nice place to visit in auckland

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Home » Oceania » New Zealand » Auckland

19 BEST Places to Visit in Auckland (2024)

The capital of New Zealand, Auckland is known for its stunning natural surroundings and its hair-raising attractions. This is a city that can offer a lot for people who enjoy being in nature and raising their adrenalin levels. It’s also a city that has a bright, welcoming vibe that will make you fall in love with it.

There are a lot of amazing places to visit in Auckland no matter what you like to do. It isn’t all bungee jumping and ziplines, those these are obviously there if you want to try them out. If you’re looking to plan your ideal trip, including all of the activities that you want to do, then here’s a list of the best and most popular attractions and landmarks in Auckland.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Auckland:

These are the best places to visit in auckland, faq on the best places to visit in auckland.

Auckland’s CBD is the busiest part of the cosmopolitan city and there’s always plenty going on. With many of the city’s major sights, a wide selection of places to eat, drink, and shop, and a good choice of hotels, hostels, and apartments, the CBD is the overall best Auckland neighbourhood for a first-time visitor.

• Admire the diverse works in the popular Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki.
• Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
• Soak up the views from Auckland Harbour Bridge. Daredevils can sign up for an exhilarating bungee jump.

A member of our team admits to seeing Lady GaGa in Auckland whilst staying in one of the coolest hostels around in the CBD district.

Be sure to check out where to stay in Auckland so you have the low down on ALL of Aucklands’ great neighbourhoods. Choose your favourite part of the city and lock in your hostel, Airbnb or motel in Auckland … then continue down this list!

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#1 – Auckland’s Sky Tower

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• One of the most obvious landmarks in Auckland.
• This building is the tallest in New Zealand, which makes it the best place to get amazing views of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Going to a tall place in a new city is the ideal way to get a feel for the city’s layout and to enjoy some amazing views. Auckland’s Sky Tower is on every backpacking guide to Auckland , is 328 meters tall and the perfect place for some great photographs. But you can do more than that at this Auckland must do. It’s also a popular place for an adrenalin rush!

What to do there: This is one of the best places to visit in Auckland if you just want to take in the views and take pictures. But if you’re really brave, you can walk the Sky Walk platform around the pergola of the tower, a dizzying 192 meters high. And for the real adrenalin junkies, you can also base jump off the platform!

#2 – Auckland Art Gallery – One of the most underrated places to see in Auckland

• One of the most popular and impressive points of interest in Auckland.
• The most extensive art collection in New Zealand is at this gallery.

Why it’s so awesome: You probably don’t think of New Zealand in terms of art, but if you enjoy exploring this aspect of a country’s culture then this is the place to visit. The gallery houses an impressive range of European artwork dating back as far as the 14th century. However, it’s the collection of Maori and Pacific Island arts that really impresses.

What to do there: This is a lovely serene place to visit and enjoy Auckland’s art scene. With more than 15,000 pieces of artwork on display, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Just make sure that you visit the main New Zealand collection, located on the main floor. This is where you’ll find works by Pacific Island and Maori artists, past and present.

#3 – Auckland War Memorial

• If you want to learn more about Auckland’s history, this is the place to visit.
• The collection of artifacts at this memorial cover New Zealand’s history from the first Polynesian settlers to the present day.

Why it’s so awesome: This war memorial was first built to remember the soldiers killed in World War I, but it has grown to include much more than that. New Zealand is a fairly young country in terms of western history, but it was first settled by Polynesian settlers, and this heritage is what you’ll learn about when you visit this war memorial.

What to do there: You’ll need some time to explore this museum, as it contains several different parts. Head over to the Main Maori Galleries first. You’ll experience a range of Maori artworks dating back as far as the 12th century. Make sure you visit the first floor too, where you’ll find a natural history collection. The top floor is dedicated to the war memorial and contains artifacts of all the wars that New Zealand has been a part of.

#4 – Green Bay Street Food – A great place to visit in Auckland if you are alone/traveling solo

• Located in Green Bay, this is a weekly zero waste food extravaganza!
• If you like cheap but delicious eats, this is one of the best places to eat in Auckland.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a street food location with a difference. Dedicated to building community and zero waste, it offers the tastiest food in the city with a conscience. Some of the city’s best food trucks and stalls show off their wares here, so fill your belly and support a good cause at the same time.

What to do there: There are tons of things to do in Green Bay . You’ll want to go stall to stall at this place to try everything that’s on offer. Some popular stalls and trucks include Judge Bao, Kraken Crumpets, Mama Tahina, and Go Go Mexican, so start with your favorite and keep going from there. There’s a real community feel at this street food location, so take your time, chat with people, and take in the friendly vibe.

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#5 – One Tree Hill – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Auckland

• This is the symbol of the city and is an Auckland must-see.
• The city sits in the middle of a lovely park with some really amazing trails.

Why it’s so awesome: It sounds a little strange to say that you should see a hill, but in this case, it’s the truth. This hill is a volcanic cone that’s considered to be the symbol of Auckland by many of its inhabitants. It’s located in the southwest corner of the park and there are amazing views as well as the remnants of a Maori village from the pre-European era on the slopes.

What to do there: While you’re visiting Auckland, you really want to visit this park for the amazing views across the city. There are several walking trails through the park itself if you want to explore, but make sure you spend most of the time exploring the remnants of the Maori Pa, or fortified village, that stands on the slopes of the hill. There’s also an obelisk at the top of the hill. It was built over the grave of Sir John Logan Campbell, who gave the park to the city.

#6 – Brown’s Island

• Located in the middle of Auckland harbor, this tiny island is often overlooked.
• This island has a tumultuous past as it’s one of Auckland’s most intact volcanoes.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s nothing like finding a gem of serenity and history in the middle of a city, particularly one that few people ever see. But that’s exactly what this island is. It’s a remnant of New Zealand’s volatile geological past, as it’s a part of the Auckland volcanic field. It also once held bustling villages and is covered with ruins from this distant past.

What to do there: None of the ferries or tour boats stop at the island but you can get there by private boat, kayak, or seaplane. There’s a beach on the northside where you can pull in close to the shore. Once you’re there, just spend your time exploring the ruins that dot the island. Also, make sure you climb to the top of the hill, where you can look down into the main caldera and see the three volcanic cones in the slopes.

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#7 – Muriwai Gannet Colony – An awesome place to visit in Auckland for half a day!

• Auckland doesn’t have much in terms of mammals, but it makes up for it with birds of all kinds, including these enormous seabirds.
• Muriwai is a stunning black sand beach that looks incredibly dramatic in photos.

Why it’s so awesome: If you like animals, then you need to make a trip to this area. Located on the west coast of New Zealand, just an hour from Auckland, this bird colony makes the ideal day trip from the city. The birds are native to New Zealand and although they leave the colony once they’re grown, they return to mate and raise their young. And the area in which they choose to do this is truly spectacular.

What to do there: One of the things that will strike you about this area is how spectacular it is. The soaring cliffs against the roaring ocean are a sight not to be missed, as long as you make sure that everything you have is tied down, so the wild winds don’t whip it away. The coast is only an hour from the city, so when you travel to Auckland, make sure you take a day trip to see this wild and beautiful scene.

#8 – Parnell

• The oldest suburb in Auckland and now one of the most stylish.
• If you’re looking to spend some cash, you’ll definitely be able to do it in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: This suburb is lined with seemingly endless shops that offer goods to satisfy any need or want. If you’re looking for unique, designer clothing, jewelry, homewards, or artwork, then you’ll find them all side by side in this suburb.

What to do there: If you love to shop, then this suburb holds endless treasures for you. Grab your cards and carve out an afternoon or even a whole day for you to explore the shops and find souvenirs or clothes to remember your trip by. And when you get tired, there are lots of trendy local cafes where you can grab a coffee and rest your tired legs and credit cards.

#9 – The Street Food Collective – A must-see for foodies!

• Located in the suburb of Ponsonby, this is a permanent food truck space.
• No matter what type of food you’ll love, chances are that you’ll find it!
• This market is one of the best places to eat in Auckland for cheap.

Why it’s so awesome: The street Food Collective is open 7 days a week from 5-10pm and offers some of the best food truck vendors in the city. The roster of food trucks is always changing in this location, so no matter how many times you go, you’ll find something new and delicious to try!

What to do there: Make sure you’re hungry and turn up early so that you can enjoy some great food before the crowds get there. Some of the most popular regulars include the Tin Kitchen, Brooklyn Dogs, Maidstone Burgers and the Little Yellow Food Truck. And if you’d like a drink while you’re there, make your way to Herbie the Bar.

#10 – La Cigale French Markets

• Year after year, this market shows people why it’s one of the best places to visit in Auckland.
• This French-themed market offers everything from buttery croissants to seafood paella.

Why it’s so awesome: La Cigale is hands down the best market in the city and it’s actually one of the most popular landmarks in Auckland as well. With two locations, one at Parnell and the other in Britomart, this market makes Saturday mornings a gastronomical delight for the whole of Auckland!

What to do there: Go French without having to pay for a plane ticket at this market. Try the delicious and dizzying range of French foods including aged cheeses, smoked salmon, cream eclairs, croissants, and seafood paella. The markets are open from 8am and they’re incredibly popular, so make sure you’re there early so you don’t miss out on any of the treats!

#11 – Waiheke Island – One of the nicer places in Auckland to sightsee!

• One of the most popular places to visit in Auckland.
• Waiheke Island is one of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf islands and home to beautiful beaches and a relaxed café culture.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to get away from the city, then this island offers you the chance to do so. There are several villages on the island that contain art galleries and some trendy cafes, and the beaches are simply spectacular. The Stony Batter Historic Reserve is also located on the island, complete with an underground tunnel system from World War II.

What to do there: This is the perfect place to relax, swim at the beach, and take in the scenery. If you’re looking for something a little more strenuous, then try one of the many hikes that wind along the coastline and through the interior of the island. The most interesting and the most difficult is the Church Bay Circuit. You’ll see spectacular views along the way as well as the best that the island has to offer.

#12 – Viaduct Harbor – Cool place to see in Auckland with friends!

• This area is the entertainment hub of the city.
• You should definitely spend a Sunday in this area while you’re visiting Auckland.

Why it’s so awesome: Viaduct Harbor was recently renovated when New Zealand hosted America’s Cup yachting regatta. The renovations were a complete success and have resulted in this area becoming a hub for entertainment year-round, but especially on weekends. During the summer, there are free events all the time, and even when there’s nothing going on, you’ll find live music, street food, and some of the coolest cafes in the city.

What to do there: Take the family down on a Sunday for the Flower Market with live music and free food. Or grab some friends and explore the cafes and restaurants. This is the center of Auckland, so it’s a great place to start or end your explorations of this vibrant city.

Spend your time wisely and use our suggested itinerary for Auckland before you visit!

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#13 – Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Auckland

• A manicured garden that’s the perfect place for a relaxing stroll.
• More than 50 sculptures are on display through the varied landscape of this garden.

Why it’s so awesome: Located just north of Auckland, this garden provides an interesting and relaxing place to visit. It’s filled with native fauna and contains more than 50 pieces of sculpture art created by New Zealand artists. The garden provides the perfect natural backdrop for this art and there are several trails you can take, which make this an Auckland must-do.

What to do there: One day, when the weather is nice when you’re visiting Auckland, take an afternoon or morning out to explore this garden. There’s a short pathway through the park that will take you around all the sculptures. Or you can take the longer path dedicated to conservation. This loops through the different landscapes of the garden, including the native bush, pine forest, and farmland areas.

#14 – East Coast Beaches – A must visit place to visit in Auckland on the weekend!

• When you explore Auckland, you can’t forget the stunning beaches!
• There are several beaches in this area, so find one that sparks your interest and set up your towel!

Why it’s so awesome: New Zealand is an island, which means that it’s surrounded by beaches. The beaches along the eastern coasts are absolutely gorgeous, lined with forest and popular with the locals for fishing and sun-bathing. There are three beaches in the city itself: Takapuna, Milford, and Cheltenham Beach. They’re all beautiful, but Takapuna tends to be more crowded.

What to do there: If you want to visit the beach while you’re in Auckland, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Head to Milford or Cheltenham if you want a quieter beach in the city itself. But if you want to see a more spectacular beach, take a short drive outside of the city to Maraetai Beach. It’s just southeast of the city and offers beautiful calm waters that will tempt even the most nervous swimmer.

#15 – Albert Park

• A beautiful inner-city park with lots of quirky attractions!
• Make sure you check out some of the historic buildings in this area too.

Why it’s so awesome: Auckland likes to do everything a little differently, and that extends to its parks as well. Aside from the usual green spaces with flower beds and statues, the park also contains also a variety of quirky statues and attractions. This is what really makes it one of the most famous places in Auckland.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see in this park, so make sure you put aside enough time to explore. As you enter the park, you’ll see a floral clock from 1953, which sets the tone for the rest of the park. Check out Albert Park House, which contains some unusual ceramics and clocks, and the Meteorological Observatory at the highest point in the park. If you like architecture, you’ll also enjoy the Old Government House, a neoclassical structure that was New Zealand’s first parliament and was built in 1856.

#16 – Silo Market – A great place to visit in Auckland at night

• A summer favorite and one of the best places to eat in Auckland.
• Grab some food, do some shopping, or see a movie at the outdoor cinema.

Why it’s so awesome: These waterfront markets are the best place to be Friday through Sunday during summer. They host a wide range of music and entertainment events, outdoor movies, food trucks, and stalls selling everything you could ever want to buy and then some.

What to do there: Auckland is in love with its food trucks and some of the best in the city show up to this market. Try burgers, tacos, or delicate Chinese meat buns and browse the stalls for souvenirs of your trip. And you can’t go home early either. You need to stay to watch the music events or just pull up a patch of grass and settle down to watch a movie under the stars. During summer, this is the perfect Auckland night.

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#17 – Auckland Museum

• This is one of the few places where you can learn more about the traditional Maori culture.
• The museum is located in the Auckland Domain, so afterwards you can take a stroll around the park.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is in the best spot in Auckland, right on the top of a hill in the middle of one of the most popular parks in Auckland. It contains exhibits on the culture and history of New Zealand and is one of the few places in the world where you can get a better grasp of the traditional Maori culture.

What to do there: Spend some time learning about Maori culture. The museum includes a beautiful, ornate Maori canoe called a waka as well as a visual representation of Maori village life. And when you’re done with the museum, you can explore the park outside and prepare yourself for the city once more.

#18 – Ponsonby and Karangahape Road – A very cool place in New Zealand to go for a day

• These roads have everything, from shops to cafes and nightclubs.
• Karangahape Road is the heart of Auckland’s LGBT community.
• You’ll find some of the best restaurants in these streets.

Why it’s so awesome: These streets are a hub for fashion, eating, and hanging out with friends looking cool. Ponsonby is more fashionable, but Karangahape is more elective and both have amazing food, independent shops, and bars where you can hang out once the sun goes down.

What to do there: You’ll probably want to spend a whole day and part of the night in this area. Wander around exploring the shops and grab snacks and meals when you get hungry. The room in this area is awesome and ranges from German pastries to Thai street food and Argentinian barbecue. So, no matter what type of food you enjoy, you’ll find it. Once the sun goes down, stick around to explore the bars at Shanghai Lil’s, Love Bucket, or the Vodka Room for the best drinks and vibe.

#19 – Giapo – Quite the quirky place in Auckland!

• If you travel to Auckland in the summer, then ice cream is a must, and this shop sells the best and the weirdest ice cream in the city.
• You’ll get some amazing pictures for your Instagram feed in this shop.

Why it’s so awesome: Giapo sells more than ice cream. They sell sweet, melting works of art. They do have some regular offerings, but you should opt for the quirkier creations, which are really what make this shop one of the best places to visit in Auckland. There are a range of international dishes as well as some sculptured chocolate marvels.

What to do there: If you have the time and you’re in Auckland at the right time of year, then visit this shop a few times so you can explore as much of their menu as possible. Try some of the international dishes like gelato dumplings and pani puri first. And then move onto the sculptured chocolate, like the Octopus creation. Everything looks amazing and tastes even better, so make sure that you experience and eat as much as your stomach can handle.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Auckland

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in Auckland?

A landmark of the city and a great spot to take it all in, head to the Auckland Sky Tower for an unforgettable experience.

What can you do in Auckland for free?

Take a short hike up One Tree Hill, a symbol of the city and an old volcano crater. Pretty dope!

What can couples do in Auckland?

Take a romantic ferry trip over to the stunning beachlined island of Waiheke Island. It’s particularly idyllic in summer.

What are the best places to visit in auckland at night?

Grab some food or an outdoor movie at the Silo Market if you’re in town over the summer months. It’s the perfect hangout spot.

Final Thoughts on the Coolest Places to Visit in Auckland

Auckland is a beautiful city and it’s surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes you’ll ever see or explore. This travel location is really about nature, and there are so many amazing natural places to visit in Auckland that you’ll be spoiled for choice. With this list of the best attractions in Auckland, you can get the most out of your trip and get a sense of how powerful and beautiful this city and its surrounds really are!

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21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Auckland

Written by Michael Law and Lana Law Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Michael Law visited Auckland in March and April 2023 as part of an extended trip through New Zealand.

The harborside city of Auckland is New Zealand's only true metropolis and the vibrant economic heart of the country. Known as the "City of Sails" and boasting a population of nearly 1.7 million people, or nearly half the country's total population, Auckland sprawls out between Manukau Harbour to the west and Waitemata Harbour to the east. The city's compact central district sits right beside the waterway.

Auckland was our point of arrival and departure on our most recent trip, and we spent several days soaking up the vibe of the city's waterfront and downtown, as well as exploring the attractions outside the city center. Having not been to the city in well over a decade, we were shocked and impressed with the transformation the city has undergone.

While many people fly in and head out to see other parts of the country, this is definitely a worthwhile place to visit and spend some time.

Auckland is home to some of the country's finest museums and galleries but is also popular for its fine beaches. Also worth checking out are the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, which provide a taste of New Zealand's spectacular national park scenery right on the city's doorstep.

For more sightseeing ideas have a read through our list of the top tourist attractions in Auckland.

1. Auckland's Waterfront and Downtown

2. sky tower auckland, 3. auckland harbour bridge adventures, 4. new zealand maritime museum, 5. one tree hill, 6. devonport, 7. auckland art gallery, 8. auckland war memorial museum, 9. waiheke island, 10. sea life kelly tarlton's aquarium, 11. auckland dolphin & whale watching cruises, 12. stardome observatory & planetarium, 13. hauraki gulf marine park islands, 14. east coast beaches, 15. albert park, 16. west coast beaches, 17. museum of transport and technology (motat), 18. kaipara coast plant centre & sculpture gardens, 19. auckland zoo, 20. howick historical village, where to stay in auckland for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in auckland.

Auckland's waterfront is the best place for tourists to head to enjoy the city. With restaurants, shops, hotels, fabulous views over the water, and a fun vibe day and night, this is the city's showpiece area. On our last visit to Auckland, this is where we spent most of our time.

The waterfront is divided into several main areas. Running from the west these are the main areas.

North Wharf

A short scenic stroll from Viaduct Harbour is the trendy North Wharf area. It's packed with restaurants and less touristy than Viaduct Harbour. Whatever cuisine you are in the mood for, you'll likely be able to find it here at slightly cheaper prices.

Ten restaurants fill old maritime sheds dating from the 1930s, which have been wonderfully restored but still showcase their original purpose and some of their gritty heritage.

After dinner, be sure to work off all the calories with a short stroll down to Silo Park. Here you'll find seven restored silos, a children's playground, public art installations, and good views out over St. Marys Bay. Take a quick tour through Silo 6 if an art show is taking place, or perhaps you'll be lucky enough to catch a movie projected against Silo 7.

Viaduct Harbour

The regeneration of Viaduct Harbour is a legacy of New Zealand hosting the America's Cup yachting regatta and has turned this waterside area into one of the city's main entertainment and dining hubs.

The vibrant waterside cafés and restaurants are great places to visit and linger over lunch or dinner. In the evening, the harbor area is packed with people strolling the docks taking in the nighttime scene. See if you can snag a table at Bivacco for some of Auckland's best Italian food.

As well as being one of the country's major marinas, Viaduct Harbour's lively calendar of events is also worth checking out. Every Sunday, from 9am to 12noon, the Flower Market here brings in crowds with live music and street food, while regular free events during summer months are a favorite with local families.

Ferry Terminal and Queen Street

The imposing Ferry Building , built in 1912, forms a striking English-Baroque landmark on the harbor front at Queen's Wharf. It's from here that ferries depart for all the outer islands and other parts of the city across Waitemata Harbour.

We used this as our key landmark when we wanted to find our way from Viaduct Harbour over to the downtown core and the attractions of Queen Street. An easy stroll south from the ferry terminal takes you into a pedestrian-only area with the modern Commercial Bay shopping center off to your left.

Queen Street is a pleasant area with all manner of local and international shops. If you've forgotten something or need to get supplies prior to heading to explore the rest of the country, this is the place to do it.

You'll know you've found the top of Queen Street when you see the stunning marble façade of Auckland Town Hall.

Auckland's needle-like Sky Tower is the city's most prominent landmark and, at 328 meters high, is New Zealand's highest building.

If you're looking for a place to snap the perfect city panorama, then the observation deck here — reached by zooming up to the top of the building in a glass elevator — is just the place to get your camera out, with views stretching into the distance for 80 kilometers on a clear day.

For many Sky Tower visitors, though, it's about more than the view. New Zealanders are renowned for turning attractions into thrill-seeking opportunities, and the Sky Tower doesn't buck the trend. Visitors can enjoy dizzying views by walking the exterior 192-meter-high Sky Walk platform around the tower's pergola, and those looking for a total adrenaline rush can base-jump off the platform on a Sky Jump .

A restaurant and gift shop are also available on-site. Also, be sure to catch a glimpse of the tower at night when it's lit up to great effect.

Address: Victoria Street W, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

The central harbor is dominated by Auckland Harbour Bridge , completed in 1959 and more than one kilometer long and some 43 meters high, which connects downtown Auckland to the northern districts and the sandy beaches of the bays farther north.

The bridge also offers plenty of fun things to do to add a thrill to your sightseeing experience. One of the top-rated thrills to experience is the Auckland Harbour Bridge bungee jump , an experience that includes traversing an exclusive bridge walk before plunging 40 meters to the harbor water below.

If bungee jumping is not your thing, you can still enjoy the incredible views from the top of the bridge by joining a guided Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb .

Address: Quay Street, City Center, Auckland, New Zealand

New Zealanders have always been deeply connected with the sea, and the well-curated New Zealand Maritime Museum explores this connection, offering a comprehensive survey of the country's seafaring history.

Exhibits trace the country's history from the arrival of the first Polynesians and include Maori canoes and outrigger boats, whaling equipment, and old instruments and implements. One gallery is devoted to New Zealand's modern yachting success and includes the yacht in which the New Zealand crew, skippered by Sir Peter Blake, won the America's Cup in 1995.

Many of the vessels held in the collection regularly sail, which adds a real dose of excitement to a sightseeing trip.

Address: Corner of Quay and Hobson Streets, Auckland 1140, Auckland, New Zealand

For many Aucklanders, the volcanic cone of One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) is the symbol of their city. The 182-meter-high hill sits amid the lush Cornwall Park with a series of flower beds and stands of mature trees set amid walking trails.

