Out in the Hauraki Gulf, you cam paddle a kayak or take a ferry out to Rangitoto Island, a dormant volcano not far from downtown Auckland. Walk through the forest trails and on the old lava flows to the top for extraordinary views of the harbour and city. The entire excursion should last between 3½ and four hours.

Read more in Tripatini member Megan Sashyl's post 7 Coolest Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand.