detailed article . However, if you’ve only got a couple of days for the whole region, then Waiheke and Rangitoto might be for you.

1. Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is on the top of every visitor’s list of places to visit near Auckland. It’s a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland across the sparkling Waitemata Harbour and a world away from big city living. It is frequently voted by Lonely Planet, Travel & Leisure Magazine, and many other international travel experts as one of the top island escapes in the world. There is a public bus network, a hop-on-hop-off bus, bike rentals and car rentals available which makes getting around the island so easy.

You will find sandy, pristine beaches, lined with the unique New Zealand Pohutukawa trees which bloom with rich red flowers at Christmas time. Becuase of this, these iconic Kiwi trees are also known as the New Zealand Christmas trees.

You will find sandy, pristine beaches, lined with the unique New Zealand Pohutukawa trees which bloom with rich red flowers at Christmas

One of the best things to do on Waiheke Island is to visit a boutique vineyard. These vineyards offer stunning views, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants where you can linger over a long lunch featuring delicious local and seasonal produce. Try Cable Bay and Mudbrick vineyards which are both walking distance from the ferry terminals. There is an information desk at the ferry terminal on Waiheke Island and they will help you with what’s on and where to go.

There is a great network of walking tracks throughout the Waiheke Island and around its 40km coastline, showcasing New Zealand’s flora and fauna. You can also rent a kayak, go mountain biking, or ziplining through the trees if you want some action.

Waiheke Island was once regarded as having a bohemian hippy lifestyle and still has many interesting art studios to visit. We suggest the interesting outdoor Sculpture Exhibition located on a walking trail that takes place every two years in February or March. There is also a very popular jazz festival which takes place over Easter.

2. Rangitoto Island

On your ferry trip to Waiheke Island, you’ll pass one of Auckland’s best-known landmarks, Rangitoto Island. It’s a large symmetrical, green, cone-shaped island that is actually a volcano!

Did you know that Auckland is built on a volcanic field of over 50 volcanoes? The last eruption in Auckland was Rangitoto over 600 years ago. Scientists consider these volcanoes to be dormant, rather than extinct, so there is an extremely slim chance of any of them erupting in the near future.

Did you know that Auckland is built on a volcanic field of over 50 volcanoes? The last eruption in Auckland was Rangitoto over 600 years ago

Rangitoto Island is a 25-minute ferry ride from Downtown Auckland or a two-hour kayaking trip from Auckland’s North Shore. The island was declared “pest-free” in 2011 and birdlife has flourished. It is home to dozens of sea, shore and forest birds.

There is no shop on the island, so you will need to bring your own food and drink. There are also no rubbish bins, so you will need to take your own scraps and rubbish off the island with you.

The most popular walking track is the Rangitoto Summit Track. It is an easy, but up-hill, two-hour return walk on well-formed paths along the lava fields. The Wreck Bay Track is a twisting track to Wreck Bay and Boulder Bay on the northern side of Rangitoto. These bays were once used as dumping grounds for old ships and at low tides, some of the remains can still be seen.

Another popular track is the Coastal Walk from Rangitoto Wharf to Islington Bay, which passes by boatsheds and some old 1930s baches (classic New Zealand holiday cottages) one of which is open as a museum. The track passes old quarry sites, ruins of wartime storage bases for mines, and Yankee Wharf which was built during World War II.

Be careful not to miss your ferry ride back to Auckland as there is no overnight accommodation on the island. A water taxi back to Auckland can be quite expensive.

Another very amazing island about an hour’s plane ride from Auckland is Great Barrier Island . It is one of the few places in the world with a ‘Dark Sky Sanctuary’ rating.

The Waikato Region – South of Auckland

These following two tourist attractions near Auckland can be combined into a one-day trip if you have limited time. You would need to leave Auckland before 7am, book a morning tour at Hobbiton and then head 1 hour and 15 minutes over to Waitomo for the afternoon. It would be a very busy day but is doable if necessary.

3. Hobbiton

Fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies visit Hobbiton in their masses. It is the third-largest tourist attraction in New Zealand.

Hobbiton is in a small rural town called Matamata about a two-hour drive from Auckland. In 1995 Peter Jackson, the director of the films, spotted the Alexander family farm in Matamata as an ideal location for some of his filming and work began. The New Zealand army was called in to build a road to the site. The original set was just a temporary build, but in 2010 it was rebuilt permanently as “The Hobbit – An Unexpected Journey.”

