Hauraki Gulf Islands Attractions & Things to do

Look for whales, dolphins and seabirds in the pristine waters of Hauraki Gulf just a short boat ride from Auckland city's Viaduct Harbour. Learn from experts on board working to protect these precious creatures and their fragile home.  As an active marine-mammal research vessel every passenger contributes to important conservation efforts, just by coming on board.
A dollar from every ticket purchased goes towards the Hauraki Gulf Guardians fund which supports organisations and programs that aim to regenerate the Hauraki Gulf and ensure its future.
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes.

Experience the best things to see in Auckland with a 24 or 48-hour hop on hop off bus ticket! The routes each take approximately 1 hour to complete – however, you will want to hop off and take your time to discover the great city sights, tree-lined streets, picturesque beaches, and fashionable shopping districts at your own pace. The Auckland Explorer Bus is a great way to navigate your way around New Zealand’s largest city.
Duration: 1 day.

- Opportunity to view a variety of marine animals including dolphins, whales, seals, birdlife and more
- Marine mammal viewing guarantee - come again for free if we don’t spot any marine mammals during your cruise^
- Included Island Stop at either Rotoroa Island or Man O' War Vineyards (11:30am departure Sat/Sun has No Island Stop)
- Learn about the history and conservation efforts on the volcanic peaks, many islands and extended coastline of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park
- Hear fascinating stories on the origins and histories of land, sea and Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki – original inhabitants of Tāmaki Makaurau
Duration: 7 hours.

A day of excitement and nature awaits on Waiheke Island, with three zipline flights above the forest, an interpretive walk through native bushland, and a mini-tour of the island. Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is an idyllic location for a zipline adventure, with stunning views over the Hauraki Gulf.

Please ensure you copy and paste the URL shown here to read the Risks Associated with Ziplining prior to completing your booking. https://www.ecozipadventures.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Risks-Associated-with-Ziplining-2023-Final.pdf
Duration: 3 hours.

Enjoy a cruise through Tikapa Moana - the Hauraki Gulf on our premium cruise fleet as we make our way to island sanctuary Tiritiri Matangi.

This pest-free island provides a safe haven for a wide range of native species including kōkako, takahē, tīeke and tuatara, that can’t easily be seen anywhere else around the Auckland region, so glimpsing these rare animals is a highlight for many visitors.

Enjoy the time to explore the island's other established walking tracks with dramatic cliff tops, native bush and New Zealand's oldest working lighthouse! For a relaxing afternoon, opt for an easy 10-minute walk from Tiritiri wharf along the coastline to Hobbs Beach, which is the perfect spot for a picnic or a swim.

This island feels like another world all easily accessed from central Auckland or Gulf Harbour.

Departing from Auckland Viaduct: Wed-Fri departs 9:00am | Sat/Sun departs 8:30am
Departing from Gulf Harbour (Whangaparaoa): Wed-Fri departs 9:55am | Sat/Sun departs 9:25am
Duration: 5 to 9 hours.

Enjoy a cruise through Tikapa Moana, the Hauraki Gulf, and discover the Rotoroa Island sanctuary. This pretty little island is a perfect escape from the city for the day or longer.

Explore the island on foot via established walking tracks across open fields, native bush and sandy shorelines. Take your chance at spotting iconic native species free ranging across the island including kiwi, takahē and tīeke.

Rotoroa Island has been predator free since 2014 and is now home to a number of native birds and wildlife free ranging across the island.
Discover the unique history of the island through the award-winning museum exhibition and heritage buildings or enjoy the sheltered sandy bays and clear waters for relaxing, swimming and snorkeling.

Facilities on the island include a gift shop, freshwater drinking fountain, toilets and electric barbeques.
Duration: 7 to 8 hours.

Sitting majestically off the coast, Rangitoto’s distinctive symmetrical cone rises 260m over the Hauraki Gulf. Boasting a unique landscape of rugged lava crops, lush native bush and sandy coves. This not to be missed walk to the summit takes about an hour at an easy pace. Lookouts along the way provide stunning views as you climb - make sure to leave enough time to detour and explore the lava caves. Plan your visit in advance and ensure you arrive with plenty of time to meet the return ferry to downtown Auckand.
Duration: 4 hours.

Escape to Man O' War Vineyard, Waiheke Island with us. Enjoy a 90-minute scenic cruise through the Hauraki Gulf travelling in comfort and style on our premium cruise fleet direct to the north-eastern end of Waiheke Island and experience a destination like no other.

Sip on premium wines or try a wine flight, including their famous Rosé, while enjoying stunning ocean views. Wine lovers can enjoy private tastings and a special dining experience at the Tasting Room restaurant (food and drinks not included in Ferry fare).

For a more laid-back experience, grab a spot on their expansive lawn with a playground to entertain the kids or take a swim in the calm clear waters of Man O' War Bay.

Please note: During peak season the Tasting Room Restaurant gets booked out, so we recommend you book a table in advance directly with Man O' War.

Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

Discover Browns Island's rich history near Auckland. Horses were swum across the harbor by early settlers, while Māori thrived with farming and fishing centuries ago, leaving behind remnants of pā sites. Even more intriguingly, remnants of the Sydney mud cockle were found within volcanic shell beds.

In 1909, New Zealand's aviation history took flight as Alex and Claude Barnard launched a homemade flying machine from the island's peak, marking the nation's first aeroplane trials.

Browns Island is a volcanic cone from an eruption 25,000 years ago, part of the active Auckland Volcanic Field. Now uninhabited, it's a recreational reserve turned wildlife sanctuary, home to native birds like tūī, pūkeko, silvereye, as well as unique wildlife such as skinks and geckos.

