Excursions in Auckland

“It was a nice experience at the Glenbrook Vintage Railway. It was good that we arrived early, around 5:30 pm, because after that there were long queues for tickets, food stalls, and even Santa. Be really prepared for long queues, even the toilets had lines. There were lots of people lining up for food, especially the beef sausage wiener. We brought our own food but still ended up buying some because there were so many food options to choose from. The train and station were beautifully decorated with Christmas lights, both inside and outside the train, which really added to the festive atmosphere. There was also a short festive balloons display. Riding the vintage steam train and smelling the smoke and steam made the experience feel authentic and memorable.”

“Over looking the Huia bay, this picturesque lookout offers a breathtaking sight of the backwaters in the Waitakere region. A short yet lovely escape place from the city. Ideal to visit in the evenings with friends and family , right before sunset. Visiting this place is totally free of cost with ample parking space available. For groups visiting with toddlers and children below age of 10, it’s better to be careful and monitor while walking towards the viewing deck thought the railings are quite high.”

“Awesome place to be and really nice walking track with great views”

“Jose was our driver and she made the tour. Her passion for New Zealand was contagious. We went to the Wintergardens & her knowledge of the flora was impressive. Then we went to sheep land. We watched a demonstration of the herding dogs & how they work together to corral the sheep to get separated & sheered After we feed the lambs & hand feed the other animals on site we took a seat in their cafe where I had a delicious caramel oat bar & the best New Zealand latte. Off to the honey shack to try different types of honey & shopped at the gift store I highly recommend this tour for different aspects of Auckland area”

“Andy is very professional and knowledgeable. He is easy to contact and quick to respond to queries. Very friendly and approachable. Even though he is no longer based in Devonport we will continue to use him as our agent of choice.”

“Fast efficient service. Package had everything we asked for in it. David listened to everything we wanted and put together a package that suited us perfectly.”

“Mike and team are fantastic. Personable, interested, great advice and great gear. I salivate every time i check in as they have everything and more. Stuff I need and then stuff I want (there is a difference!). This is definitely not like a so called "surf" shop in a mall selling surf brand fashion clothing to teenagers, this is a specialised surf, foil, sail, SUP retailer. Highly recommended.”

“Beautiful reserve that we came by accidentally. Two lovely waterfalls with a steep walk to/from and around 100 steps. Great picnic areas and a toilet”

“Nice quite small beach, parking is a hastle but definently worth it”

“Had the most amazing once in a lifetime experience on this safari. We were booked on a weekend cruise but due to weather it was cancelled but it was super easy to rebook onto another day which went ahead and it was AMAZING!!! We were extremely lucky that day to see hundreds of dolphins in a feeding frenzy where many whales came to feed ( we saw about 10/11 whales that day!) they did say this wasn’t what they see all the time and we were very fortunate. The staff were just as excited as us and they were excellent along with the informative commentary, would 1000% go again and recommend to everyone as they also do it for conservation! This will be a trip I’ll never forget!”

“Sarah and her staff are very welcoming, personable and super friendly and helpful. They get to know their customers needs which is rare in some Cafes. The Chefs cook great tasting meals. The food is always delicious! Coffee, 5-Stars”

“Great experience booking Auckland Scenic Tours for the trip to Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves. Tim, our guide, was the real MVP! Best guide ever. We had a terrific day, 10/10 would recommend!”

“I did The Epic NZ tour for 23 days and it was the best decision I could make! We had awesome Lizzie as a guide the whole time, who was extremely knowledgeable and funny. Heaps of extra activities for everyone. HAKA tours is one of the best way how to explore NZ if you don't have much time! Maybe it's little bit more expensive BUT worth every single penny! I would highly recommend them and would do a tour with them again! I had simply EPIC time on EPIC Island(s).”

“Awesome experience with an amazing skipper Connor who made a difference. Thoroughly loved the short time spent together as we reached our quota in 45 minutes to catching 56 beautifully coloured snappers. Now, thats got to be something to be proud of. Brilliant skipper indeed and would love to have him on our next excursion in the near future. Much appreciation until next time.”

“Speedy lane self service but price is good sometimes lots of cars.”

“Very good and very friendly - took us and our bicycles no problem.”

“Amazing customer service. Friendly & helpful staff. I would recommend Just Fly Travel to anyone looking for reasonable air fares. Thank you”

“This is my first time choosing a group tour and I have to say I am so so so glad I went with Kiwi Experience. I did the Chilled Kiwi and it was brilliant from start to finish. A very special mention to our tour guide Ricky, for making the trip legendary and run so smoothly. I would recommend their small group tours to everyone coming to New Zealand.”

“Exceptional Service. Very Helpful Staffs. Value for money. Definitely Recommend!!!”

“Really helpful and friendly service. The whole process was quick and easy and we got a great value holiday.”

“There are many marine tours departing from Auckland, but among them, I definitely recommend Explore Group New Zealand! There’s no doubt about it. As a resident of Auckland who often goes on various marine tours with my son, I never imagined there would be a tour that offers such meticulous guidance and commentary, plus a walk on Rotoroa Island, all for $155. However, while we’re used to any rough seas, even people who don’t usually get seasick might feel it on this tour. Regarding young children, it can be very dangerous for preschoolers. If you have multiple preschoolers, it’s best to reconsider the trip. My son is used to boats, so he can balance his body with the movement, and I brought a safety belt for him on board. Since it’s a long boat trip, some kids might get bored, and it’s a tough journey where strollers can’t be used and carrying children would be challenging. Just because we enjoyed it doesn’t mean I can recommend it for families with small children. This tour is suitable for children who love the sea, are used to boats, and are physically and mentally robust. If that’s the case, there’s no other company that offers such a wonderful experience at such a low cost for parents and children! For marine tours, it’s Explore Group New Zealand!”

“We recently completed the Silk Road/5 Stans trip. What an intrepid adventure it was! Our host Russell Hoban was outstanding and kept our diverse group of sixteen on track with the help of local guides in each country.We experienced wonderful scenery and fabulous buildings and lots of history. Hotels ranged from the amazing Ritz Carlton in Almaty to simple guest houses. Food was fresh and plentiful and we so enjoyed the new concept of eating in local restaurants chosen by the guides daily. The daily information Russell gave us was invaluable. He deserves a medal for getting us all home in one piece!. Many thanks to all involved with this trip as sometimes plans needed to be amended as we travelled.”

“Everything was great on our tour, starting with the pickup from our hotel. This energetic driver jumped out, and with a great big smile and handshake said I'm George nice to meet you. He was wonderful the entire day, and was very keen on ensuring everyone had what they needed. He prepared us very well with advice and background on all the areas, including plants, birds, local Kiwi customs, etc. The day of our trip was awesome and all attractions were splendid! Would Highly recommend George and the tour his style to anyone!”

“Serene and beautiful waterfall. A peaceful escape from the city hidden away just a five minute walk into the bush. The perfect spot for a walk or quick getaway.”

“I love doing this work . We are passionate about where we are in the world and look forward to hosting you.”

“Robert from NZ-Tourism Tours was so helpful and responded to my questions in a prompt manner. We booked the Kirra 9 day South Island tour and we had an awesome time. It was my 79 year old mother’s first overseas trip. Our driver/tour guide Ian was very knowledgable and personable -he really looked after us. The accommodation was great, the food was good, and the places we visited were breathtaking. I highly recommend NZ-Tourism Tours.”