Auckland's Wild West Coast & Black Sand Beaches Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Auckland's rugged West Coast
- Visit Muriwai Beach's gannet colony
- Enjoy lunch at a local craft beer brewery
- Stroll along black sand beaches
- Discover hidden coastal gems
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Auckland's West Coast
- Visit to Muriwai Beach and its gannet colony
- Lunch at a local craft beer brewery
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Itinerary
Departing from the famous landmark of the Auckland Sky Tower, our west coast adventure begins with a guided tour out of the city centre over the famous Harbour Bridge to Auckland’s North Shore. We then head west towards the affluent areas of Coatesville, Kumeu & Riverhead. While on this journey our guides will point out all the main attractions and tell stories about the area along the way.
Arriving at the craft beer brewery Hallertau, you will be treated to a delicious lunch of your choice from a special set menu. Following lunch we have the opportunity to taste some of Hallertau’s winning craft beers before continuing our day.
A short drive from the brewery we arrive at the wild west coast black sand beach of Muriwai. Exploring this area, you will be amazed by the rugged coastline, unique black sand and the feel of raw natural power that surrounds the area.
Walking up the hill from the beach not only will you be treated to amazing views but also have the chance to see the largest mainland gannet colony in the North Island. Getting this close to these impressive ocean mastering birds is a special experience. (Bird numbers vary at different times of the year).
Crossing the harbour again, we head to the charming seaside suburb of Devonport. Here, we take a scenic drive to the top of North Head, a historic volcanic cone with sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf and city skyline. Learn about its fascinating military tunnels and coastal defence history as you explore this unique vantage point. Its tunnels, bunkers, and gun placements tell the story of coastal defence from the late 1800s through both World Wars. The short walk to the summit (approx. 10 mins) is rewarded with some of the best harbour views in Auckland.
After a great afternoon exploring Auckland’s West Coast and North Shore, it’s time to return to the city. You can choose to take the scenic ferry ride back across the harbour from Devonport to the city, or enjoy a fully guided drive with drop-offs at central locations and hotels.
Meeting point
Start Location
Sky Tower, Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
- Please inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater, as coastal weather can be unpredictable.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning coastal views.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infant Seats Available
- Easy Public Transport
- Stroller Accessible
Good to know
- Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
Traveler reviews
Wonderful West side
What a great tour! The wild west side of Auckland was amazing to see. The cliffs, gannet birds, and powerful waves were a sight to see. Lunch was very nice and gave us a chance to meet the others on the tour with us. Simon, our guide, however really made the day memorable. He was informative and patient enough to answer all our questions about the tour and Auckland. Highly recommend this tour.
Amazing Trip!
It was an amazing Trip with a lots of beautiful Views and Conversations. biggest Thank you to our Driver Simon for this Amazing Trip!🥳
Loved the Gannet colony
The tour guide was good, but the bus ride was not. I would have given more stars, but the bus ride was so hot it was miserable. The lunch was fantastic. Would have preferred to have skipped the golf course and spent more time viewing the Gannets.
A perfect day visiting some Auckland highlights
My wife and I went on this tour as the second day of our honeymoon in New Zealand and couldn’t have been happier with the experience! The tour was kicked off with a delicious lunch at Hallertau Brewery. It was a beautiful day and we were thrilled to see that some of the gannets were still at the Muriwai Colony. Matt was a fantastic tour guide, offering many interesting insights, and with a comedic touch at times! We can’t recommend this tour enough.
Great day trip out of...
Great day trip out of Aukland. Small group <15 in a van, good lunch at Hallertau brewpub. Excellent guide and driver Grant made the trip fantastic with info about the area. Beautiful black sand Muriwai beach, nesting Gannetts, stops at Devonport and North Head.