Today you can do a tour of Hobbiton and experience the real middle earth! Take a look at Bagshot Row, Bilbo’s Bag End, the Party Tree, 44 hobbit holes and have a pint at The Green Dragon Pub. It is recommended that you book your tour in advance so that you don’t arrive at the Shire’s Rest and have to wait for a vacancy in a tour group. It gets really busy here in the high season.

4. Waitomo Caves

Located beneath rolling green hills about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Hobbiton at the famous Waitomo Caves. These caves were created over 30 million years ago while the region was still under the ocean. There are about 300 known limestone caves in the area, and possibly more to be discovered.

There are several caving organizations that offer different experiences. Choose from a walking tour, a boat tour, a black water rafting tour, an abseiling tour, and even a ziplining tour.

The most popular tour is the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. It has a huge cavernous space where you can see the amazing limestone stalagmite and stalactite formations. The trip finishes with a silent boat ride in the dark, with thousands of illuminating glowworms sparkling overhead.

The Ruakuri Cave and Aranui Cave are also very popular options to visit too.

Beaches Near Auckland – The Rugged West Coast

The rugged black sand beaches on Auckland’s West Coast are some of the most unique and stunning places to visit near Auckland. We always take our overseas visitors to one or both of these beaches and they are always super impressed.

5. Piha Beach

You essentially leave Auckland behind as you pass the arty Titirangi Village located about 20 minutes southwest of the city. From there is another half-hour drive to Piha Beach on the rugged west coast.

You will reach Piha Beach by taking the Scenic Drive route. It’s a narrow road that winds its way over hills and through the green fern-laden rainforests of the Waitakere Ranges.

Along the way to Piha Beach, you can make a quick stop at the Arataki Visitors Centre. It is located in the middle of New Zealand’s native bush at the peak of a hill. Here you can get great views and learn about the cultural, colonial and natural history of the area.

Just before you reach Piha Beach there’s a left turn to Karekare Beach. This is where many scenes from the film “The Piano” were shot in the 1990s. Karekare Beach is another very rugged black sand beach with huge rolling surf.

As you drive down to the black sands of Piha Beach you will get great views of the entire coastline. The iconic Lion Rock landmark divides the beach into a northern and southern half. If you’re up for a hike, you can climb the steep trail to the top of Lion Rock for an awesome view of the beach where surfers challenge the huge waves below.

6. Muriwai Beach

Muriwai Beach stretches for 60 kilometers along the dramatic Tasman Sea with huge ocean swells and rolling breakers. This windswept, black sand beach is situated on Auckland’s west coast, about a one hour drive from the city through farmland, vineyards, and small rural towns.

While Muriwai Beach is a popular spot for surfing and windsurfing, it is also renowned for its large gannet colony. Viewing platforms located atop of the cliffs at the southern end of the beach offer close up views of these huge birds. Gannets weigh about two and a half kilos and have a wingspan of around two meters. From August to March about 1200 pairs of Gannets mate, nest and have their chicks on these windswept clifftops. You can normally see the chicks throughout December and January.

There is no public transport to Muriwai Beach so you will need a car or take a West Coast tour to get here. The last 15 minutes of the drive the beach goes down a narrow and winding section of road through native bush. Near the end of the road, opposite the local café, is a left turn that takes you up to the carpark. This is where the walking track to the Gannet Colony viewing platform begins.

New Zealand’s Thermal Area

Three hours south of Auckland is the not-to-be-missed geothermal area around Rotorua. There are so many unique things to do in this area. You won’t forget the unique smell! Rotorua has been called ‘The Sulphur City’ because it has a unique pungent aroma that smells very much like rotten eggs, but you do become accustomed to it over time!

Rotorua is situated on the southern shore of Lake Rotorua. Lakes and streams are abundant in the area, while trout fishing and white water rafting are a few activities that you may wish to take part in.

Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and spouting geysers can be seen at various parks and locations around the area. A few popular attractions are the Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa, the Waiopu Thermal Wonderland, and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

Other must-visit places are the Rotorua Polynesian Spa which was voted as a Top 10 World Day Spa by Conde Nast Traveller, the Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park where you can see a live kiwi, the Rotorua Agradome for an entertaining farm show, the magnificent Redwoods at Whakarewarewa Forest. So Many Places! So Little Time!

8. Matakana Village Farmer’s Market & Goat Island Marine Reserve

The Matakana Village Farmer’s Market is a great spot to visit on a Saturday morning. Matakana is about one hour north of Auckland. It is a quaint village with interesting boutique stores, art galleries, and a great little cinema complex.

