On the first day of your journey, begin the tour with a pickup from Auckland Airport. Explore the highlights of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and gateway to the country. Visit Mount Eden, Auckland’s highest volcanic cone, and enjoy panoramic views of the city, harbours, and surrounding landscape. Continue to One Tree Hill, an important landmark rich in Māori and European history, set within the peaceful surroundings of Cornwall Park. Before lunch, take a stroll through the Auckland Domain and the beautiful Wintergardens, featuring tropical and temperate plants in historic glasshouses. If time permits, you may also visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about New Zealand’s history, Māori culture, and natural heritage.

After lunch, choose between two contrasting experiences. You may head to Auckland’s rugged west coast and visit Muriwai Beach, famous for its striking black volcanic sand, powerful Tasman Sea waves, and dramatic coastal scenery. A short walk leads to the renowned Gannet Colony, where thousands of Australasian gannets nest on the clifftops during the breeding season. Watching these impressive seabirds soar, dive, and interact in their natural environment is a memorable wildlife experience unique to New Zealand’s coastline.

Alternatively, take a scenic ferry ride across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island and enjoy a relaxed half-day hop-on hop-off exploration. Discover the island at your own pace as you visit charming coastal villages, beautiful beaches, boutique vineyards, olive groves, art galleries, and scenic viewpoints. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery make it one of Auckland’s most popular destinations.

Return to Auckland by evening and settle into your accommodation after a memorable day of sightseeing and exploration.