Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway from Auckland
If you’re planning a trip to Auckland and are looking for a break from city life, try the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway from Auckland – a 6.5-hour tour that will take you on a delightful journey through some of the region’s best foodie destinations.
What is the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway?
This tour is a small group experience that starts in Auckland’s Central Business District (CBD). On this tour, you’ll get to indulge in some of New Zealand’s finest cheeses, wines, honey, and chocolates while also enjoying the stunning scenery of the Matakana region.
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Auckland and taken on a scenic drive through the seaside town of Orewa to the Waiwera Mineral Springs. Stop and sample some of the local products along the way. Taste Puhoi Valley cheese, sample delicious wines at the Omaha Bay Vineyard, enjoy a gourmet lunch at an award-winning restaurant, and get close to busy bees working in their wall hives at the Matakana Valley Apiaries.
The tour is conducted by a driver/guide and caters to small-sized groups, ensuring a personalized experience with lots of attention from your guide.
What’s included in the tour?
This tour includes several delightful experiences, such as:
- Visit to Puhoi Valley Cheese company and tasting of their award-winning cheeses
- Taste a range of white and red wines, produced in Matakana Vineyard at Omaha Bay Vineyard
- Gourmet lunch at an award-winning local restaurant
- Visit to the Matakana Valley Apiaries to taste native Matakana honey and observe busy bees working in their wall hives
- Taste locally-made organic ice cream and chocolate
- Round-trip transportation from Auckland CBD hotels and accommodations
What to expect on the tour?
When you book this tour, you can expect to:
- Be collected from your hotel in Auckland CBD by your driver/guide
- Enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside to Waiwera Mineral Springs
- Sample cheeses at the award-winning Puhoi Valley Cheese company
- Visit Omaha Bay Vineyard to enjoy wine tasting
- Indulge in a gourmet lunch at a locally renowned restaurant
- Visit Matakana Valley Apiaries for honey tasting
- Taste locally-made organic ice cream and chocolate
- Return to Auckland CBD after the tour
What you should know before you book
- This tour requires a minimum of two people to operate
- The tour requires a moderate amount of walking
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible
- The minimum age for this tour is 18 years old as there will be alcohol tasting during the tour
- Dress code is smart casual
Booking and Cancellation Policy
You can book this tour through the Viator website, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour or fail to show up, you will not receive a refund.
Why you should take this tour?
There are several reasons why the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway should be on your Auckland itinerary:
- You’ll get to escape the hustle and bustle of Auckland and explore some of the natural beauty of the North Island.
- You’ll sample an array of locally produced cheeses, wines, honey, chocolate, and ice cream that are unique to this region.
- You’ll enjoy an award-winning gourmet lunch at one of the best local restaurants and taste some of New Zealand’s best wine.
- You’ll travel in a small group and receive personalized attention from your guide.
Conclusion
Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway is an experience that offers one of the best options for touring New Zealand’s North Island. You’ll experience local foodie destinations, such as vineyards, cheese factories, honey makers, and gourmet restaurants, while also taking in some of the region’s stunning natural landscapes.
To book this tour, visit Viator and indulge yourself in the local delicacies of this beautiful region of New Zealand.
An Insider’s Guide to Matakana – New Zealand’s Coastal Gem
Matakana, a picturesque coastal town located just an hour’s drive north of Auckland, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. With its peaceful beaches, lush vineyards, and laid-back lifestyle, Matakana offers a unique getaway experience from the bustling city life. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Matakana beyond the usual tourist spots.
Local Attractions
While Matakana’s white-sand beaches and Goat Island marine reserve are popular tourist attractions, there’s much more to discover. Head to the Matakana Country Park and experience its collective of small businesses, including a playground, animal farm, and an indoor play area. If you’re into vintage cars, visit the Morris & Watson Classic Car Museum to see their incredible collection of cars, including some rare models. Don’t forget to make a stop at the famous Matakana Markets that take place every weekend, where you can taste the local produce, browse handmade crafts, and listen to live music.
Dining Spots
Matakana has a thriving food scene, with locally produced wine and cheese being the highlights. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Brown store, famous for their handmade chocolates and gelato. Try the local wine at one of the many wineries, like Ascension Vineyard, where you can indulge in their signature Charcuterie board while enjoying the stunning views. You must also try the Matakana Oysters at Oyster & Chop Shack, enjoyed best with a glass of local Sauvignon Blanc. An excellent breakfast spot is Rusty Pelican, where you can try their famous Eggs Benedict while overlooking the spectacular views.
Cultural Experiences
Matakana prides itself on preserving its traditional Maori heritage. Visit the Morris & James Pottery and take a tour to learn about the ancient art of pottery-making and sculpting. Also, check out the Matakana Village Pub, which has a Maori carved 4.5-meter canoe hanging above its bar. The art lover in you cannot miss the Matakana Art Gallery, showcasing local and international artists’ exceptional work.
Local History
Matakana is steeped in history, with evidence of early Maori settlement and colonial history visible throughout the town. Take a stroll through the Matakana Heritage Trail, including The Matakana Courthouse, Matakana Cemetery, and Matakana War Memorial Hall, to learn about the town’s rich history. Also, visit the Statue of Captain Arthur Levy, who fought in the Boer War and was born in Matakana.
Off-the-beaten-path suggestions
If you want to experience Matakana differently, head to Tawharanui Regional Park, located just a ten-minute drive from Matakana. It offers breathtaking scenery, stunning white-sand beaches, and an abundance of wildlife. You can go on a guided walk, bird watch or visit the Tawharanui Marine Reserve for an unforgettable snorkelling experience. Another interesting place to visit is The Sculptureum, an award-winning world-class gallery featuring an extensive collection of contemporary art.
In conclusion, Matakana is an idyllic coastal town packed with hidden gems. When you visit Matakana, stray off the beaten path and experience the town from the inside out. There’s much to discover, so keep an open mind and embrace everything that this charming coastal town has to offer.
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