Wilderness Experience half-day nature tour

Running every afternoon the ‘Wilderness Experience’ nature tour is a great introduction to New Zealand nature and visits some stunning scenery of rainforest and Piha’s black sand surf beach. Easy walking tracks and dramatic coastlines are only a short drive from Auckland city center. After being picked up at your hotel our first stop is at a visitor's center at the entrance to the largest native rainforest area around Auckland. The Arataki visitors center has dramatic panoramic views across the rainforest and both of Auckland’s harbors as well as views back to Auckland City. The visitors center is also home to some traditional Māori carvings and your guide will talk about them and explain their significance for the area.Continue on to the lush native rainforest where you walk the easy tracks among giant tree ferns. See and find out about the famous New Zealand silver fern, manuka, and kauri trees as your guide talks about what makes New Zealand's nature so unique. We then move on to experience the power of the rugged west coast. We stop at a stunning viewpoint overlooking Piha beach and the Tasman Sea before going down to the black sand beach. There you get the chance to stroll along with one of the most awe-inspiring beaches the world has to offer and watch the surf waves rolling in.During the afternoon we also include a New Zealand style afternoon tea including biscuits (cookies), manuka honey and tea, and coffee or juice. When time and traffic allow we also go to see an 800-year-old kauri tree.