Auckland West Coast Rainforest and Beach Tour

7 hours Free cancellation Private tour

Auckland West Coast Rainforest and Beach Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Escape Auckland for a full-day private ride to the city’s wild west coast, home to rainforests, waterfalls, and dramatic black-sand beaches. Start at Arataki Visitor Centre in the Waitākere Ranges, enjoying forested valley views and learning about Māori legends and native flora. Continue to Karekare Falls & Rainforest Walk, a serene cascade accessed via an easy trail through nikau palms and tree ferns, then visit Karekare Beach, where striking black sands and sculpted dunes create a cinematic setting. Next, explore Piha Beach & Lion Rock, an iconic surf spot with the volcanic monolith rising from the shore, plus time for a local café stop. Conclude at Te Waha Point or Mercer Bay Loop, dramatic lookouts offering endless coastal vistas. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking fresh air and scenic escapes from urban Auckland.

Nature and Wildlife Tours Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Car Tours Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 7 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–8
Guide: English
Operated by: Welcome Pickups

Ages: Adults (0–120 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off
Included: Fuel and Tolls
Included: Water
Included: On-board WiFi: WiFi on board
Included: Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
Included: Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
Included: All taxes and handling charges

Not included

Not included: Meals and beverages
Not included: Tips and Gratuities

Itinerary

Arataki Visitor Centre - Waitakere Ranges

one hour

Arataki Visitor Centre (Waitākere Ranges).

Gateway to the Waitākere Ranges with panoramic views, Māori carvings, and forest exhibits.
Karekare Falls

one hour

Karekare Falls & Rainforest Walk.

A short scenic trail through native bush leads to a beautiful waterfall tucked into the forest.
Karekare Beach

2 hours

Karekare Beach.

A wild, cinematic beach framed by cliffs and dunes—famously featured in The Piano.
Piha Beach

2 hours

Piha Beach & Lion Rock.

Iconic black-sand beach with great photo ops, surf culture, and a dramatic volcanic outcrop.
Stop 5

one hour

Te Waha Point or Mercer Bay Loop.

Pause at high coastal cliffs with sweeping views over the Tasman Sea and lush green valleys.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences
M Social Hotel Auckland
The Chancellor on Hobson
SkyCity Hotel Auckland
Crowne Plaza Auckland By IHG
Ramada Suites By Wyndham Victoria Street West
Travelodge Hotel Auckland Wynyard Quarter
City Towers
Grand Millennium Auckland
Adina Auckland Britomart
Legacy Airedale Hotel Auckland
Parnell City Lodge

and 57 more pickup points

Your Welcome Pickups driver will be waiting for you at the selected pickup location and time.

Before your ride, you’ll receive your driver’s details — including their name, phone number, and car information — so you can easily recognize them.

Your driver will arrive on time and be ready to assist you and any special requests before starting your journey.

Please note that our sightseeing tours does not automatically include airport pickup or drop-off. If you wish to start or end your tour at the airport, simply select the option with airport pickup included when booking if available.

Kindly share any special requirements, such as traveling with a service animal or needing extra assistance, when booking your ride. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for you.

Using your ticket

Please show this to your driver.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For 1-3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group
. For 4-5 people: An minivan will be assigned to your group.
For 6-8 people: A spacious van will be assigned to your group.
Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.