Get your adrenaline flowing in the City of Sails

The dynamic Waitematā Harbour dominates Auckland city, providing a wealth of opportunity for outdoor adventure. Sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, waka ama (traditional outrigger canoeing), kitesurfing, and swimming are all possible in and around the jade-green waters of the harbor and Hauraki Gulf. The east and west coasts offer up wave after wave for surfers, providing year-round opportunities for seasoned wave riders and summer fun for fair-weather thrill seekers. Some of the North Island’s best mountain biking — a sport that comes into its own in the cooler months — is within easy reach of the city center. Adventure, adrenaline, and outdoor action all await on Auckland’s doorstep.

SPRING, SUMMER & FALL

SET SAIL

Yachting-obsessed Auckland is known as the City of Sails, and has twice hosted the America’s Cup — the longest-established sporting challenge in the world, and one of the wealthiest. Its billionaire supporters pour millions into building high-tech, high-speed racing yachts with the aim of claiming the ultimate prize, which was first contested in 1851. For a taste of what it’s like to crew these phenomenal racing machines, climb aboard an America’s Cup yacht, put your muscles to the test on a grinder, wrap your hands around a winch, or simply let the experts do the work while you enjoy the two-hour Waitematā Harbour experience.

VOLCANO ISLAND

The most obvious reminder that Auckland resides on a volcanic field is the remarkable Rangitoto Island, a natural icon that dominates Waitematā Harbour. At about 600 years old, Rangitoto is Auckland’s youngest volcano and has an -almost symmetrical crater that rises 850 feet to its peak. There are a couple of ways to reach the dormant volcano, explore its history and geology, and climb the summit for 360-degree views back to the city and across the Hauraki Gulf. You can take the 25-minute ferry trip from Auckland Ferry Terminal or kayak across, which will take about an hour from Okahu Bay. Hire a kayak at Fergs , or join their Rangitoto Volcano Adventure for a guided harbor crossing and summit climb.

WAVE RIDER

Auckland is located on a narrow isthmus, which makes the sea readily accessible and places its diverse coastlines within easy reach. Piha is the city’s most famous surf destination and only a 50-minute drive from the city center. On a clear, calm day, the perfect beginner’s swell reliably rolls in, providing pristine conditions that you want to last forever. At the other end of the scale, Piha can quickly turn to something only the pros would contemplate. Accessing rips that jettison them to premium position out the back, they go for swells that on a big day are the domain of the brave, and are awe-inspiring to witness from the shore.

From the dark volcanic sands of the west coast, the east coast is a complete contrast with its white beaches and less volatile swells. From Orewa to Omaha, you’ll find conditions that are suitable for everyone from beginners through to the big kahunas.

HARBOR PLUNGE

The idea of an adrenaline rush in New Zealand is inextricably linked to the bungee jump, a uniquely Kiwi creation. Auckland is home to the only ocean jump in the country — and it all takes place from a local landmark, the Auckland Harbour Bridge at Westhaven. From the 130-foot-high viewpoint, the harbor and city views are the other highlight of this two-hour experience. Take the plunge and dip your hands in the cool water. Or, for an even more adrenaline-packed punch, combine your bunge experience with a SkyJump, SkyWalk, and Bridge Climb — you’ll be fearless and full of bragging rights (and Instagram moments) for years.

FALL, WINTER & SPRING

IN THE FOREST

New Zealand is a mountain -biking mecca that draws enthusiasts from all over the world. Woodhill Mountain Bike Park is Auckland’s best adventure playground — a sprawling forest that’s only 40 minutes from the central city. From easy scenic trails that cater for beginners, the offering scales up to endless challenge-packed trails for intermediate and experienced riders, right through to an airfield dirt-jump centre for the dangerously daring. With more than 55 fast, flowy, and technical trails to explore, you can spend an entire day out here and rarely encounter another rider once you get beyond the car park. Hire bikes on-site, book in for professional instruction, and try out the Wednesday evening sessions when the park closes after dark.