One Tree Hill takes up the southwest corner of the park, and the slopes contain remnants of a Maori Pa , a fortified village located here during the pre-European era. At the top of the hill is a lone obelisk built over the grave of Sir John Logan Campbell who gifted this swath of greenery to Auckland to be used as a city park. There are fantastic views across the cityscape from the hill summit.

Having done this activity recently, I can assure you a trip to the top is not for the faint of heart. Be prepared for a long walk up a relatively steep, paved roadway. The walk is 1.8 kilometers each way with a 77-meter elevation gain, so if you were planning on bringing grandma for a leisurely stroll up to the top, think again!

The large tree that used to stand on the summit and gave the place its name was repeatedly vandalized and had to be removed in 2001. In 2016 nine new seedlings were planted with the plan to have one eventually chosen as the replacement.

If you have mobility issues and want to access the top with a vehicle, call Auckland Town Council, they will assign you a code that will open the gate.

Address: Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland, New Zealand

For a bit of light sightseeing and a break from the urban jungle of downtown Auckland, take a short, scenic, and cheap ferry trip across Waitemata Harbour to Devonport. This delightful seaside area is an enjoyable spot and offers unrivaled panoramas back toward the city.

Devonport's waterfront area has a modern pier complete with seaside restaurants offering decent fare and even better views. If you are traveling as a family and have young children that need to burn off a bit of energy, a fantastic park with a variety of play structures is nearby.

Be sure to wander along King Edward Parade from the pier area to see well-preserved 19th-century homes and Victoria Road to do a bit of shopping in the interesting and eclectic shops.

Auckland Art Gallery is the city's most impressive cultural site. Housed in an impressive French Renaissance-style structure built in 1887, the gallery is home to New Zealand's most extensive art collection with more than 15,000 artworks on display.

The permanent galleries host an array of artworks, including European paintings and sculptures that date back to the 14th century. But of particular note, however, is the main New Zealand collection . Located on the ground floor, here you'll find a substantial amount of work highlighting Maori and Pacific Island artists.

Be sure to also visit the New Zealand Historic Art Gallery and Maori Portraiture Gallery on the first floor, which showcases the work of New Zealand's early European settlers. Guided tours are available, and a café and shop are located on the premises.

Address: Wellesley Street E, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Auckland's imposing War Memorial Museum sits on the highest point of Auckland Domain in a vast Neoclassical building dating from 1929, which was erected as a memorial dedicated to the New Zealand soldiers who fought in World War I. Today, it houses an impressive collection of artifacts that traces the history of New Zealand from its first Polynesian settlers to the present day and highlights New Zealand's natural heritage.

Of special interest are the Main Maori Galleries , which host a wealth of artistry, including a magnificent Maori gateway dating from the 12th to the 14th centuries; a richly-decorated Meeting House; and the 25-meter-long canoe, dating from 1836, in which Maori warriors once sailed into Manukau Harbour.

The first floor hosts the natural history collection , including reconstructing the country's famed and now extinct giant moa birds. The top floor of the museum is dedicated to the war memorials and displays the story of New Zealand's involvement in world conflict throughout the country's history. Guided tours are available, along with regular lectures and workshops.

Address: Auckland Domain, Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand

Of all Auckland's Hauraki Gulf islands, Waiheke Island is the most popular to visit. Around 8,000 people live here year-round, and the island's villages are home to art galleries and a thriving café culture, while the coast hosts plenty of white-sand beaches.

For keen walkers and hikers, a variety of trails wind along the coastline and through the island interior. For spectacular views and a challenging hike, the Church Bay Circuit is an excellent three-hour walk that showcases the best of the island.

History fans shouldn't miss Stony Batter Historic Reserve with its underground tunnel system carved out in World War II in case Auckland was attacked. Regular ferries to Waiheke Island run from Princes Wharf in central Auckland and take from 35-45 minutes.

For those wanting to linger longer, a variety of good accommodation options are available, from beachside cottage rentals to bed and breakfasts.

Location: Hauraki Gulf, Auckland, New Zealand

One of Auckland's top attractions for visiting families, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium allows you to get up close and personal with life under the water. A series of huge aquariums containing aquatic life can be observed from the tunnel walkways with aquariums devoted to sharks, tropical fish, and stingrays.

Kelly Tarlton's also houses an Antarctic Encounter gallery , complete with a snow-filled penguin enclosure, highlighting New Zealand's close association with Antarctica's international scientific communities.

New in 2023 is the Sea Cave Adventure marine zone. Highlighting the creatures that call the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park home, this fascinating exhibit provides education and insight into one of New Zealand's most important maritime treasures.

Address: 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand

If you've only got room for a single tour when in Auckland, make it a dolphin and whale-watching cruise . These superb-value tours depart from the centrally located New Zealand Maritime Museum in Viaduct Harbour and all but guarantee a sighting (if not, you can travel again for free).

This exciting half-day catamaran tour features expert guides well-versed in the region and its diverse wildlife and will ensure you have a chance to get as close as possible to creatures, including whales (six species), dolphins, penguins, and birds to snap some great photos.

Much of your time afloat will be spent in the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, an area dotted with splendid scenery. In addition to bringing along binoculars, be sure to pack warm (and waterproof) clothing and/or a sun hat, depending on the weather.

Whether you're traveling with kids or not, there are plenty of good reasons to want to include Stardome Observatory & Planetarium on your Auckland travel itinerary. Established in 1967 and expanded a great deal since, what started as the public Auckland Observatory is now a state-of-the-art astronomical research observatory plus a major city attraction offering a great deal of fun (and education) for all ages.

Located in the One Tree Hill area, the observatory's two telescopes are accessible to visitors as part of a fascinating presentation, where all guests are given a chance to take a peek at the night sky. The experience consists of a pre-presentation show in the planetarium to provide some perspective, as well as a chance to explore the attraction's exhibits.

The observatory closed temporarily in 2023 for renovations; check to see that it has reopened before visiting.

Address: 670 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1345, New Zealand

The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Islands are a lush slice of nature right on Auckland's doorstep. Ruggedly beautiful Great Barrier Island is a must-visit for wilderness fans, with a multitude of camping, hiking, mountain biking, and sea kayaking opportunities.

Rangitoto Island is a dormant volcano and home to the world's largest forest of pohutukawa trees. Hiking to the island's summit rewards walkers with stunning views across the Hauraki Gulf.

Tiny Tiritiri Matangi Island is a wildlife sanctuary for some of New Zealand's most endangered birdlife with various easy walking trails winding through the island's interior. Among the species that keen bird-watchers can spot here are takahe, blue penguins, kiwi, and brown teal. Ferries leave from Princes Wharf in the central city.

In addition to fun tourist-focused sightseeing cruises, fishing charters, and other water-based activities, such as sailing, can be enjoyed here.

The city's eastern coast is speckled with gorgeous forest-rimmed beaches that are top swimming and sun-bathing spots for locals during summer weekends. Takapuna Beach , overlooking Rangitoto Island across the water, is one of the finest sandy strips in the city and is deservedly popular. Nearby are both Milford Beach and Cheltenham Beach, which tend to be less crowded.

A short drive out of the city, though, brings you to even more spectacular beaches. To the southeast is lovely Maraetai Beach with its calm waters, an excellent swimming spot even for families traveling with little ones, while a short journey north from Auckland is the golden sand of Orewa Beach .

Be prepared for exceptionally chilly water if you plan to take a dip. The hardy Kiwis will claim "It's just fine mate" as their lips turn blue and they start to shiver!

Location: East Auckland, New Zealand

The most central green space in the city is Albert Park with its elaborate Victorian fountain , variety of statuary, and a multitude of flower beds. As well as being a tranquil spot amid the inner-city hustle, the park is home to a variety of small and quirky attractions that will please culture vultures.

Albert Park House contains an eclectic array of ceramics and clocks; a floral clock (dating from 1953) marks the park's Princes Street entry, and the city's Meteorological Observatory at the park's highest point has been marking Auckland's weather since 1909.

The most prominent historic building nearby is the Old Government House , now part of the Auckland University campus. This timber Neoclassical structure (built in 1856) was New Zealand's first parliament. Opposite the Old Government House is the Old Synagogue , dating from 1884, which is now used for cultural events.

Those visiting Auckland in July should check out the Turama Festival , a fun illumination-focused event that has become one of the best things to do in Auckland at night.

Address: Princes Street, City Center, Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland's west coast is home to some extremely beautiful beaches, but visitors should be aware that many can be dangerous for bathers unused to their sheer rocks, heavy surf from the Tasman Sea, and treacherous undertow.

Piha Beach is the city's most dramatic spot for a picnic and sunbathing with its volcanic black sand and jutting rock outcrops. It's also a major haunt for local surfers.

If you're looking for a secluded slice of sand though, Karioitahi Beach , at Waiuku in South Auckland, is a long strip of black-sand beach that rarely draws more than a handful of sun-seekers.

Location: West Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland's Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) , located in the Western Springs district, is devoted to the history of technology and transport in New Zealand. Its prize exhibits relate to the New Zealand aviation pioneer Richard Pearse (1877-1953), who made his first flights about the same time as the Wright brothers.

Also interesting, the 90 Degrees South exhibition is dedicated to the trans-Antarctic expedition of New Zealand explorer Sir Edmund Hillary. Other items include old coaches, railroad rolling stock, trams and vintage cars, and a vast collection of black and white photography.

A variety of fun workshops and educational programs are offered, and for a real treat, take a ride on one of the vintage trams that operate from the museum.

Address: Great North Road, Western Springs, Auckland, New Zealand

For a relaxing stroll while exploring the countryside just north of Auckland (it's about 50 kilometers north of the city), the Kaipara Coast Plant Centre & Sculpture Gardens make a good break from the road.

This manicured garden trail in a quiet valley setting is packed full of native fauna and hosts an ever-changing array of sculptural art by New Zealand artists. More than 50 sculptures are on display along the one-kilometer pathway at any one time creating garden galleries that highlight the best of the country's contemporary art.

For nature fans, the gardens offer a broad spectrum of New Zealand's many varied landscapes with different sections set out as pine forests, native bush, and typical farmland. Another trail through the native forest is dedicated to conservation and loops across meandering streams and beside waterfalls.

The Auckland Botanic Gardens is also worth a visit and is set amid 64 hectares. Highlights include an impressive collection of 10,000 plants, including a large number of rose bushes.

Address: 1481 Kaipara Coast Highway, Kaukapakapa 0843, New Zealand

Set across 40 acres in the Western Springs neighborhood, Auckland Zoo offers plenty of fun things to do for families traveling to the area. Established in 1922, the zoo has several newer features, including a great section-Te Wao Nui-which focuses on regional plant and animal life.

Highlights include more than 1,400 creatures from some 135 species contained in themed areas featuring animals from Africa, Australia, and South America, including giraffes, meerkats, wallabies, and a variety of monkeys.

A variety of unique experiences are available, with fun things to do including an after-dark safari, photography workshops, and junior zookeeper programs that take kids behind the scenes.

If there's still time in your day for the kids to burn off some energy, head to Rainbow's End . This fun theme park features an area dedicated to younger children.

Address: Motions Road, Auckland, New Zealand

Those interested in New Zealand's colonial past would do well to pay a visit to Howick Historical Village . This fascinating recreation of a colonial village features some 30 authentic historic buildings dating from the mid to late-19th century, which were disassembled and rebuilt on-site.

Highlights include guided tours, re-enactments, and demonstrations presented by costumed guides and trades folk, as well as a delightful garden. Other fun things to do include taking a wagon ride around the property. A café and gift shop are located on-site.

Address: Lloyd Elsmore Park, Bells Road, Pakuranga, Auckland 2010, New Zealand

About 50 kilometers north of Auckland, the little township of Puhoi is one of the best day trips out of Auckland . Founded in the 1860s by immigrants from Bohemia (in modern-day Czech Republic), Puhoi has kept much of its original early-settler character and retains a bucolic timeless appeal.

The Bohemia Museum , the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul (built in 1880), and the nearby churchyard with the graves of early Bohemian settlers are a must for history fans, while a clutch of art studios and artisan boutiques provide ample shopping diversions. There are also plentiful hiking opportunities in the surrounding countryside.

When visiting Auckland on New Zealand's North Island, be sure to consider finding somewhere to stay as close to the city center as possible-especially around the Waitemata Harbour and Viaduct Harbour areas, both of which boast numerous things to do and sightseeing opportunities. To help you, here are a few of our favorite hotels in this lovely city:

Luxury Hotels :

• Boasting an excellent location in the heart of the action down by Viaduct Harbour, the QT Auckland Hotel is a hip and happening place to stay. Modern and slightly eclectic rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, luxury bedding, and a good workspace. A highlight of a stay here is a visit to Rooftop At QT. This is one of Auckland's best rooftop venues, complete with an open-air section offering great views.
• Harbor views and luxury rooms are the order of the day at Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour , along with a great restaurant and an indoor pool with a hot tub.
• Another great waterside option is the classy Hilton Auckland , which comes with quality bedding and a seafood restaurant that's popular with the locals.
• Cordis, Auckland is another great five-star hotel option, and features rooms with butler service, all just an easy walk from the iconic Sky Tower.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Offering high-end accommodations but at mid-range pricing, The Devereux Boutique Hotel features boutique-style rooms in an older home with exquisite décor and a casual restaurant.
• The Ellerslie International Hotel and Conference Centre is another quality option, located just one kilometer from the aquarium and boasting bright modern rooms, a mix of rooms and suites, and a swimming pool.
• The family-friendly Airedale Boutique Suites is centrally located in the city's central business district and has several larger suites with kitchenettes, along with a gym and laundry facilities.

Budget Hotels :

• Budget-priced but boasting a high standard, Greenlane Suites ' rooms come with plenty of space and are perfect for families.
• Those seeking hostel-style accommodations should consider the Haka Lodge Auckland , featuring bright shared rooms and a great central location, perfect for backpackers visiting the city's top attractions.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

New Zealand's Natural Wonders : Incredible scenery and wilderness are everywhere in New Zealand, and popular places to visit for outdoorsy types include the stunning Bay of Islands coastal region, which features plenty of sandy beaches and sightseeing opportunities. Nature lovers should also pay a visit to Fiordland National Park , an area of outstanding natural beauty that's fun to explore by cruise boat or kayak. The Westland Region is also worth exploring for its wild rivers and untamed mountains, and the famous Franz Josef Glacier.

New Zealand Heritage Destinations : The small town of Dunedin is rightly proud of its Scottish heritage, nowhere more so than at its charming Larnach Castle and settlers museum. The attractive town of Napier is best known for its charming Art Deco architecture, most of it dating from the 1930s after a devastating earthquake led to the town being rebuilt. The country's rich Maori culture is evident everywhere, especially in Taupo with its Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings.

New Zealand Vacation Ideas : The country's capital city of Wellington may be small, but there are plenty of fun things to do here, from sightseeing aboard the scenic cable car to experiencing its many fine museums. Lovely Queenstown is New Zealand's adventure capital, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the jumping-off point for water-based activities and ski holidays. The community of Rotorua is also worth visiting and is famous for its hot springs and geothermal-influenced landscape.

More on New Zealand

Auckland   Travel Guide

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19 Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand

In Maori, the native language of New Zealand, the city of Auckland is known as "Tamaki Makaurau," meaning "a place desired by many," which is only fitting given how much there is to enjoy in New Zealand's most populated city. 

Family-friendly

• All Things To Do

Waitemata Harbour Waitemata Harbour free

No trip to Auckland is complete without getting out on the harbor and feeling the sea breeze toy with your hair, plunging into the water for a swim or enjoying a spot of fishing. Auckland’s nickname is the "City of Sails," after all. 

The harbor sprawls from downtown Auckland and beaches like Mission Bay across to the North Shore – home to beautiful beaches and tourist spots like Devonport – and beyond. Tourists can catch a ferry from central Auckland across the Waitemata Harbour and into the Hauraki Gulf where popular attractions include Waiheke Island and the hiking hub of Rangitoto Island .

Cornwall Park and One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) Cornwall Park and One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Do as the locals do and pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds outside Cornwall Park Cafe. The area has bean bags to sink into and sprawling lawns for sports, while the cafe sells coffee, ice cream and takeaway meals. – Leena Tailor

Imagine  New York 's Central Park , but with an Aotearoa (the Maori name for New Zealand) twist, and you've got Cornwall Park. This sprawling park, which sits on a volcanic cone, offers an abundance of greenery, plus unique features like the remnants of a pre-European Maori fort and the remains of Sir John Logan Campbell, the park's donor. 

Hike Mount Eden Hike Mount Eden free

U.S. News Insider Tip: At the base of the mountain lies Eden Village, home to must-try coffee spots like Circus Circus and Frasers Cafe. Grab a beverage for the 30-minute walk to the summit, which is so picturesque you’ll want to snap a new profile pic. – Leena Tailor

One of the most visited maunga (mountains) in Auckland is Mount Eden/Maungawhau. This dormant volcano, which is completely covered with grass, offers 360-degree views of Auckland, with recent visitors deeming the views better than what you see from the top of the Sky Tower . It's also the highest natural point in Auckland.

Popular Tours

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Hop a Ferry to Rangitoto Island Hop a Ferry to Rangitoto Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: There are no shops on the island, so be sure to bring your own food and water supplies. – Leena Tailor

Situated just off the coast of central Auckland and across from Devonport is Rangitoto Island, a volcanic island known for its superb hiking trails and panoramic views. Multiple trails are available for island exploration, including the popular Summit Track, which takes hikers through lava fields and the world's largest pohutukawa forest to the summit. Prepare for stunning vistas and a steep, yet doable approximately 4-mile hike when visiting Rangitoto Island. Multiple tourists have mentioned being in awe when arriving on the island and they’ve also praised the hike to the summit and the views at the top.

AJ Hackett Auckland SkyJump & SkyWalk at Sky Tower AJ Hackett Auckland SkyJump & SkyWalk at Sky Tower

The most noticeable structure in Auckland's skyline is the 1076-foo-tall Sky Tower. At the top, visitors can take in 360-degree views of the city, eat at the cafe, dine at one of two restaurants (including one that revolves), walk over glass flooring panels or grab a drink at new hot spot, SkyBar, which is New Zealand’s highest bar. A gift shop is available as well.

Previous travelers praised the Sky Tower's views, suggesting visiting on a clear day to avoid obstructed vistas. Sunset-lovers will want to visit around that time to watch the city bask in sinking rays. If you do decide to eat here, book your dining reservations in advance. And remember, Sky Tower admissions are waived for visitors dining on site. The only complaint among visitors? The ticket cost, which reviewers say is too high.

Viaduct Harbour Viaduct Harbour free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Sample some of the city’s finest cocktails or mocktails with a Viaduct bar crawl starting at Park Hyatt Auckland’s nautical-themed Captain’s Bar, then QT Auckland’s rooftop bar before nabbing a patio spot at Dr Rudi’s Rooftop Brewing Co. – Leena Tailor

For some of central Auckland's best restaurants and bars, consider visiting the city's waterfront Viaduct Harbour, which bursts to life during evenings in summer. This Auckland precinct, which some compare to Sydney 's Darling Harbour , features more than 30 watering holes and eateries, plus a marina, the New Zealand Maritime Museum and several hotels.

Devonport Devonport free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Some of Auckland’s best beaches are along the Devonport Peninsula, so pack a swimsuit and picnic then walk or grab a cab to Cheltenham Beach or Narrow Neck Beach, which boasts incredible views of Rangitoto Island . – Leena Tailor

Devonport, a historic suburb across the harbor from the central business district, boasts a spectacular view of Auckland, so bring your camera. Aside from being a quaint spot to dine and shop, it also features a naval base. For a laid-back day of meandering past quaint, colonial architecture and along peaceful beaches, Devonport is the place to go.

Mission Bay Mission Bay free

There isn’t a more authentic Auckland experience than enjoying a picnic of fish and chips at Mission Bay, while watching children play in a fountain or gazing out to picture-perfect Rangitoto Island . The seaside spot is around 5 miles and a gorgeous 10-minute waterfront drive away from downtown Auckland and it’s the place to be in good weather.

Lined with cafes, pubs, restaurants and shops, the beach also has a playground, restrooms, free parking, shady spots under trees and picnic tables. Kayak and paddleboard rentals and tours are also available, with a one-hour kayak rental costing NZ$28 (about $17) at Auckland Sea Kayaks . Recent visitors praised the company’s fun and informative tour guides. A waterfront bike path, which connects Mission Bay to downtown Auckland, is also perfect for walkers and cyclists, while SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium is great for kids. Tickets cost NZ$45 (about $28) for adults and NZ$32 (about $20) for children ages 3 to 15.

Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

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Hunua Ranges Hunua Ranges free

A hub for hiking, mountain biking, camping and fishing, the Hunua Ranges is an approximately 150-square-mile forest that sits about 30 miles southeast of central Auckland. The star attraction is the spectacular Hunua Falls, which cascades about 100 feet into the Wairoa River. The waterfall can be accessed via a 15-minute walk, which winds along a stream and ends with a lookout platform. Those who want to venture farther into the park can continue along the track, which loops back into the base of the falls.

Swimming at the Hunua Falls isn’t recommended due to safety risks, but there’s enough trails to keep visitors busy. One of the most popular is the approximately 5-mile-long Cossey-Massey Loop. It’s a hit with past visitors thanks to the spectacular views and a well-maintained path, not to mention shade and plenty of birds. In between hikes, heed the advice of recent visitors and enjoy a picnic among the park’s lush vegetation. Camping areas can also be booked online , with campsites costing NZ$9.50 (around $6) per night for adults and NZ$4.50 (less than $3) for children.

Matakana Matakana free

There’s something for everyone in Matakana, just an hour’s drive north of Auckland. The town is best known for the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market , which takes place every Saturday in a parking lot that transforms into a buzzing market brimming with local vendors selling delicious cheeses or specialty wines like feijoa-flavored sparkling wine. Many of the stalls also offer samples. Past travelers rave about the produce on offer, but some have found products overpriced. It can also get so crowded it’s difficult to make your way through the stalls. The market runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday and it’s vital to arrive early to secure parking, according to reviewers.

The village also has boutique stores, great coffee spots, bars and restaurants, while surrounding areas are home to wineries, breweries and distilleries. With a diverse array of wines, including chardonnay and sangiovese, the wine region can be explored by self-driving using the Matakana Wine Growers’ Wine Trail Map . Be sure to check out Matakana Estate , where tastings start at NZ$15 (about $9), and Heron’s Flight , where a flight of three tastings costs NZ$10 (around $6). Wine tours are also available with Matakana Coast Tourism or TIME Unlimited, whose Matakana Country & Cuisine Tour starts at NZ$415 (about $257) per person.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki free

Located in the southwest corner of Albert Park, the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki is a must-visit for art lovers. Inside, travelers will find more than 17,000 historic, modern and contemporary art pieces. In fact, the museum is home to the world’s largest permanent collection of New Zealand art. Established in 1888, the museum features international paintings, sculptures and print collections dating from the 11th century to today.

