From Long Bay to the Pukekohe

From Long Bay to the Pukekohe, the region of Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau and its surrounds holds a range of delights, waiting for you to discover. This vast area is as big as it is diverse, and it’s filled with all kinds of experiences for you to explore as you traverse the heart of the North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui. Pick up your Thrifty rental car keys from the branch in North Harbour and start your engines, because adventure awaits!

Embrace the Greenery of Long Bay

From the Thrifty branch in North Harbour, head up to the northernmost tip of the Auckland area and spend some time exploring the North Shore suburb of Long Bay. Nestled into the coast, this is where the lush landscape meets the sweeping blue ocean. The Long Bay Regional Park is a gem in the crown of jewels of this area and is a great place to start your ultimate adventure. Hike along the headland of the park and head out on a walk along the Long Bay Coastal Walk to take in some of the stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf. The park has picnic tables and shaded areas for you to relax on at lunchtime, and the flat plains of lush grass make it the perfect spot to throw a frisbee. For when you’re itching for a bit more of a thrill, go down to the adjoining beach and take a dip in the ocean or hire a kayak to make your own adventure atop the water.

A Seaside Escape in Devonport

You can’t spend time in Auckland’s North Shore/Te Whenua Roa ō Kahu without checking out the laid back seaside village of Devonport/Te Hau Kapua. This quaint coastal suburb delivers all the luxuries of a seaside escape with all the conveniences of being close to the city. Devonport is home to a number of idyllic white-sanded beaches that make for the perfect place to relax in the sun and take a dip in the turquoise waters. Check out the popular Cheltenham Beach, the iconic Devonport Beach, or the calm Narrow Neck Beach. For the best views in town, drive to Mount Victoria and summit the hill to discover a panoramic perspective of the region from above. While the hike is only short, it’s sure to stretch your legs and delight you with a sweeping skyline of Auckland’s CBD from across the water. When your stomach starts to rumble, head down to Victoria Road and wander along the shops on this historic strip to find the perfect cafe to satisfy that craving.

Explore South Auckland

Wind down through the Auckland region and make sure to stop by South Auckland. You wouldn’t know it from looking at it, but South Auckland is home to a massive volcano field of yesteryear. While these ancient phenomena that crowd the area are all extinct, the volcanoes make for the perfect playground. One of the youngest volcanoes in the region is the Maungarei/Mount Wellington volcanic peak and provides the perfect hike to work up a sweat. You’ll be rewarded with incredible views at the summit, and you’ll also be able to tell your mates that you’ve climbed a volcano! If you’re looking for a dose of adrenaline in South Auckland, make sure to check out the adventure park at Manukau’s Rainbow’s End. A 9.3 hectare theme park with over twenty rides and attractions, Rainbow’s End is the perfect way to kill an afternoon.

Adventure Further in Pukekohe

The adventure doesn’t stop there! Drive to the suburb of Pukekohe in Auckland’s south and explore the offerings of this Kiwi country town and its surrounding areas. There’s a bunch of hiking trails and walking tracks to tackle but be sure to check out the town’s favourite of Pukekohe Hill. Part of the South Auckland volcanic field, Pukekohe Hill will reward the steep climb to the summit of the slope with spectacular views of Pukekohe and the countryside that envelopes it. For when you want to cool off, head out to Wrights Watergardens and indulge in a swim in the crystal clear waters of Mauku Waterfall. These gardens are also the perfect place to settle down with a picnic as you relax by the water and experience all the best of what Pukekohe has to offer. With a Thrifty branch in Pukekohe, we’ve made it easy to drop off your rental car at the end of your trip.