Whether you’re keen to take a day trip away from the city or simply after a weekend getaway, you’ll be spoilt for choice deciding where to go thanks to all the amazing locations close by! Keep reading to discover the top six best day trips from Auckland.

1. Waiheke Island

For a memorable day trip you won’t forget, why not hop a short ferry ride over to Waiheke? It takes just 35 minutes from the downtown ferry terminal, and is home to some of the best vineyards and views Auckland has to offer. Enjoy lunch at some of the pictureque vineyards and restaurants such as Mudbrick and Cable Bay, before indulging in one of the many wine tours around! Oneroa Beach is also a great spot to enjoy some fish and chips, for those after an easy family-friendly activity.

2. Piha

Head West for roughly an hour from Auckland CBD and you’ll find many iconic black sand beaches, such as Piha. The big waves make it a great place for a surf, however it can be dangerous so make sure to stay safe and swim between the flags at all times. If you’re keen to explore the area, check out a few of the walking trails at Piha, many of which have stunning views. Before heading back inland, stop by a few of the other beautiful beaches near Piha, such as Murawai and Bethells Beach.

3. Matakana

An hour North of the city is Matakana, a quaint town perfect for a weekend getaway! Grab some local produce, coffee and explore the stalls at the weekly Farmers Market every Saturday, complete with live music and a playground for the kids. Markets not your thing? Head to Matakana Coast to get out on the water for a day of paddle boarding, wakeboarding and even kitesurfing!

4. Rangitoto Island

Grab a water bottle and backpack and head to Rangitoto, just a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Here you’ll be able to conquer the iconic Summit Track, a walk that’s roughly two hours return, where you’ll be able to enjoy refreshing swimming spots on the way up before panaramic views looking back over the city! Alternatively, take a guided kayaking trip out to Rangitoto for a scenic view of this dormant volcano.

5. Mangawhai Heads

An hour and a half North of Auckland is the beautiful and beachy town of Mangawhai Heads, a great spot for most watersports including surfing, kayaking, waterskiing and even windsurfing! If getting out in the water isn’t your thing, stop by the Mangawhai Village Markets every Saturday to see the best of local produce, or explore the area to see stunning views from the Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway.

6. Waitakere Ranges

If you love the idea of exploring nature, head to the Waitakere Ranges, where you’ll find a plethora of walking trails and hikes waiting for you! Many of these walks range from easy to hard, and offer spectacular views of waterfalls and streams amongst ferns and beautiful native New Zealand bush. It’s worth noting that some tracks have been temporarily closed due to Kauri Dieback Disease, so be sure to check Auckland Council’s website for more information on the trails you wish to take beforehand.