Some past visitors bemoaned the high entrance fees, however the museum has now waived admission fees for international tourists. General collection tours are also complimentary (departing at 1:30 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday), but special exhibitions may require fees. Past tourists agreed that the property's architecture is stunning and fitting of a modern art gallery.

Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary

Bird lovers and outdoor enthusiasts cannot miss a chance to visit Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary. Located on Tiritiri Matangi Island in the Hauraki Gulf (and within view of  Rangitoto Island  and  Waiheke Island ), this pest-free island and wildlife sanctuary is considered one of New Zealand's most successful conservation projects. Thousands of volunteers worked under the direction of the Department of Conservation to eradicate species-killing pests from the island, and between 1984 and 1994, around 300,000 native trees were planted. As part of the conservation efforts, 11 species of threatened native birds were reintroduced back onto the island. Notable wildlife found on the island include little spotted kokako, tieke (saddleback), kiwis, tuatara and takahe. 

Recent visitors appreciated this wildlife sanctuary's natural beauty and its top-notch hiking trails, adding that they saw several bird species during their visits. 

Auckland Zoo Auckland Zoo

U.S. News Insider Tip: Bring your own water bottle to fill at water fountains as the zoo no longer sells bottled water in an effort to reduce single-use plastic. Or, buy a bottle at the gift shop and it will double as a take-home souvenir! – Leena Tailor

Located less than 4 miles southwest of downtown Auckland is one of the city’s premier animal attractions: the Auckland Zoo. This sprawling animal sanctuary, which boasts the largest number of exotic and native animals in New Zealand, features everything from fur seals to lions to kiwi.

Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland

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Karekare Falls at Waitakere Ranges Regional Park Karekare Falls at Waitakere Ranges Regional Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Reward a morning of hiking the park’s trails by stopping at Titirangi Village on the way back and indulging in delicious desserts or fun cocktails at Deco Eatery. The cute strip is also home to galleries, stores and cafes. – Leena Tailor

Tucked along the North Island's west coast, less than 14 miles south of the city center, Waitakere Ranges Regional Park boasts 40,000 acres of forest and beaches, as well as the spectacular Karekare Falls. Everything from hiking and biking to bird-watching and strolling along the park's black sand beaches can be enjoyed here. Must-see beaches in this sprawling parkland include Piha and Muriwai. 

Take a day trip to Waiheke Island Take a day trip to Waiheke Island free

Whether you're a foodie, wine lover, thrill-seeker or beach bum, odds are you'll love exploring Waiheke Island. Found within the Hauraki Gulf, which also harbors Rangitoto Island and Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary , Waiheke Island features vineyards, olive groves, white sand beaches and a variety of shops and restaurants. For adventure junkies, book a zip lining excursion with EcoZip Adventures .

Visitors agree that Waiheke Island is one of the best wine areas in the region. Several recommend wine-tasting tours with local operators Waiheke Island Wine Tours (starting at NZ$149, or about $92) and Ananda Tours , which starts at NZ$205 (roughly $126) for a half-day tour, which includes lunch and tastings at three vineyards. Ananda Tours also offers overnight packages and custom and specialty tours, such as ones that stop at an olive oil mill. Popular winery stops include Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurants, which has been visited by celebrities like Taylor Swift, and also has beautiful on-site accommodations. The hot spot has also been praised by recent visitors for its incredible views of Auckland City. Tantalus Estate, Stonyridge Vineyard, Cable Bay, Man O’ War and Wild on Waiheke are local favorites.

Auckland War Memorial Museum Auckland War Memorial Museum

The main objective of the Auckland War Memorial Museum is to tell the story of the Auckland region. To that end, the museum, which is housed in a memorial that honors fallen service members, hosts exhibits featuring taonga (treasures) from New Zealand’s native Maori people and displays showcasing Pacific Island natives and other ethnic communities who have made Auckland home. The area's natural history, archaeology, art and military history are also a focus.

According to previous museumgoers, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is a must-see attraction when visiting Tamaki Makaurau (the Maori name for Auckland). Many praised the interesting exhibits, citing the ones about New Zealand's Maori culture as highlights. Reviewers reported spending between three and four hours here, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Others suggested taking advantage of the museum’s late closure on Tuesdays to avoid the school groups that usually visit during weekdays.

New Zealand Maritime Museum New Zealand Maritime Museum

To learn about the City of Sails' ties to the sea, check out the New Zealand Maritime Museum. Located in the Viaduct Harbour precinct along the water, this museum is packed with artifacts documenting New Zealand's rich maritime history. Its collection includes more than 130 watercraft representing a variety of different subjects, including vessels used for whaling, European exploration voyages, Polynesian and Maori navigation, lifeboat services and more.

Recent visitors said this attraction's exhibits are interesting and family-friendly. Many were especially impressed with the museum's Blue Water Black Magic gallery, which features Sir Peter Blake's championship yacht. Blake is New Zealand’s most celebrated sailor. Tourists also loved the Maori section. If you visit on a sunny day, travelers recommend purchasing an upgraded ticket, which covers museum admissions, plus a one-hour cruise on the property's restored ship, the Ted Ashby. Though visitors warn there is a lot of information to take in here, they say the museum’s displays and interactive games manage to engage kids of all ages.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Waitomo Glowworm Caves

This world-famous natural wonder, which is situated about 120 miles south of Auckland, features a boat ride through Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms illuminate the cave ceiling. New Zealand is one of the few places in the world where these bright, tiny creatures can be found. A number of the attraction’s tour guides, who tell the site’s stories, legends and history, are descendants of the Maori chief who originally explored the caves.

Although some former travelers have been disappointed that the boat portion of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour was shorter than they anticipated (about 10 to 15 minutes), most found the attraction interesting and well worth a visit. While the caves are beautiful, the star attraction is the glowworms. However, photography and videography are not allowed in any part of the caves, so keep cameras stowed when inside. Visitors are also asked to keep quiet during the boat portion of the tour.

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Hobbiton Movie Set Hobbiton Movie Set

Located roughly 110 miles southeast of Auckland on a working sheep farm, the Hobbiton Movie Set is a must for fans of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" movies. It's the country's only remaining set from the films and features the movies' famous hobbit homes and The Green Dragon Inn, plus plenty of greenery. Past travelers described their experiences as “magical” and the highlight of their New Zealand vacations. Even those who have never seen "The Lord of the Rings" enjoyed their time at the attraction, in part thanks to the knowledgeable, friendly guides. 

To get to the Hobbiton Movie Set, visitors can drive or take a day tour. The on-site parking lot is free and tours cost NZ$89 (about $55) for adults 17 and older and NZ$44 (around $27) for youth between 9 and 16. Children 8 and younger can tour for free. Set tours are approximately two hours long and begin daily at 9:30 a.m.

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Discover Auckland

The Best of Auckland's Attractions, Hotels, Cafes and Restaurants

12 Best Things to Do in Auckland – Tourist Attractions and Activities

The best tourist attractions in Auckland, how to get there, and why each must-visit attraction is worth it.

Whether you’re a tourist or local, there is something special about Auckland City that draws people from all around the world. The vibrant culture combined with stunning natural landscapes makes it an unforgettable destination.

From sightseeing and adventurous activities to incredible fine dining experiences, Auckland has plenty of things to offer no matter what your interests are. Here, we outline our top picks of must-see attractions and activities that will make your visit truly memorable!

What shouldn’t I miss in Auckland?

• Sky Tower: Standing at 328 meters high, the Sky Tower is a symbol of Auckland’s skyline and offers incredible 360-degree views of the city and beyond. A visit here will give you a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings that you won’t find anywhere else.
• Auckland Museum: This museum is dedicated to telling the story of New Zealand’s Maori people and their culture. It also houses a collection of artifacts from all over the world, making it an interesting place to explore for any couple looking to learn more about this unique country.
• Mount Eden: This dormant volcano provides breathtaking views of Auckland City from its summit, which stands at 196 meters above sea level. The perfect spot for a romantic sunset or sunrise walk, Mount Eden is sure to leave you with lasting memories of your time in Auckland.
• Rangitoto Island: Take a ferry ride out to this volcanic island in the Hauraki Gulf for some stunning coastal scenery and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking trails, kayaking, and swimming spots.
• Tiritiri Matangi Island: This island is home to some rare native birds that can only be found in New Zealand, making it a great spot for bird-watching enthusiasts or anyone who wants to get up close to nature during their visit to Auckland.
• Viaduct Harbour: Located on the waterfront near downtown Auckland, this area has been transformed into a vibrant hub full of restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries – perfect for couples looking for some nightlife action!
• Waiheke Island: Just off the coast of downtown Auckland lies Waiheke Island – an idyllic paradise full of vineyards, beaches, and stunning views over the Hauraki Gulf that will take your breath away!
• Waitakere Ranges Regional Park: If you’re looking for some adventure during your trip then head out west into this park where you can explore lush forests full of native wildlife or take part in activities such as mountain biking or rock climbing!
• Ponsonby Road: This trendy street in central Auckland is lined with boutique stores selling everything from fashion items to homeware – perfect for couples looking for something special to bring back home!
• Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium: Get up close with sharks, stingrays, and other marine life at this popular aquarium located on Tamaki Drive near Mission Bay Beach!
• Mission Bay Beach: Enjoy some sunbathing on one of Auckland’s most popular beaches while taking in views over Rangitoto Island – just make sure you bring your sunscreen!
• Auckland Zoo: Home to over 135 species from around the world, including native birds (yes – kiwi!), lizards and insects as well as exotic giraffes, lions, tigers, elephants, rhinos, gorillas, meerkats, and more ! Want a free peek at an elephant? Head to Western Springs Park which shares a border with the zoo.

What’s famous in Auckland?

Buildings & places.

• Auckland Harbour Bridge
• Aotea Square
• Britomart Precinct
• Auckland Town Hall
• Auckland Zoo
• Auckland Fish Market
• Auckland Domain
• Tiritiri Matangi Island
• Viaduct Harbour
• Auckland Botanic Gardens
• Auckland Museum
• Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
• Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium
• Auckland War Memorial Museum
• MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology)
• Auckland Theatre Company
• Voyager New Zealand Maritime Museum

Neighbourhoods & Spaces

• Waiheke Island
• Rangitoto Island
• Queen Street
• Mission Bay
• One Tree Hill
• Western Springs Stadium
• Parnell Village
• Albert Park
• Takapuna Beach
• Bethells Beach
• Ponsonby Road

Why is Auckland popular for tourists?

Auckland, New Zealand is a city with a unique blend of natural beauty and urban vibrancy, making it a popular destination for tourists visiting New Zealand. As the largest city in the country, Auckland serves as a gateway to the rest of New Zealand, making it a perfect starting point for a tour of the country. Most international flights arrive here too!

One of the main reasons why tourists visit Auckland is its stunning landscape . The city is situated on a narrow isthmus between two harbours and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and volcanic cones. Visitors can take a ferry to nearby islands, hike up volcanoes, or explore the rugged coastline – all within a short distance from the city center.

In addition to its natural beauty, Auckland is also known for its world-class restaurants, bars, and shopping districts – not to mention wineries . Visitors can sample a range of cuisines, from traditional Maori dishes to modern fusion cuisine, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Auckland also has a rich cultural heritage , reflecting New Zealand’s unique mix of Maori, Pacific Islander, and European influences. Visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the Maori people, see traditional performances, and visit museums and art galleries showcasing both contemporary and historical works.

Finally, Auckland’s location in New Zealand makes it a hub for exploring the rest of the country. From Auckland, tourists can easily access other popular destinations such as the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, and Queenstown, all of which offer their own unique attractions and experiences.

In short, Auckland is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the natural beauty, culture, and cuisine of New Zealand. Whether you’re after adventure , food & wine , relaxation, or a city break, Auckland has something for everyone and is the perfect starting point for exploring all that New Zealand has to offer.

Discover Other Auckland Tours

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, check out these other Auckland Tour opportunities:

• 10 Best Day Trips in Auckland
• Top 9 Shore Excursions in Auckland, New Zealand
• 6 Amazing Food & Wine Tours on Waiheke Island, Auckland
• Best Food Tours in Central Auckland. Really.
• Active Auckland Adventure Tours 2024 – Fishing, Hiking, Diving, Island-hopping and more

26 Incredible Things To Do In Auckland This Year

From mesmerising hikes to quirky interactive experiences and skyscrapers...you won't get bored in Auckland.

In a city full of excitement, where do we begin? Whether you’re a local or a traveller looking to get the best out of this iconic city, we’ve tracked down 26 of the best things to do in Auckland , no matter the time of year.

1. Climb Mount Eden

Whether you’re an Aucklander or a tourist, climbing Auckland’s highest extinct volcano Mt Eden never gets old. The climb is an easy 2km walk to the summit, which takes around one hour to complete. At the highest point, you’ll be treated to spectacular 360-degree views, overlooking Auckland. Wander through the Mount Eden community on the way back down, which boasts plenty of local galleries, delicious eateries and an opportunity to learn about Māori history.

2. Experience the magic of Stardome

Stardome Observatory is a 360-degree indoor planetarium which was founded in 1967 in the One Tree Hill domain. Meet likeminded individuals and learn about the wonders of space through hyper-realistic and fully immersive showcases.

📍 670 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1345, New Zealand

3. Drink, dine and play above the clouds

SkyTower is the highest building in the Southern Hemisphere. It was built more than 25 years ago but now encompasses an entertainment complex, casino, plenty of bars and restaurants and cool experiences such as SkyWalk, the new SkySlide and SkyJump . Take in panoramic views 328 metres above the street and spot key landmarks while you enjoy a range of activities. For instance, The Sugar Club and Orbit 360 are some of the best romantic restaurants in Auckland.

📍 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

4. Watch a sunset or sunrise

From Devonport to Mount Hobson, there’s so many beautiful locations around Auckland to capture a spectacular glowing sky in your mind or on your camera. Read further about the best sunset and sunrise places in Auckland .

5. See a majestic temple

Feel like you’re in Bali by visiting the peaceful Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple . As the largest Buddhist temple in New Zealand, it serves as a place of education and worship, boasting a complex with an art gallery, a tea house cafe, a Chinese school and stunning gardens.

📍 16 Stancombe Road, Flat Bush, Manukau 2016, New Zealand

6. Bungy Jump from Auckland Harbour Bridge

For the thrill seekers among us, get your adrenaline pumping by taking on this epic Bungy pod with AJ Hackett Bungy . The experience involves diving off the bridge, over the ocean, against the backdrop of Auckland city. Plus, it’s a perfect date idea !

📍 105 Curran Street, Westhaven Reserve, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand

7. Go wine-tasting on Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is home to some of the greatest winegrowers worldwide. No matter the season, you could take a 40-minute ferry from the city to get lost on the island, take in stunning views afar, drink endless glasses of wine and even stay the night. Some of our favourites for wine-tasting are Mudbrick Vineyard and Wild On Waiheke , which also offers cool outdoor games for groups.

📍 Waiheke Island, Auckland

8. Fall for the magic of Candlelight concerts

If you have yet to experience a Candlelight performance, then add this enchanting event to your list of things to try this year. Not only will you get to listen to music by iconic artists, from legends like Nina Simone to 80s rock anthems , but you’ll get to do so at some of Auckland’s most spectacular venues . Get lost in the light of thousands of candles and moving notes while appreciating a one-of-a-kind space.

9. Hike NZ’s youngest volcano

Opt to kayak around the Hauraki Gulf or take a short 25-minute boat ride to explore the youngest volcano, at 600-years-old, in New Zealand. Rangitoto Island is just 5.5km wide and offers a lovely half-a-day hike. Plus, Rangitoto Island is pest-free so there’s no need to worry about wildlife appearing.

10. Drink atop the highest rooftop bar in NZ

Bar Albert is the highest rooftop bar in New Zealand opened in 2022. Perched on Level 38 of the Voco Auckland City Centre Hotel, it’s the perfect place to sip a few cocktails and take in the iconic views. Although Auckland has the most sensational rooftop experiences in New Zealand, so why not check out more of the greatest rooftops in Auckland ?

📍 13 Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

11. Get educated at Auckland’s museums

There’s a range of thrilling museums to explore in Auckland, which often provide free entrance. Some of the best museums to see are Auckland War Museum for history geeks, the Museum of Transport and Technology for fans of technology and New Zealand Maritime Museum, to name a few.

12. Go rafting at the waterpark

Vector Wero Whitewater Park is perfect for people of all ages who want to enjoy watersports. Think rafting, kayaking, paddle boarding, and plenty more lake activities.

📍 770 Great South Road, Wiri, Auckland 2104, New Zealand

13. Go wild at Rainbow’s End

Of course, this is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Auckland. Discover this unique theme park, with plenty of rides such as water bumper cars to laser tag. Certainly, you won’t be bored.

📍 2 Clist Crescent, Manukau City Centre, Auckland 2104, New Zealand

14. Explore the bush

Auckland boasts a selection of sacred native forests that are therapeutic to explore. For example, the Waitakere Ranges on the West coast offers rugged black beaches, pristine coastline and native wildlife all in one. Certainly, one of the best things to do on a good day in Auckland.

15. Admire artworks for free

Relax and wander through a beautiful and calm space at Auckland Art Gallery . Frequently, exhibitions and events change so there is always something new and spectacular to see. Likewise, it’s one of the best free things to do in Auckland.

📍 Wellesley Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

16. Get lost in a quirky maze

Wander through an interactive space of colour like no other. With quirky mirrors, dark tunnels and plenty of bright lights…you won’t be bored as you find the exist at the Odyssey Sensory Maze .

📍 Lower Basement Metro Centre, 291 – 297 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010

17. Walk along Auckland’s best beaches

Auckland is blessed with a stunning coastline of endless majestic beaches. From the wild West Coast beaches to vibrant places like Takapuna Beach, there’s plenty of sandy spots to explore. Discover the best beaches in Auckland .

18. Go on a journey with the All Blacks

Why not go on a state-of-the-art guided tour through New Zealand’s rugby history? The All Blacks Experience offers visitors an opportunity to learn the story of rugby, test your rugby skills, hear from legends and plenty more.

📍 Level 4/88 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

19. Visit Hobbiton

The Hobbit and Lord Of The Rings filming locations make a great day trip and one of the best things to do near Auckland. Just a two-hour drive from the city, get ready to explore Alexander family sheep farm, the 12-acre set of the Hobbit Holes and learn how the movies were made.

📍 Matamata, Waikato, New Zealand

20. Get spooked at a scary theme park

Keep Halloween alive by heading to this horror theme park Spookers in a former psychiatric hospital filled with scary zombies, horrific clowns and much more spookiness. Certainly, another fantastic date idea as well as group activity.

📍 833 Kingseat Road, Kingseat 2580, New Zealand

21. Visit Auckland Zoo

Animal lovers will enjoy a day at the zoo, which hosts 144 different species, and over 1400 animals, with the biggest diversity of wildlife in New Zealand. Certainly, the perfect activity year-round. Book your tickets via the Auckland Zoo website .

📍 Motions Rd, Auckland 1022, New Zealand

22. Indulge at Auckland’s Night Markets

Foodies can delight in Auckland Night Markets which travel around seven different locations across the city. Explore dozens of stalls, shop for goodies and eat to your heart’s content, from desserts to international cheap eats …you’ll be spoilt for choice.

23. Drink and putt at Holey Moley

As one of the best date ideas in Auckland, you won’t get bored in this house of fun. Enjoy mini golf experience paired cocktails, scrumptious food and plenty of instagrammable moments.

📍 204 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

24. Escape from a room

Why not battle it out in an escape room some weekend day? Get tickets here . Definitely, one of the best things to do on a rainy day!

📍 Victoria Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

25. Enjoy a day of thrills

Spend a day playing arcade games, electric go-karts and other thrilling activities at this entertainment venue. Read all about Game Over Auckland here .

📍 35 Arrenway Drive, Albany, Auckland 0632, New Zealand

26. Go on an Instagrammable adventure

The photo lovers among us will adore the most instagrammable places in Auckland along with the most instagrammable eateries . Meanwhile, foodies can get their hands on the most instagrammable food dishes in Auckland .

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101 Best Things to Do in Auckland 🏙️ [2024]

Support nz pocket guide and get our huge ebook collection to access our tips on the go, the must-dos in auckland: the ultimate list.

What do you do in New Zealand ‘s largest city?! As you might suspect, there is SO much to do in Auckland that planning your time there can be quite a headache between all the things to do that we list in  The Complete Guide to Auckland and the additional 10 Alternative Things to Do in Auckland . Auckland has both urban and nature activities on its doorstep, where you can be going up the tallest building in the country in the morning and sail to an outer island in the afternoon. Despite the overwhelming variety, we love the challenge so here are the very best things to do in Auckland.

Don’t forget to find a place to stay from The 50 BEST Accommodations in Auckland .

1. Climb Through Lava Caves on Rangitoto Island

We’re not saying that the number one thing to do in Auckland is to get straight out of the city, but we’re guessing you have come to New Zealand for the natural scenery. With that in mind, the must-do day trip for anyone staying in Auckland City has to be taking the ferry to Rangitoto Island ! This volcanic island is awash with lava fields and forests. There are multiple walks to follow around this pest-free island, i.e. a safe haven for native birds. The most popular walk is straight to the summit offering excellent views of the crater and the Auckland city skyline. Don’t miss the side trip to the lava caves to scramble through! Plus, see more family-friendly activities like this in our 10 Things to Do in Auckland with Kids .

Location: Take the ferry from the downtown ferry building on Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

2. Kayak or SUP Among Bioluminescent Plankton or to One of the Outer Islands

Get on the water among volcanic islands and even paddle among luminous plankton on one of the kayaking and paddleboarding adventures with the Social Nature Movement . The Browns Island Motukorea Sea Kayak Tour is a popular one from Auckland’s city centre while the Lucas Creek Waterfall SUP Tour takes you to one of the city’s real hidden gems in Albany. For something truly special, join SNM after dark for the Auckland Bioluminescence Kayak Tour to paddle over otherworldly luminous plankton!

Location: All over Auckland! See the links above for departure locations.

3. Get the Best Views of the City from Mt Eden

Mt Eden is not only a volcanic cone but it’s also the highest natural point in Auckland city, which means… Awesome views! While you can drive to the top of the mountain, we recommend walking from the city centre to get a taste of the Auckland suburbs . The Mt Eden suburb is known for some quaint restaurants and cafes that will make the walk up and down the mountain all the more rewarding. Find more activities like this in 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Auckland .

Location: There are a number of access points for walkers and vehicles. Vehicles take Puhi Huia Road from Hillside Crescent or Clive Road, approximately 4 km (2.5 mi) from Auckland city centre.

4. Explore the Auckland Domain

The Auckland Domain is so deceiving. There’s always something else to discover even for locals in this vast park covering 75 ha (185 acres). Check out the Auckland Museum , which has an entry fee for visitors or is free for locals – find out more on Viator and Klook . Do a bushwalk complete with small waterfalls on the Lovers’ Walk or visit the Winter Gardens for some weird and wonderful plants on display. Watch a game of cricket on the sports fields or catch some live music during the summer months. And the list goes on…

Location: Auckland Domain is a 25-minute walk southeast of Queen Street between the suburbs of Grafton and Parnell. Access is via Lower Domain Drive and Domain Drive, approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) from Auckland city centre.

