7 Fabulous Day Escapes from Auckland to Enjoy this Summer

From finding someone to feed the cat to the expense of accommodation and getting stuck in holiday traffic – holidays out of Auckland can be a hassle. And when there are so many incredible day escapes you can enjoy, why would you worry about packing an overnight bag? 

So why not pop the 7 itinerary ideas below on your calendar, and you’ll have day trips galore to keep you busy for the next couple of months! 

Tāwharanui Peninsula

The Tāwharanui Peninsula is a big place, so this location may require a few day trips before you manage to cover it all! Of course one of the most amazing things about this region (just over an hour north of Auckland City) is the stunning scenery – think gold sand beaches and crystal clear water. And if you enjoy your coastal walks, there’s plenty to do here, for all ability levels. 

Up this way you’ll also find Matakana, home to boutique shopping, eateries and the infamous Matakana markets. Other popular spots include Omaha, Point Wells, Sandspit and right on the Mahurangi River is Warkworth, a great place to stop for morning or afternoon tea. 

Clarks Beach

South of Auckland City, and to the west, you’ll find Clarks Beach on the Manukau Harbour. A gorgeous little beachside town, it’s an ideal place to bring a picnic and stay for the day. There’s also things to see and do on your drive there and back – you could call into the CCT Lavender Farm and Cafe in Karaka, pop into the Glenbrook Vintage Railway, or enjoy the serenity at the Wrights Watergarden in Patumahoe. 

Piha

The wild west coast, with its black sand beaches and rugged coastline, is always a great day out, no matter the weather. And while it’s a great destination for your day trip, the road travelled will provide you with lots of amazing vantage points to take in the view west to the Tasman Sea, down to the Manukau Harbour and east to the city. 

The Piha Cafe has delicious food on the menu, or Elevation Brasserie is another popular eatery as Piha Road joins back up to Scenic Drive.

Waiheke Island

A mere 40 minute boat ride will get you to the self-proclaimed jewel of the Hauraki Gulf, and there’s no question it is a fantastic way to spend a day. You can jump on board a tour bus to check out all the sites, or hire a car and take yourself for a drive. 

The main town centre, Oneroa, is only a quick bus trip away and not only will you be able to spend the morning in and out of gorgeous boutique retailers, but the view over Oneroa Beach is incredible and there are a variety of cafes and restaurants to choose from. Waiheke is also a wine-lovers paradise, so if that’s something you fancy, make sure to check out at least one or two vineyards – they are world class. 

Pūkorokoro / Miranda (via Clevedon)

Head east and drive through Clevedon to check out the Riverhaven Artland Sculpture Park, and if you’re roading tripping on a Sunday, make sure you stop at the Clevedon Farmers Market. 

From here you can either take the south eastern route to Pūkorokoro / Miranda, or the north eastern route (slightly longer, but more scenic as it runs alongside the Firth of Thames). At your final destination for the day, you’ll find the Miranda Cafe which also boasts a shop and gallery, and while you’re in town, a visit to the Shorebird Centre is a must-see for keen bird watchers. 

Kawau Island

The daily 10:30am sailing from Sandspit to Kawau Island will take you on the largest mail run by water in the Southern Hemisphere – the Royal Mail Run Cruise. Suitable for all ages, you get to travel right around the island, hopping on and off at various landmarks, and also learning about the fascinating history of the island. 

Of course you’ll want to visit the Mansion House, once the home of Governor Sir George Grey, and the bird life here is incredible, from all of our native species to a few from our Australian neighbours. 

Puhoi

Puhoi is an easy, short drive from most suburbs in Auckland and offers an interesting, varied itinerary of things to see and do. Steeped in history, the Puhoi Heritage Museum is an ideal starting point to give you the background on those who first settled this quaint little town on the banks of the Puhoi River. Nearby is the Puhoi Pioneers Memorial Park and the absolutely gorgeous Puhoi Cottage Tea Rooms with some of the best tea and scones around. However no visit to Puhoi is complete without a stop at the Puhoi Cheese Factory, so make sure you put that on your to-do list for the day! 

Isn’t Auckland lucky to have all of these wonderful places on its doorstep! We hope a few of these ideas have made it to your calendar.

If you are considering a change in 2023, we would love to hear from you. Talk to one of our fantastic team members here at Greenview Park here.