The harbours are sparkling, the days are getting longer, and spring is just around the corner. This is your sign to grab the lifejackets, sunnies, pack the snacks (maybe some extra for the kids), and set a course for adventure! Whether you’re after golden beaches for sandcastles, hidden anchorages for a splash, or a cheeky pod of dolphins to delight the little ones, these 10 day trips within 12 nautical miles of shore are perfect for a fun, safe, and memorable spring outing.
Before you let the engine roar and the wind mess with your hair, remember: safety is part of the fun. Check fuel, strap on lifejackets for everyone, file your trip report, and make sure the weather is behaving, peek at the weather. Smart prep makes for smooth sailing, happy families, and safe journeys home.
Raise the anchor, trim the sails, and let spring do its thing — your boat adventure awaits. All within 12 NM from shore, easy day trips for whānau fun!
Motuihe Island – Auckland
Calm beaches, easy bush walks, and a safe spot for kids to splash and explore.
📍Coordinates: 36°48.3′S, 174°56.6′E
Kawau Island – Auckland
Historic Mansion House Bay, gentle shores, and sheltered anchorage are perfect for a family picnic.
📍Coordinates: 36°25.9′S, 174°49.8′E
Rangitoto & Motutapu Islands – Auckland
Volcanic scenery, lots of anchorages and walking options, mild walks, and space for kids to run safely.
📍Coordinates (Rangitoto Wharf): 36°47.2′S, 174°51.6′E also consider Islington or Mackenzie Bay
Tiritiri Matangi Island – Auckland
Predator-free bird sanctuary, fun, educational, and easy to reach from Whangaparāoa.
📍Coordinates: 36°36.0′S, 174°53.0′E
Urupukapuka Island – Bay of Islands
Sheltered bays, quiet coves, and shallow beaches are ideal for kids.
📍Coordinates: 35.220512° S, 174.231852° E
Whangaroa Harbour – Northland
Calm waters, gentle coastline, perfect for supervised paddling, fishing, or family boating.
📍Coordinates (Harbour Entrance): 35°02.4′S, 173°44.1′E
Cathedral Cove – Coromandel
Crystal-clear waters, safe snorkeling, and sandy beaches that feel made for picnics. Explore the Hahei coast’s sheltered anchorages, hop between its small islands, marvel at the iconic Cathedral Cove arch, and venture south to discover an amazing hidden sea cave.
📍Coordinates: 36°49′42″S 175°47′24″E
Abel Tasman Coast – Nelson/Tasman
Golden beaches, calm waters, and family-friendly anchorages for spring picnics.
📍Coordinates (Anchorage Bay): 40°50.3′S, 173°01.5′E
Akaroa Harbour – Canterbury
Dolphin spotting, gentle bays, and colourful shores. The whānau will love the adventure!
📍Coordinates: 43°48.6′S, 172°57.6′E
Queen Charlotte Sound – Marlborough Sounds
Sheltered waters, hidden coves, and safe beaches, perfect for whānau friendly spring cruising.
📍Coordinates (Picton Harbour): 41°17'12.8"S 174°00'29.0"E
PS: Don’t forget your skipper safety check list... Fuel, lifejackets, weather check, two forms of communication, Coastguard membership, snacks, and good banter.
We wish you smooth sailing and epic family memories guaranteed!
