Auckland: Piha Beach, Rainforest Walk & Wine Tour with Lunch

Summary

Piha’s black sands, rainforest walks and vineyard lunches west of Auckland

You’ll feel black sand between your toes at Piha Beach and wander through lush Waitakere rainforest before tasting local wines with lunch at two family-run vineyards near Auckland. Expect friendly guides, real stories from locals, and plenty of time to just listen to waves or share laughs over wine—the kind of day that stays with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the crunch of gravel as our van pulled up to the Arataki Visitor Centre. The air smelled a bit damp, like moss after rain—our guide, Dave, said it’s always like this in the Waitakere Ranges. He pointed out old photos inside, timber workers from back when this was all logging country. Funny to imagine those guys here now with their axes and boots. The view from the balcony is wild—layers of green rolling out toward the coast. It’s hard to tell where forest ends and sky begins sometimes.

We wound down through Henderson Valley, windows open just enough to catch eucalyptus and something sweet I couldn’t name. When we finally reached Piha Beach, the sand really was black—hot under bare feet but soft somehow. Lion Rock looked bigger than in photos; I tried to climb partway but chickened out (slippery). There were a few surfers out, locals mostly. A woman waved at us as we walked by—she had a dog that kept chasing foam in the shallows. We took a slow walk along both North and South Piha beaches, just listening to the waves smack against rock.

I didn’t expect to like the rainforest walk as much as I did—it’s only about 25 minutes but feels longer because you keep stopping for weird ferns or birds you can’t quite see. Dave pointed out a tui singing above us; he does a pretty good impression actually (not sure if tui would agree). After that came wine country: Soljans Vineyard first. It’s run by a Croatian family since forever—1937, I think? The lunch was simple but good: local fish for me, steak for my friend. Tasted three wines before eating; one chardonnay was so crisp it almost tasted cold even though it wasn’t.

Last stop was West Brook Winery in Ararimu Valley. By then clouds were rolling in but we sat outside anyway, looking over rows of vines while tasting pinot gris and sauvignon blanc from Marlborough grapes. Someone said you could hear frogs if you listened close—I tried but just got birds again. The drive back felt quieter somehow; maybe everyone was full or just thinking about their favorite part. For me it was probably that moment on Piha beach when everything felt big and small at once—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Piha beach and vineyard visits

• Drive through Henderson Valley
• View Waitakere Ranges at Aratkai Centre
• Visit Piha black sand surf beach
• Walk North and South Piha beaches
• Stroll 25 minutes through rainforest
• Take photos of Lion Rock
• Drive 50 minutes through rainforest
• Taste wine at Soljans Vineyard
• Enjoy one course lunch at Soljans
• Visit West Brook Winery
• Taste wines overlooking vineyard

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Auckland to Piha Beach?

The tour lasts a full day with pickup in Auckland and visits to Piha Beach, Waitakere rainforest, and two wineries before returning.

Is lunch included on the Piha Waitakere Rainforest Wine Tour?

Yes, a one-course open menu lunch is included at Soljans Vineyard Restaurant during the tour.

Are wine tastings part of this Auckland day trip?

Yes, wine tastings are included at both Soljans Estate and West Brook Winery during the tour.

Do they pick up from all hotels in Auckland?

Pickup is available from selected hotels in Auckland; check when booking if yours is included.

How much walking is involved on this tour?

You’ll take short walks on North and South Piha beaches plus a 25-minute stroll through rainforest trails.

Is there vegetarian food available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if you advise dietary needs when booking.

What should I wear for the Piha Rainforest Wine Tour?

The dress code is smart casual; comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on sand and forest paths.

Can people under 18 join this wine tour?

No, minimum drinking age is 18 years due to winery visits; check with operator for exceptions regarding non-drinkers.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off (from selected Auckland hotels), guided transport through Waitakere Ranges and Kumeu wine country, short walks on both North and South Piha beaches plus a rainforest trail stroll, wine tastings at two family-run vineyards—Soljans Estate and West Brook—and an open menu one-course lunch before heading back in an air-conditioned vehicle.