Joanna James
Ensconced by oceans and islands providing awesome views, Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand. Due to the array of harbours, Auckland is called the city of sails. Complementing this unique position are the amazing green vistas and incredible beauty one must savour by exploring Auckland.
A visit to Waiheke Island is a favourite tour done by visitors from the best hotels in Auckland, as this island is famed as New Zealand's Island of Wine. As you plan the visit to Waiheke, arrange a trip to the other end of the island to explore the Stony Batter Path. Through grass trails as well as well maintained gravel roads crossing even private property this path takes you through a canopy of Taraire groves, interesting rock formations and stunning views of nature. The remains of the army base during the Second World War are visible with tunnels, ruins of buildings and gun emplacements, A great hike taking you back in time to do in the company of others.
The newest and the only volcanic island in New Zealand at present, Rangitoto emerged from the sea around six centuries ago, and from whichever location you view it, at 260 metres at the highest point it stretches out in the same iconic triangular shape beckoning locals and visitors. With only 8 kilometres from Auckland, a short ferry ride gets you to the island which is another joy experienced by guests from Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences who visit Rangitoto. Once there don't fail to do the summit walk. Gaze at the native trees and lava fields whilst around your trail the breathtaking view of Waitemata Harbour will energize you. Reach the summit for an exhilarating experience.
This is a walking track suitable for visitors with varying walking abilities, a track loved by families with children as it is easy, dog friendly and gives an enchanting glimpse into the beauty of the waterfall. Situated in proximity to the Karekare beach and provides ample space in which to walk, runabout, fly a kite or walk a dog. Another attraction is the shallow pool which is simply inviting and is safe for even novices. This is an ideal track to visit for a day out with a picnic lunch.
With only a 20 minute drive from Auckland, this enormous park is a haven for hikers, bikers and runners. A range of walks can be picked up to your liking from as short as 20 minutes to longer ones, such as stream trails, forest trails and even a bridal path walkway. Explore and enjoy to your heart's content.
On the rugged west coast of Auckland, Te Henga is in the Waitakere Ranges running from southern Bethells Beach to Muriwai in the north. The terrain along the 10-kilometre track is varied providing anticipation and interest to the hikers whilst the tracks along the cliff tops simply take your breath away, with the sheer unrivalled beauty of the coastal views.
Do this popular trail which includes hiking, birding, and mountain biking and is considered an easy one to complete covering a little over 6 kilometres. On average taking about one hour and 45 minutes. Enjoy the laid back countryside, rich farmland and the beauty of nature all around you.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
