Waitakere Ranges Tours

Waitakere Ranges which includes forests and landscape views
Waitakere Ranges showing a park and landscape views
Photo provided by Tourism New Zealand/Scott Venning
Waitakere Ranges which includes landscape views and outdoor art
Waitakere Ranges featuring tropical scenes and forests


Explore the vast 160,000 square kilometres of forest west of Auckland. Venture across its stunning landscapes and discover beautiful hidden gems around every corner.

It takes just 30 minutes to drive west out of downtown Auckland and into the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, but it feels like you could be in a completely different country. With a capital-city-sized stretch of native forest, incredible beaches further west, and so much to take in and do, the park proves a popular spot with visitors.

It’s a popular spot with walkers, who are attracted by the different walking trails available for all levels of fitness. There are short walks with information panels telling you more about the local flora and fauna, all the way up to hikes that take several hours through this captivating landscape. If you’re an avid walker, try out the Hillary Trail: a 75-kilometre hike that will take about four days to complete, with camp sites dotted all along the route.

Karekare is one of the area’s stunning beaches and it featured in the successful 1993 film ‘The Piano’. Nearby, Piha Beach is great for surfing – though bear in mind that rips can make it unsafe for swimming. It’s best to check with local surf clubs before heading into the water.

For a more relaxed, leisurely adventure, pay a visit to the artistic hamlet of Titirangi where you can stop off at the local galleries and cafés. To find out more about what’s on offer in this area, head for the Arataki Visitor Centre, situated on a ridge and guarded by an impressive Maori carving. Here, you’ll find information on guided tours and outdoor activities such as canyoning and horseback riding.

Take a guided tour from Swanston on the edge of the ranges. Board the small Rain Forest Express railway, which will take you through the region’s caves and tunnels before arriving at Upper Nihotupu Dam, which is a perfect spot to stop for a picnic. For an excellent wine-tasting tour, head for Henderson Valley.

The ranges are easy to reach if you’re coming by car. If you decide to stay over, there’s plenty of accommodation in the form of beach houses and hotels along the coast.

Plan a trip to see Waitakere Ranges

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Horizon by SkyCity
The Grand by SkyCity
The Hotel Britomart

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Waitakere Ranges

Roomie Apartment Hotel

Roomie Apartment Hotel

4 out of 5
7 Layard St, Auckland, Auckland
Roomie Apartment Hotel
Soho Hotel Auckland

Soho Hotel Auckland

4.5 out of 5
180 Stoddard Road, Mount Roskill, Auckland
Soho Hotel Auckland
Holiday Inn Auckland Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Auckland Airport by IHG

4 out of 5
2 Ascot Road, Auckland
Holiday Inn Auckland Airport by IHG
Novotel Auckland Airport

Novotel Auckland Airport

4.5 out of 5
35 Tom Pearce Dr, Auckland International Airport, Auckland
Novotel Auckland Airport
Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group

Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group

5 out of 5
83 Symonds Street, Box 2771, Auckland
Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group
Heartland Hotel Auckland Airport

Heartland Hotel Auckland Airport

4.5 out of 5
14 Airpark Drive, Auckland
Heartland Hotel Auckland Airport
Pullman Auckland Airport

Pullman Auckland Airport

5 out of 5
37 Tom Pearce Drive, Auckland
Pullman Auckland Airport
JetPark Hotel Auckland Airport

JetPark Hotel Auckland Airport

4.5 out of 5
63 Westney Road, Auckland
JetPark Hotel Auckland Airport
ibis budget Auckland Airport

ibis budget Auckland Airport

3 out of 5
2 Leonard Isitt Drive, Auckland
ibis budget Auckland Airport
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Waitakere Ranges

The Waitakere Ranges in New Zealand offer a variety of exciting activities and attractions for tourists. Visitors can enjoy surfing at the stunning beaches, swimming in the ocean, and relaxing at wellness retreats. Outdoor adventures abound with surf schools and adventure parks, making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Experience the breathtaking scenery and vibrant atmosphere of this remarkable region.

Shopping

In Waitakere Ranges, visit the Avondale Sunday Market, 11 miles away, for local crafts and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, check out Westfield St Luke's Shopping Centre, located 13 miles away, featuring a mix of entertainment and shopping options for the whole family.

Recreation

At Eden Park, immerse yourself in the exciting atmosphere of a premier sports stadium, just 14 miles from Waitakere Ranges. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Waitakere Golf Club offers a serene golfing experience, only 6 miles away, while Paradice Ice Skating, located 11 miles away, adds a fun twist with its thrilling ice adventures.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of karting at Formula E Indoor Raceway, located 15 miles from Waitakere Ranges. For climbing enthusiasts, Clip 'n Climb offers an exciting challenge, 14 miles away. Don't miss the Piha Surf School, a mere 2 miles away, perfect for water sports and adventure seekers.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife by catching a show at the Aotea Centre, just 16 miles away, where culture and romance blend beautifully. For a unique twist, visit the Stardome Observatory, 15 miles away, for entertaining stargazing activities, or have an adventure at Zone Bowling & Timezone Wairau, 18 miles away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Waitakere Ranges

In the stunning Waitakere Ranges, visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, urban parks, and jetties. This region is perfect for those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and family fun. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Waiheke Island and the captivating Waitakere Ranges, where hiking trails and scenic views await. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or discovering local attractions, there's something for everyone in this picturesque Auckland region.

  • Piha Beach: Nestled a mere 3 miles from the Waitakere Ranges, Piha Beach is renowned for its stunning black sand and dramatic surf. This beach offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying scenic walks along the coastline. The surrounding cliffs and lush greenery enhance its natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination.
  • Sky Tower: Located 16 miles from Waitakere Ranges, the Sky Tower is an iconic symbol of Auckland. Standing tall, it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond. Visitors can enjoy fine dining, thrill-seeking activities like sky jumping, or simply take in the stunning sunset from the observation deck.
  • Princes Wharf: Also 16 miles away, Princes Wharf is a lively jetty that offers a friendly atmosphere with waterfront dining and shopping. Stroll along the vibrant boardwalk, meet locals, and enjoy fresh seafood while soaking in the bustling harbor views.

Best time to go to Waitakere Ranges

The best time to visit Waitakere Ranges can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Waitakere Ranges falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Waitakere Ranges falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March65.5°F (18.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
July53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
October57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November60.3°F (15.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waitakere Ranges

To save money on your trip to Waitakere Ranges, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May to July, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, particularly on Mondays, which are the least expensive days to stay. Utilize Expedia’s search filters to find eco-friendly accommodations within your budget, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for further discounts. Joining the One Key membership can also provide exclusive deals and cash back for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Waitakere Ranges are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Waitakere Ranges about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Waitakere Ranges is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Waitakere Ranges is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of hotel you want. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase hotels that are sustainable and environmentally friendly, available for booking at this moment. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in the Waitakere Ranges with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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