3
Introductory
Activities
  • self-guided walk
  • guided walk
  • kayak
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel
Meals
  • 1 Dinner
  • 4 Breakfasts

Price

5 daysfrom

$2000NZD

Trip Code: GWK

Trip highlights


  • Cross the width of the country on the Coast to Coast Walk
  • Embrace the eclectic suburbs of Auckland, stopping at cafes, restaurants and sites of interest along the way
  • Learn about Maori culture and traditions
  • Learn about traditional and medicinal uses for native plants
  • Experience sunset on Rangitoto and a night sea kayak
  • Centre-based exploring - unpack only once

Welcome to Auckland, the gateway of the north and the most populated region in New Zealand. Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) is a multicultural city with sprawling beaches, rugged coastline, stunning harbours, volcanic peaks, eclectic suburbs and gulf islands. This 5 day experience allows you to unpack your suitcase only once, whilst taking in all of the the best things that Auckland has to offer. You will enjoy a Maori cultural guided experience on Waiheke Island, learning about the medicial properties of native plants and the importance of the Maori culture, walk the Coast to Coast Walkway from one side of the counrty to the other (now how many places in the world can you do that in one day) as well as enjoying a sunset kayak and trek to one of the most popular volcanic peaks, Rangitoto. Tick off the best of what Auckland has to offer in this one fabulous trip!


Itinerary

Make your own way to Auckland and check-in to your trip accommodation any time after 2:00pm. The city is New Zealand's largest, both in area and population and hence is often mistakenly thought of as the country's capital. Spend some time exploring the gardens and open spaces of The Domain, wander through the fascinating War Memorial Museum for a glimpse into Maori history and culture, visit the Sky Tower for spectacular 360 degree views, visit an art gallery, cruise the harbour, wander the foreshore or explore the shops. Food lovers will be spoilt for choice with a multitude of cafes, restaurants and bars to suit all budgets and tastes.

Meals:  Nil

Take the 9:00am ferry this morning from Auckland to Waiheke Island. On arrival you will be greeted by your local guide at the wharf, and given an orientation around Waiheke. You will visit pristine beaches and listen to the history and stories of the places you visit. You will visit the local focal point of the Maori community on Waiheke, learning about the significance and importance of carving and traditional tattooing, the revitalisation of the Maori language and the impact of colonisation on Maori people. Lunch is a local cafe (own expense) and you will have the opportunity to experience the wine and olive growing of the island through a local vineyard tasting (own expense). During a guided walk through native bush, you will learn about traditional and medicinal Maori uses for native plants and you will also visit local historical pa sites with archeological remains. Take in all of what Waiheke has to offer whilst getting off the tourist trails. You ferry will depart Waiheke at 4.00pm to return you to Auckland city centre.

Meals:  B

There are not many places in the world where you can say you have walked the width of a country, but here in Auckland you can experience just that! Once you have enjoyed breakfast, you can spend the day walking one side of the country to the other along the Coast to Coast Walk. Along the way you can discover more about the history and features that make Auckland so unique. The walk officially begins at Te Wero Bridge in the Viaduct, or you can start from the Downtown Ferry Terminal. You will cross the city centre, into Albert Park and from here head through the Auckland Domain and into the suburbs, passing Mt Eden (Maunga-whau) and One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie), before making your way to the finish line at Manukau Harbour. From here it is a short walk to the Onehunga Train station to catch the train back to Britomart. Along the way make sure you take in the people, sites, cafes, restaurants all that make Auckland the vibrant and eclectic city that it is.