The Farmer’s Market is laden fresh organic food. It sells a wonderful array of tasty foods like fresh oysters, the prawn tacos, homemade bread, local cheese, honey, and chutney. You can sit by the river, listen to live music and enjoy whitebait, paua or mussel fitters and a great cup of coffee!

Ten minutes past Matakana is the very upmarket Omaha Beach and fifteen minutes further on is the Goat Island Marine Reserve with the best snorkeling and scuba diving near Auckland.

There are so many interesting places to visit near Auckland. We hope that you get a chance to visit and enjoy some of these top destinations. When you’re finished exploring Auckland, have you thought about a cruise around New Zealand ? Here are 9 reasons why it is worth considering.

Author bio: This article was written by Maureen Spencer from So Many Places! So Little Time! An online travel magazine and blog. Maureen is a passionate traveler and hopes the detailed travel guides on her website can help other passionate travelers on their journeys too.

Discover more of New Zealand with these articles:

• The stunning route from Franz Josef to Wanaka
• Mount Cook and the Hooker Valley Track
• Nine Stunning Islands in the Hauraki Gulf
• Eight Scenic Lakes in New Zealand’s South Island
• Milford Sound Cruise, Fiordland National Park

Photo credits: Waiheke Island – flickr , Hobbiton – flickr , Waitmo Cave – CaveWorld Waitomo , Rotorua – flickr , Goat Island Marine Reserve – flickr

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Home » Travel Guides » New Zealand » 15 Best Day Trips from Auckland

15 Best Day Trips from Auckland

Often overlooked by tourists heading elsewhere in New Zealand, Auckland is well worth taking an extra couple of days to explore so you can experience the urban side of the country.

The city itself is full of multi-cultural cuisine and events, world-class specialty coffee shops and a wide range of New Zealand’s best boutiques.

There is also plenty of history – both colonial and indigenous – natural beauty and of course “fush ‘n chups” – a local delicacy that was imported by the British and perfected by the remaining Kiwis.

It is also a great city to use as a base whilst you explore other parts of the North Island, with most places in Northland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty being easily accessible from the city within a day trip.

Here are 15 of the best trips you can take from New Zealand’s largest city.

1. Hobbiton

One of the most popular day trips for visitors to New Zealand, immerse yourself in the Lord of the Rings franchise in Hobbiton.

Here, you can explore the hobbit holes that were built for use in the Hobbit trilogy, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region.

You can also enjoy Lord of the Rings themed drinks at the Green Dragon Inn and sample some of New Zealand’s fine cuisine at The Shire’s Rest Café.

There is a guided tour around the complex which takes around two hours, but you are free to explore the area afterwards and, of course, get your photo taken in front of the hobbit holes.

Great combo tour : Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small-Group Day Tour from Auckland

2. Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo Caves is a large network of underground caves that are filled with glowworms.

You can enjoy the caves by taking a gentle boat ride throughout the complex, with a local guide explaining how the caves formed and a little bit about the glowworms.

There is also the opportunity to go black water rafting; you can get your adrenaline fix by riding a flume through the caves in the pitch black, with only the gentle glow of the glowworms to guide your way.

A great experience in a country famed for its adrenaline sports and attractions.

Amazing combo tour : Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small-Group Day Tour from Auckland

3. Waiheke Island

A short boat ride away from Auckland Central Business District (CBD), you can opt to either enjoy the high-life of the city’s socialites or have a more down to earth experience with the local hippy communities.

Waiheke is well known in the region for its vineyards and there are plenty of wineries set in stunning spots across the island for you to sample the local wine.

There are many beautiful beaches around the island, several of which can be very secluded if you go at the right time.

We also suggest you try Waiheke Oysters at one of the many cafés.

Recommended tour : Waiheke Island Premium Food & Wine Tour with Platter Lunch

4. Piha, Karekare Rainforest and Waitakere Ranges

Known as Auckland’s Wild West, this region is only an hour away from the Auckland CBD and packed with natural beauty.

Piha itself is a small village with one of the most famous beaches in the country.

You can continue up the coast to Bethell’s Beach – where Taylor Swift once filmed her Out of the Woods music video.

Away from the beaches, you can enjoy some spectacular hikes through the Waitakere Ranges – a small mountain range formed by the Auckland volcanic fault.

These mountains are covered in forests – known locally as bush – with Karekare Rainforest being the most popular for experiencing the lush green beauty of New Zealand.