5. Snorkel or Kayak at the Goat Island Marine Reserve

Auckland certainly isn’t just about the city so we definitely urge you to explore the Auckland region if you can! One of the top day trips is to New Zealand’s first marine reserve, the Goat Island Marine Reserve . Here, you can check out some underwater creatures via snorkelling, diving or even clear kayaking with Clearyak ! There are also walks and the Goat Island Discovery Centre too, so there’s plenty at the marine reserve to keep you going.

Location: Goat Island Road, Leigh, approximately 85 km (53 mi) from Auckland city centre.

6. Enjoy Some of New Zealand’s Best Nightlife

If you’re looking to party in New Zealand then, as the largest city in New Zealand, Auckland has to be the place to do it! You are spoiled for choice with bars and clubs throughout the city centre and suburbs. There are many pockets of bars and clubs around the city centre and the inner suburbs of Auckland, from contemporary cocktails on the Viaduct Harbour to the underground vibes of K’ Road . Find out more about the nightlife offerings in The Guide to Auckland Nightlife !

Location: Auckland Central. See the link above for recommended locations, as well as listings in the  10 Best Bars in Auckland .

7. Go Up the Highest Building in the Southern Hemisphere…

The Sky Tower is the highest building in the Southern Hemisphere at 220 m (722 ft) high standing proudly in the city centre of Auckland. You can’t miss it! It’s also pretty enticing to go up the Sky Tower, whether it’s to check out the views from the Observation Deck or have a lavish meal high above the city in the cafe. Check out tickets to the observation deck on Viator and Klook .

Location: 72 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

8. … And Experience That Famous New Zealand Adrenaline on the SkyWalk or SkyJump!

For those more adventurous, why not do the “ SkyWalk “, walking around a narrow pathway with no barriers, just obstructive views of the city 192 m (630 ft) below you? Alternatively, do the “ SkyJump ” which we can only describe as the world’s most extreme zipline!

9. Take a Road Trip to the Waitakere Ranges

Yes, there’s more to explore in the Auckland region! A popular city escape is to the Waitakere Ranges to get a dose of New Zealand wilderness. Take the walking tracks among the forest with waterfall after waterfall or check out the black sand beaches backed with rugged coastal cliff scenery. The beaches of the Waitakere Ranges are also the most-loved surf spots in Auckland. Find out about all the awesome stuff to do here in our Waitakere Ranges Guide .

Location: West Auckland. There are several access roads to the Waitakere Ranges so find your destination and driving instructions through our Waitakere Ranges Guide . Day tours are also available with Social Nature Movement , Bush and Beach and  TIME Unlimited Tours .

10. Experience a Whale and Dolphin Cruise

Another way to get on the water in Auckland is via an exciting whale-watching tour. An activity for all ages, Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safaris takes you on a half-day cruise with marine biologists to observe some of the Hauraki Gulf’s frequent visitors. We’re talking playful bottlenose dolphins, majestic Bryde’s whales, and an array of seabirds! Find out more about Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari on Viator and Klook . Additionally, see more experiences with nature in the Top 10 Natural Attractions in Auckland .

Location: Tours depart from 175 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

11. Sample Some of the Local Cuisine

One of the great things about Auckland is that it’s one of the best places in New Zealand to find something good to eat. It just about covers every nationality, so there is plenty of choices. Not only is there a great selection of restaurants throughout Auckland, but there are also many foodie events from markets to food festivals. Check out The Food Guide to Auckland: Places to Eat & Food Tours for our complete guide to all things food in Auckland!

Location: All over Auckland! See specific locations in the link above.

12. Learn Something New at Auckland’s Museums

As one of the last major landmasses to be discovered, New Zealand has quite the story. Discover it for yourself at The Auckland Museum , packed with exhibitions about New Zealand’s social and natural history. Find out more about the Auckland Museum on Viator and Klook . Another museum worth adding to the itinerary is the New Zealand Maritime Museum , showcasing seafaring stories of the South Pacific. And a great one for the kids is the MOTAT in Western Springs, otherwise known as Auckland’s Museum of Transport and Technology. See more museums worth visiting in the  10 Best Art Galleries & Museums in Auckland .

Location: Auckland Museum – Auckland Domain, Parnell. New Zealand Maritime Museum – Corner of Quay and Hobson Street, Viaduct Harbour. MOTAT – 805 Great North Road, Western Springs, approximately 5.5 km (3.4 mi) from Auckland city centre.

13. Sip Wine on Waiheke Island

For the perfect mix of city life and island life, head to Waiheke Island ! Just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is most famous for its wine production. Check out around 20 vineyards and cellar doors where you can sip wine, eat amazing food and gaze over the island. There’s also a lot more to do on the island, especially for beach bums but you can learn more about all that in the 10 Best Things to Do on Waiheke Island .

Location: Ferries depart from the Ferry Building on Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

14. Take a Road Trip to One of Auckland’s Regional Parks

Seeking a road trip destination? You have a wealth of options in the Auckland region thanks to the 26 regional parks available! For example, enjoy an easy walk to the breathtaking Hunua Falls in the Hunua Ranges , camp or relax at the beach at Shakespear Park , discover the fascinating gannet colony at Muriwai Beach , and the list continues! Check out our favourite Auckland regional parks in 20 Best Auckland Parks . Plus, for more road trip ideas, head to the   5 Auckland Road Trips You Can’t Miss .

15. Discover Auckland’s Hidden Gems on a Guided Walking Tour

Connect to the Auckland region on a deeper level by learning about its volcanic formations, native bird species and unique flora on a guided walking tour with the Social Nature Movement . Discover one of Auckland’s magnificent regional parks and get the local perspective on one of the curated Duder Regional Park Walking Tours or follow the longest lava flow to spill through Auckland on one of the Meola Reef Te Tokaroa Tours and learn things that most locals don’t even know about.

Location: All over Auckland! City centre transfers provided.

16. Hit the Water for Sailing Cruise or on an America’s Cup Yacht

In the “City of Sails,” it’s almost mandatory to experience sailing on the Waitemata Harbour or Hauraki Gulf. Enjoy lunch with a tremendous view by embarking on an “Auckland Harbour Lunch Cruise” with Explore Auckland – more information on Viator and Klook . Alternatively, pump up the adrenaline by taking the helm of an America’s Cup sailing yacht – find out more on Viator and Klook . See more activity recommendations like this in our 10 Luxury Experiences in Auckland .

Location: 220 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

17. Browse Auckland’s Vibrant Farmers’ Markets

Check out the local produce and products of Auckland’s markets. Farmers’ markets provide an authentic Kiwi market experience, with some of your best options being in the suburbs at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market (Sunday mornings) and Mt Albert Farmers Market  (Saturday mornings ). Closer to the city centre, La Cigale French Market (Saturday mornings) is worth a visit for its handmade bread, olive oils, delectable meats, pastries, chocolates, condiments, cheeses and more. Finally, take a roadie to the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market on Saturdays to pick up some artisan goodies.

Location: Grey Lynn Farmers Market – Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road. Mount Albert Market – 847 New North Road. La Cigale French Market – 545 Parnell Road. Matakana Village Farmers’ Market – 2 Matakana Valley Road, approximately 70 km (43 mi) from Auckland city centre.

18. Discover Auckland’s Breathtaking Beaches

Who doesn’t like a walk on the beach? Auckland can certainly provide in that department, featuring ruggedly beautiful black-sand beaches on the west coast and calm golden-sand beaches on the east. Combine your beach visit with seeing a fascinating gannet colony at Muriwai Beach , learn to surf at Piha Beach , or hike to stunning waterfalls at Karekare Beach . Find out more in our guide on Where to Find Black Sand Beaches in Auckland .

Location: All over Auckland. For specific locations, see the link above.

19. Culture Yourself at the Auckland Art Gallery

It’s a classic city experience: checking out the local art gallery. What’s great about the Auckland Art Gallery is that it’s on the edge of the beautiful Albert Park . The Auckland Art Gallery is a great place to get a taste of the Auckland culture from its Polynesian roots to the international flair that’s more evident in Auckland today. It’s definitely worth having a look around for an hour or so, along with the  10 Best Art Galleries & Museums in Auckland .

Location: Wellesley Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

20. Be Transported to Another World on a Stargazing Experience

Little do visitors realise that even in New Zealand’s largest and most populated city, the stargazing is incredible. One way to experience New Zealand’s famously clear skies for stargazing is through the Auckland Stardome Observatory . View the stars through the powerful Zeiss Telescope , check out the Space Gallery & Exhibits and be captivated by an array of shows for families to adults only at the Planetarium . Alternatively, join the Social Nature Movement for their informative and fun Dark Sky Stargazing Tour in some of Auckland’s best stargazing sites.

Location: Auckland Stardome Observatory – 670 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland Central. SNM – See the link above for meeting locations.

21. Do Some Island-Hopping in the Hauraki Gulf

We’ve mentioned highlights of the Hauraki Gulf , such as Rangitoto Island, but did you know there are many more islands to discover? Take the ferry from the Downtown Ferry Terminal to Tiritiri Matangi for an amazing bird sanctuary, Rotoroa Island for historical buildings, and Rakino Island for snorkelling with the Social Nature Movement . Learn more about these islands and much more in The 10 Best Islands in Auckland to Visit .

Location: Downtown Ferry Terminal, Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

22. See the Inner City Highlights on the Coast to Coast Walkway

See the highlights of Auckland City on the  Coast to Coast Walkway . Walk 16 km (9.9 mi) between Waitemata to Manukau passing some of the city’s iconic heritage buildings, as well as through the Auckland Domain and the volcanic cones of Mt Eden and One Tree Hill . It’s the ultimate day out for those staying in the city centre, but for some shorter rambles, take a look at the  10 Best Walks in Auckland: Short Walks to Day Hikes .

Location: A popular place to start is from Viaduct Basin, 99 Customs Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

23. Join a Culinary Tour of Auckland’s City Centre

Get orientated with Auckland’s culinary scene with a dedicated food tour. The Big Foody offers a range of food tours in Auckland, taking food enthusiasts to laneway coffee roasters, supermarkets where the chefs shop, the Auckland Fish Market and some fantastic restaurants. What’s more, you’ll get some recommendations on where to eat in Auckland from your expert guide who is a judge for culinary competitions. Discover more experiences like this in the  10 Best Foodie Experiences in Auckland .

Location: Pick-up is provided or a meeting place is organised in Auckland Central.

24. Tour Waiheke Island’s Wineries and Vineyards

Auckland’s sunny climate is ideal for wine-producing. With that, the north of the Auckland region and Waiheke Island have rows and rows of vines that decorate the landscape. Waiheke Island provides your most comprehensive array of wineries, from boutique vineyards like the Bach winery to internationally-acclaimed brands like Cable Bay . Either make your own itinerary to visit the cellar doors with our 21 Vineyards & Wineries on Waiheke Island or enjoy the ease of a wine tour with companies like  Waiheke Wine Tours , Wai Tiki Tours , Enjoi  and Ananda Tours (more info on Viator and Klook ) .

Location: Waiheke Island. Ferries depart from 99 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland Central.

25. Tackle the Auckland Bridge Climb and Bungy

An icon of New Zealand’s biggest city is its Harbour Bridge . Adrenaline junkies have two choices for their fix: on top of the bridge or under the bridge. Choose to slowly climb the bridge on the Auckland Bridge Climb  and feel on top of the world with a unique view of the Auckland skyline or get yourself in the small pod under the bridge where a fun crew will tie your feet together for the iconic Auckland Bungy . Check out some more fun spots to jump from in the 10 Epic Places to Bungy Jump in New Zealand .

Location: 105 Curran Street Extension, Westhaven Marina, Herne Bay, Auckland Central.

26. Do an Epic Skydive!

One of the highest skydives on the North Island is in Auckland at 18,000 ft. Get an epic view of New Zealand’s largest city and multiple offshore islands from the sky. What is better to start your trip on a high than jumping from a plane above New Zealand’s biggest city? Book your skydive with Skydive Auckland .

Location: 73 Green Road, Parakai, Auckland, North Island. Transport between the drop zone and Auckland CBD is included in the price.

27. Surf, Surf, Surf

Kiwis love their water and any way to take it on is a good way. So it comes as no surprise that surfing is kind of a big thing here. Auckland features some pretty neat surf spots with the most famous being Piha Beach (check out some more surf beaches in 10 Places to Surf on the North Island ). The long stretch of black sand is buzzing with surfers almost all year long. Be aware that this is also one of the most dangerous beaches in the country, so know what you are doing or go with a surf school, such as Piha Surf Academy . Alternatively, check out a smoother beginner surf beach, Te Arai , and learn to surf with Aotearoa Surf School .

Location: Piha, Waitakere, West Auckland. Te Arai, Rodney.

28. Zipline on Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is New Zealand’s premium island, with luxurious wineries, large villas and… screaming tourists! Ziplining is a fun way to get some real speed through the forest and race your friends along the way thanks to all three lines drawn side-by-side across the forest and over vineyards on tours with Ecozip Adventures . Book your tour with Ecozip Adventures on Viator or Klook .

Location: 6 Ocean View Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Island.

29. Experience Canyoning in the Waitakere Ranges

Who knew that Auckland had so much nature to offer? In the nearby Waitakere Ranges lies some of the best canyoning in the country with challenging rappel cliffs and huge waterfalls. There is even an option to go canyoning at night and spot a few glowworms along the way! Learn more about night canyoning in the  50 Things to Do in Auckland at Night . Plus, for more canyoning activities across the country, check out the 10 Best Canyoning Tours in New Zealand .

Location: Transfers are provided from Auckland Central.

30. See the City from New Heights on a Helicopter or Seaplane Tour

Amp your sightseeing experience to the next level with a scenic flight over Auckland and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf. There’s nothing like the birds-eye view of the city’s volcanic cones, urban skyscrapers and the surrounding glimmering waters. Heletranz offers scenic helicopter tours around both Auckland and Waiheke Island with bespoke options available. Alternatively, fly from Auckland to Waiheke Island via seaplane with Auckland Seaplanes (Waiheke Wings) . See more upscale activities like this in the  10 Best Luxury Experiences in Auckland .

Location: Heletranz – 234 Rosedale Road, Albany. Auckland Seaplanes – 171 Carsons Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island.

31. Get Some Serious Retail Therapy

It probably comes as no shock that Auckland provides some fantastic shopping. Queen Street runs right through the city centre, featuring designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and more, while Commerical Bay is the city centre’s newest shopping mall in Britomart . Find some irresistible boutiques on High Street and enjoy the convenience of department shopping at Smith & Caughey’s . Learn more about Auckland’s retail scene in the 5 Best Places for Shopping in Auckland CBD .

Location: All over Auckland! See the link above for recommended locations.

A local’s guide: 75 amazing things to do in Auckland in 2024

Looking for some insider tips about the most fun things to do in Auckland? You’ve come to the right place! With something for all kinds of people and budgets, this is an essential planning tool for your next Auckland adventure.

Surrounded by oceans, the city lives on the water.  With one-third of all households enjoying a boat and a relatively temperate climate, Auckland offers much more than your typical city.

Wherever you are, farmland is within easy reach, as are memorable hikes and sanctuaries where you’ll find our precious New Zealand native birdlife .

Much of the city is accessible by public transport , but you can hire a car or join a tour if you’d like to explore Regional Auckland.

With so many fun things to do whilst you’re visiting Auckland, be sure to leave yourself a little time on your Kiwi itinerary and prepare to surprise yourself!

And who better to talk you through the best things to do in the City of Sails than a born-and-bred local?

So book your flight, plan how you’ll get from the airport into Auckland City and then jot down all of the fun things you plan to do in Auckland!

When you book through our links, you’ll often get a discount and we may earn a commission. Your support also allows us to run our Facebook communities and create helpful content at no cost to you. Thank you!

Table of contents

The Best Things to Do in Auckland

Fun things to do in auckland – hiking.

• Catch the ferry over to Rangitoto Island and hike to the top of one of Auckland’s most iconic volcanoes .
• Venture out to Muriwai and try out Auckland’s most unique hike – the Goldie Bush Walkway and Mokoroa Falls .  With a dozen or so river crossings, it’s great fun! This is also where you’ll find the gannets (which are #13 on this list).
• An easy walk with stunning rural/coastal views, Duder Regional Park is a must (with a quick stop off at Maraetai for an ice cream and swim).
• Hike the Coast to Coast walk, a 16km urban walk that takes you through many of Auckland’s beautiful parks and over key mountains.
• Visit the Arataki Visitor Centre before heading out on one of the many hiking trails in the Waitākere Ranges.  The Fairy Falls are one of our favourites but you really can’t go wrong.
• Head out to Great Barrier Island and hike the Aotea track .  With natural hot springs to swim in and the option of either a 1 or 2-night hike, it is nature at its finest.
• Enjoy the hike through the Hunua Ranges and the incredible waterfall at the end of the track.

The Best Things to do in Auckland – Outdoor Pursuits/Sports

• If you’re a seasoned surfer, hit the waves at Piha – assuming you can handle them, they’re world-class.
• Hire a mountain bike and explore Woodhill Forest .
• Visit New Zealand’s only indoor snow park for skiing, snowboarding and tubing – with surprisingly affordable prices, it’s a great way to get a taste of the mountains (without the massive five-hour drive to get to Mt Ruapehu ).
• Catch a rugby game – the All Blacks , our national team are the most exciting ones to watch in person, but the Super 15 and Mitre 10 Cup (formally NPC) will allow you to soak up the fun of the game, without the price tag.
• Hire a bike (or an eBike if you’d prefer) and check out the Lightpath & the Nelson Street cycleway .
• If you love sport, you’ll want to make a beeline for a tour of Eden Park – home to rugby in Auckland.
• Want a bit of adrenaline in your tour? Tour the roof of Eden Park .

Auckland Animals Encounters

• Head out to the Muriwai to visit the gannet colony (and the gorgeous black-sand surf beach).
• Pop along to the Auckland Zoo and check out the conservation work they’re doing.
• Head out to Pakiri Beach, which is so pristine and tropical that you’ll think you’re in Fiji!

Sightseeing in the City of Sails

• Head on over to Waiheke Island .  Fine wine, delicious food, beautiful beaches and a lovely artsy community – it’s one of the very best things to do in Auckland.
• Climb Mt Eden and take in stunning views of the CBD.
• Admire the City of Sails from the tallest building in the country.  220m above the streets below, the Sky Tower is an Auckland icon.
• Take your sightseeing up a notch and catch the most incredible views of the night sky at the Stardome Observatory and Planetarium .
• Enjoy the animals at the Auckland Domain and wander up One Tree Hill.
• Hike just 10 minutes until you find the Karekare Falls – they’re beautiful and right by the West Coast’s wild black sand beaches. Or you could check out the incredible Kitekite Falls (in the same area).
• If you love plants, head along to the expansive Botanic Gardens (South Auckland) or stay local to the CBD and visit the stunning Auckland Wintergarden .
• One of the most popular and impressive bird sanctuaries in New Zealand, be sure to check out Tiritiri Matangi Island. If you can’t make it quite that far, check out this list of awesome birding spots in Auckland (and this second edition ).
• Hop on a guided tour of Auckland and let someone else show you the best sights .
• Join a group of people on a tour out to the wild West Coast beaches.
• Join a small-group walking tour through the central city. This is a great way to meet a local and discover what it’s really like to live in Auckland (if you’re visiting).
• Hop on an incredible scenic flight around Auckland and Waiheke Island.
• Looking for something different? Why not join a Segway tour through the historic Devonport.

Fun Things to do in Auckland – On, In and Around the Water

• In the summertime, cool off at the Parnell Baths . In the wintertime, head to the hot pools instead!
• Join a kayak tour over to Rangitoto including a hike to the summit and delicious Kiwi BBQ dinner.
• Grab an ice cream from Mövenpick and wander the bays – Okahu Bay, Mission Bay, Kohimarama and Saint Heliers.  With great views of Rangitoto (and even better ones from the top of Bastion Point), it’s a beautiful part of the city.
• Head into the Hauraki Gulf for a spot of whale and dolphin watching .
• Catch yourself some lunch – whether it be off one of our many wharves or by jumping aboard a boat .
• Grab your togs and jump off a waterfall! Out in Pi h a you’ll find amazing canyoning that just to be on your Auckland wish-list.
• Sail an America’s Cup Boat [discounted] – what an adrenaline rush you’ll experience whilst taking in striking city views from the water.
• Or if you’d rather relax, enjoy a discounted harbour dinner cruise .
• Jet boating was invented in New Zealand, so you know you can’t leave without taking on your own jet boat adventure .

Adventure & Adrenaline in Auckland

• Hit up Rainbow’s End – New Zealand biggest and best theme park.
• Whilst you’re at the top of the Sky Tower, take on either the Skywalk or Skyjump .
• Brave the ghouls and monsters at Spookers .
• Raft or kayak at New Zealand’s only man-made rapid park – Vector Wero .
• In true Kiwi spirit, get yourself bungy jumping!  Did you know that the commercial bungy jump was first created by a couple of New Zealanders? It’s a local institution and Auckland offers the only ocean-touch in the country so get in!
• Whilst you’re jumping off of things, why not leap from a plane [with your NZTT discount] ?
• Fly over native forests and vineyards on Waiheke Island with the team at EcoZip Adventures. Get your EcoZip discount through NZTT .

Arts, Culture & History in the City of Sails

• Enjoy the biggest and best collection of local and international artwork in the country at the Auckland Art Gallery .
• Take in an award-winning show at the beautiful Civic Theatre .
• Visit pay a visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum .  Sitting proudly in the Auckland Domain, it’s a stunning building with countless engaging exhibits.  There, you can also take in Māori cultural shows.
• Take a step back in time at the Howick Historical Village .
• Explore the war-time tunnels up on North Head .  Should you wish, a ferry will take you from Auckland’s CBD to Devonport .

Grub’s Up – It’s Kai Time!

• Devour an incredible ice cream creation at Giapo – they’re the most creative and insta-ready desserts in the city!
• Pick up fish and chips and eat them whilst enjoy the sunset at Mission Bay .
• Fancy yourself up and enjoy a meal at The French Café .
• Take yourself for a drive to one of our fabulous farmers’ markets – we love Matakana and Clevedon especially.
• Check out one of the many world-class restaurants in Auckland’s CBD – Britomart , the Viaduct , Wynyard Quarter and Elliot Stables are always a safe bet.  There is so much amazing food in Auckland ! If you’re specifically looking for delicious cheap eats in Auckland, there are plenty of options around the region.
• Join a wine tour on Waiheke Island – what a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
• Head up the Sky Tower to enjoy a fancy dinner at Orbit , the revolving restaurant.
• Make new friends as you join a food tour – what fun!

Entertain the Kids in Auckland

• Pay a visit to the Odyssey Sensory Maze for all-ages fun!
• Check out the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) .
• Pay a visit to SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium where you’ll find a fantastic range of fish, sharks, penguins and more. This is a great indoor activity in Auckland – perfect for a rainy day!
• Near Auckland Airport, you’ll find an exotic collection of tropical butterflies, reptiles and farm animals.  Butterfly Creek is great for the littlest members of the family.
• Another one perfect for the kids, Ambury Park is the spot to pat everything from sheep and goats to chickens, rabbits and calves.  Run by the Auckland City Council, entry is free and the animals are all well cared for in a lovely farm setting.
• Challenge the kids to a game of mini-golf – Auckland has a number of amazing courses spread across the region.
• Or, if you want something even more physical, have your whānau test their skills at laser tag .

