The Globe Editorial Team
There’s an art to planning the perfect day trip from Auckland. You have to know what you want to do and who you’re going with. Not to mention, you want to avoid the overcrowded tourist spots! That’s why we’ve compiled this list of hidden gems near Auckland.
Explore four hidden gems only the locals really know about so you can make your day perfect.
Fo Guang Shan Temple
First is a hidden gem tucked quietly near Botany Town Centre in East Auckland. Fo Guang Shan Temple is a practising Buddhist temple that allows the public to enter the grounds, enjoy the incredible scenery, and even participate in events all year round. This quiet, gentle place feels completely removed from the hustle and bustle of Auckland’s busy roads.
If you’re fond of meditation, this is the place to go. You can easily find a spot to meditate on the grounds or even enjoy a spot of tea at the vegetarian café on-site.
Chapter Book & Tea Shop
Speaking of a cup of tea, here’s another café that isn’t as renowned as it should be! Chapter Book & Tea Shop is nestled in the village of Mt Eden, just outside the borders of Auckland City proper. The second you walk in, you’re greeted with shelves and shelves of books in all different genres, ready for you to curl up in a corner and disappear into a page-turner for the day.
Perhaps the best part is behind the café counter, though. This shop houses a massive collection of loose-leaf teas ready to be bought by the gram. Green, black, herbal, fruit, and more, there’s no tea you won’t find under this roof. Enjoy a cup while you read to test if you enjoy a particular variety or rely on an old favourite.
Kariotahi Beach
A big part of travelling around New Zealand is chasing the best scenery this country has to offer. And what better scenery to chase than a beach at golden hour?
Kariotahi Beach is about 15 minutes outside of Waiuku, a tiny little town about an hour’s drive from Auckland city. It’s well worth a day trip, with plenty of delicious spots to eat and rolling green pastures on the way. The best part, though? The beach. The wide, spanning black sand shores of Kariotahi Beach are undoubtedly host to one of the best, if not the best, sunset views in the country.
The uninterrupted sea stretches all the way to the horizon, and when the sun starts to sink, the entire area lights up pure gold. Take a simple picnic to enjoy some food while basking in all that beauty. It’s worth the drive.
Remedy Coffee
Finally, a hidden spot only Auckland locals frequent is Remedy Coffee. This isn’t any old coffee shop. Peering up the road at the base of the Sky Tower, Remedy has a comfy interior with plush old chairs and small tables meant for intimate gatherings. Stressed-out students and unwinding workers alike can find refuge here amongst the thrum of the city, and this community-focused café will always have a place for a hungry local.
Aside from the delicious coffee and food on offer, you’ll love the wall of board games you can pull down at your leisure, an old school arcade machine to unwind, and even a book exchange for the avid readers out there.
As you can see, there are many beautiful spots to dedicate your day trips from Auckland. The right destination depends on what you want from your day, so put these hidden gems in Auckland on your calendar and pass them on to your fellow adventurers.