Suggested tour : Piha & Karekare Rainforest Wine Day Tour from Auckland

5. Rangitoto Island

Also a short boat ride from Auckland CBD, Rangitoto Island is the largest volcano in the Auckland volcanic fault and can be seen from most areas of the city.

Get your hiking boots on to truly experience the best this island has to offer, including unique wildlife and lush forest areas.

Once you reach the top, you will be treated to great views over the Hauraki Gulf and towards Auckland City.

You can also take a small detour to nearby caves to discover more of the volcanic wonders this island has to offer.

If you don’t feel like taking a long hike, there is a small train that takes you most of the way up to the top of the island.

Please be aware there are no restaurants or inhabitants on the island, so bring some snacks and plenty of water.

Recommended tour : Rangitoto Island Volcanic Explorer Tour from Auckland

6. Coromandel

Just across the Hauraki Gulf from Auckland, a two-hour journey brings you to this secluded peninsula.

It is not as touristy as other parts of the country, so a great off-the-beaten-path option if you are looking to get away from the busier attractions.

The Coromandel Peninsula is a large mountain range covered entirely in ancient New Zealand forest.

There is an interesting train ride attraction where you can learn about the local pottery industry, and some of the smaller towns showcase New Zealand culture at its most raw.

We suggest checking out Paeroa on the way, to learn about the most famous local soda – L&P – named after the town.

Suggested tour : Coromandel & Cathedral Cove Day Tour

7. Bay of Islands

Located in the far north of the country, the Bay of Islands is another popular destination for tourists – particularly in the summer months.

It is one of the only subtropical areas of the country and this enhances the laid-back lifestyle of the local towns.

Head to the bay itself to experience one of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand, as well as try out some water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and jet-skiing.

In Russell, you can visit a Maori experience to learn more about the indigenous culture of the islands, and about the Treaty of Waitangi, which established New Zealand as a British Dominion.

Available tour : Bay of Islands Day Tour from Auckland with Historic Russell

A bit of a longer journey from Auckland, Rotorua is well worth the trip.

Centered around Lake Rotorua, the town (known locally as Rotovegas) is packed with adrenaline sports activities like parachute jumping, bungee jumping, and zorbing.

If you are traveling with kids, there is a very popular go-kart track that winds around the nearby hills, giving great views over the countryside.

There are great Maori cultural centers for you to experience the indigenous history and a native redwood forest for day hikes.

The town is the center of geothermal activity, making it excellent for visiting natural spas and checking out the steam.

It does also, however, give the town a very distinctive rotten-egg smell, so keep this in mind before you go.

Recommended tour : Waitomo & Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Gondola Ride

A little further south than Rotorua, but also well worth a visit, is Taupo.

The entire Lake Taupo region is a popular getaway destination for kiwis during the summer, thanks to the breathtaking natural beauty.

You can enjoy boat journeys – or even kayak rides if you’re up to it – to Maori carvings and secluded beaches by lakeside.

The town is also a short drive away from Tongariro National Park.

This is where the Mordor scenes of the Lord of the Rings were filmed and it is easy to see why, thanks to the desert-like almost lunar landscapes the region showcases.

There are free hot springs in the town park, but make sure only to enter pools which signs confirm are safe, as others are far too hot!

Located on the west coast of the North Island, Raglan is a very popular destination for surfers.

Surfing is very popular across both New Zealand and Australia, and if you want to try your hand at the sport, this town is one of the best places in the world to have a go.

It is also surrounded by gorgeous native bush and mountain ranges for you to explore when you tire of the waves.

The cliffs provide great views over the Tasman Sea and the town of Raglan; with a little bit of effort and a short hike, you can discover secluded waterfalls with fresh water that you can bathe in and even drink from.

11. Villa Maria Estate

New Zealand wine is growing in popularity across the world, thanks to the great climate and dedication to quality given by local winemakers.

The Villa Maria Estate is located just outside of Auckland Central, close to the airport; however, we do recommend setting a day aside to visit the area.

The winery produces wine with grapes grown across the country in Gisborne, Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay, and Auckland.

You will be given samples of wine from all the regions and taught about how it is produced, as well as given the chance to make your own tasting notes.

This is a must for any wine lover visiting New Zealand.

Available tour : Villa Maria Estate Scenic Vineyard Odyssey

12. Matakana

Located in the northern reaches of rural Auckland, Matakana is another area of natural beauty within a reasonably short trip from the city center.

