West Auckland Activities and Fun Road Trip Stops
You may already know of the world-class tourist attractions and things to do on your visit to Auckland City. But what if we told you West Auckland in particular has some of the best-hidden NZ gems of her own? Support local businesses while spending time enjoying nature and incredible Māori architecture.
We’ve got loads of fun things to do during your road trip in West Auckland, New Zealand. Hire a modern vehicle from RaD Car Hire in West Auckland and get exploring!
Enjoy a day at beautiful West Auckland beaches
Bethells Beach
Also known as Te Henga, this popular west coast stretch of black sand has hosted her fair share of international filmmakers. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore, including a 30-40 metre deep cave at the southern end.
Piha Beach
New Zealand’s most famous surf beach features black sand and stunning views of the rugged west coast.
Get your adventure on and take surf lessons, abseil the Piha canyon, or bring a picnic and soak up some rays.
Karekare Beach
On the way to Piha, turn left off Piha Road and follow the road to Karekare. This peaceful, photogenic spot features tall cliff headlands, large black dunes and powerful waves.
Muriwai Gannet Colony
If you love bird watching, Muriwai Beach is a prime New Zealand spot for seeing gannets. Here, you’ll find around 1200 gannets nesting from August to March. Bring binoculars to see the white fluffy chicks hatching.
Learn to surf at Muriwai Beach
Drive your RaD rental car to the Muriwai Surf School and take some lessons from the professionals. The school is open from 10.30 in the morning to 3 pm. Wetsuit, surfboard and Blokart hire is available here.
For more Information, check out https://www.muriwaisurfschool.co.nz/
Kayaking at Lake Wainamu
Make a detour to one of the best-kept secrets of West Auckland. Visitors can access the lake along the stream walkway from Bethells Road or just hike over the dunes. This is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake or hire a kayak and get exploring.
Skydive Auckland
Escape reality and dive up to 20,000ft with 85+ seconds of freefall while reaching speeds over 200 km/hr. Enjoy a spectacular backdrop of the east and west coast, Great Barrier Island, Waiheke Island and Mt Ruapehu.
Tree Adventures
Test your balance in a tree-top challenge course. Navigate an obstacle course of balancing beams, suspended tunnels, swinging logs, and more than one exciting flying fox. On-site, you’ll find picnic and rest areas, as well as cold drinks and food options. See more information on their website: https://treeadventures.co.nz/
Woodhill Mountain Bike Park
Hit a 100km long, purpose-built mountain biking network winding through sand and native bush. Bring the whole family and book in advance, so the trained staff can choose the best bike for your maximum enjoyment and safety.
Where: Restall Rd, Woodhill, Auckland, NZ.
More Information: https://www.bikeparks.co.nz/
Currently closed under level 3 restrictions
Zaknich Farms Strawberry Gardens
Zaknich Farms offer the juiciest and most affordable strawberries in West Auckland. Bring the family during the pick-your-own season. With free entry, you’ll only pay $6 per kilogram for whatever you collect!
Where: 125 Waitakere Road, Waitakere, NZ.
More Information: https://www.facebook.com/ZakberryStrawberries
Crystal Mountain
Set in the foothills of the Waitakere Ranges, is the peaceful oasis of Crystal Mountain. You'll find New Zealand’s largest selection of rare and exquisite crystals and minerals. Kids will love the themed animal park offering fun pony ride adventures and other interactive activities.
Admission to the gallery is free, with a small charge to visit the museum and farm animals.
Where: 80 Candia Road, Swanson, Waitakere, NZ.
More Information: https://www.crystalmountain.co.nz/
Woodhill Paintball
Grab a mask and suit up in combat style to enjoy the feeling of playing a real-life video game. You’ll find various settings such as the Base Camp where you transform from Average Joe to Squadron Hero.
Where: Woodhill Forest, Auckland, NZ.
More Information: https://www.paintballing.co.nz/paintball-fields/woodhill/
Kite Kite Falls
Kite Kite Falls is located on the western side of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. An easy 30-minute walk will lead you to a spectacular 40-metre cascading waterfall. Don't forget your towel!
Explore and shop at West Auckland's markets
Titirangi Village Market
The Titirangi Village Market is open on the last Sunday of each month. Bring the kids and discover crafts, ceramics, handmade jewellery, and produce. Grab a pastry or two and listen to live music from some of the best folk musicians in Auckland.
Where: Titirangi War Memorial Hall, 500 South Titirangi Rd, Titirangi, NZ
More Information: https://www.facebook.com/titirangivillagemarket/?__xts__=H-
Markets currently closed / postponed due to lockdown.
Blockhouse Bay Village Market
Join Blockhouse Bay businesses and the community at this family-friendly event from 8.30 am every Sunday. Browse artisanal stalls selling handmade crafts, baked treats, flowers, organic produce, and more.
Where: In the village on Blockhouse Bay Road, Auckland West, NZ.
More Information: https://www.facebook.com/Blockhouse-Bay-Village-Market-101729677840826/
Rent a Car with RaD
Got extra time to spend in this incredible part of Auckland, New Zealand? Make sure you visit the Waitomo Caves and the Arataki Visitor Centre. If you like wine tasting, why not join a small group tour to sample award-winning wines in the Henderson Valley?
Grab an incredible rental deal from RaD Car Hire’s New Lynn branch year-round, and set off on your adventure in the wild west of Auckland, NZ. Discover a range of other exciting ideas to add to your New Zealand itinerary on our blog - including more amazing things to do in West Auckland.