Sanctuary Mountain (Mt Maungatautari) & Hamilton Gardens Day trip from Auckland
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About This Experience in Auckland
Why Visit Auckland?
Auckland, New Zealand offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Auckland provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Auckland
The easiest way to reach Auckland is by flying into Auckland Airport (AKL). From the airport, you can take airport shuttles, taxis, rideshare services, or public transportation to reach the city center. Rental cars are also popular for exploring the surrounding areas.
What's Included
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Picnic Lunch
- Hamilton Gardens
- Coffee and/or Tea
What's Not Included
- Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
Cancellation Policy
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Photo Gallery
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup Information
Pickup Option: Pickup available for all travelers
Custom pickup locations may be available. Please contact the supplier for details.
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary
Departing Auckland at 7am you will take a... 10 minutes
Departing Auckland at 7am you will take a pleasant drive south over the Bombay hills into the rich dairy farmland of the Waikato, then turning east. A short stop at an elevated view over the Hauraki plains, with the Kaimai Coromandel range in the distance, makes for a great photo stop.
It’s all flat driving across the plains through... 15 minutes
It’s all flat driving across the plains through farmland as we follow the Kaimai Range to a disused dairy factory for a tea/coffee break. You may like to try the cheese platter.
Our scenic drive to Sanctuary Mountain continues to... 20 minutes
Our scenic drive to Sanctuary Mountain continues to impress as we catch up with the Waikato river, before stopping in the rural town of Arapuni and a short walk over a swing bridge to view the Arapuni hydro electric power station. The first on the Waikato dated 1929.
We cross over the dam and it’s a... 1 hour 30 minutes
We cross over the dam and it’s a short drive to Mt Maungatautari (Sanctuary mountain). A mainland ecological island created by a 47km pest proof fence, Sanctuary Mountain is the largest of it’s type in the world. Join an informative 1½ hour guided tour about many of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered plants, insects, birds, fish, geckos, frogs, bats and flora that co-exist in this spectacular environment, on one of the many well maintained tracks to the 16m viewing tower. A picnic lunch is included here.
On to lake Karapiro, where we cross over... 10 minutes
On to lake Karapiro, where we cross over the dam of the second hydro-electric power station on the Waikato River, dated 1947 for a photo stop, with The majestic 797m Mt Maungatautari (Sanctuary mountain) looming in the background.
Then on to The Hamilton Gardens, awarded International Garden of The Year 2014 1 hour
Then on to The Hamilton Gardens, awarded International Garden of The Year 2014. Not technically a botanical garden, but rather 21 themed gardens representing the art, beliefs, lifestyles, and traditions of different civilizations or historical garden styles.
Our drive back to Auckland takes you through...
Our drive back to Auckland takes you through the city of Hamilton, some small townships and past the Sacred Maori burial ground of Mt Taupiri.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How do I book this tour?
Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.
