West Coast and City Centre This holiday allows you to sample the tranquillity of the Waitakere Ranges and a lively city centre. Experience silent rainforests with stands of ancient trees and lush native ferns. Walk from cool dense forests onto rugged beaches with thundering surf, or follow meandering rivers shaded by palm fronds and tree ferns. Contrast this to staying in a modern city built around 49 volcanoes, which provide natural viewing platforms of this narrow isthmus linking two oceans. In the evenings relax in waterfront cafes and restaurants by the sparkling waters of the Waitamata harbour and by day explore islands cloaked in native trees, vineyards or farmland.

Sample itinerary:

Sunday
On arrival in Auckland you will be met and transferred to your cosy B&B accommodation in the Waitakere Ranges just 20 minutes west of Auckland centre. The rest of the day is free to relax and explore the local short walks.

Monday
9am drive to the start of the first walk (15 minutes), which includes many spectacular waterfalls and rivers, great for picnic lunches. See one of the most stunning waterfalls in the area, plenty of native rainforest and stroll along a beach. Late in the afternoon you return to your B&B.

Tuesday
Starts on the outskirts of a local golf club and continue through one of the largest remaining areas of Kauri forest in Auckland. This is an historical walk in a very beautiful area of native forest with remains of the logging industry, bird life, rivers, enormous native trees, and impressive views.

Wednesday
Transfer to central Auckland, with a free day for Explorer Holidays to relax or enjoy some historical or cultural aspects of Auckland, whether out on the water or on one of the many islands in the gulf.

Thursday
Take the ferry (20 minutes) with your guide to the volcanic Rangitoto Island. There are interesting varieties of plants, regenerated since the formation of the island only 600 years ago. The walk includes less known paths to the summit of the volcano and time to take in the magnificent views all around. Cameras are a must.

Friday
A drive south to a range of hills brings us to a coastal area. From the lower ranges there are lovely views across the bay to the mountains of the Coromandel Peninsula and some scenic picnic spots. On the return, thereÂ’s a chance to bathe in naturally heated pools before heading back to the city.

Saturday
Transfers will be arranged for your onward travel.

Explorer Holiday starts Sundays for 6 nights and 4 days guided walking & 1 free day. Taster Holiday starts Sundays/ Wednesdays for 3 nights and 2 days guided walking.