Auckland Day Trip Itinerary: Explore the Best of North Island, NZ 🇳🇿

📍 Mercer Bay Loop Track Just next to Piha, this scenic coastal walk offers breathtaking West Coast views and passes by an important Māori historical site. Only 1-hour drive from Auckland CBD with convenient parking at the trailhead. 🌿 Easy 1-hour return walk—perfect for families and seniors! ✨ Highlights: Cliffside ocean vistas, a charming lookout at the end, and friendly local dogs (met an adorable Westie!). 📍 Piha Beach Famous black-sand beach, just 15 mins from Mercer Bay. The volcanic sand glitters under the sun, with iconic Lion Rock rising from the sea. ⚠️ Tip: Sand gets extremely hot in summer—wear socks or sandals! 📍 Kitekite Falls A 10-min drive from Piha. While the waterfall itself isn’t jaw-dropping, the lush, fairy-tale-like trail (with a small stream crossing!) makes it worth the stop. 📍 Ambury Regional Park On the way back to Auckland, visit this free-entry farm park to get up close with sheep, cows, and other friendly animals—a hit with kids! Why This Trip? ✅ Mix of coastal cliffs, black sand, waterfalls, and farm fun ✅ Easy drives between stops ✅ Free or low-cost activities #NewZealand #AucklandTravel #NorthIslandNZ #PihaBlackSand #AmburyFarm #NZAdventure