BONUS:  Fun Things to do a Stone’s Throw from Auckland

Though not officially in Auckland, the following suggestions are highly recommended day trips from New Zealand’s largest city.  Fun things .you can do just outside of Auckland, if you will…

• Don a snorkel and fins and explore New Zealand’s best-known marine park; Goat Island .  One hour north
• Hop aboard the Royal Mail Run Cruise and explore the stunning Kawau Island.  What a spectacular day out!  45 minutes north.
• Head out to the Sculptureum where art, the outdoors and fine food combine. One hour north .
• Grab your togs and head to the hot pools!  Either Parakai Springs ( 40 minutes north west ) or Miranda Hot Springs( 1 hour south east ).
• The Blue Spring (on the Te Waihou Walkway) has to be seen to be believed.  With water so pure and scenery so stunning, it alone is worth the drive from Auckland.  Two hours, twenty minutes south east .
• An easy drive from Auckland, Raglan has a fantastic surf beach and is home to a friendly, arty community (with plenty of awesome cafes).  On the way, be sure to stop off at the Bridal Veil Falls.  Two hours south.
• No trip to New Zealand is complete without a visit to the glow worms !  Though Waitomo is a reasonable drive (and probably better done as you’re continuing on to another area), it can be done in a day if that’s all you have.  Whether you explore by foot or go black water rafting , you’re in for a treat.  Two hours, twenty minutes south .
• Pack a shovel and head for the Coromandel to Hot Water Beach.  Two hours, ten minutes east .
• A modern Kiwi classic, Hobbiton is a must for many tourists visiting Aotearoa.  Two hours south-east .

Auckland is the international gateway to New Zealand and so, so much more.

Diverse, exciting and packed with the Kiwi nature that travellers come to see, it’s easy to see why it deserves so much more than a flying visit.

What will you do first in New Zealand’s biggest and most exciting city?

New Zealand can be expensive

Spend less & do more

Looking for awesome things to do in Auckland? Pin this post…

Photo Credits: Auckland Council, Chris McLennan, AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand and Todd Eyre

Founder of one of Aotearoa's most popular and helpful Facebook travel planning groups, Sarah shares reliable information and discounts around New Zealand. As an experienced tour guide, travel writer and airline reservations consultant, she enjoys bringing you the best of New Zealand.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand

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The biggest city in New Zealand when it comes to population, Auckland is a fascinatingly diverse place. Spoiling travelers with an alluring mix of intrepid challenges, cultural attractions, cosmopolitan hotspots, and natural wonders, Auckland is like a little world all on its own.

The dynamic city boasts an impressive number of volcanoes (some of which are still active!), untouched islands teeming with native wildlife, and the type of rugged beaches most travelers dream of. 

With countless enchanting hiking trails, extraordinary cycling routes, and endless dramatic panoramas, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Auckland if you’re yearning to get back to nature!

Add into the mix stimulating museums, compelling art galleries, vast shopping complexes, historic architecture, and neighborhoods that just beg you to explore them, and you’ve got an excellent vacation destination for every type of traveler.

With such a great choice of things to see and do, it can be tricky to know where to begin. To give you a helping hand, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Auckland. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Auckland bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time exploring one of the most adventurous parts of the world!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Auckland

1. skyjump off the skytower.

If you’re feeling brave, one of the coolest things to do in Auckland is to SkyJump off the SkyTower. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, hurling yourself off the tallest building in New Zealand is an unforgettable experience guaranteed to excite all daredevils!

After donning your safety gear, you’ll take the leap from the 629-foot-high deck and feel an incredible rush as you plummet to the ground. You’ll race at speeds of up to 52 mph for 11 seconds before you come to a gentle, smooth landing at the base of the tower.

If that sounds a bit much for you, a SkyWalk may be more your style. This thrilling activity allows you to soak up the remarkable views of Auckland while walking along a skinny 4-foot-wide platform 629 feet in the clouds. 

You’ll be protected by a full-body harness, so you can lean into the sky and feel as free as a bird.

2. Unleash Your Inner Art Lover At The Auckland Art Gallery

The Auckland Art Gallery is one of the top Auckland attractions, and for good reason, too. Step in between the trunks of the majestic kauri trees, and you’ll discover the remarkable home of New Zealand’s largest art collection.

Beautifully spread out over four floors, the Auckland Art Gallery’s permanent collection takes you on a journey through seven centuries of art inside one of the country’s most prestigious and iconic buildings. 

While you’re totally free to explore the gallery on your own, we definitely recommend signing up for a guided tour. The cultural attraction is full of friendly, knowledgeable guides who will lead you on an immersive and captivating tour through the artwork, artists, tales, and history that make the gallery what it is.

In addition to the impressive permanent collection, the gallery also regularly hosts world-class touring exhibitions. Exciting events and workshops also take place throughout the year, so check the gallery’s calendar to see what’s going on during your visit.

3. Go Whale Watching In The Hauraki Gulf

For some of the best sights in Auckland, hop on a boat and go in search of whales and dolphins around the Hauraki Gulf. Not only does this part of the city boast gorgeous vineyards and rugged beaches, but it’s also home to a number of whale and dolphin pods.

On this half-day tour, you’ll get to explore the dazzling Hauraki Gulf Marine Park as part of an ethical and sustainable eco-safari. You’ll get the chance to relax and soak up the sunshine on a luxury catamaran while keeping your eyes open for the local marine life that flourishes in these waters.

Bottlenose dolphins and orcas are regularly spotted in the area, and your marine research scientist guide will make sure you don’t miss them. One of the best things about this particular tour is that the organizers guarantee whale and dolphin sightings, whichever time of year you go.

Book a Whale Watching Cruise

4. See The World’s Biggest Collection Of Māori Taonga

If you’re interested in learning about the local culture, one of the best things to do in New Zealand is to visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum . This is where you’ll find the biggest collection of Māori taonga (treasures) in the world. 

This incredible collection is located on the ground floor at the entrance to the museum and is made up of more than 1,000 artifacts that date all the way back to the original Māori settlers. You’ll discover a number of full-sized buildings in the gallery, including a spectacular meeting house that was given as a wedding gift.

Other interesting pieces include the last great war canoe that was ever used in battle, the earliest surviving Māori carving in the world, and delicate feather cloaks. Almost all the pieces are accompanied by personal stories and accounts, giving you a great insight into the people and their culture. 

The rest of the museum is definitely worth checking out, too. There are temporary displays dedicated to all sorts of fascinating stuff, from Egyptian pharaohs and Stonehenge secrets to Ancient Greeks and dinosaurs.

Get Your Auckland War Memorial Museum Ticket

5. Try Traditional Hāngī

New Zealand dishes up some amazing food, but none of them can compete with Hāngī. A typical Māori dish and tradition, Hāngī is a unique way of cooking food that gives it the most incredible earthy, smoky flavor.

This awesome tradition involves digging a deep hole, filling it with red-hot stones, and placing a layer of leaves on top. Meat, such as venison, lamb, pork, and chicken, is then placed on top of the leaves, along with a selection of vegetables. Another layer of leaves is placed on top of the food with a little water before the whole thing is covered with soil.

After several hours, the meat has become so tender that you don’t need cutlery to eat it, and everything has developed a wonderfully deep and rich flavor you won’t get any other way. One of the must-do things in Auckland, enjoying Hāngī is something you’ll only get to do as part of a cultural Māori tour. It’s rare to find this method of cooking in restaurants. 

6. Watch The Stars On Great Barrier Island

New Zealand is one of the most epic places in the world for stargazing. Thanks to its beautifully clear skies and minimal light pollution, you can see the stars from practically anywhere in the country. While you’re in Auckland, you should definitely plan a stargazing trip to Great Barrier Island.

Home to the International Dark Sky Sanctuary, this island is far away from the bright lights of the city and guarantees an incredible star-filled sky every night. Whether you do it solo and go stargazing on your own or sign up for a guided tour and go with a group, stargazing is definitely one of the top things to do in Auckland.

If you’re thinking about spending more time on Great Barrier Island, you’ll find plenty of things to do. It’s blanketed in a thick, lush forest that you can explore for hours. The Aotea hiking track is a great choice if you’re feeling energetic. Or, if you’d rather spend some time relaxing, Medlands Beach is the perfect spot to unwind.

7. Discover New Zealand’s Heritage At The Pasifika Festival

What began as a tiny picnic day in 1993 has transformed into the largest festival of its kind in the world, attracting more than 200,000 visitors every single year. The Pasifika Festival focuses on the Pacific Islands and invites you to discover everything there is to know about the different cultures and heritages that originated in the islands.

One of the most fun Auckland activities, the Pasifika Festival takes place over two days each April and boasts an incredible program filled with activities and shows. The events change each year, but previous festivals have included theater performances, fashion shows, sports competitions, pop opera, and craft markets.

The festival is divided into 11 distinct villages, each of which represents one of the Pacific Islands. Each village has its own performance stage and market where you can learn all about the culture, food, and lifestyle of the people who come from there.

8. Go Cage Diving With Sharks At The SEA LIFE Aquarium

Auckland’s SEA LIFE Aquarium is a great place to visit. But if you want to push yourself to the limits and try something new, sign up for the aquarium’s shark cage adventure and face your fears!

During this incredible experience, you’ll take the plunge and get closer to more kinds of sharks than you ever thought possible. Absolutely no previous diving experience is required, making it one of the most unique things to do in Auckland that everyone can try.

The cage will be submerged in the predator tank, and you’ll be able to see all kinds of sharks through the mesh around you and through the clear perspex bottom of the cage. You’re guaranteed to see school, wobbegong, and broadnose sevengill sharks, as well as loads of other interesting marine life.

The tanks are full of giant stingrays and hundreds of amazing sea creatures. With only thin mesh between you and these incredible animals, this is as close as you can get to predator sharks while still being 100% safe.

Buy a SEA LIFE Aquarium Ticket

9. Kayak To Rangitoto Island For Sunset

Rangitoto Island is a must-visit during your Auckland vacation. And while you can get there easily by ferry, the most fun way to reach the island is to paddle over the crystal clear waters in a kayak.

This stunning island is a dormant volcanic cone just off the coast of the center of the city. It’s only 600 years old, making it the youngest volcano in New Zealand. One of the best places for Auckland sightseeing, Rangitoto Island is full of beautiful walks that take you through the island’s lush, green landscape and reveal magnificent panoramas.

For a romantic evening you’ll never forget, wait until an hour or so before sunset, pack a picnic, and kayak over to Rangitoto Island. If you stay alert, you may be lucky enough to spot some adorable little blue penguins! When you reach the island, find the perfect spot for your picnic and dig in while the sun dips into the horizon.

10. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth With Pavlova

When you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, but you’re not sure what to have, order the pavlova. A delicious dessert that’s magically crisp, gooey, and chewy all at the same time, a pavlova is sure to satisfy every sweet craving you’ve got!

A pavlova is a meringue cake that has a thin crisp crunch, chewy gooey insides, and a marshmallow-like fluffy center. It’s usually topped with various fruits, such as strawberries, passionfruit, and kiwi, and is always finished off with rich whipped cream.

Pavlova is most commonly served as a light and refreshing dessert after Christmas dinner. (As New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, people there celebrate Christmas in summer.) But the dish is so popular you’ll find it on pretty much every dessert menu throughout the year.

For incredible pavlova, visit Cibo . This amazing restaurant dishes up three types of the dessert. Choose between a classic lemon pavlova, one flavored with salted caramel and peanut brittle, and one based on a lamington (an Australian cake) and flavored with coconut and raspberry.

11. Go Skiing In The Middle Of Summer

New Zealand is an amazing place for skiing during winter. But don’t be disheartened if you’re planning to visit in summer. One of the most fun things to do in Auckland, spending a day at Snowplanet allows you to go skiing no matter how hot and sunny it is outside!

This cool indoor place is a magical winter wonderland all year round. The temperature is a chilly 23°F (-5°C), which is the perfect temperature for keeping the artificial slopes covered in a thick layer of powdery snow.

Offering something for everyone, Snowplanet’s main slope is divided into multiple areas, making it suitable for expert skiers and snowboarders as well as newbies. If you’ve never zoomed down a snowy slope before, lessons are also available for total beginners.

Because of the low temperatures, it’s essential that you wear warm clothing. If you haven’t got the right gear you can purchase some extra layers from Snowplanet and rent waterproof jackets and pants.

12. Check Out The Best Views From Mount Eden

You’ll find some of the best things to see in Auckland from the top of Mt Eden. At 643 feet tall, Mt Eden is the highest point in the city, making it the best spot for panoramic views. While you can drive to the top of the volcano cone, we recommend you grab your sneakers and walk to the top from the center of the city instead!

On your trek, you’ll get to travel through Auckland’s suburbs and really get a feel for the city. The neighborhood around Mt Eden is teeming with cute restaurants and independent cafes, giving you plenty of places to stop off if you need a rest.

The complete hike from central Auckland is around three miles. If that’s a bit too much for you, it’s only 1.25 miles if you start from the bottom of the mountain. This shorter trek will take you around an hour, and you’ll still be rewarded with dramatic 360-degree views.

Book an Auckland Sightseeing Tour

13. Relax At The Auckland Domain

Spending some time at the Auckland Domain is something you’ve got to have on your Auckland bucket list. One of the largest parks in the city, this wide-open green space is packed full of attractions that could keep you busy for a whole week. 

It was built in 1880 as a 200-acre public reserve and has since developed into one of the most fascinating and beautiful parts of the city.

Inside the Auckland Domain, you’ll find the Museum of New Zealand as well as the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Both of these cultural attractions are fantastic places to learn more about the youngest country on Earth and the people who live there.

The park’s Wintergardens is also definitely worth checking out. This area was opened in 1913 and is made of two huge greenhouses in which you’ll find charming courtyards, fishponds, marble statues, and bubbling fountains.

14. Have The Best Summer Ever At Splore

One of the best things to do in Auckland in February is to check out the Splore festival. A three-day music and art extravaganza, this dynamic festival is what summer’s all about. Held in Tapapakanga Regional Park, the festival combines everything the great outdoors has to offer with amazing music concerts and stunning artwork.

Saturday night is always the highlight of the festival. This evening is all about colors, costumes, and carnival. If you can plan ahead, it’s worth buying some cool outfits and wearing them on Saturday so you can really feel like you’re a part of everything!

In addition to the music concerts, DJ sets, and pop-up art exhibits, there’s loads of other stuff going on at Splore, too. There are two free family camping areas and a fantastic range of food vendors. 

For a unique spin, you’ll also find Wendy’s Wellness Zone dedicated to healthy minds and bodies, the Listening Lounge for thought-provoking readings, and every type of outdoor activity you can imagine.

15. Walk Across New Zealand In An Afternoon

If you’re in the mood for a day-long hike, one of the best things to do in Auckland is to hike from one end of New Zealand to the other. No, we don’t mean hiking from North Island to South Island! Instead, you can hike the width of Auckland between Waitemata Harbor and Manukau Harbor.

This route follows the Coast-to-Coast Walkway, a 10-mile route that is relatively easy to complete. As long as you’ve got a decent pair of walking shoes or sneakers and you can manage a 4-5 hour hike, it’s a wonderful way to spend a day.

The hike takes you through a number of stunning reserves and parks, including Western Springs and the Auckland Domain. It allows you to explore some of the most beautiful and peaceful parts of the city. Plus, you’ll get bragging rights to say you walked across New Zealand in a single afternoon!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Auckland. What’s your favorite thing to do in Auckland? 

Planning a trip to New Zealand? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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12 Top Tourist Attractions in Auckland

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Tucked away in between two beautiful natural harbors on a narrow isthmus, Auckland, on New Zealand’s North Island, is set in one of the most stunning locations imaginable. Bordered by the Tasman Sea on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, the city has lots of fantastic beaches, picturesque countryside, and towering volcanic peaks lying nearby.

Widely regarded as one of the best places to live in the world, Auckland has a lovely laidback feel to it and is known as the ‘City of Sails’ due to the multitude of yachts that dot its waters.

With a very multicultural make-up, it is the most populous city in the country and is home to almost a third of New Zealand’s population. With lots of great museums, outdoor activities, and historical tourist attractions in Auckland, it is a fabulous place to spend some time.

Auckland’s main draw, however, will always be the gorgeous nature that lies around it. Just a short drive or boat ride away, you’ll find everything from rainforests and hot springs to wineries and rugged islands.

12. Auckland Art Gallery

Located in a beautiful old French Renaissance building from 1887 that exhibits some fantastic modern extensions, the Auckland Art Gallery is home to the most extensive collection of art in the nation. Featuring both local and international artists, it has around 15,000 artworks on display, with jewelry, furniture, and ceramics on show alongside paintings, sculptures, and prints.

Boasting works by world-renowned artists such as Dali, Gauguin, Picasso, and Matisse, the collection is a joy to explore, with some pieces by local Maori and Pacific Islander artists being particularly striking.

As well as drawing art aficionados, the Auckland Art Gallery is also well worth visiting if you are into history; a number of its most impressive paintings depict when Maori and European explorers first met in the 1600s.

11. Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium

Opened in 1985, this fabulous aquarium is named after Kelly Tarlton, a marine archaeologist and diver, who first proposed opening a facility to educate Aucklanders about the many underwater marvels that lay offshore. Located on the scenic Tamaki Drive that weaves its way along the city’s waterfront, the center has thousands of different fish and marine species for you to check out.

Its long underwater tunnel is just one of its main highlights. Home to everything from sharks, stingrays, and penguins to shoals of brightly-colored fish and entire coral reef systems, a visit to the aquarium is as educational as it is entertaining, and makes for a great day out for all the family.

10. New Zealand Maritime Museum

As the nation’s history and culture are inextricably linked to the seas and oceans that surround it, it is well worth checking out Auckland’s Maritime Museum if you want to learn more about the country’s past. Starting with the early Polynesian explorers, its vast collection takes you on a whirlwind journey through the ages.

There are also a number of 19th and 20th century reconstructed ships for you to explore. With interesting displays on Maori vessels and navigation, as well as maritime art, trade, and recreational activities, this all-encompassing museum will give you a more in-depth insight into New Zealand’s fascinating past.

9. One Tree Hill

Although it may be hard to believe it now, One Tree Hill’s volcanic peak was once the largest and most important Maori fortress back in the 1700s.

Abandoned after the death of an influential leader, its 182-meter high summit now sports an obelisk with a statue of a Maori warrior before it, and is a memorial for all New Zealanders.

From atop of the small mount, you can enjoy a fantastic view out over Auckland; both natural harbors can be seen glimmering before you. Known as Maungakiekie in Maori, One Tree Hill is a lovely spot to head to if you’re looking to escape the city’s busy streets, and is located in the pretty Cornwall Park.

Named after a prominent New Zealand public figure, the park also has a playground, Stardome Observatory, and an information center where you can learn more about what the site would have looked like in Maori times.

One of the most popular and best-known beaches in the region, Piha lies directly to the west of Auckland, just beyond the Waitakere Ranges. Backed by verdant hills that tumble down to its two beautiful beaches, the small settlement’s rugged coastline certainly makes for a spectacular sight, with the looming Lion Rock one of its most impressive features.

Due to the strong currents and waves that pound the shore, it is a brilliant place to go surfing, but the large swells can be quite dangerous at times. With the scenic Kitekite Falls lying nearby and a number of delightful hikes for you to do in the surrounding ranges, it’s no surprise at all that Piha is so popular with Aucklanders and tourists alike.

7. Auckland Zoo

Located just a short distance away from the center of the city, Auckland Zoo makes for a fun day out for all the family. Opened in 1922, its spacious grounds are home to over 1,400 animals, birds, and reptiles, both large and small. Some of its most popular residents are its lions, elephants, and rhinoceroses.

While these may not sound typical of New Zealand, there are also six local ecological zones for you to explore. In the coastal, island, and night parts of the zoo, you can see everything from seals and penguins to kiwis and lizards.

An important educational and research institute, Auckland Zoo also has lots of interesting talks, presentations, and feeding sessions for you to attend throughout the day.

6. Tiritiri Matangi Island

Lying in the Hauraki Gulf, just a short ferry ride away from Auckland, the small island of Tiritiri Matangi is now a nature reserve that protects and preserves the natural habitats of lots of different types of endangered birds.

Once completely deforested, it is now almost entirely covered in lush forest after a successful conservation project. To protect the birds and ecosystems, only a certain number of visitors are allowed each day.

Besides the stunning scenery, there are lots of idyllic paths and trails for you to explore. On the way, you’re sure to spot lots of brightly-colored birds flying about. A popular day trip from the mainland, Tiritiri Matangi also has a historic old lighthouse and visitors center for you to check out, as well as the beautiful Hobbs Beach.

5. Rangitoto Island

Both the youngest and largest of the 50 or so volcanoes found in and around Auckland, the volcanic island of Rangitoto was only formed around 600 years ago when an eruption pushed it up from the seabed. Meaning ‘Bloody Sky’ in Maori, the entire island is now a scenic reserve.

Many trails weave their way amidst its lava fields, pohutukawa forests, and lava tube caves. Just a 25-minute ferry ride from Auckland, Rangitoto Island is ideal is you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature. It is connected by a narrow causeway to Motutapu Island if you also want to explore its neighbor.

4. Waiheke Island

Despite having a population of just under 10,000, Waiheke is actually the third most populous island in the country after the North and South Islands. A popular destination with locals and tourists, the island has a wealth of breathtaking white sand beaches for you to choose from, as well as lots of spectacular scenery and exhilarating outdoor activities. These include kayaking in its emerald waters, zip-lining through the air, and exploring the island’s many scenic paths and trails.

Due to its fertile land and warm microclimate, Waiheke is perfect for growing grapes, so it is renowned for its many excellent wineries. On top of all this, the island also has some fantastic boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries for you to check out if you get fed up of lounging on its spectacular beaches.

3. Mount Eden

Towering to 196 meters, Mount Eden offers one of the best views of Auckland. From its summit, you can see both the Hauraki Gulf and Manukau Harbor to either side of you. Just one of the city’s many volcanic peaks, the mount was once used by the Maori as a fortress, and its symmetrical crater is still considered sacred to this day.

While visitors are not allowed to enter the crater, the rest of Mount Eden has lots of delightful paths and trails for you to wander along, with fabulous panoramas wherever you go.

2. Auckland War Memorial Museum

Housed in one of the most iconic buildings in Auckland – a beautiful Neoclassical temple – the museum’s huge collection and extensive galleries offer a captivating look at New Zealand’s past.

Opened in 1929, it primarily focuses on the nation’s natural history and military campaigns. While its many specimens, historical artifacts, and artworks are wonderful to peruse, it is the museum’s displays on Maori and Pacific Island culture and customs that are the main attractions.

Besides the enormous war canoe that stretches the length of the gallery, there is also a carved meeting house for you to enter, as well as lots of amazing artworks, artifacts, and photos on show. One of the most important museums in the country, it is here in front of the Auckland War Memorial Museum’s cenotaph that many Aucklanders come each year to commemorate Anzac Day.

