A Segway feels like you cheated gravity. I love the one-on-one training and practice time that makes this workable even if you’re new to Segways. I also like that you get waterfront scenery plus village back streets, including the views from Cheltenham Beach toward the Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto Island. One drawback to consider: this isn’t for you if you’re not comfortable with stairs on your own, since the route and area around the ferry terminal involve climbing.

You’ll start at Magic Broomstick Segway Tours right at Devonport’s ferry terminal, and the whole experience loops back there. The guide gives live commentary throughout, and the group stays small, capped at 6 people, which helps you feel looked after instead of herded.

Key Points Before You Go

• Start with training, not pressure: You get full instruction and time to practice before any sightseeing riding.
• Cheltenham Beach is the payoff: You’ll reach the waterfront reserve area for Gulf and Rangitoto views.
• Small group energy: Maximum 6 travelers keeps the pace comfortable and the attention personal.
• Helmet included: You don’t have to bring gear for the ride.
• Weather still counts: The tour operates in all weather, so plan for wet or windy conditions.

Finding Magic Broomstick at Devonport Ferry Terminal 1

This tour begins at Magic Broomstick Segway Tours at Devonport Ferry Terminal 1 on Queens Parade. If you’re arriving by ferry, the biggest “gotcha” is that the shop setup can feel a bit hidden once you walk in. One helpful tip that stood out: get off the ferry and head straight into the undercover pier section, then look for the shop on the right. If you’ve walked more than about 20 meters past the ferry, you’ve likely gone too far.

Why that matters: arriving early and not second-guessing the meeting spot means you spend your energy on riding, not hunting. Also, since it ends back at the same meeting point, it’s easy to plan your next stop in Devonport after the Segway time is done.

Price and Timing: What $55.85 Buys You

At $55.85 per person, this is a mid-range activity, but it’s priced like a guided experience rather than a quick rental. You’re not just paying for the Segway ride; you’re paying for the setup, the helmet, live commentary, and crucially the one-on-one training and practice.

The duration is listed at about 1 hour 30 minutes, and that feels about right for a flow that includes: fitting up with a helmet, learning the basics, practicing in a controlled moment, then riding the route for sightseeing stops. If you’re on a short schedule in Auckland and want something more active than a walking tour, this timing is convenient.

One-on-One Segway Training: The Real Secret to Enjoying It

The tour’s biggest strength is that it doesn’t assume you already know how to ride. You’ll learn to ride a Segway and get plenty of time to practice before you head out around the waterfront.

I like this approach because it changes the mental vibe from performance to learning. You can take it slow, get steady, and then enjoy the scenery once you’re in control. And since helmets are supplied, the focus stays on comfort and confidence rather than scrambling for gear.

A practical note: the tour is best when you have a moderate fitness level and you can handle walking plus some stairs. The operation isn’t recommended for people who aren’t agile enough to climb stairs unaided, and there are stated weight limits (35 kg to 120 kg / 75 lb to 265 lb). If either is a concern, it’s worth checking in before you book.

Riding Devonport’s Waterfront: Sights, Stops, and Smooth Fun

After training, you ride around Devonport’s waterfront, guided with live commentary. This is a good format for first-time Auckland visitors because it combines movement with explanation, without forcing you to pace your day like a marathon.

You’ll pass notable areas along the route, including historic homes and sports grounds, and then head toward Cheltenham Beach. That’s where the horizon opens up: you’ll get views across the Hauraki Gulf and toward Rangitoto Island. Even if you’re not the type who normally cares about viewpoints, this kind of short, guided push to a specific lookout usually makes the whole experience feel purposeful.

Why this is valuable: instead of wandering randomly and hoping you stumble into the best angles, your route funnels you into the sights in a logical order. You also get to ride on something other than flat, uninterrupted sidewalks, because you’ll later maneuver through the village streets again.

Cheltenham Beach Reserve: Where the Views Make Sense

Cheltenham Beach is one of the clear highlights, and not just because it’s scenic. It’s also a defined destination where the guide can bring the place into focus while you’re riding.

Expect time and space to enjoy the waterfront reserve area, take photos, and soak in the view lines toward the Gulf and Rangitoto. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers sightseeing with minimal effort, this is a strong shared moment because the scenery does the heavy lifting.

One consideration: since the tour operates in all weather, bring the attitude that this will be a little windy or damp at times if the forecast isn’t perfect. Dress appropriately for New Zealand coastal weather, and you’ll avoid that unpleasant “I’m cold and annoyed” feeling that can ruin an otherwise fun ride.

The Devonport Museum Stop: Commentary Beats Guesswork

Your route includes a stop at the Devonport Museum. The practical value here is that you’re not just seeing buildings and streets; you’re getting guided context while you’re in the area.