Popular with foodies, there are plenty of great attractions in the region to let you discover the best New Zealand food has to offer.

The New Zealand Honey Centre will teach you all about Manuka Honey and the strict quality efforts that go into producing it.

You can sample local cheeses and wines at the Matakana farmers’ market.

On the way, stop in at the Puhoi Cheese Factory if you are interested in learning more about local dairy production.

13. Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga is at New Zealand’s northernmost tip, where you can see the Tasman Sea join the Pacific Ocean.

Here, you can learn about the combinations of European and Maori history, as well as about Maori mythology; this is a culturally important place for the local Maori people.

There is also an impressive 800-year-old Pohutukawa Tree – if you visit in the summer, you will be able to see it bloom with bright red foliage – a popular symbol for New Zealand and its people.

Continue south from Cape Reinga and you can check out 90 Mile Beach.

Here you can surf the sand dunes that line one of the largest beaches in the country, all while enjoying spectacular views over the ocean.

14. Tiritiri Matangi

Another Hauraki Gulf island worth visiting, you can take a slightly longer boat trip from Auckland CBD to this protected nature reserve.

The island is packed with native birdlife thanks to major conservation efforts.

Many of the birds on the island can only be found here, and this is an opportunity to get up close to the unique wildlife of New Zealand.

You can visit the island at your own pace, or take a short tour which will teach you all about the birds that inhabit the island and how to identify their calls.

There is also a ferry to the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, which is home to secluded beaches and a laid-back café culture, perfect for you to experience the famous New Zealand flat white.

15. Mount Maunganui

Located in the northern suburbs of Tauranga, Mount Maunganui is a major party town by night and a relaxed beach town by day.

There are plenty of options for you to try out surfing, kayaking, and jet-skiing on the beach which overlooks the Bay of Plenty.

You can also take a hike up Mount Maunganui itself to get one of the most famous panoramic views in the country.

On your way back to the beach, check out some of the top-notch cafés on offer in the city, which feature excellent Kiwi cuisine, well-crafted specialty coffee, and even alcoholic milkshakes if you are looking to really kick back and embrace the local life.

15 Best Day Trips from Auckland:

• Waitomo Caves
• Waiheke Island
• Piha, Karekare Rainforest and Waitakere Ranges
• Rangitoto Island
• Bay of Islands
• Villa Maria Estate
• Cape Reinga
• Tiritiri Matangi
• Mount Maunganui

The 9 best day trips from Auckland: discover food, wine and outdoor adventure

Oct 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Whether you're day-tripping by bus, ferry or your own car, there are plenty of amazing experiences within a few hours of Auckland © Peter Unger / Getty Images

Gold-mining history, island and coastal escapes, and outdoor (and underground!) adventures all combine for the best ways to enjoy a day trip from Auckland , New Zealand’s biggest city. And everywhere you go, there’s almost always the promise of good food, wine and beer.

Do some water sports in Raglan 

Why go? Surf, outdoor adventures and art

West coast surf combines with cafe culture and kayaking or paddle boarding on the sheltered waters of Raglan’s Whaingaroa Harbour. A bohemian band of local artists includes the diverse crew at Jet Collective , and Māori-influenced design from Simon Te Wheoro at his Toi Hauāuru Studio . 

How to get to Raglan:  From Auckland to Raglan is just under two hours by car. By public transport, travel by InterCity bus from Auckland to Hamilton, and then transfer to Busit route 23 linking Hamilton to Raglan from the Hamilton Transport Centre.

Have a food, beer and wine tour in Matakana

Why go? Breweries, beaches, and a brilliant farmers market

Visit Matakana’s excellent market  – held riverside on a Saturday morning – before exploring the region’s emerging wine scene or sampling craft beer at 8 Wired Brewing or the Sawmill Brewery . Essential summertime beach detours include Matheson Bay, and Anchor Bay on the nearby Tāwharanui peninsula.

Culinary tours including local cheese, oysters, beer, wine and chocolate are offered by Matakana-based Kiwiness Tours . It also runs after-dark walks to experience the kiwi sanctuary at nearby  Tāwharanui Regional Park .

How to get to Matakana:  Matakana is an easy one-hour drive north of Auckland. By bus with Auckland Transport takes from two to three hours (via Warkworth), but will involve multiple transfers.