1. Sky Tower

Dominating the Auckland skyline, the Sky Tower stretches towards the heavens and reaches a height of 328 meters. Built between 1994 and 1997, the telecommunications tower is part of the city’s casino complex. Its unique design makes it one of the most iconic landmarks in the whole of Auckland.

Its upper levels are accessible to the public. Up amongst the clouds, you’ll find two restaurants and a café, as well as three observation levels, where you can enjoy some of the most spectacular views imaginable.

Remarkably, one of the restaurants rotates, so while eating lunch, you can enjoy 360-degree views of Auckland, the natural harbors, and the islands below. If all that wasn’t enough, daredevils can sign up for a ‘SkyJump’ which sees them plummeting 192 meters towards the ground from the observation deck. While hurtling through the air, they can reach speeds of up to 85km/h.

Best Time to Visit Auckland

As the weather is warm, the sun is shining and the days are longest, November to February is when most people visit Auckland. Even in summertime, the city is often cloudy and windy, receiving regular rainfall throughout the year.

This peak season sees temperatures of 20 to 24°C (68 to 75°F) with prices high and its hotels and restaurants packed. As the weather is drier, this is the best time to stroll about its CBD and harbourfront or swim in the sea and enjoy bungee jumping and skydiving.

Aside from the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, there are the magical Lantern Festival and Pride to take part in. A lively atmosphere reigns but some attractions can be a bit busy.

March through May is also very pleasant with tons of events taking place. These include its popular Pasifika and Auckland Arts festivals and action-packed Royal Easter Show. While it rains more, the warm days are still great for hiking pretty autumnal landscapes.

With June, July and August each seeing 19 days of rain on average, most people stay away during winter. While September and October are still quite rainy, the blossoming flowers and Heritage Festival draw people back. Prices are cheaper though and there are fewer crowds.

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Things To Do In Auckland

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Near Newmarket

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1. Sky Tower

0 km from city center 1 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Auckland's Sky Tower can be seen everywhere in the city, soaring towards the heavens. This landmark tower provides some unforgettable views from its observation decks. The Sky Tower is a telecommunications office building with several restaurants and bars on its premises. It is also the tallest in the southern hemisphere.

2. Cornwall Park

6 km from city center 2 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Spread over 425 acres, the Cornwall Park is symbolic of New Zealand’s history, flora, fauna and farm culture. It’s located in the heart of Auckland and offers many activities. One can go for a casual stroll with loved ones in the lush green surroundings of the trails and then enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal from its eateries, get together with friends and family over barbeque, explore the cattle on the farm and other horticulture activities.

3. Rangitoto Island

11 km from city center 3 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Rangitoto is the youngest and the largest volcano in Auckland's extensive volcanic field. This island can be seen directly from the mainland as its wide symmetric conical shape forms an iconic silhouette in the distance. After taking the ferry from the harbour, which is a picturesque experience, you'll find yourself on this imposing volcano island. Hike up to the top, exploring the black lava caves on the way, to enjoy a view well worth the labour!

4. Waiheke Island

31 km from city center 4 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Waiheke is a fabulous island just 35 minutes from the mainland. The country's most densely populated island, it is famous for its rows and rows of vineyards and olive farms, and is home to some of New Zealand's most celebrated wineries and for creating some of its most renowned wines.

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0 km from city center 5 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

First established in 1888, the Auckland Art Gallery, or Toi o Tamaki, known to the Maori community, was the first permanent art gallery in New Zealand. It is known for its large body of national and international art exhibits. Set in the heart of central Auckland, bound by Albert Park, Auckland Art Gallery is only a two-minute walk from major bus stations in downtown Auckland and is easily accessible. Four floors house more than 15,000 works of art ranging from native Maori traditional paintings to 19th-century landscapes of old European masters to contemporary works of New Zealand’s artists and everything in between.

6. Auckland Zoo

4 km from city center 6 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Opened in December 1922, the Auckland Zoo is now in its 96th year of operation. It is one of New Zealand’s premier zoological parks. Spread over 40 acres of land, located 6 km from central Auckland. The Auckland Zoo is home to nearly 1400 animals of 138 different species. Divided into regions specific to where the various animals are from, the Auckland Zoo has recently begun work on developing a South-East Asian wing for the endemic flora and fauna of the region.

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7. Auckland Domain

2 km from city center 7 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Set atop the remnants of the oldest volcano amongst Auckland’s volcanic field, Pukekawa, the 75-hectare expanse of greenery, is Auckland’s oldest public park. One of the most significant areas of public land in the heart of central Auckland, the Auckland Domain is also home to the Auckland War Memorial and Cenotaph. A band rotunda offers a venue for bands to play out in the open to park visitors. Boardwalks and museums provide park-goers enough avenues to stay occupied at the Domain.

8. One Tree Hill

6 km from city center 8 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

One Tree Hill is the second-largest volcanic mountain in Auckland. It is often visited because of its parks and features an Obelisk and the Stardome Observatory. It is so-called because when the Europeans arrived, there was a solitary totara tree at the summit of the hill, which was cut by the British and replaced with a Monterey pine. The tree was cut down for good in 2001 as it created unrest among the indigenous Maori, who believed that the non-native tree should not be atop the 'Maungakiekie'.

9. Auckland War Memorial Museum

2 km from city center 9 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Auckland War Memorial Museum has ensured the upholding and the glorification of the Māori culture - the traditional culture of the indigenous inhabitants of New Zealand. To keep the heritage alive in people’s memories, the museum tells many stories of the historical Māori life in New Zealand through talks, tours, exhibitions and programmes.

10. Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium

5 km from city center 10 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Dive into this fascinating Sea Life aquarium, with engaging displays and intriguing tunnels taking you through over 30 live animal exhibits. Located on 23 Tamaki Drive, Auckland, a short 7 km drive from central Auckland, Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium is one of New Zealand’s most innovative and largest aquariums.

11. Martime Museum

1 km from city center 11 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

New Zealand has a rich history of maritime navigation, spanning from the Maori voyages of marine exploration to the European naval conquests of the region. The New Zealand Maritime Museum houses the most extensive collection of naval artefacts in New Zealand. It is a celebration of this rich maritime tradition. Situated across from the Viaduct Harbour, the New Zealand Maritime Museum is located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD.

12. Albert Park

0 km from city center 12 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Albert Park is a substantial public park popular among the locals for its towering palm trees, a floral clock, a Victorian fountain, sculptures and an Argentinian ombu tree, whose enormous roots grow above ground. With its long history and distinctive character, the park has earned a special place in the hearts of Aucklanders and made it an essential destination for visitors.

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13. Museum of Transport and Technology

4 km from city center 13 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Museum of Transport and Technology is the largest museum of technology, transport and social history in New Zealand. It is nicknamed MOTAT and is famous for providing an interactive platform to learn about the history of New Zealand and its achievements. The museum also provides fun activities and programs to enable a complete learning experience for visitors of all age groups. These programs consist of stories, the country's heritage, culture, technology and transport exhibitions; all put together in a way that makes learning an exciting activity.

14. SkyCity Auckland

0 km from city center 14 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

SkyCity Auckland is an entertainment centre located in Auckland City, New Zealand. It is a premier event centre situated in the bustling central business district of the city. It occupies several levels of the Sky Tower, the city’s telecommunication and observation tower, and provides a variety of activities and services that visitors can choose from to entertain and pamper themselves. This is the only attraction in Auckland City that has an operating casino. The place is suitable for those looking for a luxury getaway in and around the city. SkyCity Auckland can also be booked for private and business events.

15. Auckland Harbour Bridge

3 km from city center 15 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Stretching for over a kilometre, connecting St. Mary’s Bay and the Auckland city side to the North Shore, the Auckland Harbour Bridge is an iconic part of the Auckland skyline. The longest road bridge on the North Island, the Auckland Harbour Bridge, finished completed in 1959.

16. Motutapu Island

16 km from city center 16 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Motutapu Island is one of the oldest islands in the Hauraki Gulf and dates back 178 million years. New Zealand’s history as a nation runs parallel to that of the island. The island has also recently become home to conservation efforts by the New Zealand government, resulting in endangered flora and fauna being translocated there.

17. Mount Eden

3 km from city center 17 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

If New Zealand is on your bucket list, one of the places you cannot miss is Mount Eden, a suburb of Auckland on North Island. It is a place that strikes the right balance between culture and natural attractions. The best time to visit is between October to May to ensure pleasant weather and view when you are there.

18. Waitakere Ranges

0 km from city center 18 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Waitakere Ranges represent the hilly areas of Auckland. These are a part of the western coastline of the city and are known for their forest cover with the native rainforest of more than 16000 hectares. The regional park in the Waitakere Ranges sets a perfect example of an ecosystem that supports both the flora and fauna and the black sand surf beaches that attract tourists for a myriad of adventurous activities. Not only beaches but the walks and waterfalls are also incredible viewpoints with easy accessibility.

19. The Viaduct Harbour

1 km from city center 19 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Viaduct Harbour, based in Auckland, New Zealand, comes to life at night. The place is always buzzing with people, booze, food, and fun: just about everything you need to make a night memorable. The Viaduct is a residential, commercial, and entertaining area where one can choose to dine in with their loved ones. The Harbour was formerly known as the Viaduct Basin, and as of yet, it is the busiest place in the Auckland Central Business district to be in during the night. If one chooses to take a walk before or after the fun, then one can always visit the National Maritime Museum, which is just adjacent to the Harbour.

20. Piha Beach

29 km from city center 20 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Piha is a small village with approx 600 residents and is located on the Western coast of Auckland. It is a 45-50 minutes drive away destination from the city. Piha, famous for its black-iron sand beach, is a significant tourist attraction and one of the favourite getaway destinations for Aucklanders during summer. The beach is home to surfers across the globe. The strong water current and high waves of Piha Beach provide the best destination for surfing. The Tasman Sea is moody and enchanting, allowing the surfers to play with the challenges.

21. Rainbow's End

19 km from city center 21 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Rainbow’s End is a Theme Park located in Manukau, Auckland. It extends up to 9.3 Hectares making it the biggest theme park in New Zealand. It opened in 1982 and has been expanding and running wonderfully for over 39 years. The place is home to lots of Water Rides and entertainment centres. Rangatira Limited owns Rainbow’s End. It is built for everyone from 2-year-old children to 50-year-old adults. The place features the Kidz Kingdom, the winner of the “ Top Family Entertainment Center of the World Award” in 2015. 

22. Tiritiri Matangi Island

30 km from city center 22 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

An island where the sweet chirping of birds never stops echoing, Tiritiri Matangi Island is one of the most active and significant wildlife sanctuaries in New Zealand. The wildlife conservation island is a predator-free environment that provides a suitable habitat for about 87 varieties of species of birds, among which 12 are said to be endemic. The island is truly a wildlife wonderland and attracts around 32,000 tourists annually. A 75-minute ferry ride is all it takes to get to the bird’s paradise from the Auckland mainland.

23. Hobbiton Movie Set

140 km from city center 23 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

New Zealand’s natural beauty has become inextricably linked with JRR Tolkien’s iconic Lord of the Rings series ever since Sir Peter Jackson’s celebrated big-screen adaptation came into fruition. The rolling green pastoral hills of the Alexander farm in Waikato became home to the Hobbits of Middle Earth, and the Shire was brought into existence.

24. Muriwai Beach

29 km from city center 24 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The brooding black sand surf beaches of Muriwai, located a quick 45-minute drive from the heart of Auckland, is a different world from the manicured and landscaped setting of Auckland. People from across the globe flock to Muriwai to surf on its black sand beaches, given its distinctive colour due to volcanic activity. It is also home to one of the world’s largest Gannet colonies. The Gannet colonies can be seen from viewing platforms, which can be reached by hiking up the easily accessible cliff-top trails.

25. Ponsonby

2 km from city center 25 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Located at the heart of Auckland’s central business district, Ponsonby is a suburban area well-known for its chic restaurants, upscale fashion boutiques, trendy bars, and vibrant nightlife. The current Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, amongst many other high-profile personalities, are known to frequent Ponsonby’s chic establishments.

26. Devonport

4 km from city center 26 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Dubbed ‘Auckland’s Prettiest Village’, Devonport oozes old-world colonial charm. The refurbished Victorian-era buildings stand as proud as they did when they were first built in this small seaside port. Devonport is known for its rich-chocolate making tradition as well.

27. Hunua Falls

38 km from city center 27 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Hunua Falls are located to the West of the Hunua Ranges Regional Park in South Auckland. They are one of the most picturesque places to visit in Auckland. Often visited during the winter or summer, the Hunua waterfalls are one of the famous swimming spots in Auckland and the destination has gained an enormous amount of attention over the years.

28. Auckland Botanic Garden

22 km from city center 28 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Also known as the Gardens of Auckland, Auckland Botanic Gardens are spread over 64 hectares in Manurewa, a suburb in South Auckland. With evergreen plants and flowers, this attraction isn’t open only to Science freaks but to anyone who wants to relax and rejuvenate their senses with flora from across the world. Even though the Gardens are open throughout the year, the best time to visit them is from April to October. Their new project Potter Children’s Gardens includes two areas for children and adults to explore the dynamics of adaptation and the interconnection between Kereru and Puriri trees, two of the most common trees in the area.

29. Silo Park

1 km from city center 29 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

One of the most urban-popular places to visit in Auckland is Silo Park. Commonly known as the hub of Wynyard Quarter, The Silo Park idea was started and implemented by the Wynyard Point redevelopment industry and is all set to capture the minds of those who want to see an alternative dimension to the waterfront industry of Auckland. What was earlier merely a maritime and an industrial precinct has now become a multipurpose site for you to socialise. Right from outdoor games to live performances to feasts, this place will spoil you for choices.

30. Wild On Waiheke

27 km from city center 30 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Wild On Waiheke is a multipurpose garden on Waiheke Island, New Zealand. It includes a range of restaurants, vineyards, hotels and breweries and is mainly home to Wild Estate Vineyard and Restaurant and Waiheke Island Brewery. The Wild Estate Vineyard and Restaurant, located in Onetangi Valley, is one of the most exquisite vineyards in New Zealand, with wines ranging from Chardonnays to Syrahs to Pinot Gris. A viticulturist looks after the vineyard, Matt Sloane and their wines are made by the award-winning winemaker, Patrick Newton.

31. Coast to Coast Walkway

8 km from city center 31 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Ranging from Waitemata Harbour to Manukau, the Coast to Coast Walk is a 16 km hike through Auckland. The walk gives one a glimpse of Maori culture and the breathtaking natural beauty of Auckland. The Coast to Coast walk gives you glimpses of hills, gardens, spectacular architecture and rich heritage enveloped in a mind-boggling topography. This walkway shows you the best that Auckland offers, from museums to colleges, sports clubs, volcanic sites, the iconic Cornwall Park and the One Tree Hill.

32. Kawau Island

47 km from city center 32 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Kawau Island, located in Auckland, is one of the largest islands that form the Hauraki Gulf. The island got its name from the Kawau Paka, a tiny shag cormorant found on the island. Rich in biodiversity, Kawau Island is a paradise where flora and fauna peacefully co-exist. The island proudly hosts copper and manganese mines, forests and windswept beaches. In addition, Kawau Island offers exhilarating water sports that will blow your mind. With so much to explore, Kawau Island is a must-visit.

33. Great Barrier Island

93 km from city center 33 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Great Barrier Island is situated 100 kms northeast of the Auckland mainland on the outer Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. An off-the-grid destination with minimum noise and no artificial light, the Great Barrier Island is the perfect getaway from the stresses of daily life. Covering a total area of 285 sq kms, the Great Barrier Island is the sixth-largest island in New Zealand. It offers a variety of experiences ranging from trekking, kayaking, surfing, diving, snorkelling, fishing, bird-watching, star-gazing and much more.

34. The Civic Theatre

14 km from city center 34 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Civic Theatre exhibits elegance, ancestry, and artistry all at once. It is New Zealand’s premier lyric theatre situated in Auckland Central. It is the only prevailing “atmospheric theatre” in the Southern Hemisphere out of seven worldwide that still endures. It gives the illusion of being in an open theatre under the stars. An extraordinary soft-top ceiling hangs over the auditorium. The LED lights on this ceiling are a replica of the skyscape as of 20th April 1929, when the construction started. The auditorium has a seating capacity of 2379 people split across two levels.

35. Parnell Rose Gardens

2 km from city center 35 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Parnell Rose Garden, which also goes by the name of Dove-Myer Robinson Park, is a magnificent park with a widely famous rose garden. It is named after Dove-Myer Robinson, who held the record for the longest-serving Mayor of Auckland, having office for 18 years. Popularly known for some of the roses being personally tended to by internationally renowned rose horticulturalists, the park is also home to the ‘white garden’ where weddings occasionally occur.

36. Hauraki Gulf Islands

31 km from city center 36 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Hauraki Gulf Islands is a cluster of islands spread across the Hauraki Gulf from Auckland to the Coromandel Peninsula. Nature’s gifts to New Zealand, these islands have diverse flora and fauna, providing habitat for some of the rarest species of birds, reptiles and plants on the planet. There are over 50 islands ranging from large landscapes with habitation to almost-barren islands with little more than rocks on them. Each of these islands offers diverse experiences and can be categorized into recreational, conservation and historical experiences. From kayaking, trekking and horse-riding to food and wine tasting, bird watching and sunbathing on the beach, there’s something to suit everyone’s interests.

37. Rotoroa Island

39 km from city center 37 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Rotoroa Island is spread across 200 acres and has an old community including a jail, cemetery, schoolhouse and a chapel. The island was initially a rehabilitation centre where alcoholics and drug abusers were sent to get clean. It has since become one of Auckland's most visited tourist attractions because of its tranquil beaches and quiet demeanour. A smattering of homestays dotting the island makes it a popular weekend getaway destination from Auckland.

38. Orewa Beach

30 km from city center 38 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The beach on Hibiscus Coast Highway is the perfect spot for tourists to stop by and spend some time. The word was initially taken from the native tree, “Rewarewa”. However, this name has been shortened over time to “Orewa”. Orewa Beach, around 44 kilometres from North Auckland, is known as the life of the beachside town. It is one of the longest beaches in Auckland and is one of the safest ones as well.

39. Stardome

7 km from city center 39 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Stardome is an observatory planetarium in Auckland, a perfect attraction for people interested in science, especially space. The research team at Stardome have always followed their love for the area and has shared this with people from across the globe. This place is not only open to public viewing in the evenings but also to daytime visits and educational school trips. The team at Stardome has been sharing their research on space for over 60 years now and is grateful for the support it gets from people and ratepayers.

40. Arataki Trails

18 km from city center 40 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Arataki is a world apart from city life, and the Arataki Visitor Centre is the gateway to the Waitakere Ranges. This lush green sub-tropical rainforest is just a 30-minute drive from Auckland’s City Centre. Auckland is generally known for its artificial wonders, such as Queen Street, but it is here in the Waitakere where you realise the original rugged beauty of New Zealand.

41. Motuihe Island

17 km from city center 41 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Motuihe Island is located in the Hauraki Gulf in New Zealand. It lies near Auckland and is sandwiched between Motutapu and Waiheke islands. The island's name has been derived from the word “Te Motu a Ihenga”, which in the Maori dialect means “the island of the Ihengas.” Spread over 440 acres, Motuihe Island is known for its beautiful beaches and a few coastal forests. The sprawling stretch of the beach is lined with trees native to the area, on the branches of which dwells the Tuatara - a species of lizard native to New Zealand. The beauty of the beaches is amplified by crystal clear water that crash onto the white sandy shore.

42. Tawharanui Regional Park

53 km from city center 42 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Tawharanui Regional Park is based in Auckland, New Zealand. The park has distinct parts. First, it has a "mainland island" sanctuary which is essential for conserving native plants and animals. Secondly, there are farmland and also public recreation areas. The park is mainly grazed pasture with Manuka scattered throughout and coastal forest patches. The important coastal forest area is in the central-eastern part of the park, where Kauri and Rimu dominate the ridges.

43. Wenderholm Regional Park

35 km from city center 43 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The first regional park in Auckland, located right between Puhoi and Waiwera rivers, is the Wenderholm Regional Park. A well set out park, this attraction is spread over 134 hectares of land. It features a 2-kilometre walking track called Maungatauhoro Te Hikoi, the Couldrey House homestead, and a carved Pouwhenua, a wooden post used by Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand. This place is open throughout the year, but it is best to do a humidity check before planning a visit.

44. Parnell Rose Gardens

44 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Parnell Rose Garden, which also goes by the name of Dove-Myer Robinson Park, is an exquisite park with a widely famous rose garden inside it. It is named after Dove-Myer Robinson, who held the record for the longest serving Mayor of Auckland, holding office for a full term of 18 years. Popularly known for some of the roses being personally tended to by internationally renowned rose horticulturalists, the park is also home to the ‘white garden’ where weddings occasionally take place.

45. Manukau Heads Lighthouse

30 km from city center 45 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Manukau Heads Lighthouse is located on the top of the Awhitu Peninsula to the South of Manukau Heads. This lighthouse is one of the few accessible and open to public viewing in New Zealand. The site includes an enormous free car park, a wooden lighthouse tower and a signal station. The Manukau Heads Lighthouse is renowned for its magnificent view of the Manukau Harbour, Paratutae, Waitakere Ranges and Auckland. It is also home to one of the rarest species of dolphins in New Zealand, the Manukau Dolphin.

46. Bethell's Beach

28 km from city center 46 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Located 30 km away from central Auckland, Bethell's Beach is a small seaside settlement in northern Auckland, on New Zealand's North Island. The beach was renamed in 1976 from Bethell's Beach to Te Henga, meaning 'sand' in Maori, to better reflect the Maori heritage of the beach.

47. Queen Street Auckland

0 km from city center 47 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Queen Street has been the host of many parades and marches and is the site of many political and cultural events. As a result, it is one of the most highly visited areas in New Zealand. Most banks, department stores, and restaurants have a franchise on Queen Street, which is known as the main retail precinct of the city.

48. Puhoi River

40 km from city center 48 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Puhoi is located near Auckland on New Zealand's North Island. In the native Maori language, Puhoi means "slow water." Puhoi has a distinctly Bohemian feel to it, resulting from the village's original settlers, who hailed from Bohemia. Migrants from the modern-day Czech Republic arrived in Puhoi from 1863 until 1866.

49. Mahurangi Regional Park

38 km from city center 49 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Mahurangi Regional Park is located in New Zealand. It encompasses some of the most beautiful sandy spots in the Kiwi land that have distinct beauty and charm to themselves. The Pohutakawa trees are native to the area and look splendid. Being on the brink of the Puhoi River, Mahurangi Regional Park is a fantastic place for swimming and kayaking.

50. St. Patrick's Cathedral Auckland

0 km from city center 50 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Situated at the heart of the city, St. Patrick's Cathedral is known as the mother church of Auckland.

51. Domain Wintergardens

2 km from city center 51 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

The Domain Wintergardens is a famous landmark in Auckland and has been recognized as one of the Category 1 historic places by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. The venue attracts many tourists because of its unique architecture and the ever-changing display of the flora found there. The Wintergardens are located within the Auckland Domain, on the Wintergarden road, again signifying the historical importance that the place holds.