This works especially well if you want a quick grasp of Devonport’s story without committing to a full museum visit. The live commentary is built into the experience, so you can connect the dots while you’re already moving through the village.

I’d treat this stop as part of the guided pacing rather than a major “museum hour.” If you’re a deep researcher, you might still want to return later for a longer look on your own, but as part of a Segway tour, it keeps things efficient.

Back Streets and Victorian Villas: The Slower Side of Devonport

After Cheltenham Beach, you return toward Devonport Wharf and then head into the village streets. This is where the experience becomes more charming and less purely scenic: you maneuver the Segway up and down back streets and see restored Victorian villas along the way.

I like this shift because it breaks up the ride. Waterfront views are great, but small details in a historic seaside village are where your brain starts saying, Okay, I get why people like this place.

There’s also a simple rhythm to it: you’ve already practiced, so the second half feels more confident. If the first segment helped you learn balance, this part is your reward for sticking with it long enough to feel comfortable.

Group Size and the Guide Factor: Why Small Tours Feel Better

This is capped at a maximum of 6 travelers per booking, which is a big deal for a ride like this. In a small group, the guide can manage spacing more easily and help troubleshoot as you learn.

The tone also matters. The feedback I saw included praise for a guide being phenomenal and for the way the operation teaches first-timers. In one response, Pauline (part of the Magic Broomstick team) thanked guests and pointed out that the meeting location can be tricky to spot. That kind of attention to first-timers is exactly what you want from a Segway operator, since comfort and clarity are everything.

Who This Tour Suits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This tour is ideal if you’re visiting Auckland and you want a fun first Segway experience plus sightseeing that doesn’t require hours of walking. It’s also a good match for couples and solo travelers who like guided commentary but still want to move at their own comfort level during the riding.

It’s less ideal if:

• You’re not agile enough to climb stairs unaided
• You’re uncomfortable on your feet for short walking segments between points
• You fall outside the stated weight range
• You’re expecting a long, museum-style cultural visit (this is a guided ride with stops, not an all-day deep dive)

If you fit the stated physical and age requirements, you should feel in good hands. Minimum age is 10 for A Taste of Segway, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

A Quick Reality Check on Weather and Riding Conditions

This runs in all weather conditions, so you should plan for a ride that could be damp or breezy. The good part is that you’re not left wondering if the tour will be canceled just because of light conditions.

If extreme weather makes it unsafe to ride, you’ll be offered an option of another date or a refund, with the note that an administration fee may be taken out of the refund. In other words: dress for the coast, and you’ll likely have a smooth time.

Is This Worth Booking Instead of Just Walking the Waterfront?

If your goal is to see Devonport’s highlights quickly, a walking route can work. But a Segway changes the experience: you cover more distance without turning it into a grind, and you get help learning how to ride so it doesn’t feel intimidating.

You’re also paying for structure. The route isn’t random; it takes you to the waterfront segment and Cheltenham Beach viewpoints, and then back into the village streets for the Victorian villa flavor. Add in live commentary and a small group size, and the value starts to make sense.

At $55.85, I’d call this best value for first-time Auckland visitors who want an active sightseeing hit that’s still beginner-friendly. If you already know you love Segays, it’s still fun, but the training and guidance are part of what makes the price feel fair.

Should You Book A Taste of the Segway Sensation and Sightseeing?

Book it if you want an easy, guided way to see Devonport with a real payoff viewpoint at Cheltenham Beach and calm city-village streets afterward. The training first approach is the big win, especially if you’ve never ridden a Segway before.

Skip it (or ask more questions) if stairs and balance are a challenge for you, or if you’re hoping for a long independent exploration day. This is a guided, time-efficient experience with a clear route and a hands-on ride.

Bottom line: this is a fun way to get oriented in Devonport fast, learn a new skill, and come away with photos that actually show the Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto direction.

FAQ

How long is the Segway sightseeing tour?

It runs for about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Do I need Segway experience to join?

No. You’ll get live guidance plus one-on-one training and time to practice before sightseeing riding.

What’s included in the price?

You’ll use a Segway Personal Transporter and helmet, and you’ll get GST and live commentary from the guide. Training and practice time are included too.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Magic Broomstick Segway Tours at Devonport Ferry Terminal 1, Queens Parade, Devonport, Auckland 0624. It ends back at the meeting point.

What should I bring or wear?

Dress appropriately for the weather since the tour operates in all conditions. Transportation to and from the start location isn’t included.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age is 10 for A Taste of Segway. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. Participant weights must be between 35 kg and 120 kg (75 lb to 265 lb).

How big are the groups?

There is a maximum of 6 travelers per tour booking.

Is the tour canceled in bad weather?

It operates in all weather, but if extreme weather makes it unsafe to ride a Segway, you can choose an alternative date or request a refund, with the note that an administration fee may apply.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours in advance, the amount paid is not refunded.