Exploring Auckland: The Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway

Are you looking for the perfect escape from the bustling city of Auckland? Look no further than the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway, a 6.5-hour tour that takes you on a journey through seaside towns, local wineries, award-winning restaurants, and exquisite natural landscapes. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring all that this tour has to offer and everything you need to know to make the most of your Matakana adventure.

What is the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway tour?

The Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway tour is a day-long excursion from Auckland that showcases the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s North Island. Beginning with a scenic drive through the seaside town of Orewa, the tour takes you through local wineries where you can sample a variety of fine wines and get an insight into the grape varietals thriving in the fertile soils. Following the wine tasting, you will have lunch in an award-winning restaurant that serves locally sourced ingredients, and then you’ll savor locally made organic ice cream and chocolate. The tour also offers an opportunity to taste native Matakana honey, explore beautiful beaches, and bask in the breathtaking views of the coast.

What are the details of the tour?

The Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway tour is a 6.5-hour excursion, starting at 10:30 a.m. and ending at 5:00 p.m. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off from the Auckland Central Business District, bottled water, and wine tastings at two local wineries. The tour also includes lunch at an award-winning restaurant, the opportunity to taste locally made ice cream and chocolate, and a stopover at a native Matakana honey stand. Additionally, the tour offers beautiful scenic views of the Orewa coastline and several gorgeous beaches. This tour is perfect for both first-time visitors to Auckland who want an introductory experience of the city’s surroundings and for those who are nature lovers and want to explore more of New Zealand’s countryside.

Why take the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway tour?

The Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway tour offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking an escape from the city to discover the stunning beauty of Auckland’s coastal regions. You will discover the hidden gems of New Zealand’s North Island through an expertly designed itinerary led by local and knowledgeable guides who will take you on a journey through the rich, fertile vineyards, and food markets of the region. You’ll get the opportunity to taste fine wines, locally sourced ingredients, organic ice cream, chocolate, and native Matakana honey while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the region. With its picturesque beaches, lush vineyards, and ample opportunities to take fantastic pictures and make everlasting memories, the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Auckland.

How to book the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway Tour?

Booking the tour is easy; you can do it right here: Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway Tour. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes, fine wines, and food markets on this unforgettable day tour. Book now and experience the best of Auckland’s scenic coastal region!

Conclusion

The Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway tour is an opportunity to explore the mesmerizing natural beauty of Auckland’s countryside, discover exquisite wine-tasting experiences, taste locally sourced food, and create everlasting moments. This tour is a perfect getaway from the bustling city life and an ideal opportunity to explore the hidden gems of New Zealand. Make sure to book your Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway tour today and experience a day packed with incredible views and unforgettable experiences.

Exploring Auckland: The Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, has a lot to offer visitors. From stunning beaches to lush forests, there is no shortage of things to see and do here. But for those looking for a slower pace, a getaway to the Matakana coast is the perfect option. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an incredible trip to this scenic coastal getaway.

Local Attractions

Matakana is a quaint, charming town with plenty of unique attractions to explore. Start your trip with a visit to the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday morning. Browse local produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade bread, and other goodies from local producers.

Once you’ve filled up on delicious food, head over to Brick Bay Sculpture Trail. This outdoor art gallery features contemporary installations from New Zealand and international artists. The trail is an easy, well-marked 2km walk through beautiful native bush.

For a taste of local culture, take a trip to the Matakana Country Park, home to the Matakana Cinema. This boutique cinema is housed in a historic church and showcases a range of films, from indie flicks to family-friendly blockbusters.

Dining Spots

Matakana is quickly becoming known as a foodie destination, with plenty of great dining spots to choose from. One of the most popular is the Matakana Market Kitchen, located in the heart of the village. This rustic eatery serves up modern New Zealand cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

For a great view with your meal, head over to the Sawmill Brewery. This award-winning microbrewery is housed in a converted sawmill and has a large outdoor deck overlooking the stunning Matakana River. The menu features wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and other pub fare, all made using locally-sourced ingredients.

If you’re looking for something sweet, be sure to stop by Chocolate Brown. This artisanal chocolate shop produces small-batch chocolates and truffles using only the finest ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

One of the things that makes Matakana so special is its rich cultural heritage. To learn more about the area’s history, head over to the Morris and James Pottery. This iconic New Zealand pottery studio has been creating handmade ceramics for over 40 years. Take a guided tour of the workshop and see how the pieces are made, or simply browse the shop for a unique souvenir.

For a taste of the performing arts, check out the Matakana Hall. This historic building hosts a range of events throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and dance performances. Be sure to check the schedule and book your tickets ahead of time.

Local History

Matakana has a rich history that dates back to the early Maori settlements. To learn more about this fascinating past, visit the Matakana and Districts Museum. This small but informative museum is housed in a historic school building and features exhibits on Maori culture, early European settlers, and the area’s agricultural past.

For a more immersive experience, book a tour with Mana tours. This local tour operator offers guided tours of the nearby Goat Island Marine Reserve, as well as cultural tours that explore the history and traditions of the Maori people.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’ve got a bit more time in Matakana, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to enjoy. Head over to the Tawharanui Regional Park, located just a short drive from Matakana. This stunning park features rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and native forest. Hike one of the many walking trails, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the stunning scenery.

Another great option is a trip to the Te Hana Te Ao Marama Cultural Centre. This unique museum showcases the history and culture of the local Maori people and features a range of interactive exhibits and cultural demonstrations.

In conclusion, Matakana is a unique and charming getaway just a short drive from Auckland. Whether you’re a foodie looking for great dining spots, a culture buff interested in local history, or an outdoor enthusiast keen to explore the stunning coastal scenery, Matakana has something for everyone.