Enjoy art and culture in Hamilton

Why go? Extravagant gardens and Māori culture

Highlights of New Zealand’s fourth-largest city include the superb Hamilton Gardens , featuring the entertainingly confounding Surrealist Garden, and the display of Māori taonga (treasures) at the Waikato Museum . After a hit of art and culture, adjourn to Duck Island Ice Cream for seasonal flavors, or shared plates at riverside cafe  Gothenburg .

How to get to Hamilton: By car, it’s an easy 90-minute drive south on SH1, and there are also regular InterCity bus services linking Auckland and Hamilton.  

Go glow worm spotting at the Waitomo Caves 

Why go? Exciting subterranean adventures

Board a boat to drift along an underground river in Waitomo’s historic Glowworm Cave , or embark on the "Only in New Zealand" adventure of black-water rafting . Wetsuits are mandatory for participants steering an inner tube over underground rapids and waterfalls. Other exciting options include cave zip-lining and rappelling with Waitomo Adventures .

How to get to the Waitomo Caves:  It’s a drive of 2½ hours from Auckland to the Waitomo Caves, or the destination can be combined with a longer visit incorporating Raglan or Hamilton (both one hour from Waitomo). Day trips from Auckland including the Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton can be booked with Bush & Beach.

Have a soak in Hahei

Why go? Surprising coastal highlights on the Coromandel Peninsula

Embark on an easy kayak to Cathedral Cove , a spectacular rock arch on the edge of the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve. After rain, a natural waterfall sometimes flows from atop the arch. At nearby Hot Water Beach, visitors can dig themselves a natural hot tub in the sand around low tide. Pizza and beers at Hahei’s Pour House complete this Coromandel day trip.

How to get to Hahei:  Auckland to Hahei is just over two hours by car. From October to April, visitors to Cathedral Cove should leave their vehicle at the Park & Ride parking lot at the entrance to Hahei and catch the shared shuttle into town, where many kayak tours start. Go Kiwi  buses to Hahei run from downtown Auckland, also stopping to pick up passengers at Auckland Airport. 

See 19th-century heritage in Coromandel Town

Why go? Railway ride and forest adventures

Heritage 19th-century buildings reinforce the gold-mining history of Coromandel Town, discovered nearby at Driving Creek in 1852. Now the verdant valley incorporates the quirky narrow-gauge Driving Creek Railway  – with views all the way back to Auckland from the "Eyefull Tower" – and an exciting zip line swooping through a stand of regenerating native forest.

How to get to Coromandel Town:  Driving from Auckland to Coromandel Town takes around 2½ hours, but an alternative day trip option is to catch the ferry from downtown Auckland with Fullers360 . The journey across the Firth of Thames takes two hours, and incorporates a 15-minute minibus transfer to Coromandel Town. Transfers covering the short distance to Driving Creek are also available.

Stroll the trails of Tiritiri Matangi

Why go? Native birdlife on an island sanctuary

Venture across the Hauraki Gulf to this predator-free bird sanctuary. Tiritiri Matangi’ s avian superstars are the squat and quizzical ​​takahē, a flightless bird found only on the island, in fenced predator-free sanctuaries, and in the most remote wilderness areas of New Zealand’s South Island. Strolling on the Tiritiri Matangi’s bush and beach trails may also reveal up to 30 other bird species.

How to get to Tiritiri Matangi:  Catch the ferry from downtown Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi with Fullers360. Fullers’ other island day-trip destinations from Auckland include Waiheke Island and  Rangitoto Island .

Enjoy the microclimate of Waiheke Island

Why go? Wine, beaches, and fine dining

Auckland’s island of wine is a favorite escape for city locals, drawn to Waiheke’s vineyard restaurants and a Mediterranean-style microclimate that’s equal parts southern Europe and southern hemisphere. Challenge yourself on EcoZip’ s zip line adventure, soaring high above vineyards and native bush, before a long lunch at the Spanish-influenced Casita Miro . 

How to get to Waiheke Island:  Catch the passenger ferry with Fullers360 from downtown Auckland, and then use the convenient 50A and 50B bus services from Auckland Transport to get around the island. You’ll need to buy a stored value AT HOP card to use on the bus. Car ferries with Sealink leave from central Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter and Half Moon Bay in east Auckland.

Have a beachfront meal in Waihi 

Why go? Gold-mining history and clifftop walking

Towering Phoenix palms and stately buildings line Waihi’s main street, a legacy of the quiet Waikato town’s gold-flecked past. Explore the region’s lustrous history at the award-winning Gold Discovery Centre , join a tour to learn about the sprawling Martha Mine, or divert to nearby Waihi Beach and tackle the Orokawa Bay walk high above the beach’s surf-trimmed arc. A late lunch or early dinner at Flatwhite 's beachfront location is recommended.

