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Auckland's Wild West Coast & Black Sand Beaches Tour

North Island

Cheeky Kiwi Travel

from
NZ$175
per adult
Coastal view of Muriwai Gannet Colony on Auckland’s west coast

Experiences

Family-friendly Tours Family-friendly Tours Small Group Tours Small Group Tours Nature & Wildlife Nature & Wildlife Half-Day Tours Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Auckland
Travel Time: 5 hours

Details

Journey Along Auckland’s Rugged West Coast

Discover the dramatic contrast between city skyline and raw coastal beauty as you travel from the Auckland Sky Tower across the Harbour Bridge toward the wild west coast. Along the way your passionate guide shares local stories, weaving tales of Kumeu, Coatesville and Riverhead through your journey. Each twist and turn reveals hidden gems before you reach sweeping black‑sand beaches and sheltered bays.

Stand in awe at Muriwai’s black sands and dramatic waves, then climb to the gannet colony lookout where seabirds soar over sheer cliffs. After the coast you’ll cross back to Devonport, exploring North Head’s historic tunnels, volcano views, and military relics. Finally you’ll return to Auckland either by scenic ferry or guided van drop‑offs, ending your day with fresh memories.

Search icon Lush rainforest trail in Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
Search icon Auckland skyline and volcano seen from Waitākere Ranges
Search icon Rugged black sand coastline at Muriwai on Auckland’s west coast
Search icon Gannet colony on coastal cliffs at Muriwai Beach during sunset near Auckland, New Zealand.
Search icon Close-up of Australasian gannets nesting at Muriwai Gannet Colony
Search icon Pair of Australasian gannets performing courtship at Muriwai
Search icon Gannets perched on cliffs and gliding over the ocean at Muriwai Beach, New Zealand
Search icon Close-up of an Australasian gannet with striking blue eyes at Muriwai Beach, New Zealand.
Search icon View of Rangitoto Island from Mount Victoria
Search icon Devonport volcanic cone with Auckland city in background

Highlights:

  • West Coast Black Sand Beaches & Rugged Coastline
  • Muriwai Gannet Colony
  • Hallertau Brewery Lunch
  • Devonport & North Head
  • Optional Craft Beer Tasting (additional cost)

Inclusions:

  • Small Group Tour
  • Fully Guided
  • Lunch (set menu)
  • Park entry fees

Optional Extras:

  • Craft Beer Tasting
  • We recommend doing our Auckland City Highlights Small Group Tour in the morning before this tour for the full Auckland experience.

Age Information

  • Adult: 15 years +
  • Children: 4-14 years
  • Infants: Under 4 years

Cancellations & Refunds

  • Outside 24 hours before travel: Full refund**
  • Within 24 hours before travel: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Itinerary

  • Auckland Sky Tower – Your west coast adventure begins with a pickup at the iconic Auckland Sky Tower. From here, enjoy a fully guided drive over the famous Harbour Bridge to Auckland’s picturesque North Shore. As we head west through the scenic and affluent areas of Coatesville, Kumeu and Riverhead, our expert guides will keep you engaged with fascinating stories and local insights that bring each location to life.
  • Hallertau Brewery – Our first stop is at the renowned Hallertau Brewery, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch chosen from a specially curated set menu. Relax in the vibrant atmosphere of this craft brewery, and if you wish, take the opportunity to sample some of their award-winning beers (optional extra) before continuing your journey.
  • Muriwai Beach – After lunch, we head to the wild and untamed beauty of Muriwai Beach. This striking black sand beach is known for its rugged coastline and the raw power of the surf crashing against the shore. It’s a place that truly captures the spirit of New Zealand’s west coast.
  • Muriwai Gannet Colony – Just a short walk uphill from the beach, you'll reach the Muriwai Gannet Colony. This is the largest mainland colony of gannets in the North Island, offering a rare chance to observe these impressive seabirds up close in their natural environment. The elevated views over the ocean and dramatic cliffs make for stunning photos and unforgettable memories.
  • Devonport & North Head – We then journey back across the harbour to the charming seaside suburb of Devonport. Here, we’ll drive up to the summit of North Head, a historic volcanic cone rich with wartime history. You’ll explore old military tunnels and hear stories of coastal defence as you take in panoramic views across the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland skyline.
  • Return to Auckland City – As the day winds down, you’ll head back to central Auckland. You can choose between a scenic ferry ride from Devonport across the harbour or a fully guided return journey by van, with drop-offs at convenient city locations and hotels.

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