For students and researchers, Browns Island offers educational opportunities in volcanology, geology, and environmental conservation, making it an ideal field study destination.
Duration: 4 hours.

Discover the outer Hauraki Gulf aboard the 41-foot catamaran Pacific Star, with daily departures from Waiheke Island.

We’ll stop at a pest-free island for a guided walk, plus you’ll have opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding.

Our guide will help you learn about the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, its islands and people. You’ll spot seabirds and may see dolphins, and even whales, as we glide along with the wind in our sails.

This unique eco adventure is the only day sailing trip offered in the outer gulf and departing from Waiheke Island.

If you’d like to take the helm or help us trim the sails, skipper Bruce will be happy to show you the ropes.

Your itinerary will depend on the wind direction and weather, so that we can give you the most enjoyable and comfortable experience.
Duration: 7 hours.

Experience the best sights of Auckland City and the marine village of Devonport on Auckland’s North Shore on a Private Luxury Tour just for you. Be amazed by spectacular views of ancient volcanoes, the beautiful Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf, drive across the Auckland Harbour Bridge and explore some of Auckland’s most famous beaches.

Duration: 4 hours.

IMPORTANT: TO BOOK THIS CHARTER, PLEASE SET THE NUMBER OF TRAVELERS = 1. YOU CAN BRING UP TO 11 FRIENDS WITH YOU!

Discover the outer Hauraki Gulf aboard the 41-foot catamaran Pacific Star, with daily departures from Waiheke Island.

Your charter is for exclusive use of the yacht with two crew (captain and host).

We can stop at a pest-free island for a guided walk, plus you’ll have opportunities for swimming, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding.

Our guide will help you learn about the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, its islands and people. You’ll spot seabirds and may see dolphins, and even whales, as we glide along with the wind in our sails.

This is the only day sailing trip offered in the outer gulf and departing from Waiheke Island.

If you’d like to take the helm or help us trim the sails, skipper Bruce will show you the ropes.

Your itinerary will depend on the wind direction and weather, so that we can give you the most enjoyable and comfortable experience.
Duration: 1 to 8 hours.

Swap your morning routine for a spectacular 'Sunrise Sea Kayaking Tour'. Experience the magic as we meet one hour before sunrise during dawn's nautical stages and journey through civil twilight. The "golden hour" awaits, capturing nature's finest moments.

Embark on a sea kayaking adventure from Auckland CBD to Browns Island (Motukorea) and savor the beauty of the sunrise. Ideal for beginners, this expedition offers stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf and Waitemata Harbour. Keep an eye out for marine life, birds, and the possibility of encountering dolphins and whales while basking in the morning light.

Sunrises offer renewal and inspiration, symbolizing fresh starts and the potential for growth. They invite inner calm and mindfulness, fostering tranquility, reflection, and gratitude.

Sunrise experiences highlight nature's beauty, connecting you with the world and fostering appreciation. They infuse energy and vitality, awakening the senses and boosting mood.

Embrace the sunrise!

Duration: 2 hours.

Experience Waiheke Island through a leisurely, eco-friendly sea kayaking adventure. Discover its stunning beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life, including dolphins and orcas. Try ocean fishing and spot native birds along the coast.

Explore Whakanewha Regional Park's Nikau forest and native vegetation, offering shade in summer and shelter from rain. Encounter a variety of flora and birdlife on well-maintained paths.

Relax at Batch Winery with vineyards dating back to 1998, known for Chardonnay, Syrah, and Pinot Gris. Enjoy a three-course meal with stunning views of Hauraki Gulf and Auckland City.

Poukaraka Flats campground offers glamping, providing all you need for a comfortable stay in well-ventilated tents.

Discover Waiheke's slower island life through sea kayaking, fishing, delicious food, and sun-soaked relaxation.
Duration: 2 days.

The Captain is a unique kiwi with a friendly and helpful disposition.

Over the years I have been referred to as Captain Lozza and it’s stuck. I have been fishing these waters for the past 20 years in a variety of vessels and I am very familiar with the Hauraki Gulf which makes the sightseeing option one that won't leave clients disappointed. I have been lucky to have learnt from the best, he has vast experience as a commercial and recreational fisher in the Hauraki and especially the Coromandel region. As is the case with most traditional hunting disciplines, the Master passes on his skills and knowledge to the apprentice. I was the apprentice for many years, also learning from other great anglers and after completing my SRL Skippers ticket last year I have graduated to Master. I know a lot about fishing and guarantee to show you a good time and will do my best to assist you in landing the big one!

Let me customise your experience to ignite your fishing or sightseeing pleasure!
Duration: 6 hours.

In Clevedon, Hallertau Clevedon Brewery crafts divine elixirs. Explore the village's charm, stroll cobbled lanes, and immerse yourself. Visit Waitawa Regional Park, glide on the hallertau clevedon river cruise, connect with nature. Sea kayakers find Waitawa's secrets, unity with earth, water, and sky.

As the sun sets, Clevedon Coast's beauty shines. Rugged cliffs, sandy shores, nature's masterpiece adored by all. Return to Hallertau's brewery, where camaraderie blooms. Crafted brews blend Clevedon's vine with amber nectar, creating joy. Under the night sky, hearts and dreams entwine to the universe's melody. Clevedon treasures await your exploration.

Let your heart guide you as Clevedon's charm and nature's artistry fuse. Embrace this combined experience with delight. Clevedon's magic leaves an indelible mark.
Duration: 4 to 5 hours.