How to get to Waihi: It’s a drive of 1¾ hours from Auckland to Waihi, and then a further 15 minutes to Waihi Beach. InterCity buses linking Auckland to Tauranga stop at Waihi, but travelers then need to catch Bayhopper’s number 85 bus service from Waihi to Waihi Beach (Tuesday and Thursday only), or arrange taxi transport with Waihi Cabs . 

This article was first published Mar 17, 2022 and updated Oct 8, 2023.

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Explore NZ Travel Blog

10 top destinations within 3 hours’ drive of auckland.

Date Modefied: March 31, 2022

Auckland is an amazing city to visit and one of the first places that many international visitors experience and we can’t wait to welcome back people from all around the world to the City of Sails. After exploring the city, however, many people are looking to get out and explore the country and it’s amazing how many beautiful places you will find within 3 hours’ drive of Auckland. This post celebrates 10 of the best destinations within a relatively short driving distance from Auckland. We like to call them Auckland Escapes!

If you’re looking for some awesome places to visit  in  Auckland, make sure you check out our post – 10 of the best secret spots in Auckland you need to visit

Back to our list of places to visit within close proximity to Auckland and for the Aucklanders amongst you, you will probably be surprised how many of these you haven’t been to and visitors from other regions will be just as excited by all the options too. These destinations offer a great range of attractions and natural features including geothermal wonders, beautiful parks, golden beaches, dolphins to swim with and more.

If you have flown into Auckland and you are looking to explore the North Island without straying too far from the City of Sails, make sure you check out our great deals on car rental from either our Auckland Airport or Auckland City car rental branch – we have some great deals online already but make sure you sign up for our newsletter to get great car rental deals direct to your inbox.

In this post, we aim to answer some of the most popular questions people like to ask when they are exploring a new place or even a new country – “ Hey Google, what are some of the best places to visit near me? ”

OK, let’s GO and explore the top ten locations within 3 hours’ drive of Auckland!

1.      Whitianga – 2 hours 35mins

Yep, that’s right. The stunning Coromandel Peninsula is just a short drive away at just over 2.5 hours. Whitianga is a great place to base yourself for exploring the peninsula with Cathedral Cove, Hahei and Hot Water Beach all within easy driving distance. You can also head north of Whitianga to uncover the stunning hidden gem, New Chums Beach. Once you get here, it’s hard to believe that this is such a short drive from Auckland and one of the best places to visit near Auckland. Check out of Complete Guide to the Coromandel Peninsula for more ideas of things to do and places to see.

Coromandel Complete Guide

2.      Rotorua – 2 hours 50 mins

Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most popular destinations and within 3 hours of setting off from Auckland, you can be exploring this geothermal wonderland. From the geyser at Te Puia to the Champagne Pools at Wai-O-Tapu, you will not be short of wow-factor activities in Rotorua. If geothermal attractions are not your thing, Rotorua is also the adventure activity capital of the North Island with a host of exhilarating activities including zorbing, mountain biking, luging and skydiving to name but a few. Find out more in our Complete Guide.

Rotorua Complete Guide

3.      Raglan – 2 hours 1 min

A post shared by Raglan NZ (@raglannz) on Jan 27, 2018 at 1:56pm PST

If surfing is your thing, there is only one destination for you if you are in Auckland – Raglan. The surfing capital of New Zealand, Raglan is a super-laid-back town with plenty going on besides the waves. A trip to the Bridal Veil Falls is a must and there is some good walking to be found at Karioi where you can climb to the summit of the volcano. Manu Bay is the main surfing beach and Ngarunui Beach is also a great place to sit back and chill out on the black volcanic sands.

4.      Mt Maunganui – 2 hours 44 mins

The Mount is a summer playground for Aucklanders and it’s easy to see why. It takes less than three hours to drive to ‘the Mount’ yet you will feel a million miles away from the city humdrum as you kick back and relax in this holiday paradise. Whether it’s catching a few waves, walking on the boulevard or grabbing some delicious food in one of the many bars and restaurants in town, Mt Maunganui is an awesome destination to explore. Find out more about the town in our Complete Guide.

