Waitemata Harbour Tours and Activities

Join an America’s Cup sailing experience aboard an authentic racing yacht on Auckland's Waitemata Harbour. Feel the exhilaration of yachting as you take the helm and participate with the professional crew, or just sit back and soak up the harbor views. No experience necessary.

Cruise the waters of Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in search of whales, dolphins and penguins on a half-day tour from Auckland. You’ll board a spacious catamaran at Viaduct Harbour and hear expert guides share informative commentary about New Zealand’s natural wonders. During the whale and dolphin safari, keep an eye out for six types of whales that frequent these waters, as well as seabirds such as Australasian gannets, petrels and terns.

Sail away on a harbor cruise in Auckland and enjoy a 3-course dinner during a memorable tour of Waitemata Harbour highlights, including the Sky Tower and Auckland Harbour Bridge. Set out aboard a sailing yacht from Viaduct Harbour, then enjoy service in the dining room while at anchor in Westhaven Marina. As evening falls, your expert captain shares informative facts about Auckland and its iconic sights.

Secure a limited ticket to Tiritiri Matangi island, a protected sanctuary for rare and endangered bird species of New Zealand. A 75-minute ferry ride across the Hauraki Gulf brings you to the island preserve, where you have the day to stroll the trails and enjoy the coastline after a ranger orientation. Gain a deeper understanding of Tiritiri Matangi’s role in preserving birdlife with an optional 1.5-hour guided hike.

Enjoy time aboard a sailing yacht on Waitemata Harbour. Your Auckland cruise sets sail from Viaduct Harbour, passing the Auckland Bridge, Westhaven Marina, and Devonport while you listen to informative commentary on the sights. Relax as you take in the views or help the crew sail the vessel—it’s up to you.

See the sights of Auckland on a 3-hour small-group shore excursion in the ‘City of Sails.’ A knowledgeable guide takes you by mini-coach across the Harbour Bridge to tour the city center. You’ll drive along Queen Street and the suburb of Ponsonby, take a stroll at Devonport’s Narrow Neck Beach, visit the Auckland Fish Market and see the city spread out before you from the summit of Mt Victoria. Numbers are limited to 18 people to ensure personalized attention.

Take a 75-minute journey across the Hauraki Gulf aboard the Rotoroa Island ferry. Your round-trip ticket allows you to explore the island’s arts, history and conservation park, including sandy shoreline, hiking trails and an award-winning museum. Opened to the public in 2011, Rotoroa Island was the longtime home to an addiction treatment center run by the Salvation Army. Visit the heritage buildings and a Rotoroa wildlife sanctuary for endangered New Zealand species. Spend about 6 hours at your leisure before returning to Auckland.

While your ship is in port in Auckland, combine sightseeing, a boat cruise and sky-high views from the Sky Tower so you can see the city from all angles. A professional guide points out popular attractions such as Quay Street, the Auckland Museum, and Dominion Parks and Gardens. You’ll visit the Tamaki waterfront and glide under the Harbour Bridge during your 90-minute cruise on Waitemata Harbour. This shore excursion shows you the many sides to Auckland, New Zealand’s premier city.

With limited time to explore Auckland, this morning discovery tour takes in all the highlights. Visit sights including The Domain, Waitemata Harbour, and Queen Street; cross the Harbour Bridge to the beaches of the North Shore, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Devonport and Ponsonby, and take in the views from Mount Victoria.

Pedal along Auckland's scenic waterfront during this bike tour, with your choice of morning or afternoon departure. Leave Auckland's bustling city center and head for the quaint seaside village of Mission Bay, riding on cycle paths past golden sandy beaches en route. Relax on the beach while taking in the salty air and sunshine before following your cycling guide back the way you came. Use of bicycle and helmet is included on this small-group tour of 10 guests.

A five day independent tour departing Auckland daily and taking in most of the key tourism destination in the North Island of New Zealand. You will visit the Bay of Islands, with a tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the historic township of Russell, and a cruise to the famous 'Hole in the Rock'. Your day in Auckland includes a full day sightseeing with both a harbor cruise and admission to the Sky Tower. On day four travel to Rotorua, via Waitomo Glowworm Caves, with a guided tour of the glowworm grotto. Day five includes admission to the main attractions in Rotorua, including Te Puia, the Agrodome, and Rainbow Springs along with a tour of Hobbiton on your return journey to Auckland. The tour includes four nights in 4 star accommodation and all transport and tours listed.

Get from Auckland to Paihia in the Bay of Islands the easy way with this bus transfer pass. The handy pass will save you time and hassle in Auckland, so you can maximize your stay in the beautiful winterless north. Plus, enjoy guided commentary on board the bus, which will tell you all about the history, nature, and culture of the Bay of Islands.