Auckland Tours

Discover the best of Auckland and beyond with immersive small group adventures

Experience Auckland – New Zealand’s vibrant harbour city where urban energy meets natural wonder.

Our handpicked Auckland Tours go beyond the city limits, connecting you with some of the North Island’s most iconic destinations. Sip world-class wines on Waiheke Island, journey to geothermal Rotorua, visit the legendary Hobbiton™ Movie Set, or discover the glowworm caves of Waitomo. Explore black sand beaches on the rugged West Coast, kayak to ancient volcanic Rangitoto, or escape to the coastal beauty of the Bay of Islands and Coromandel.

Whether you’re chasing culture, coastlines or cinematic landscapes, these tours offer the best of Aotearoa from Auckland’s doorstep.

Why Book Auckland Tours With Us

Curated for quality

We only feature Auckland Tours with consistently excellent reviews

Trusted Local Operators

We partner exclusively with established and reputable tour providers

Guided Small Group Tours

Travel in comfort with experienced guides who share local insights and hidden gems

Year-Round Tours

Our top-rated Auckland Tours run in every season, rain or shine

Best Price Guarantee

Book with confidence knowing you’re getting the best rate available

Best Auckland City Tours

Day Tours from Auckland

Getting There

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and a major international gateway, making it easily accessible for travellers from around the world. Auckland Airport welcomes direct flights from Australia, the Pacific Islands, Asia, North America and beyond. For those already in New Zealand, domestic flights and long-distance buses connect Auckland to most major towns and cities. Whether you’re arriving from overseas or exploring locally, getting to Auckland is straightforward – and it’s the perfect starting point for booking your next adventure with us.

Best Auckland Tours

Expertly curated day tours in Auckland

Birds congregating on cliff tops overlooking the sea along Auckland’s wild west coast black sand beaches

Auckland's Wild West Coast & Black Sand Beaches Tour including Brewery Lunch

Uncover the rugged beauty of Auckland’s untamed west coast on this fully guided small group adventure. Explore black sand beaches, visit the dramatic Muriwai gannet colony, enjoy a brewery lunch at Hallertau and take in panoramic harbour views from historic North Head. Led by expert local guides and travelling in premium minibuses, this half-day tour blends nature, flavour and hidden gems for a memorable escape from the city.

From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Price: From $175 NZD per adult

Auckland Sky Tower silhouetted against an orange-red sunset sky during a small group city tour

Auckland City Highlights Small Group Tour

Discover Auckland’s cultural heritage and iconic landmarks on this immersive small group tour, led by passionate local guides who bring the city’s stories to life. Travel in a premium Mercedes-Benz minibus as you explore sacred sites, volcanic viewpoints and historic parks. From panoramic vistas at Mt Eden and Achilles Point to the Domain and Bastion Point, this experience offers a deeper understanding of Auckland’s past, present and people.

From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 4 hours
Price: From $99 NZD per adult

Happy zipliners with arms stretched out smiling as they descend on a beautiful sunny day over Waiheke Island

Zip, Wine and Dine Waiheke Island Tour from Auckland

Discover Waiheke Island from every angle with the action-packed Zip, Wine and Dine experience. Your day begins with a scenic ferry ride from Auckland, followed by an unforgettable zipline experience through native fores. After soaking in the island’s natural beauty, transition to the Taste of Waiheke tour, where you’ll enjoy a tasting or take-home gift at Allpress Olive Groves and a gourmet two-course lunch and wine tasting at hilltop Batch Winery. Continue your indulgent afternoon with tastings at the acclaimed Cable Bay and Mudbrick Vineyards before heading back to the ferry with a day full of unforgettable Waiheke moments.

To: Waiheke Island
From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 9 Hours
Price: From $399 NZD per adult

Small group of sea kayaks paddling toward Rangitoto Island at sunset near Auckland

Sunset / Night Kayak to Rangitoto Island with BBQ Dinner

Voted New Zealand’s Best Guided Tour by Wilderness Magazine in 2020, this unforgettable adventure begins with kayaking across the Waitemata Harbour, where you might spot Little Blue Penguins and Cook’s Petrels. Explore Rangitoto Island on a guided trek to the summit, enjoying stunning 360° views of Auckland. Afterward, enjoy a Kiwi-style BBQ dinner before paddling back under the stars, with city lights sparkling around you. Your expert guides ensure a safe, fun and eco-friendly experience.

To: Rangitoto Island
From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 7 Hours
Price: From $195 NZD per adult

Night kayaking tour under the illuminated Auckland Harbour Bridge with city lights reflecting on the water

Auckland City Lights Night Kayak Tour

See Auckland’s urban beauty come alive after dark on this one-of-a-kind night kayak tour. Launch from St Mary’s Bay, just minutes from the Viaduct Harbour, and paddle into a glowing cityscape where the Sky Tower’s neon glow dances on still waters. Drift past superyachts and beneath the iconic Harbour Bridge, illuminated with dazzling light shows during events. No kayaking experience? No problem. Our expert guides make sure you feel confident as you soak in rare, up-close views of Auckland’s waterfront magic, all under a star-lit sky. After a peaceful paddle, enjoy a light snack before returning to shore, buzzing from your unique city adventure.

From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 150 Minutes
Price: From $118 NZD per adult

Best Day Tours from Auckland

Top-rated day tours from Auckland

Geysers and steaming hot pools at Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa

Rotorua Highlights including Te Puia & Polynesian Spa Small Group Tour from Auckland

Journey from Auckland to Rotorua for a seamless day of cultural discovery and deep relaxation. Enjoy a 90-minute guided tour of Te Puia - home to the iconic Pōhutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools and live Māori arts. Then unwind with Deluxe Lake Spa entry at Polynesian Spa. Nestled on the lakefront, this premium experience offers therapeutic mineral pools and panoramic views. Small group travel, expert guides and the perfect blend of geothermal wonder and wellness.

To: Rotorua & Polynesian Spa
From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 12 hours
Price: From $370 NZD per adult

Rotorua geysers and geothermal pools with Redwoods Treewalk spiral staircase

Rotorua Highlights including Wai-O-Tapu & Redwoods Treewalk Small Group Tour From Auckland

Experience two of Rotorua’s most spectacular natural attractions in one seamless day trip from Auckland. Begin with a self-guided walk through Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland - famous for its vibrant Champagne Pool, bubbling mud and surreal volcanic craters. Then step into the serene beauty of the Redwoods Treewalk, where suspension bridges weave through towering 120-year-old trees. This is New Zealand's ultimate one-day nature retreat.

To: Rotorua & Redwoods Treewalk
From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 12 hours
Price: From $355 NZD per adult

Friends relaxing in a forest hot tub and a family walking across the Redwoods Tree Walk rope bridges in Rotorua

Rotorua Highlights including Redwoods Treewalk & Secret Spot Hot Tubs Small Group Tour from Auckland

Reconnect with nature on this half-day retreat from Auckland into Rotorua's lust native forest. Begin with a tranquil walk through the award-winning Redwoods Treewalk, where elevated suspension bridges wind between 120-year-old giants - offering stunning views from up to 20 metres high. Then for the ultimate forest bathing experience, unwind at Secret Spot Hot Tubs. Soak in your own cedar tub fed by fresh spring water, surrounded by ferns, birdsong and forest stillness.

To: Rotorua Redwoods Treewalk & Secret Spot Hot Tubs
From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 12 hours
Price: From $307 NZD per adult

Scenic view looking down from a hilltop over a picturesque bay with lush greenery in the Bay of Islands.

Bay of Islands Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland - 2 Day

Discover the birthplace of New Zealand on this immersive journey, where you’ll explore breathtaking natural wonders, uncover hidden gems and experience the vibrant richness of Maori culture. This intimate, fully-guided adventure includes a stunning cruise through the pristine waters of the Bay of Islands, seamlessly blending the best of Northland’s subtropical east and west coasts for an unforgettable escape.

To: Bay Of Islands
From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: 2 Days (including 1 night accomodation)
Price: From $899 NZD per adult

Hobbiton round door home, powerful Huka Falls, and glowing Waitomo Caves

Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo & Hamilton Gardens 2-Day Small Group Tour from Auckland

Explore the best of New Zealand’s North Island on this small group, fully-guided tour that combines the region’s most iconic attractions into a relaxed, thoughtfully-paced itinerary. Enjoy plenty of time to explore each destination, with optional activities available to tailor your experience. Led by passionate guides known for their captivating stories and deep local knowledge, you’ll travel in modern, comfortable minibuses equipped for your comfort and safety. This tour offers the perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture and unforgettable adventures.

To: Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua, Taupo & Hamilton Gardens
From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: 2 days (including 1 night accomodation)
Price: From $849 NZD per adult

Boat ride under glowing worms at Waitomo Caves and erupting geyser at Rotorua geothermal park

Waitomo Caves & Rotorua including Te Puia Small Group Tour from Auckland

Journey into two of Aotearoa’s most surreal landscapes. Begin with a guided tour through the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves - where thousands of tiny lights illuminate ancient limestone formations. Then head to Te Puia in Rotorua for a 90-minute guided cultural and geothermal experience, featuring erupting geysers, bubbling mud pools and the world-famous Pōhutu Geyser. With expert local guides, small group comfort and premium transport, this tour blends natural spectacle with deep cultural connection.

To: Waitomo Caves & Rotorua
From: Auckland (return trip)
Duration: Approx. 12 hours
Price: From $399 NZD per adult

Latest Auckland Updates 2025:

New interior Hobbit Hole experiences opened in December 2024, allowing visitors on Hobbiton Day Tours from Auckland to explore fully furnished Hobbit homes.
Demand is rising for small group day tours from Auckland that feature smaller vehicles and personalised itineraries. This approach offers a deeper, more authentic and less-rushed experience compared to larger tours. One of the most popular options, bookable via Retreats Abroad, is the Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland – perfectly combining iconic sights with an intimate, immersive adventure.
Waiheke Island tour now include premium combo packages, such as the Zip, Wine & Dine tour, which is bookable via Retreats Abroad and combines the thrill of ziplining with gourmet food and wine tasting.
Day tours from Auckland to Rotorua are evolving to include exciting new attractions alongside the classic geothermal parks and Māori cultural experiences. Through Retreats Abroad, guests can book thoughtfully curated Rotorua Tour packages that combine iconic sites like Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu with a variety of wellness-focused activities, including Redwoods Treewalk, Polynesian Spa and Secret Spot Hot Tubs. These wellness experiences, paired with nature immersion and cultural highlights, create a richer, more holistic Rotorua journey that goes well beyond the traditional geysers and mud pools.

