Waitakere Rainforest: located on the Tasman Sea, the Waitakere Rainforest can be reached in under an hour from the city centre. Considered Auckland’s premier eco- tourist attraction, the rainforest is a magnificent nature reserve offering an abundance of fascinating indigenous flora and fauna in a setting that will genuinely have you in awe. Local tour operators offer half and full day trips to the reserve or you can make your own way there by private vehicle. Waiheke Island: a 35 minute ferry ride brings you to Waiheke Island, a scenic area that attracts large numbers of visitors during the holiday seasons. Over 40km of scenic beaches are to be found on the island as well as vineyards and wineries where visitors are welcome to come and sample some of the local vintages. Great Barrier Island: hailed as the biggest and most remotely situated of the Hauraki Gulf islands, Great Barrier Island is the ideal place to head to escape the crowds. A two-hour ferry trip from Auckland brings you to this unique natural haven where a variety of leisure pursuits such as surfing, fishing, diving, sea kayaking and mountain biking are available. If you prefer things at a slightly slower pace then check out the stunning beaches, the wildlife sanctuary and the hot pools. Rotorua: hailed as the most popular natural spa in the country, Rotorua is a three-hour drive south of the city of Auckland and attracts large numbers of visitors who come to check out the benefits of what is the most active thermal region in New Zealand. The spas soothing properties have been harnessed by local centres where visitors can pay to bathe in the mineral rich waters while enjoying the pleasant ambience created by the natural and manmade environment. | 