52. Stonyridge

27 km from city center 52 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

Stonyridge is a beautiful world-renowned vineyard located on Waiheke Island, near Auckland, New Zealand. Stonyridge cultivates its wines using the same time-tested methods that the original pioneers of wine production, the French, used. Stonyridge's vineyards produce some of the country's best Cabernet and Bourdeaux wines. In addition, it makes prime categories of estate-grown wines, routinely conferred some of the wine industry's highest awards.

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17 things to know before you go to Auckland

Oct 9, 2023 • 7 min read

These top tips can help you prepare for a trip to Auckland © YIUCHEUNG / Shutterstock

With a population of around 1.6 million, Auckland is  New Zealand’ s only big city. Despite its size, it is a generally safe and surprisingly easygoing place to visit.

One-third of residents were born overseas, which is why you'll find Auckland a very cosmopolitan place with strong British, Asian and Pacific Islander influences. This mix underscores the city's appreciation for different cultures, and travelers will feel welcomed in many places.

It might be New Zealand’s largest city but note: it is not the capital (that's Wellington)! Here are some other things to know before you visit.

1. Pack casual clothes

Auckland is a relatively informal city. There are very few places you need to dress up to go to, even if you’re catching a show at the theater or going to a nice restaurant for dinner. While many people do dress up to go out, you can also wear jeans almost everywhere, so don’t feel like you need to pack your best clothes if you’re short on luggage space.

2. Check your luggage for restricted items

Your first introduction to Auckland will probably be at the airport. To protect the natural environment, New Zealand has very strict laws around what you can and cannot bring into the country . Read the form carefully and declare any item that could be restricted or deemed a risk to biosecurity to Customs officials. This could include food, feathers, shells, seeds, wooden items, traditional/herbal medicines and sports or outdoor equipment that you've used overseas. It’s much quicker and easier to declare than to accidentally bring prohibited items into the country and experience longer processing times.

3. Bring a pair of good walking shoes

There are several beautiful hikes  around Auckland, so good hiking shoes will come in handy. To help protect Auckland’s native bush, give them a good clean before you come (more on that below); otherwise, they may have to be cleaned at the airport during customs checks .

4. Clean your shoes before and after you go for a bushwalk

Auckland has several native forests with walking or hiking trails through the trees. Before you enter, you may see a shoe cleaning station with brushes and spray for your shoes. This is to stop the spread of kauri dieback, a disease that affects the huge, native kauri trees. Clean your shoes before and after walking through the bush to help prevent it from spreading further.

5. You don’t need to tip

While you may see the occasional tip jar at a cafe, tipping isn’t common in Auckland. Tips may be appreciated, but definitely aren’t expected, and tipping is the exception to the rule, rather than the norm. In fact, if you leave change on the table, don’t be surprised if your server tries to return it, thinking you accidentally left it there.

6. Pay at the counter

When you eat out in Auckland, restaurants and cafes may offer table service, or you may need to order food at the counter. If you order at the counter, you usually pay immediately, before eating. If there’s table service, when you are finished eating, it’s customary to get up and pay at the counter, rather than asking for a bill to be brought to the table.

7. Bring food if you’re invited to dinner

If you’re invited to someone’s house and asked to “bring a plate,” take a dish of food with you. This could be sweet or savory. If someone invites you to a meal and tells you not to bring anything, it’s still polite to bring a bottle of wine, a small contribution to the dinner or a token gift for the host (like a small box of chocolates). After the meal, guests usually offer to help clear the table and clean up.

8. Take off your shoes when you enter someone’s home

It’s customary to take off your shoes before entering someone’s house unless told otherwise. Nowadays, wearing shoes indoors is a little more common, but it’s safer to assume that you should remove your shoes before coming inside.

9. You don't need cash

Almost no one in Auckland uses cash. Instead, you can use your credit card or debit card to pay for even small purchases. Contactless payments are common. If you’re handed a terminal, you’ll see three options: cheque, savings or credit. The first two options work for local cards only. For international cards, just use the “credit” option and enter your PIN or sign as usual.

10. Swim between the flags on the West Coast

The striking black sand beaches on the West Coast of the city are known for their big waves and good surf. However, there can also be strong currents and rips at those beaches, and it pays to be careful when swimming. If you want to swim at one of the West Coast beaches, swim between the flags as these areas are monitored by lifeguards.

11. Check Safeswim before visiting a beach, especially after heavy rain

There can be pollution in some of Auckland’s beaches after periods of heavy rain, particularly on the East Coast and in some lagoons. To ensure the water quality is safe before you swim, check the Safeswim website  before you go. Along with water quality data, the website also has up-to-date information on swimming conditions and whether there are lifeguards on duty.

12. There is one emergency number

The emergency number is 111. It will get you in touch with the police, fire service or ambulance.

13. Wear sunscreen, even on overcast days

The sun in Auckland can be very harsh, even when the temperatures don’t seem that high. Remember to wear sunblock before heading out, especially between 11am and 3pm. It’s very easy to get sunburned in a very short amount of time, even when it looks cloudy outside.

14. Be prepared to talk about where you come from and your heritage

In Māori culture, people introduce themselves by talking about where they came from and their ancestors. In Auckland, many people originally came from other countries, and it’s common for locals to ask you about where you come from and even about your ethnic background and heritage.

If you go to a marae (Māori meeting ground) during your visit, it’s customary to introduce yourself by talking about where you come from and your family’s connection to that place.

15. Don’t sit on or lean against tables

Sitting or leaning against tables, countertops or any other surfaces that are used for food preparation is generally frowned upon by all New Zealanders and is particularly offensive to Māori. 

16. Remove your shoes before entering a marae

It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering a wharenui or traditional meeting place, and you’ll often see many pairs of shoes at the entrance of a marae . Be sure to remove yours before going inside. If you’re visiting a marae , you will usually be accompanied by a local who will give you further pointers about what to expect (and what to do) while you’re there.

17. Learn the local lingo

Te reo Māori is one of New Zealand’s three official languages (along with English and New Zealand Sign Language). Here are some key phrases you should know, along with a guide to New Zealand slang:

Te reo Māori (the Māori language)

Aotearoa  – New Zealand, long white cloud haere mai – welcome, often written on signs ka kite ano  – see you again soon kai  – food  kia kaha – stay strong kia ora  – hello koha  – gift, often used for a donation, often for entry  morena  – good morning ngā mihi  – greetings/thanks or kind regards (often used to sign off emails) pākehā  – New Zealander of non-Māori descent, usually European waka  – traditionally a canoe, but can be any vehicle whanau  – family

New Zealand slang

bach – holiday home bro/cuz/mate  – often used when talking to a friend chilly bin  – cooler box or cooler bag chur  – thanks/cheers dairy  – corner store guttered  – disappointed jandal  – flip-flops scroggin  – trail mix ta  – thank you togs  – swimsuit yeah nah  – a non-committal statement or acknowledgement

This article was first published Mar 4, 2022 and updated Oct 9, 2023.

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• New Zealand
• 11 Reasons Everyone Should Visit...

11 Reasons Everyone Should Visit Auckland At Least Once

Auckland is a city with a lot of character. As New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city, it is definitely a place to visit if you’re looking to experience an array of different attractions. These 11 reasons to visit will show you why everyone should explore the City of Sails at least once.

Waiheke island is a reason in itself.

Aucklanders and outside visitors adore Waiheke Island because of its remarkable viticulture, stunning white-sand beaches, and jam-packed adventure activities. Getting to the island is as easy as catching a ferry from downtown — a scenic trip across the Hauraki Coast which usually takes around 40 minutes. As the residence of many artists and creative minds, Waiheke also has a particular bohemian flair to it: galleries and art walks are very much a part of the island’s appeal.

Auckland is fuelled by adrenaline

Queenstown may be viewed as New Zealand’s adventure capital , but Auckland is a definite must-visit for keen adrenaline junkies . The list of adventure activities is quite extensive: the Sky Tower and the Harbour Bridge are among the favourite places for bungy jumpers, while the west coast is a great place for hiking and canyoning. Other exhilarating attractions to keep an eye out for include mountain biking, motorbike tours, helicopter rides, and sea kayaking.

Natural landscapes are always within reach

Parks , nature reserves, botanic gardens, beaches, dormant volcanoes ; Auckland may not have the breathtaking alpine backdrop of the South Island , but it is surrounded by beautiful places that everyone should cherish. A hike is one of the best ways to get up close and personal to the pieces of unspoiled forestry in the vicinity, and scenic cycle rides can be just as much of a treat. The Waitakere Ranges, Shakespear Regional Park, and the Hunua Ranges are some of the natural wonders to discover.

Wildlife is not restricted to the zoo

That’s not to say that Auckland Zoo and Kelly Tarlton’s should be brushed aside. They are great places to explore (especially if you’re travelling with kids ) but if you really want to see New Zealand’s wildlife in the most natural manner, then the Hauraki Gulf will be the place to do it. Whales, dolphins, penguins and an array of native birds are among the different critters you might spot on your travels. For specific must-visits, Rotoroa Island has, over the years, been transformed into a conservation site where visitors can learn about the country’s native animals. Tiritiri Matangi Island is another option for wildlife enthusiasts. If plants and forestry are more of your thing, Rangitoto and Motuihe are some of the islands worth venturing into.

The coastlines are amazing

North, south, east and west — Auckland is enveloped by coastal treasures. Mission Bay is the closest beach to the city centre, and is by default the most popular. Piha, Karekare and Bethells Beach are some of the more isolated gems nestling along the west coast. Takapuna is one of the best of the North Shore, and there are plenty more to discover as you contour the region.

Auckland is home to some of the country’s best restaurants

Wellington may pride itself as being the coffee and foodie capital of New Zealand, but Auckland’s restaurants always receive the highest praises. The luxurious French Café has won a number of awards both locally and internationally. Local accolades like Cuisine magazine’s annual ‘Good Food Guide’ and Metro magazine’s ‘Restaurant of the Year Awards’ are practically dominated by Auckland restaurants, cafés and eateries.

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There’s always something artistic to discover

The Auckland Art Gallery is home to New Zealand’s largest collection of Maori treasures (locally known as taonga ). An incredible arrangement of galleries are also scattered throughout the city, including the Gow Langsford Galleries downtown, Artspace on K’rd, and Te Tuhi in Pakuranga. If you’re more of a street art kind of person, keep an eye out for the cool sculptures at the Auckland Domain and those scattered around town. Graffiti art is also gaining traction, and it’s not too difficult to spot a wall that has been transformed into a mural canvas.

Panoramic views are abundant

Maungawhau (Mount Eden) is the place to get a full 360-degree view of Auckland. The Sky Tower is the next best thing, offering you a glimpse of the Hauraki Gulf, the North Shore, and various other parts of the city. Climb atop the Rangitoto summit, and you’ll get to see Auckland from a different perspective. Needless to say, panoramas in this city are always a given.

The weekly markets are a melting pot of experiences

La Cigale’s French Markets, which operate every Saturday and Sunday in Parnell, are quite famous. City dwellers are also lucky enough to have access to the Britomart Market, which is small but always very dynamic. Further north, Matakana’s weekend markets attract visitors from all parts of Auckland and all walks of life. The seasoned Avondale Sunday Markets are a local treat for West Aucklanders, and the ever-evolving Auckland Night Markets are always a must-visit for night owls and foodies.

Auckland lives up to its ‘City of Sails’ nickname

A visit to the Maritime Museum, or even the nearby Viaduct Harbour, will give you insight into Auckland’s well-ingrained sailing culture. The city has one of the largest ports in New Zealand, as well as being the home turf of the America’s Cup sailing races. On a nice weekend, it’s extremely common to see boats of all shapes and sizes sailing along the harbour — you can basically settle into any of the beaches to watch them.

Auckland is the perfect departure point for a North Island expedition

The beautiful Bay of Islands region is a few hours’ drive north. The Coromandel peninsula, Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves are within a couple of hours’ drive in the opposite direction. Even Wellington is within an eight hour driving distance. In short, whether you’re in the mood for a day trip or a want to spend a week exploring, Auckland’s location will help you make the most of the North Island’s best attractions.

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Home » Travel Guides » New Zealand » 15 Best Day Trips from Auckland

15 Best Day Trips from Auckland

Often overlooked by tourists heading elsewhere in New Zealand, Auckland is well worth taking an extra couple of days to explore so you can experience the urban side of the country.

The city itself is full of multi-cultural cuisine and events, world-class specialty coffee shops and a wide range of New Zealand’s best boutiques.

There is also plenty of history – both colonial and indigenous – natural beauty and of course “fush ‘n chups” – a local delicacy that was imported by the British and perfected by the remaining Kiwis.

It is also a great city to use as a base whilst you explore other parts of the North Island, with most places in Northland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty being easily accessible from the city within a day trip.

Here are 15 of the best trips you can take from New Zealand’s largest city.

1. Hobbiton

One of the most popular day trips for visitors to New Zealand, immerse yourself in the Lord of the Rings franchise in Hobbiton.

Here, you can explore the hobbit holes that were built for use in the Hobbit trilogy, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region.

You can also enjoy Lord of the Rings themed drinks at the Green Dragon Inn and sample some of New Zealand’s fine cuisine at The Shire’s Rest Café.

There is a guided tour around the complex which takes around two hours, but you are free to explore the area afterwards and, of course, get your photo taken in front of the hobbit holes.

Great combo tour : Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small-Group Day Tour from Auckland

2. Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo Caves is a large network of underground caves that are filled with glowworms.

You can enjoy the caves by taking a gentle boat ride throughout the complex, with a local guide explaining how the caves formed and a little bit about the glowworms.

There is also the opportunity to go black water rafting; you can get your adrenaline fix by riding a flume through the caves in the pitch black, with only the gentle glow of the glowworms to guide your way.

A great experience in a country famed for its adrenaline sports and attractions.

Amazing combo tour : Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small-Group Day Tour from Auckland

3. Waiheke Island

A short boat ride away from Auckland Central Business District (CBD), you can opt to either enjoy the high-life of the city’s socialites or have a more down to earth experience with the local hippy communities.

Waiheke is well known in the region for its vineyards and there are plenty of wineries set in stunning spots across the island for you to sample the local wine.

There are many beautiful beaches around the island, several of which can be very secluded if you go at the right time.

We also suggest you try Waiheke Oysters at one of the many cafés.

Recommended tour : Waiheke Island Premium Food & Wine Tour with Platter Lunch

4. Piha, Karekare Rainforest and Waitakere Ranges

Known as Auckland’s Wild West, this region is only an hour away from the Auckland CBD and packed with natural beauty.

Piha itself is a small village with one of the most famous beaches in the country.

You can continue up the coast to Bethell’s Beach – where Taylor Swift once filmed her Out of the Woods music video.

Away from the beaches, you can enjoy some spectacular hikes through the Waitakere Ranges – a small mountain range formed by the Auckland volcanic fault.

These mountains are covered in forests – known locally as bush – with Karekare Rainforest being the most popular for experiencing the lush green beauty of New Zealand.

Suggested tour : Piha & Karekare Rainforest Wine Day Tour from Auckland

5. Rangitoto Island

Also a short boat ride from Auckland CBD, Rangitoto Island is the largest volcano in the Auckland volcanic fault and can be seen from most areas of the city.

Get your hiking boots on to truly experience the best this island has to offer, including unique wildlife and lush forest areas.

Once you reach the top, you will be treated to great views over the Hauraki Gulf and towards Auckland City.

You can also take a small detour to nearby caves to discover more of the volcanic wonders this island has to offer.

If you don’t feel like taking a long hike, there is a small train that takes you most of the way up to the top of the island.

Please be aware there are no restaurants or inhabitants on the island, so bring some snacks and plenty of water.

Recommended tour : Rangitoto Island Volcanic Explorer Tour from Auckland

6. Coromandel

Just across the Hauraki Gulf from Auckland, a two-hour journey brings you to this secluded peninsula.

It is not as touristy as other parts of the country, so a great off-the-beaten-path option if you are looking to get away from the busier attractions.

The Coromandel Peninsula is a large mountain range covered entirely in ancient New Zealand forest.

There is an interesting train ride attraction where you can learn about the local pottery industry, and some of the smaller towns showcase New Zealand culture at its most raw.

We suggest checking out Paeroa on the way, to learn about the most famous local soda – L&P – named after the town.

Suggested tour : Coromandel & Cathedral Cove Day Tour

7. Bay of Islands

Located in the far north of the country, the Bay of Islands is another popular destination for tourists – particularly in the summer months.

It is one of the only subtropical areas of the country and this enhances the laid-back lifestyle of the local towns.

Head to the bay itself to experience one of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand, as well as try out some water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and jet-skiing.

In Russell, you can visit a Maori experience to learn more about the indigenous culture of the islands, and about the Treaty of Waitangi, which established New Zealand as a British Dominion.

Available tour : Bay of Islands Day Tour from Auckland with Historic Russell

A bit of a longer journey from Auckland, Rotorua is well worth the trip.

Centered around Lake Rotorua, the town (known locally as Rotovegas) is packed with adrenaline sports activities like parachute jumping, bungee jumping, and zorbing.

If you are traveling with kids, there is a very popular go-kart track that winds around the nearby hills, giving great views over the countryside.

There are great Maori cultural centers for you to experience the indigenous history and a native redwood forest for day hikes.

The town is the center of geothermal activity, making it excellent for visiting natural spas and checking out the steam.

It does also, however, give the town a very distinctive rotten-egg smell, so keep this in mind before you go.

Recommended tour : Waitomo & Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Gondola Ride

A little further south than Rotorua, but also well worth a visit, is Taupo.

The entire Lake Taupo region is a popular getaway destination for kiwis during the summer, thanks to the breathtaking natural beauty.

You can enjoy boat journeys – or even kayak rides if you’re up to it – to Maori carvings and secluded beaches by lakeside.

The town is also a short drive away from Tongariro National Park.

This is where the Mordor scenes of the Lord of the Rings were filmed and it is easy to see why, thanks to the desert-like almost lunar landscapes the region showcases.

There are free hot springs in the town park, but make sure only to enter pools which signs confirm are safe, as others are far too hot!

Located on the west coast of the North Island, Raglan is a very popular destination for surfers.

Surfing is very popular across both New Zealand and Australia, and if you want to try your hand at the sport, this town is one of the best places in the world to have a go.

It is also surrounded by gorgeous native bush and mountain ranges for you to explore when you tire of the waves.

The cliffs provide great views over the Tasman Sea and the town of Raglan; with a little bit of effort and a short hike, you can discover secluded waterfalls with fresh water that you can bathe in and even drink from.

11. Villa Maria Estate

New Zealand wine is growing in popularity across the world, thanks to the great climate and dedication to quality given by local winemakers.

The Villa Maria Estate is located just outside of Auckland Central, close to the airport; however, we do recommend setting a day aside to visit the area.

The winery produces wine with grapes grown across the country in Gisborne, Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay, and Auckland.

You will be given samples of wine from all the regions and taught about how it is produced, as well as given the chance to make your own tasting notes.

This is a must for any wine lover visiting New Zealand.

Available tour : Villa Maria Estate Scenic Vineyard Odyssey

12. Matakana

Located in the northern reaches of rural Auckland, Matakana is another area of natural beauty within a reasonably short trip from the city center.

Popular with foodies, there are plenty of great attractions in the region to let you discover the best New Zealand food has to offer.

The New Zealand Honey Centre will teach you all about Manuka Honey and the strict quality efforts that go into producing it.

You can sample local cheeses and wines at the Matakana farmers’ market.

On the way, stop in at the Puhoi Cheese Factory if you are interested in learning more about local dairy production.

13. Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga is at New Zealand’s northernmost tip, where you can see the Tasman Sea join the Pacific Ocean.

Here, you can learn about the combinations of European and Maori history, as well as about Maori mythology; this is a culturally important place for the local Maori people.

There is also an impressive 800-year-old Pohutukawa Tree – if you visit in the summer, you will be able to see it bloom with bright red foliage – a popular symbol for New Zealand and its people.

Continue south from Cape Reinga and you can check out 90 Mile Beach.

Here you can surf the sand dunes that line one of the largest beaches in the country, all while enjoying spectacular views over the ocean.

14. Tiritiri Matangi

Another Hauraki Gulf island worth visiting, you can take a slightly longer boat trip from Auckland CBD to this protected nature reserve.

The island is packed with native birdlife thanks to major conservation efforts.

Many of the birds on the island can only be found here, and this is an opportunity to get up close to the unique wildlife of New Zealand.

You can visit the island at your own pace, or take a short tour which will teach you all about the birds that inhabit the island and how to identify their calls.

There is also a ferry to the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, which is home to secluded beaches and a laid-back café culture, perfect for you to experience the famous New Zealand flat white.

15. Mount Maunganui

Located in the northern suburbs of Tauranga, Mount Maunganui is a major party town by night and a relaxed beach town by day.

There are plenty of options for you to try out surfing, kayaking, and jet-skiing on the beach which overlooks the Bay of Plenty.

You can also take a hike up Mount Maunganui itself to get one of the most famous panoramic views in the country.

On your way back to the beach, check out some of the top-notch cafés on offer in the city, which feature excellent Kiwi cuisine, well-crafted specialty coffee, and even alcoholic milkshakes if you are looking to really kick back and embrace the local life.

15 Best Day Trips from Auckland:

• Waitomo Caves
• Waiheke Island
• Piha, Karekare Rainforest and Waitakere Ranges
• Rangitoto Island
• Bay of Islands
• Villa Maria Estate
• Cape Reinga
• Tiritiri Matangi
• Mount Maunganui

Blooming Marvels

The 14 most beautiful gardens in auckland you can visit.

If you want to enjoy some peaceful moments in delightful settings, let us recommend the best gardens in Auckland. Tāmaki Makaurau has a collection of stunning public gardens, making it easy to rediscover nature when stuck in an otherwise very urban environment.

Public gardens offer a tranquil escape for those seeking a well-needed break. Spend a warm day blissfully admiring beautiful flowers or having your mind blown by some crazy plants (both native and exotic!).

While spring and summer are arguably the ideal times to wander around these pretty Auckland gardens, they all have year-round appeal and are exceptionally serene on a crisp, blue-sky winter day.

From manicured greenery to blossoming flower gardens and botanical gardens to Victorian conservatories, we’ve got them all. Some are private and have admission fees, but all are open to the public—even if prior arrangement is required. Others are free and open year-round.

These are the best gardens in Auckland. They’re all different and have something distinctive to offer, so I suggest visiting them all.

Auckland Botanic Gardens

102 Hill Road, The Gardens

Open daily, free entry

First up are the most famous gardens in Auckland, the Botanic Gardens located in Manurewa. Positioned on around 64 hectares of land, including 10 hectares of native forest, the park was only open to the public in 1982, making it a very young Botanic garden by world standards.

Still, over 10,000 plants from around the world are present across more than 20 zones, all of which are free to visit. The Auckland Botanic Gardens tries to showcase the unique native flora of New Zealand, over 80% of which is found nowhere else in the world. The threatened Natives, Harakeke collection, and Native Plant ID trail should not be missed for those interested in botany.

There is always something new to see and do here, including innovative exhibits, gardening and garden maintenance workshops, and family events. Not to mention the architecturally stunning Huakaiwaka Visitors Centre, interesting sculptures by famous NZ artists, and cute Café Miko.

A delightful place to wander with a distinctive South Pacific flavour.

