Mission Bay Must-Do's

> Mission Bay - This bustling beachfront suburb bristles with beach goers and busy cafés. Restaurants and bars spill onto a large grassed area fronting the beach. The prom is always packed with walkers, cyclists, roller skaters and water-lovers offloading their kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

> Tāmaki Drive - Seaside vibes are all but a 10-minute drive (or a one-and-a-half hour walk) from downtown Auckland to Mission Bay. Tāmaki Drive offers a pictureperfect route from central Auckland to the beach, following the water’s edge with Rangitoto views.

TOP TIP The pathway along Tāmaki Drive is shared by pedestrians and cyclists. Bike hire is available in Mission Bay, or from Adventure Capital if you’re setting off from central Auckland.Parnell Baths An historic 60m outdoor pools with sun loungers and a grassy picnic area. Open for summer.

> Ōkahu Bay - Beach Enjoy free barbecues and a brilliant playground over the road, opposite the beach.

> SEA LIFE Kelly Talton’s - Families rave about the underwater travelator rolling beneath sharks and stingrays, as well as the hilarious antics of penguins. How about snorkelling with sharks? Available Saturday and Sunday at 10am (book in advance).

> Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park - Head up to Bastion Point for Auckland’s best elevated views of Waitematā harbour, the city skyline and Rangitoto Island.

> Kohimārama - This is the next coastal community along the coastline from Mission Bay (1.4km further). The esplanade boasts an enticing mix of cafés, bars, restaurants and a golden beach.

> St Heliers - The next one after Kohimārama Beach, also with top eateries and, again, you’re just a hop from the sand.

TOP TIP: Fergs in Ōkahu Bay offer guided island tours and kayak rental as well as roller skates for zipping along Tāmaki Drive pathway.

Want more? Visit https://aatraveller.co.nz/travel-guides and get planning. Looking for a place to stay? Book accommodation at aa.travel.co.nz