Auckland Tour FAQ

What are the most popular day tours from Auckland?

Some of the most popular day tours from Auckland include visits to Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Rotorua geothermal parks, Waiheke Island, Bay of Islands, Coromandel and Cathedral Cove. These destinations offer a mix of nature-based adventures, cultural discovery and wellness experiences – all accessible within a day trip.

Are your Auckland tours suitable for small groups or solo travellers?

Yes! Our tours cater to small groups for a more personalised experience and solo travellers are very welcome. Our curated tours use smaller vehicles to ensure comfort and connection and our guides tailor the experience based on group interests.

Can I combine multiple attractions in one day tour from Auckland?

Absolutely. Many of our Auckland Day Tours are multi-stop itineraries, such as the popular Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour or the Rotorua Wai-O-Tapu & Hobbiton Small Group Tour.

How do I book an Auckland Tour?

You can book online directly through Retreats Abroad website. Simply select your preferred tour, date and group size and you’ll receive instant confirmation.

Are meals included in the tours?

It depends on the specific tour. Some tours include lunch, snacks and refreshments. Full details are listed in each tour description.

Are the tours suitable for children or older adults?

Yes. Most tours are family-friendly and suitable for all ages. However, certain activities (like walking tracks or hot pools) may vary in accessibility 0 please check individual tour details or reach out to us for recommendations: hello@retreatsabroad.com

What should I bring on a day tour from Auckland?

We recommend bringing:

Comfortable walking shoes
Weather-appropriate clothing (layers work best)
A water bottle
Sunscreen and a hat
Swimwear and towel (for tours with spa/hot pool options)

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours operate rain or shine, but if weather conditions affect safety or key experiences, we’ll provide alternative arrangements or offer a full refund where applicable.

Where do your Auckland Tours pick up from?

Our Auckland Tour offer convenient pick-up from a range of central Auckland hotels. If your accommodation isn’t listed, you can simply select the closest option and meet us there.

If you haven’t confirmed your accommodation yet, we recommend choosing SkyCity Hotel as your temporary pick-up point – this can be updated later once your plans are final.

Please note: We do not offer pick-up from Auckland Airport. The closest available option is The Sebel Auckland Manukau.

Here’s the full list of our current pick-up locations:

Adina Apartment Hotel
Copthorne Hotel Auckland
Cordis Hotel Auckland
Crowne Plaza Auckland
DoubleTree by Hilton
Karaka
Four Points by Sheraton Auckland
Grand Millennium Hotel
Hilton Hotel Auckland
Ibis Budget Auckland Central
JW Marriott Auckland
Kiwi International Hotel
M Social Hotel
Mercure Auckland Queen Street
Movenpick Hotel Auckland
Nesuto Stadium Hotel & Apartments
Park Hyatt Auckland
Pullman Hotel Auckland
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Auckland
Rydges Hotel Auckland
SkyCity Hotel
SO/ Auckland
Sofitel Hotel Auckland
Swiss-Belsuites Victoria Park
The Grand by SkyCity
The Sebel Auckland Manukau (closest to Auckland Airport)
VR Auckland City

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour Pick-Up Points
For guests joining the Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland, pick-up is available from the following hotels:

Cordis Hotel Auckland
Crowne Plaza Auckland
Four Points by Sheraton
Grand Millennium
Movenpick Hotel
Pullman Auckland
SkyCity Hotel
The Sebel Auckland Manukau

Still unsure? Get in touch at hello@retreatsabroad.com and we’ll help you find the most convenient option.

Can I organise a private Auckland Tour?

While Retreats Abroad offers set tour packages, you can inquire about booking a private tour by contacting us directly.

How We Select Our Tours

"We carefully select our Auckland Tours for their experienced guides, small group comfort and consistently high guest reviews. Whether you're exploring the glowworm caves of Waitomo, the cinematic magic of Hobbiton, the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, or the beaches of Auckland's West Coast, every experience is designed to reveal the beauty, culture and hidden gems of New Zealand - with thoughtful touches and seamless logistics."

Book now to secure your spot on our top-rated Auckland Tours

We'll ensure you experience New Zealand's Best of the Best

Why Retreats Abroad

Curated Experiences You Can Trust

We only feature top-rated experiences run by trusted hosts

Small Groups Led By Expert Guides

Explore deeper with local experts and like-minded travellers

Easy Booking & Best Prices

Secure your spot quickly and confidently

Restore While You Explore

Discover the perfect balance of wellness and adventure