Best drives around Auckland with Mint Rentals

21 November, 2024

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Auckland's most scenic routes, where every twist and turn unveils breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems.

 

1. The Auckland Domain

The perfect option for the Central Auckland bound inhabitant, the Auckland Domain is a scenic oasis in a bustling area of business, shopping and traffic-prone neighboring areas. While some may cry 'it's only a short drive', we would argue it's just long enough (and circular, allowing for technically infinite driving) to appreciate the tree-lined glades, water features, rogue packs of geese, tranquil flower beds and other such features. The slalom style downhill drive to the tennis stadium is another bonus feature for those with ABS (which the Peugeot has, along with a 5 Star Euro NCAP safety rating), and the Museum Hill, Winter Gardens and ice-cream outlets ensure plenty of mini-activities to stop. For those needing a sanity escape without pressuring the clock, the Domain can't be missed.

2. The drive to Matakana/Omaha and the surrounding areas

Past Albany, beyond Massey University and over the hills of Silverdale lies a magical place - a series of beaches, towns and micro-climates that screams DEVELOP ME. Luckily for us, suburbia has still not encroached heavily (although Omaha seems to be growing at pace) and there are a great many superb areas to visit, roads to enjoy and vistas to soak up - from Goat Island, to the Matakana Markets, Waimana Point (pictured above), Ascension and Brick Bay vineyards and a great deal more besides, there's something to be said for driving along rows of vines one minute, and pristine beaches the next - ah Auckland, you've got it all.

3. Mission Bay

Stretching the length of the Central Auckland easterly waterfront, the Tamaki Drive cruise to Achilles Point is a hallmark of the 09 region. Numerous beaches, sweeping views of Devonport, Rangitoto and other Gulf islands, flash houses to gawk at and plentiful options for a bite to eat (or lets be realistic, an ice cream stop-off) dot its length - Mission Bay, Kohi, St Heliers and more. So too, green space is abound with parks and reserves liberally spread along its length - Bastion Point and Achilles Point being the two standout options, providing many an Instagram or Facebook opportunity. The perfect laid back cruise strip, it's an easy location to kick back, relax and reduce those stress levels (particularly when combined with a visit to Cafe on Kohi or a stroll along Mission Bay beach).

4. Drive to Piha, Bethells and Karekare beaches

Whilst fairly all encompassing, we're including the West Coast drives to Piha, Bethells Beach and Karekare as one - given their connection by the aptly named 'Scenic Drive'. With numerous beaches (including a few secluded ones), waterfalls, cafes, scenic stop-offs and more, this region is resplendent with things to see and do.  The windy roads up into the Waitakeres make for an engaging drive, while the vistas as you crown the peaks and begin your trip down are second to none.  The perfect spot for a day trip on a beautiful day.

5. Drive to Huia, Cornwallis and Whatipu

A little less known, Whatipu lies at the very bottom of Burnett Head and as seen above, is home to some truly spectacular countrysides - in fact it's hard to believe it's real (yes, it is). How good is it you might ask? Well, so good, that JT took Jessica Biel there for a jaunt and bragged about it on Instagram - and you know he's someone to follow in the footsteps of. And whilst Huia might not have a whole lot going on (with only one store), it's nonetheless home to some beautiful locales and lookouts. Of all our suggestions, we consider this to be the most overlooked - so embrace it and discover this untouched piece of Auckland's countryside

 

6. Visit Kawakawa Bay (via Maraetai)

Home to Splore, the Polo and the Clevedon Markets, the Eastern spread of Auckland's ruralness is a veritable goldmine of spots to visit and both coastal and bush roads to journey along. For the intrepid explorer, a jaunt along both the Maraetai Coast Road and Clevedon-Kawakawa Road offer a stunning stretch of highway with picturesque views to the Hauraki Gulf islands and more beaches than you can imagine (Maraetai's Magazine Bay, and those beyond Waiti Bay reachable only by foot are our favourites). It's coastal relaxation at its finest, which can be supplemented with a different approach depending on what you fancy for the destination - the Clevedon Markets or Thorp Quarry waterfall both offer fantastic ways to spend a half day. Regardless of your choice, the Peugeot's spacious boot will come in handy, be it polo gear or a well-balanced picnic.

7. Drive to Manukau Heads and do the walk.

We couldn't forget the South when considering some of Auckland's best drives - particularly with a destination like the Manukau Heads Lighthouse on offer. While the journey may be a little long, the rolling green fields make for an English countryside scenario, topped by your arrival at a rather mixed bag piece of coast - warm, inviting and picturesque one moment, but easily switchable to rugged power should a storm or bad weather roll in. Waiuku makes a convenient stop-off for the required picnic, and the Peugeot's safety features come into play as the roads become rather adventurous towards the end. Either way, it's a spot worth seeing - and with Awhitu Park, then Big Bay or Orua Bay, you can easily make a day of it.

8. Enjoy our very diverse Queen St, Auckland CBD

The place to hit on a Saturday night. Sure, it’s crass, tacky and a hub of boyracers and cereal box cars, but hot damn if it isn’t still a bit of inane entertainment. Drop it into low gear, bop-bop-bop along and enjoy the sights, lights and action of New Zealand's main city street. Marvel at its splendor and glory, stop off at Wendy's or Subway, gawk at the Hare Krishna - Queen Street really does have it all, no matter if it's night or day. Unfortunately due to the relative short length, you may find yourself having to do a couple of laps - no matter, you're in no rush - you're just crusin.

9. Walk up Mount Eden Summit

Enjoy this 2.1-km loop trail near Auckland, Auckland. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 37 min to complete. This is a very popular area for running and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

10. Drive north to Scenic Orewa Beach

Orewa has something for everyone, from its gorgeous beach which features kiteboarding, surfing, and long walks, to nearby nature parks and fun-filled activities like horse riding and cycling. There are many nearby beaches, walkways, and regional parks within 30 30-minute drive of Orewa with some beautiful coastal views. Get out, put on your shoes, and experience New Zealand’s great outdoors! Wenderholm Regional Park, Long Bay, Shakespear Bay & Shakespear Open Sanctuary