Tamaki Drive

This is the road that runs along the coast from downtown Auckland to St Heliers bay.  You can take a bus going either way but I would recommend walking or cycling the route in one direction.  The route itself is lined with Pohutukawa trees (the so called New Zealand Christmas Tree because it flowers around Christmas time) and provides a dual use cycle and pedestrian footpath. 

Starting from Downtown Auckland you pass the Historic Britomart Building, Vector Arena, Ports of Auckland (if you enjoy any of these) then you should be at the seaside.  On your right you will pass the Parnell Baths, Hobson Bay, Orakei Basin (see my other post), mini golf and arrive at the Royal Akarana Yacht Club where you can check out some of Auckland's Yachts and their Yachties.  Keep an eye out as there often small vans and trucks along the road here selling cheap fruits and vegetables (mmm berries in summer).

Next along is Fergs Kayaks which is run by Ian Ferguson, a four time Olympic kayaking gold medalist.  Ferg is friendly and usually on site for a chat or to provide various kayaking advice.  You can also hire Kayaks for a trip across to Rangitoto island but that doesn't fall under "cheap and free".

The first bay you will come to is Okahu which appears a nice place for a lie on the beach/grass or a swim.  But don't be tempted to stop here because there is more and better to come.  Continue past Kelly Tarlton's (not cheap!), and head out the long Orakei Jetty to have a look at the local fisherkids and catch a glimpse of Auckland city from afar. 

Next you will pass the the entrance to Bastion Point (see my post on this), Tamaki Yacht club and come to Mission Bay (also a separate post).  If you need a refreshment/ice cream/rest then Mission bay is good for this but be sure to continue on to the next bay around called Kohimaramara.  This is where locals are likely to spend a day at the beach as it is less crowded than Mission Bay and less commercial.  There is a nice boardwalk, sandy beach, toilets and outside showers to wash off the salt water.

If you get hungry then rather than heading back to Mission bay keep on heading away from the city to the next bay St Heliers.  There is a nice beach, boardwalk, toilets, showers, cafes and restaurants here but less tourists.  You can catch a bus back to the city or if you're more adventurous then keep heading away from the city along the cliff until you get to the Ladies Bay.  This is a nudist beach with a nice viewing platform above it so you can enjoy the view or become part of it yourself...live and let live.