Six must-do outdoor activities for your West Auckland staycation
The Best Auckland Stay-cation
From thrilling adventures to luxurious spa retreats, there’s always something new to see and do when you head West.
For one of the best Auckland retreats, you can’t go past Waitākere Resort and Spa. With our fantastic location, you’ll feel a world away from the city – and be able to check out some of the best outdoor activities Auckland has to offer.
Here are a few ideas to inspire your staycation itinerary.
1. Waitākere Dam Tramline Track
Located in the Waitākere ranges, this scenic Waitākere dam walk offers a perfect dose of wilderness to your day. This 6.5 kilometre trail runs across an old tramline and has plenty of historic tunnels to explore.
Surrounded by refreshing native flora, this trail can be completed in about 2 hours. It’s not a particularly strenuous hike; it’s just enough to get your muscles warmed up and wash away the stress of big city living.
2. Arataki Nature Trail
The Arataki Nature Trail takes you through an ancient native forest where you’ll learn the names of many tree species native to New Zealand via the helpful information boards along the way.
At the end of this lovely trail, you’ll be rewarded with the spectacular Kauri Cathedral, full of giant Kauri trees that have been standing for over half a century. Don’t forget to spend some time at the Arataki Information Centre for a fascinating peek into the history of the area.
3. Piha Beach
Famous for its dramatic scenery and rugged landscape, Piha Beach is a jewel in Auckland’s crown. The black sand beach is a popular destination for sunbathers and surfers alike, so bring your board or your picnic basket and make a day of taking in the spectacular scenes.
You can take surfing lessons, walk through breathtaking native forests, and even challenge yourself with the climb up to the viewing platform on the iconic Lion Rock!
4. AWOL Canyoning
One of the most exhilarating activities out at Piha is AWOL Canyoning. Set in a steep volcanic rock valley in the hills behind the beach, Piha Canyon is sure to get your adrenaline levels pumping.
In this action-packed adventure, you’ll abseil over the picturesque Kitekite Falls, descending into a narrow canyon unveiling hidden rock pools and gorges. There’s even a cave to explore and several (optional) jumps to satisfy every thrillseeker.
5. Tree Adventures Woodhill
For a true test of your bravery and balance, head on over to Tree Adventures in Woodhill. With an impressive variety of suspended obstacles and ziplines up in the treetops, it’s an adventurer’s paradise.
Featuring 10 different courses with varying difficulty levels, there’s something for novices and pros alike. Unleash your inner Indiana Jones at this exciting outdoor activity – easing into it with a course that’s 3 metres above ground, then working your way up to the more challenging course that’s 14 metres up.
Once you’ve finished monkeying-around in the forest, you’ll be thankful to return to the Wairua Day Spa at Waitākere Resort and Spa for some much-needed R&R.
6. The Shed Collective Markets
Taking the adrenaline down a notch, one of the best ways to spend a sunny day in Auckland is visiting a bustling farmer’s market, and The Shed Collective Farmers Market in Henderson (Parrs Cross Road) ticks all the boxes.
Featuring up to 35 different vendors each Saturday, this market offers a delectable range of local products, including French pastries, Israeli hummus, organic bread, and plenty of tasty preserves. What makes this market unique is that everything at The Shed Collective is entirely plant-based (except for the honey).
So if you’re checking out hotels in Auckland for your next staycation, Waitākere Resort and Spa is a fantastic option. Not only are we a stone’s throw away from some brilliant outdoor walks and activities, but we’re also the perfect place to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the city.