Meals:  B

Use this morning to enjoy Auckland. Perhaps a last minute shop at Commercial Bay, a wander around the CBD, a visit to the Auckland Art Gallery, or perhaps a visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum (its collections concentrate on New Zealand history, natural history, and military history as well as other collections). You will be collected from the Auckland Museum Atrium (next to the seats) at 3.30pm and taken through to the start point in St Heliers for your kayak. If you wanted to stretch your legs, you can walk to the starting point at the St Heliers Bay Boat Ramp instead (10.3 kms/6.4 miles on a flat, walking track following the outline of the harbour. We meet at 4.00pm at St Heliers for your safety briefing and paddling instruction before you will kayak across the Waitemata harbour, meaning ‘sparkling waters'. Kayak distance is approximately 1.5 hours each way. We pull our kayaks up to Rangitoto wharf before embarking on a one-hour explorative, fun and informative trek to the summit, viewing the spectacular sites and learning all about the history of the region. Upon reaching the top you will be treated to the finest 360 degree views that the Auckland region has to offer. At the return to the water’s edge, a healthy Kiwi-style BBQ dinner will be awaiting you. With your guide, you will paddle back in the dark watching the city lights sparkle like stars. You will be dropped back at your hotel for your last night at around 11.00pm. No better way to finish your Auckland experience then with a sunset over the city! NOTE: If doing this trip May-Sep, the pick up at Auckland Museum will be 1.30pm with a drop off back at the hotel around 9.00pm. Those that prefer a day kayak instead of the sunset one, please ask, as this can be arranged.

Meals:  B,D

Your trip arrangements end this morning after breakfast. Please contact us should you wish to extend your stay.

Meals:  B


Inclusions

  • 4 nights hotel accommodation in Auckland (twin share) with private bathroom
  • 4 breakfasts, 1 kiwi style BBQ dinner
  • Return ferry Auckland to Waiheke Island
  • Admission to all venues during the day out on Waiheke
  • Expert local guide on Waiheke
  • Sunset Kayak to Rangitoto (including all kayak equipment, qualified guide)
  • Auckland Museum pick up (if required) and Auckland hotel drop off at end of kayak
  • Route notes with local information, maps

  • Travel to Auckland on Day 1 and onward travel from Auckland on Day 5
  • Travel from end of Coast to Coast Walk (Onehunga Train Station) back to Britomart
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Optional activities, extras and upgrades (such as wine and olive tasting)
  • Items of a personal nature (eg. laundry, shopping, internet)
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa (if required)

Trail Surface


Accommodation


Grading

Introductory  
3

INTRODUCTORY These trips involve walking for up to five or six hours a day at a slow but steady pace. Our introductory trips are not ‘easy’ trips and you will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health. During the walking stages you will need to carry your daily requirements such as water, lunch, spare clothing and personal items. Suggested preparation: We recommend 30 minutes of aerobic type exercise, (fast walking, jogging or cycling) four times a week for three months leading up to your departure. Hill or stair walking with a full daypack is also highly recommended at least once a week for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. Walking in variable weather conditions is advisable.


Departure dates

Daily year-round

Notes

1
If doing this trip May-Sep, the pick up for the kayak at Auckland Museum will be 1.30pm with a drop off back at the hotel around 9.00pm.
2
Kayaking is subject to minimum number of kayakers being met for the trip to run. Trips may also be cancelled on the day due to inclement weather or events beyond our control. Ferries may also be cancelled in inclement weather.
3
If you would prefer kayaking earlier in the day, please contact us to request this option.
NB:
Trip cost is based on a minimum of 2 travellers.  If you are travelling solo, please ask us for options.

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events and even making the trail accessible for everyone. Learn how you can organise a Customised Tour with Great Walks of New Zealand.

Priceper person from

$2000NZD

Options & Supplements*
  • Single Supplement (own room)NZD$590
*Prices listed are per person and also from

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Best of Auckland Culture, Walk and Kayak trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


Trip reviews


Why walk with us

Self-Guided Experts

Our itineraries have been carefully designed and researched with you in mind.  The logistics are handled for you allowing you the freedom to walk New Zealand at a level of your choosing and in your own stride.

Kaitiakitanga

A core Maori value exercising guardianship in relation to nature, flora and fauna and its people, ensuring that sustainability and environment are valued, respected and protected for future generations to enjoy.

Supporting Local

As a small business ourselves, we love supporting and sharing New Zealand with other small and likeminded businesses and communities to showcase for you, what our land and people have to offer.

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