Mt Maunganui Complete Guide

5.      Hamilton – 1 hour 36 mins

A post shared by Hamilton Gardens (@hamiltongardens) on Dec 10, 2017 at 11:26am PST

Hamilton is a great place to head for a couple of days or even as a stopping off point on your way south to other destinations like Rotorua and Taupo. One of the highlights of a trip to Hamilton is a visit to the Hamilton Gardens. The Gardens include a number of elaborately themed gardens from around the world including Italian, Japanese as well as traditional Maori style gardens. The Waikato River runs right through the city making a great feature and there are some nice walkways and cycle paths to explore.

6.      Matamata – 1 hour 57 mins

OK, so there is one very major reason you will want to pay a visit to Matamata – Hobbiton! That’s right folks, the Hobbiton movie set is found in Matamata where you can experience all the magic of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit Trilogies. Have a pint down at the Green Dragon Inn, take a wander around one of the Hobbit holes on Bag End and immerse yourself in the full Hobbiton experience. Other than your access to the Hobbit Movie Set, Matamata is a pretty quiet spot but a nice place to grab a coffee and check out the Hobbit-themed i-Site. If you’re in Auckland, Google “tourist places near me”, and hopefully, Hobbiton will pop up on your radar.

7.      Whangarei – 2 hours 6 mins

Whangarei is the regional capital of the Northland region and a bit of a hidden gem. It is a place that is more often than not used as a stopping off point for people travelling north to the Bay of Islands, however, those who choose to stick around for a few days will find some little delights including the Whangarei Falls, Mount Parihaka and the beautiful town basin area with its restaurants, shops and galleries. You can spend a few hours here exploring and you will find that Paihia in the Bay of Islands is just over an hours’ drive away so you can get the best of both worlds.

8.      Mangawhai Heads – 1 hour 28 mins

A post shared by James Murray (@jamesmurray89) on Jan 14, 2018 at 12:37am PST

Another hidden gem, Mangawhai Heads is described as ‘a little out of the way, a lot out of the ordinary’ and it really is a magical place to explore. It’s a definite ‘off-the-beaten-track’ destination but one that offers up a lot of rewards for those who venture out this way. It’s only an hour and a half from downtown Auckland and you will soon be discovering exquisite art, artisan produce, great restaurant, local markets and some of the best coastal and bush walks in Northland. There’s plenty of great waves for the surfers and the beaches are stunning. Sold yet? Give it a go.

9.      Matapouri – 2 hours 45 mins

A post shared by The Urban List Auckland (@urbanlistakl) on Feb 12, 2018 at 12:32am PST

Heading further north up the coast from Mangawhai you will discover the stunningly beautiful Tutukaka Coast and Matapouri Bay. This spectacular white sand beach is one of the most Instagrammed locations in New Zealand and it’s easy to see why. At low tide, discover the amazing Mermaid Pools with their clear waters, perfect for swimming and exploring. With few people, you will feel like this little piece of paradise belongs to you.

10. Kai Iwi Lakes – 2 hours 47 mins

A post shared by Matt (@highsocietyaerial) on May 1, 2017 at 8:20pm PDT

Head out towards Dargaville north of Auckland and you will come across the stunning Kai Iwi lakes. These freshwater lakes are the perfect playground in the summer months for swimming, water skiing, kayaking and fishing. With great campgrounds right on the lake, this is a great place for a weekend getaway. Our favourite time to visit is in the winter on a crisp sunny day when there aren’t too many people around. If you’re brave enough, take a refreshing dip to blow off the cobwebs!

So there you go, some great inspiration to fill your local travel diaries with. If you are looking for further information and help planning your next road trip, make sure you check out our awesome Trip Planner with suggested itineraries, accurate driving times and some pretty awesome hidden gems and check out all the latest deals on our  car rentals from any of our six branches.

Updated: 21 October 2021

Related Posts

• 10 (+1) Things To Do In New Zealand – The Definitive List
• 13 Amazing Things To Do In The North Island
• 12 Awesome Things To Do In The South Island

GO Play activities in this area

Giant bubble ride.

Another Kiwi-nutter ride! You dive into the centre of a huge clear plastic ball and roll down a two-hundred-metre hill or the slower but wilder zigzag course; you can choose from wet and dry rides. Adrenaline and laughter guaranteed!

Western Road, Rotorua. Tel : 0800 227 474

Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga

Two-hour scenic cruise exploring Cathedral Cove and Marine Reserve. View marine life through glass. Book direct - use your GO Play card.

15 Monk Street, Whitianga, Coromandel Tel: + 64 7 867 1962

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