Islands of Auckland
Did you know Auckland has different islands you can visit?
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If you visit New Zealand, you will likely arrive and stay in Auckland. You'll love Auckland because there are so many things to do, such as; going shopping, eating different food, and going to museums and beaches. But did you know you can take a short boat ride to different islands near Auckland? These islands are exciting day trips for you and your family. |
Auckland
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I recommend three islands that are a short distance from the city. These islands are also popular with Auckland people and tourists.
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These islands are:
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In this article:
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Why should you visit Waiheke island?
Do you like nature, beautiful beaches, and ice cream? Then you will love Waiheke island. And if you're over 18, you can enjoy the many (1) wineries. Visiting Waiheke is easy, as it only takes 40 minutes on the fast ferry.
Around 10000 people live on the Waiheke, and there is a local bus if you want to explore the island. However, you can enjoy the village shops and beaches when you get off the (2) ferry.
The most popular beach on the island is Oneroa; you can easily walk there from the town. It's safe for swimming, and you can go sea kayaking.
Walking on the island is fun. There are a lot of walking trails where you can see native trees and different beaches. Maybe you can find the old army (3) gun emplacements, with the tunnels open for you to explore.
Around 10000 people live on the Waiheke, and there is a local bus if you want to explore the island. However, you can enjoy the village shops and beaches when you get off the (2) ferry.
The most popular beach on the island is Oneroa; you can easily walk there from the town. It's safe for swimming, and you can go sea kayaking.
Walking on the island is fun. There are a lot of walking trails where you can see native trees and different beaches. Maybe you can find the old army (3) gun emplacements, with the tunnels open for you to explore.
Climb the volcano of Rangitoto.
Rangitoto is one of the most well-known islands in New Zealand and a symbol of Auckland city. The island is only a 25-minute ferry ride from the main downtown ferry terminal, so you have to go there if you have the chance.
You can walk to the top of the volcano and see great views of Auckland city. However, the trail is (4) stony, so I recommend good walking shoes. There are no shops on the island, so you have to bring your lunch. But the island is beautiful and full of native trees and birds. And in summer, you can see the (5) pohutukawa trees flowering.
You can walk to the top of the volcano and see great views of Auckland city. However, the trail is (4) stony, so I recommend good walking shoes. There are no shops on the island, so you have to bring your lunch. But the island is beautiful and full of native trees and birds. And in summer, you can see the (5) pohutukawa trees flowering.
Walk the nature trails on Tiritiri-Matangi.
Tiritiri-Matangi Island is a wildlife sanctuary, so it's full of native bids. The island is pest-free, so carefully seal any food you bring to the island. And you have to brush your shoes to remove any soil before getting on the ferry.
It will take 75 minutes to get to the island. So it's a big day trip.
The Takahē
But when you arrive at Tiritiri-Matangi, you will see why the island is so important. It's home to some of the rarest birds in New Zealand, including kiwis and penguins. But my favorite is the (6) takahē. These birds are so fat and friendly.
Conclusion: Why should you visit Auckland?
Auckland is an exciting place to visit because you go to many small islands. You can climb a volcano one day and go kayaking the next.
Buying a ticket is easy; you only need to walk to the ferry terminal on the waterfront. I'm sure the friendly staff will help, and don't forget to pick up a timetable for your return journey.
If you want to learn more about the ferry services to the islands, I recommend starting with the following links. Have fun!
Buying a ticket is easy; you only need to walk to the ferry terminal on the waterfront. I'm sure the friendly staff will help, and don't forget to pick up a timetable for your return journey.
If you want to learn more about the ferry services to the islands, I recommend starting with the following links. Have fun!
- https://www.fullers.co.nz
- https://www.sealink.co.nz
- https://at.govt.nz/bus-train-ferry/ferry-services/
Test yourself: English worksheet!
