One of the best things about New Zealand, it’s been said, is that it just takes a short trip to get somewhere completely different from where you started. Aucklanders have a wide range of options, whether they choose adventure or taking off their jandals with a glass of wine in hand. Here is a selection of the top weekend getaways from Auckland that will leave you with lifelong memories!
1. Muriwai (40 mins)
Muriwai, a popular black sand beach on the west coast, is a paradise for beachgoers, surfers, and families. The gannet colony is like stepping right into a wildlife documentary for people who are interested in birds.
Muriwai has a wide range of lodging choices, from inexpensive lodges to exclusive retreats like the four-person lodging offered by Luxury Escapes. While you’re there, why not take a romantic horseback ride along the black sand beach?
2. Matakana (1 hour)
Everyone can enjoy the coastline splendor at Matakana, which is located about an hour north of Auckland’s downtown. While those looking for an active weekend can camp and go rock climbing at Ti Point, couples seeking a weekend of romance can stay at the Woodhouse Mountain Lodge, which is surrounded by 100 acres of stunning natural scenery. Families and couples can relax in the spa or enjoy the restaurant here.
3. Mount Maunganui (2 hours, 40 mins)
The closest you can come to Miami’s boardwalks while eating fish and chips is on Mount Maunganui’s beachfront. Locals refer to this area as “The Mount” in a friendly manner, and it is easy to understand why people flock here for a weekend of fun in the sun.
Due to the abundance of hostels and hotels, including the Seagulls Guesthouse, cheap weekend trips are feasible. There are numerous upscale hotels, including The Clarence, where you can indulge yourself if you want to live it up when you’re not working.
4. Waiuku (1 hour)
One of Auckland’s hidden jewels for discreet romantic getaways is only a little over an hour from the city center. The glamping tents at Castaways Resort are the ideal place to spend some quality time with that special someone.
You can choose between taking in the magnificent views from one of their seaside tents or relaxing to the sounds of birds in one of their hidden woodland tents. The meal has been prepared, and the wine is in the refrigerator. The resort also offers more reasonably priced family cabins in addition to a restaurant and spa.
5. Waiheke Island (1 hour including ferry)
Without including Waiheke Island, Auckland’s offshore jewel, a list of the best getaways from the city would be incomplete. The world-class wines on this picturesque island are its principal export and reward for visitors, and there is no shortage of luxurious lodging options. While you go through the sampling flight at Wild on Waiheke, you may even shoot archery among the vines or let the kids play games.
6. Raglan (2 hours)
Raglan is the best destination for weekend trips from Auckland that feature sun, surf, and beautiful scenery. Raglan is the birthplace of surfing in New Zealand, and beachgoers from all over the North Island visit its black sand shores.
It can be an affordable weekend break that’s simple to fill full of activities thanks to the variety of motels and B&Bs available. Caving, rock climbing, kayaking, horseback riding, and even viewing some of New Zealand’s natural glow worms are all available to tourists.
7. Rotorua (2 hours, 50 mins)
Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity, can transport you from Auckland’s central business district to another planet in less than three hours. There are several locations to enjoy the geothermally heated water, including the Polynesian Spa, so there are chances to discover what makes this region of the country so unique.
Excellent luxury accommodations for restful weekend trips include the Treetops Lodge and Escape, which is situated within 2,500 acres of native woodland. Here, you can take a deep breath of oxygen, unwind in their spa, or engage in outdoor activities.
8. Kai Iwi lakes (2 hours, 50 mins)
The Kai Iwi lakes are located around two and a half hours north of Auckland. This is one of those weekend trips from Auckland that is ideal for groups of friends and lovers who enjoy getting wet.
These dune lakes were created naturally, and there are some fantastic campgrounds nearby that let tourists experience a bit of New Zealand summer. For those who wish to add a touch of glitz to their tent, there is also the Kai Iwi Lakes Resort.
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