Outdoor Activities in Auckland

Visit the Waitakere Ranges on an easy day trip from Auckland, including a 4- to 5-hour guided forest walk among New Zealand's ancient kauri trees to a hidden waterfall and cliffs, black sand beaches and native sub-tropical rainforest. The vast stretch of rocky outcrops and western coastline belonging to the Waitakere Ranges Regional Parkland lies only 40 minutes outside the city. See views of Manukau Harbour and amble along the shoreline of a black-sand beach overlooking the Tasman Sea, then refuel with a picnic lunch.

Experience the thrill of SkyWalk in Auckland, peering over an exterior ledge 630 feet (192 meters) up the Sky Tower. Take a walk on the wild side as you're led by an expert guide while securely fastened to safety lines. Get a bird's-eye view over the city and Hauraki Gulf, and maybe even attempt a few daredevil tricks "” if your adrenaline isn't already pumping. A ticket to the Sky Tower observation deck is included, and photos and video of your SkyWalk are available to purchase.

If you're planning to hike in the Marlborough Sounds, this local boat service ensures easy round-trip transport from Picton to the Queen Charlotte Track. Choose from three self-guided walks of varying length and challenge. Hop on the boat in the morning to the start of your route at Ship Cove, Endeavor Inlet or Torea Bay, then be picked up at the other end of your hike in the late afternoon. Enjoy complimentary coffee and tea on board as you take in the natural beauty of Queen Charlotte Sound. 

Auckland bridge bungy jumping is the ultimate thrill "” an unforgettable New Zealand experience. Suspended over Waitemata Harbour, you'll leap from the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Take an exclusive bridge walk to the purpose-built Bungy Pod and feel the adrenaline as you plunge 131 feet (40 meters) toward the water. Just try to keep your eyes open so you can enjoy the views while airborne!

Soar through the treetops of Waiheke Island on a three-course zipline tour with aerial views of Hauraki Gulf. After a quick ferry from Auckland, your half-day tour of Waiheke starts with a brief overview of the idyllic island by minivan and ends with an interpretive bushland walk. Numbers are limited to a maximum of 12 participants to ensure a more personalized experience in a small group.

Explore the rustic Kaikoura countryside by quad bike on this action-packed off-road adventure. You're driven from Christchurch through the eastern landscapes of the South Island to Kaikoura, where you'll take the helm in your own all-terrain vehicle, following your guide in a caravan after some free time to explore the town. Motor over a backcountry route of winding trails, grassy slopes and the Haumuri Bluffs with views of the Pacific Ocean.

Leap from Auckland's Sky Tower, and you'll achieve SkyJump Auckland bragging rights, Adrenaline junkies can get their fix by falling 630 feet (192 meters) straight down from the base jump, located at the observation tower. This exhilarating SkyJump from New Zealand's tallest man-made structure includes all equipment and a safety briefing with a professional jump master. Look out over the city streets and Hauraki Gulf - that is, if you can keep your eyes open.