As the crown jewel of New Zealand, Auckland earned its reputation as more than a bustling city. If you are seeking to escape the city for a weekend however, you will be spoiled for options. Go ahead and take that Friday off, hop in your car and strap in for an escape to some of the best weekend trips around the North Island – some of them are only a short drive from the city. Below are destinations that I think make the best weekend trips from Auckland.
1. Matakana
Only an hour’s drive away from Central Auckland (approximately 64 km north of the city) lies gorgeous Matakana. This region has long been known as a popular tourist destination offering a multitude of activities and natural attractions for tourists of all kinds.
Some of the most popular things to do in this great weekend escape include the vineyards and delicious gourmet destinations. Indeed, Matakana is known as home to some of the best farmer’s markets in New Zealand. While in the region, spoil yourself with wine tasting events, sampling the local gourmet food, and stock up on the best organic produce.
If you’re looking for something more active, head over to Sandspit and Snells Beach. If you want to swim at a wild beach, there’s Pakiri for you. It’s the perfect destination for long, wintery walks. Be blown away by the sheer beauty and magnificence of the Matakana Castle. While secluded, this luxurious bed and breakfast is the perfect place to stay if you want to take in the gorgeous scenery of the region.
Other can’t-miss attractions in the Matakana region are the outdoor sculptures at the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, the blend of nature and creativity at Sculptureum Gardens, or beer tasting at Leigh Sawmill.
2. Taupō
Taupō is a quaint and idyllic town strategically located in the North Island. It is home to the largest lake in New Zealand – Lake Taupō. The town itself is a truly spectacular sight but don’t let its idyllic exterior fool you.
It is one of the best weekend trips from Auckland for those looking for extreme adventures. After all, it has a magical natural setting that would satisfy those looking for a vacation on the extreme side.
Known as the skydiving capital of the world, you can’t pass up on the opportunity to try this experience while in Taupō. There is no better incentive than the crystal clear lake, snow-capped peaks, and the exquisite New Zealand landscape to jump out of a plane 4500 metres above the ground. It’s a one-of-a-kind sightseeing experience!
If skydiving is too daring for you, how about taking a hike to see the awe-inspiring Huka Falls or the strikingly beautiful Mount Tauhara. Each of these hikes offer riveting views that you won’t find elsewhere.
Taupō is also one of the main spots to base yourself if you are wanting to do the world famous Tongariro Crossing. A one day hike across a volcanic plateau located just south of Taupō.
When all else fails, you can head to Lake Taupō itself. There are plenty of fun-filled activities you can enjoy at the lake such as kayaking, sailing, jet skiing, or wind surfing. Another popular activity for visitors is fishing, which isn’t a surprise given the abundance of trout in the region.
If you simply want a relaxing escape to Taupō, you can book one of the lake cruises. It is a relaxing and luxurious way to see the best sights that the region can offer. There is also a range of hot pools and spas in the area. Definitely one of my favourite weekend trips from Auckland.
3. Coromandel Peninsula
Considered by those who’ve visited it as heaven on earth, the tourists can’t be wrong about the much-lauded Coromandel Peninsula. While located a bit farther away from Auckland, about 160 kilometres away or roughly 3 hours, it is certainly worth the drive for a weekend escape as it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
If you consider yourself a beach bum, I highly recommend booking a weekend trip to the Coromandel Peninsula. It is home to the famous Cathedral Cove, which is the setting to the Chronicles of Narnia films. Aside from its Hollywood association, there is no denying the beautiful white sand beach and the crystal clear waters.
In addition to the spectacular beaches, the peninsula is home to a gorgeous marine reef reserve that is an ideal spot for snorkeling. The naturally heated pools at Hot Water Beach are also creating a lot of buzz among tourists – domestic and foreign. For those looking for a gorgeous trail to hike, be sure to add the Hauraki Rail Trail to your bucket list. You will be rewarded with a view of the Owharoa Falls at the end of the hike.
And speaking of hikes with a view, don’t miss the overnight trail at the Pinnacles Track. It is one of the best spots in the Coromandel Peninsula to view the sunrise.
4. Rotorua
No list of the best weekend trips from Auckland would be complete without Rotorua. Known as a haven for spas and relaxation, there is a whole new world waiting to be discovered when you visit this region even for a weekend getaway.
Rotorua has been a popular destination for tourists since the 1800s, famous for its geysers and mud pools. It offers the perfect location for a romantic getaway with its spa destinations, which are the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Most of the spas take advantage of the geothermal activity in the region. What’s better than soaking in a hot and relaxing pool at twilight with a glass of wine in hand? It doesn’t get any better than that.
If you are looking for a change of pace, there is a wide array of adventurous activities to fill your time in Rotorua, for xample The Luge. Essentially a bobsled on wheels. Race your friends down the mountain side on a specially made track in what is one of my favourite activities in the region. You can access the The Luge by taking the Skyline Gondolas up the mountain.
To say that it is home to the world’s best mountain biking trails is a bold claim. And yet exploring the Rotorua and Whakarewarewa trail network will give you an insight as to why many hold such high opinions about this trail.
5. Waipu
Waipu is a friendly New Zealand town that is located approximately 120 kilometres from Auckland (around 1 and a half hours). This region is another highly coveted weekend destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Auckland.
This town is best known for its Scottish history. However, there is probably nothing more popular than the Waipu Caves as far as tourist destinations are concerned. This underground wonder is filled with stalactites and stalagmites. But that’s not all – the network of caves is also filled with hundreds of glow worms. It’s a magical sight that you have to see to believe!
If you’re seeking a beach escape, you’ll also find that in the town of Waipu. Head to the Waipu Cove in Bream Bay. You will find a long stretch of white sand beach that is ideal for swimming and exploring the coastal rock pools.
6. Tauranga
Tauranga is a vibrant port town that has seen a tremendous amount of population growth in recent years. For this reason, this town has transformed into a vibrant destination for tourists seeking to escape Auckland even for just a weekend.
Located 217 kilometres from Auckland, this destination in the Bay of Plenty is the ideal choice for those looking for a mix of nature and urban comforts. The most popular attraction in Tauranga is Mount Maunganui, which is at 232 meters above sea level. Tourists love to hike up this mountain and are duly rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views in the region. If you’re not up for a hike, you can spend your weekend relaxing at Pilot Bay Beach.
There is no shortage of things to see and do within the confines of Auckland. But if you are so compelled to explore what’s out there, you will be rewarded for your efforts. There is an abundance of spectacular destinations near Auckland perfect for a relaxing or adventurous weekend getaway – it’s your call.
Thanks for taking the time to check out my Weekend Trips from Auckland list. I hope it gave you a few new ideas. Did I miss any of your favourite weekend getaways? Feel free to let me know in the comments below.
If, however, you are looking for something to do while in Auckland, jump across to my TOP 45 THINGS TO DO IN AUCKLAND – A LOCAL’S GUIDE