Muriwai’s 5 Best Tours & Experiences

Muriwai is one of those spots in New Zealand where nature’s raw beauty shines. Known for its dramatic black sand beaches, iconic gannet colonies, and rugged coastlines, it offers a variety of memorable tours. Whether you’re chasing sunset views, interested in exploring the wild west coast, or seeking a relaxing thermal soak, Muriwai has something to offer. We especially enjoy the West Auckland: Sunset with Thermal Pool & Wine Tasting for its combination of scenic beach sunsets, mineral-rich waters, and local wines — a perfect way to recover after a day of exploring. Also, the “City & Coast & Country” – A Relaxed Day Tour from Auckland offers a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and cultural highlights, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded day trip.

For those planning their adventures, here’s a quick overview: We’ve picked the best tours based on reviews, uniqueness, and how well they showcase the area. From full-day explorations to intimate eco-tours, each provides a different flavor of Muriwai and its surroundings.

1. West Auckland: Sunset with Thermal Pool & Wine Tasting

At number one on our list, this tour combines a scenic drive with a relaxing soak and a taste of local wines. Over six hours, you’ll start with a pickup from Auckland CBD, whisking you to Muriwai Beach for a guided tour where dramatic sunset colors reflect off the Tasman Sea. The highlight is the visit to Palm Springs Geothermal Pools, where you can learn about warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by native flora — perfect for unwinding after your travels. The tour continues with a visit to a local winery for wine tasting, which pairs well with the beautiful sunset views. It’s a carefully curated experience that balances nature, relaxation, and local flavors. The guide shares insights about the Waitakere Ranges, adding depth to your trip. This tour is particularly suited for travelers craving a peaceful, scenic evening that combines beach, thermal waters, and wine. The reviews praise the experience for its peaceful setting and excellent combination of activities. It’s well worth the $150-200 range for those wanting a memorable, well-paced day.

Bottom Line: Perfect for relaxing travelers who want a touch of luxury after exploring Auckland’s natural beauty.

2. “City & Coast & Country” – A Relaxed Day Tour from Auckland

This 6-hour tour offers a deep dive into the diverse scenery around Auckland, including the stunning West Coast. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive day with plenty of highlights. Traveling in a Jeep or SUV, you’ll start at the Arataki Visitor Centre, where a short walk reveals panoramic views and insights into the native Kauri trees. The tour then moves along to Karekare Falls and Piha Beach, famous for powerful waves and rugged cliffs. The journey continues to Muriwai Gannet Colony, where you can observe thousands of gannets nesting on Motutara Island. A highlight is the visit to Kumeu for lunch, offering local fare in a relaxed setting. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories of Māori legends and regional history, making it both a scenic and cultural experience. Rated 4.8/5, this tour is perfect for those who want a flexible, small-group adventure that mixes nature, history, and local flavors. It’s a great value considering the variety packed into just six hours.

Bottom Line: Best suited for curious travelers who want to see the coast’s natural beauty and learn about New Zealand’s cultural stories.

3. Ultimate Auckland Experience Full Day Tour with Lunch

This full-day tour covers everything from the city’s iconic landmarks to the wild west coast, including a visit to Muriwai Beach. It’s a long, immersive day, ideal for travelers eager to see the highlights with plenty of local flavor. Starting early, you’ll explore Auckland’s volcanoes, then visit Mt Eden for stunning city views. The trip also includes a lunch at Hallertau Brewery, featuring a set menu, making it a true local experience. The day continues with a visit to Devonport and North Head, charming seaside suburbs with historic military sites and scenic viewpoints. Of course, Muriwai is a key stop, where the rugged coast and black sands stand out. The guide shares stories about Auckland’s volcanic past and the landscape’s formation, enriching your understanding. This tour’s long duration (12 hours) offers great value for travelers wanting an in-depth day trip that blends city and nature, with a touch of adventure.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, all-in-one tour of Auckland’s coastal and urban highlights.

4. Auckland: Sunset Tour with Thermal Pool & Wine Tasting

For around six hours, this tour offers a combination of sunset views, thermal waters, and wine, making it a popular choice among travelers seeking relaxation and scenic beauty. The experience begins with a pickup from Auckland CBD, taking you to Muriwai Beach for a guided walk. The sunset at Muriwai is particularly stunning, with vivid colors reflecting off the Tasman Sea. Afterward, you’ll learn about the hot mineral pools for about 1.5 hours, a soothing way to unwind. The tour then visits a local winery for wine tasting, where you can sample New Zealand’s finest vintages. The guides speak Korean, English, and Hindi, adding a personalized touch. Reviewers highlight the peaceful atmosphere and scenic setting as the standout features. If you enjoy nature, wine, and sunset views, this tour offers a memorable, all-in-one experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate outing with a touch of luxury.

Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset lovers and those seeking a relaxing soak combined with regional wine and scenic views.

5. Auckland: Coast to Coast Private Eco Tour

This 8-hour private eco-tour provides a personalized tour of Auckland’s contrasting coasts. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a flexible, tailored experience. The tour takes you to the Muriwai Gannet Colony for a two-hour visit with stunning bird colonies on Motutara Island. It also includes visits to Bastion Point, Mission Bay, with scenic drives along Tamaki Drive, and Achilles Point, offering excellent views of Hauraki Gulf. A highlight is the Victoria Winter Gardens and Auckland Domain, where you’ll see lush gardens and historic sites. The private nature means your guide can customize the stops, making it ideal for travelers wanting a quiet, in-depth look at Auckland’s natural beauty and cultural spots. The tour is suitable for all ages, with family-friendly options, and includes complimentary pick-up and drop-off.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a private, flexible, and eco-focused tour that highlights Auckland’s natural contrasts.

How to Choose the Right Tour

Choosing between these options depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you want a relaxed, scenic evening, the West Auckland Sunset with Thermal Pool & Wine Tasting is excellent. For a full-day adventure blending city sights with the coast, the Ultimate Auckland Experience offers value. Those interested in personalized, eco-friendly exploration should consider the Coast to Coast Private Eco Tour, especially if traveling with family or a small group. If you prefer a guided, cultural overview with plenty of stories, the City & Coast & Country tour hits all the highlights.

Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Consider your preferred pace — whether a leisurely sunset soak or a full-day exploration — and pick an experience that matches your travel style.

Final Thoughts

From relaxing thermal pools to rugged coastlines and cultural insights, Muriwai offers a variety of memorable tours. For a peaceful, scenic experience, the West Auckland Sunset with Thermal Pool & Wine Tasting stands out. For a comprehensive day that mixes city, coast, and countryside, the Ultimate Auckland Experience is a top choice. And for those who want a private, customizable tour, the Coast to Coast Eco Tour is ideal.

Whatever your interests, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these fantastic adventures. Dive into the natural beauty and local flavors of Muriwai — your adventure starts here.