Ayrlies Garden

125 Potts Road, Whitford

Open weekdays, $20 admission

Another of Auckland’s most celebrated gardens, Ayrlies Garden is the “quintessential New Zealand garden” defined by sweeping lawns and informal but thoughtful plantings by ponds and waterways.

Settled in the gently rolling countryside of east Auckland, the garden was formed in 1964 by Beverley McConnell and her late husband Malcolm, co-founder of the construction company McConnell Dowell. It has since gone on to be recognised as a Garden of International Significance, with each area having its accent but assimilating easily into the next, always conserving the harmony of the whole.

The recently added large Ayrlies Wetland area links the garden to the Hauraki Gulf. The oasis grew out of a desire to create a larger informal country garden reminiscent of Beverley’s childhood homestead in Hawkes Bay. It aims to have different plants at their best every week of the year.

A true hidden gem of Auckland, plan to spend at least a few hours at Ayrlies Garden.

Cornwall Park Gardens

Green Lane West, Epsom

Located on the edge of one of the most recognised volcanic cones in Auckland, Cornwall Park Gardens has serious flower power, housing permanent collections and seasonal installations that show off pretty.

They plant more than 25,000 annual plants (split across spring and autumn) and 10,000 bulbs (autumn) in their garden bed and maintain perennial and native gardens throughout the park. The wider park has many other appeals, including spectacular views from the volcano summit, off-road trails to run along, and a working farm complete with around 600 sheep.

There is also a fabulous high tea at the Cornwall Park Eateries to start or end your garden-viewing excursion.

Domain Wintergardens

Wintergarden Road, Parnell

A gorgeous complex of greenhouses within the Auckland Domain; the Domain Wintergardens is perfect for those cold days when you want to trick yourself into thinking you’re on a lush, warm Pacific Island.

The Auckland Domain is Auckland’s oldest park and was founded in 1843 in the crater of the Pukekawa volcano when European settlers obtained land for their city from the local Ngāti Whātua tribe. The Wintergardens were constructed as part of the planned upscaling of the park after WW1, designed to provide a drawcard to the Domain during the winter months, and have been maintained ever since.

The Wintergardens consist of two Victorian-style glasshouses, one non-heated Temperate House and one Tropical House, and a courtyard with a pool and neoclassical statues. There is also a lush Fernery in a hole on the site of an old quarry. The Wintergardens are registered as a Category I historical place and free to visit — even though they only take 30 minutes to explore.

To make the trip worthwhile, enjoy a coffee at the adjacent Wintergarden Pavilion Cafe, overlooking a small duck pond, or combine it with a visit to the Auckland Museum.

Eden Gardens

24 Omana Avenue, Epsom

Open daily except Tuesday, $12 admission

Discover this unique garden in the heart of Auckland.   Eden Garden, created by volunteers, has become an award-winning destination with stunning plants planned to ensure visitors experience the beauty of bloom with every visit.

Using eco-friendly weed management approaches has promoted a healthy ecosystem for cultivating native fauna, geckos, wetas, insects, and even butterflies, thanks to a butterfly breeding programme.

Most Aucklanders are unaware of the wonderfully peaceful sanctuary on five and a half acres on the eastern slopes of Mt. Eden, which means you’ll often have the entire place to yourself.

Government House Garden

14 Glenfell Place, Epsom

By appointment only, free entry

The Government House Gardens in Epsom is a remarkable remnant of a time when most New Zealand city estates had sublimely manicured grounds. Many of these historic gardens were either subdivided, entirely reconfigured, or simply shifted to grassy parks, and today, the 12-acre Government House garden is the largest remaining example of these classic city estate landscapes. It is not to be confused with the Old Government House in the CBD, which is now utilized by the University of Auckland.

The Government House Gardens in Epsom architecture and range of horticulture are outstanding. As such, it is endorsed as a ‘Garden of National Significance’ and considered a national treasure. 

The garden is also notable for having some of the country’s oldest exotic tree specimens, preserving lava outcrops, and much of the native plant cover that once covered the wider Auckland region. The garden’s architecture and range of horticulture are also outstanding.

As the home of New Zealand’s Governor-General, Government House Auckland is not open to the public except by free appointment. Groups of 6 or more are welcome to arrange their own private tour; otherwise, (infrequent) tour dates are listed online.

Highwic Garden

40 Gillies Avenue, Epsom

Open daily except Monday and Tuesday, free entry to the gardens

There are few better public places in the heart of Newmarket to take a moment’s refuge than the green gardens surrounding the rambling Gothic mansion of Highwic.

Although surrounded by the busy Southern Motorway and the soaring Westfield Mall megaplex , the exalted garden nevertheless feels like a world away from the hum and buzz of modern life. Set amidst 1.2 hectares, the Victorian-themed grounds offer high hedges, mature specimen trees, a lush fern house, lawn tennis, croquet courts, and even a romantic ‘Lovers Walk’.

While the gardens are free to enjoy, entrance to the elegant house is $10, though worth it for the insight into the daily life and leisure activities of a large and wealthy colonial family.

Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens

1481 Kaipara Coast Highway, Kaukapakapa

Open daily, $15 admission

If you’re tired of flowers, observe some human-made beauty at the Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens. The space hosts regular installations to showcase various New Zealand sculptors, with an annual changeover in November. However, one thing remains constant: the tranquillity and wonderful bird songs surrounding you.

The one-kilometre trail takes around one hour to walk, and there is also a 30-minute forest conservation trail that takes you through native forests along streams and waterfalls.

Mincher Garden

338 Coatesville Riverhead Highway, Coatesville

By appointment only, $20 admission

The centrepiece of this large rural garden, set amid the remains of an old orchard in Coatesville, is a Georgian-styled manor. Behind the residence is a formal grass field, a prestigious cottage garden, and popular “kissing gates,” positioned romantically under falling weeping willows.

 Beyond these are an additional 4 hectares of natural walkways, vast grassy fields, spring cherries trees, rhododendrons, camellias and acers, a formal walled kitchen garden and a Victorian-styled glasshouse. A traditional Northland podocarp forest background gives Mincher a unique dimension compared to the other gardens in Auckland.

Water is a central feature, with platforms scattered along the northern border to facilitate stream and bush views. As you might expect, there is a great variety of birdlife including Grey Teal, Kingfishers, Tui and Kaka flying about. In total, you’ll need around 2 hours for viewing. 

194 Whitmore Road, Tāwharanui

By appointment only; admission is payable .

Development of the garden began in 2006 around a log cabin nestled into a stand of native bush on the water’s edge, and it has already been classified as a Garden of National Significance. 

Various islands – Kawau, Goat, Rabbit – can be viewed from the property, and old-growth NZ native bush surrounds the cabin and garden. The planting is predominantly native, with a fusion of other thoughtfully selected plants that suit the location and setting.

The entire garden is laid out in curving, floating shapes reflecting the waves and coastal shapes beyond and is planted to create calm. The colour palette is light, tones of green dominate, and it is very relaxing on the eye. Various trails through the native bush and petite orchard present a refreshing distinction to the highly maintained garden areas.

This special place is in harmony with nature and is a wonderful place to explore. For the ultimate experience, enjoy the special unpretentious, peaceful, and relaxed atmosphere of Omaio with a stay in their log cabin.

Parnell Rose Gardens

85-87 Gladstone Road, Parnell

Get your picnic on and photobomb some wedding parties at this stunning Rose Park on the edge of historic Parnell and Judges Bay.

Every November, the Parnell Rose Garden hosts the Parnell Festival of Roses, which showcases the blaze of colour from over 5,000 roses in bloom, along with plenty of craft stalls, art exhibitions, music, and strolling performers.

Outside of this festival, the Parnell Rose Gardens is a more sedate affair where you can wander and explore other highlights like the oldest manuka and the largest pohutukawa tree in Auckland.

Totara Waters Subtropical Garden

89 Totara Road, Whenuapai

By appointment only, $10 admission

A 2-acre subtropical garden set on the upper Waitemata Harbour in Whenuapai. Development began in 1999, whereby widespread planting of rare and unusual plants has been included in the garden.

Parrots, large melting pots, chimney pots, and a variety of garden art are also on display. The gardens feature a charming Bonsai Collection grown from scratch over 40 years, around 25 varieties of palms, and a large display of Bromeliads and Succulents.

These are organized in island beds and on sweeping lawns, eliciting feelings of a tropical paradise. At the bottom of the garden, there is a very unusual sight: the rusting hulk of HMNZS Hawera was abandoned here in the 1950s.

83 Sunnyside Rd, Coatesville

By appointment only, $15 admission

A gorgeous country garden in Coatesville, it covers 3 hectares and has two distinct parts: a formal rose garden and a tranquil lake walk.

The man-made lake, created in 1990, spans 5 acres and is divided by the main driveway causeway. There are also exotic bird aviaries, a picturesque gazebo, waterlilies, rock gardens, and exotic waterfowl.

West Lynn Garden & Butterfly House

73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn

Open daily, $3 admission

A public garden covering 2.5 hectares, created and run by volunteers since 1981. Over time, it has grown into a much-loved icon of West Auckland, providing a tranquil retreat for residents and an education centre, wedding venue and memorial to loved ones.

The garden’s compilations include around 50 Heritage Scheduled Listed trees, both native and exotic, and many endangered trees, providing a great opportunity for children to appreciate them in their natural environment.

The butterfly house is a highlight of the West Lynn Garden. From December through April, hundreds of Monarch butterflies, with lots of eggs, chrysalis, and caterpillars, can be seen there.

Wrights Watergardens

128 Mauku Road, Patumahoe

Open Thursday-Sunday, $8 admission

A picturesque water garden located 45 minutes south of Auckland city in Patumahoe. Ponds, gardens and paths have been built around the historic Mauku Waterfall, one used to power a flax mill built beside it and a rocky quarry that operated here in the decades after WW2.

The 4-acre garden has taken something ugly and made it beautiful in all seasons, but sadly, in recent years, it has become rather unkempt. New owners have now taken over, so hopefully, this will turn things around.

An ideal spot for a day visit, especially with children who will love the eels and alpacas, the gardens are accessible via The Frog & Lily, a newly refurbished café, function centre, and plant nursery.

And there you have it. All of the most beautiful gardens in Auckland you can visit!

It is hard to choose favourites, but true garden connoisseurs must visit Ayrlies and make appointments to view both Mincher and Omaio. Each is a true labour of love among New Zealand’s best gardens.

The Auckland Botanic Gardens and Domain Wintergardens are fabulous options for free garden visits, as is the Rose Garden in November. For children, the West Lynn Garden Butterfly House is certainly a standout.

But really, why not just visit them all?

Expedia Magazine

The Trends in Travel

A cultural guide to Auckland

With more than 50 volcanoes, two island-dotted harbors, plentiful beaches, plus a cosmopolitan culinary and cultural scene, this city has something for everyone

About Auckland

Language: English Time zone: UTC+12 (NZST) Currency: New Zealand dollar (NZD)

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Ages 0 to 17

Wellington might be New Zealand’s administrative capital, but Auckland is her easy-on-the-eye, harbor-hugging, sun-kissed sister. Certainly, the city’s connectivity to the Bay of Islands and Hauraki Gulf is one reason to fly here, but this sophisticated subtropical waterfront city also makes a superb interlude between New Zealand’s more bucolic pleasures. Linger for three to four days to combine urbane delights—shopping and dining in hip Ponsonby, chic Parnell, and leafy Mount Eden—with exploring the wineries of Waiheke Island , hiking an ancient volcanic cone, and kicking back on the beaches of Takapuna and Mission Bay.  

Art & architecture

Before European settlers arrived and colonized the land in 1840, Auckland (also known as Tāmaki-makau-rau, meaning “isthmus of a hundred lovers”) had been a Māori settlement since 1350, where terraced pā (fortified villages) were constructed on volcanic peaks. Two harbors provided seafood, the narrow isthmus had strategic value, and the volcanic soils were fertile. Auckland Museum —a neoclassical architectural gem built in the 1920s—tells the story of New Zealand with excellent Māori and Pacific collections, while Auckland Art Gallery is the biggest collection in New Zealand. As well as colonial landmarks, the city has colorful wooden workers’ cottages and Victorian villas lining side streets in residential districts such as Ponsonby, Kingsland, and Herne Bay.  

Expert tips

The essentials

Auckland Airport is located in Manukau, South Auckland. The SkyDrive Airport Express links the airport with the CBD for NZ$20 each way; taxis and rideshare services are the fastest option.  

New Zealand’s official language is English, and mastering the correct pronunciation of Māori words (particularly place names) is respectful and appreciated by all.

Accessibility    

Auckland is a car-heavy city, with outdoorsy locals relying on a car to get around and escape to beaches at weekends. But for visitors, the city is easily navigable with a comprehensive network of buses, trains and ferries. Rideshare apps are popular too.  

Getting around  

As a progressive and tourism-focused urban hub, Auckland scores pretty highly for accessibility, particularly when it comes to the city’s public transport options: Ferries, trains and buses are all wheelchair-accessible. Disability-assist dogs are permitted on the Auckland public transport network. 

Gay travelers will feel at ease in Auckland, which is frequently named among the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the world. While the city is home to the largest Pride event in the South Pacific (held annually in February), LGBTQ+ visitors will find year-round revelry along Karangahape Road (aka “K Road”), the city’s epicenter of queer nightlife. Nationally, New Zealand was the first country in Oceania to legalize gay marriage.

Family travel  

A city of family-focused suburbs with slick infrastructure and an abundance of outdoors activities, Auckland is a particularly family-friendly destination. The 40-acre Auckland Zoo is a surprisingly serene day out, while Western Springs Park (home to MOTAT , the city’s science and transport museum) is the best park for families. If you’re a family traveling with an assortment of wheels, you can expect plenty of child-friendly cycleways, skate parks, and scooter parks.

Food & drink

Having experienced British, Arab, Chinese, Indian, Fijian, Filipino, Korean, Tongan, and intertribal Māori immigration (to name a few), Auckland is as multicultural as cities come—and home to a thrillingly eclectic culinary scene. Whether you’re tucking into fish and chips from Takapuna Fish Shop on the beach or indulging in a tasting menu at longstanding fine dining outfit The Grove, every meal is a chance to taste New Zealand’s incredible produce and international culinary heritage.  

New Zealand is a major wine destination as well; dedicated wine-lovers should make a pilgrimage to the vineyards, olive groves, and fine dining restaurants on Waiheke Island, just 13 miles from the city center. The family-owned Tantalus Estate is a great place to start, or take a tour and drink and dine your way around this culinary idyll. Meanwhile, guided tours from Auckland will take you to scenic localities like Waimauku, Kumeū , and Huapai. 

In New Zealand, rugby is very much the national sport, rather than soccer. Eden Park stadium, with a capacity of 50,000, is the place to see the mighty All Blacks play (learn more about the team on a guided tour ). You’ll see all of Auckland society at a game: couples on a date night; students en route to the bars of Ponsonby; and 20-strong family packs who have driven into the city in convoy from suburban beaches. After the game, you’re a 10-minute train ride from transport hub Britomart, sandwiched between two buzzy, genuinely hip residential areas (Mount Eden and Kingsland), and minutes from cool cafés, boutique wine bars, and brewpubs. Pop into Urbanaut Brewing Co. for a drink and post-match analysis.  

Anna Hart is a culture writer specializing in adventure travel and positive-impact tourism. Her work has appeared in  Vogue ,  The Wall Street Journal , and  The New York Times , and she is the author of the travel memoir  Departures . 

KEY NEIGHBORHOODS

Bridging the Central Business District and the shopping malls of Newmarket, sophisticated and unashamedly upmarket Parnell is the ideal neighborhood for travelers who want a taste of the good life. Auckland Domain , the city’s 185-acre park, offers shade and natural beauty, and you’re never short of neighborhood eateries like Non Solo Pizza , cocktail bars like Crown Range Lounge , and posh chocolatiers like Chocolate Boutique . Parnell is Auckland’s oldest neighborhood and still retains a village feel; the eco-certified and elegant Parnell Hotel & Conference Centr e is the best address in the area.  

Where to stay

The Parnell Hotel & Conference Centre

20 Gladstone Road, Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand, 1052

Quest Carlaw Park

15 Nicholls Lane, Carlaw Park, Auckland, New Zealand, 1010

Like many reinvigorated areas in Auckland, Ponsonby and Karangahape Road (known as “K Road”) have blossomed over the past two decades into the city’s most name-dropped dining, drinking and shopping districts, as well as being the heart and soul of Auckland’s LGBTQ+ community. Shop for jewelry at Boh Runga , stroll the gourmet taco stands and wine bars of Ponsonby Central food market, and bed down at the bohemian Great Ponsonby ArtHotel to make the most of this artsy and inspiring neighborhood.  

The Great Ponsonby ArtHotel

30 Ponsonby Terrace, Ponsonby, Auckland, New Zealand, 1011

Abaco on Jervois

57 Jervois Road, Ponsonby, Auckland, New Zealand, 1011

Britomart  

If you’re daydreaming about dining on fresh seafood with views of Waitematā Harbor and Rangitoto Island while still having easy access to Auckland’s central museums, galleries, and shops, base yourself in the regenerated waterfront area of Britomart. This nine-block precinct is now a major gastronomic hub; don’t miss the Britomart Saturday Market in Takutai Square. The coolest place to stay is the five-star Hotel Britomart , with chic public spaces and sleek contemporary bedrooms.

The Hotel Britomart

29 Galway Street, Auckland, New Zealand, 1010

The Grand by SkyCity

90 Federal Street, Auckland, New Zealand, 1010

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New Zealand » 8 Amazing Places to Visit Near Auckland

8 Amazing Places to Visit Near Auckland

What's In This Guide?

Planning a trip to Auckland and the surrounding area? You have definitely landed in the right spot. There are so many amazing places to visit near Auckland which shows just how diverse New Zealand’s North Island is.

However, we understand that travel time can be limited, so here we’ve selected eight of the best destinations.

Relax in the thermal hot springs and explore hidden caves a few hours south of Auckland. Or, discover black sand beaches and tropical rainforests just under an hour west of the city.

This article contains loads of useful information on these top destinations. You will probably even discover some destinations you would never have otherwise considered.

The best way to get to most of these destinations is to drive. I highly recommend checking prices on RentalCars.com . You will find all the big brands like Avis and Europcar listed here but with huge discounts on rental cars.

And of course, if you have any further questions, please ask us in the comments section below.

Islands Near Auckland – Hauraki Gulf

The Hauraki Gulf is framed by Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour in the west, the Hauraki Plains to the south, the protruding Coromandel Peninsula in the east, and the Barrier Islands to the north. For those with a little more time, we’ve covered nine great islands near Auckland in this detailed article . However, if you’ve only got a couple of days for the whole region, then Waiheke and Rangitoto might be for you.

1. Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is on the top of every visitor’s list of places to visit near Auckland. It’s a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland across the sparkling Waitemata Harbour and a world away from big city living. It is frequently voted by Lonely Planet, Travel & Leisure Magazine, and many other international travel experts as one of the top island escapes in the world. There is a public bus network, a hop-on-hop-off bus, bike rentals and car rentals available which makes getting around the island so easy.

You will find sandy, pristine beaches, lined with the unique New Zealand Pohutukawa trees which bloom with rich red flowers at Christmas time. Becuase of this, these iconic Kiwi trees are also known as the New Zealand Christmas trees.

You will find sandy, pristine beaches, lined with the unique New Zealand Pohutukawa trees which bloom with rich red flowers at Christmas

One of the best things to do on Waiheke Island is to visit a boutique vineyard. These vineyards offer stunning views, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants where you can linger over a long lunch featuring delicious local and seasonal produce. Try Cable Bay and Mudbrick vineyards which are both walking distance from the ferry terminals. There is an information desk at the ferry terminal on Waiheke Island and they will help you with what’s on and where to go.

There is a great network of walking tracks throughout the Waiheke Island and around its 40km coastline, showcasing New Zealand’s flora and fauna. You can also rent a kayak, go mountain biking, or ziplining through the trees if you want some action.

Waiheke Island was once regarded as having a bohemian hippy lifestyle and still has many interesting art studios to visit. We suggest the interesting outdoor Sculpture Exhibition located on a walking trail that takes place every two years in February or March. There is also a very popular jazz festival which takes place over Easter.

2. Rangitoto Island

On your ferry trip to Waiheke Island, you’ll pass one of Auckland’s best-known landmarks, Rangitoto Island. It’s a large symmetrical, green, cone-shaped island that is actually a volcano!

Did you know that Auckland is built on a volcanic field of over 50 volcanoes? The last eruption in Auckland was Rangitoto over 600 years ago. Scientists consider these volcanoes to be dormant, rather than extinct, so there is an extremely slim chance of any of them erupting in the near future.

Did you know that Auckland is built on a volcanic field of over 50 volcanoes? The last eruption in Auckland was Rangitoto over 600 years ago

Rangitoto Island is a 25-minute ferry ride from Downtown Auckland or a two-hour kayaking trip from Auckland’s North Shore. The island was declared “pest-free” in 2011 and birdlife has flourished. It is home to dozens of sea, shore and forest birds.

There is no shop on the island, so you will need to bring your own food and drink. There are also no rubbish bins, so you will need to take your own scraps and rubbish off the island with you.

The most popular walking track is the Rangitoto Summit Track. It is an easy, but up-hill, two-hour return walk on well-formed paths along the lava fields. The Wreck Bay Track is a twisting track to Wreck Bay and Boulder Bay on the northern side of Rangitoto. These bays were once used as dumping grounds for old ships and at low tides, some of the remains can still be seen.

Another popular track is the Coastal Walk from Rangitoto Wharf to Islington Bay, which passes by boatsheds and some old 1930s baches (classic New Zealand holiday cottages) one of which is open as a museum. The track passes old quarry sites, ruins of wartime storage bases for mines, and Yankee Wharf which was built during World War II.

Be careful not to miss your ferry ride back to Auckland as there is no overnight accommodation on the island. A water taxi back to Auckland can be quite expensive.

Another very amazing island about an hour’s plane ride from Auckland is Great Barrier Island . It is one of the few places in the world with a ‘Dark Sky Sanctuary’ rating.

The Waikato Region – South of Auckland

These following two tourist attractions near Auckland can be combined into a one-day trip if you have limited time. You would need to leave Auckland before 7am, book a morning tour at Hobbiton and then head 1 hour and 15 minutes over to Waitomo for the afternoon. It would be a very busy day but is doable if necessary.

3. Hobbiton

Fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies visit Hobbiton in their masses. It is the third-largest tourist attraction in New Zealand.

Hobbiton is in a small rural town called Matamata about a two-hour drive from Auckland. In 1995 Peter Jackson, the director of the films, spotted the Alexander family farm in Matamata as an ideal location for some of his filming and work began. The New Zealand army was called in to build a road to the site. The original set was just a temporary build, but in 2010 it was rebuilt permanently as “The Hobbit – An Unexpected Journey.”

Today you can do a tour of Hobbiton and experience the real middle earth! Take a look at Bagshot Row, Bilbo’s Bag End, the Party Tree, 44 hobbit holes and have a pint at The Green Dragon Pub. It is recommended that you book your tour in advance so that you don’t arrive at the Shire’s Rest and have to wait for a vacancy in a tour group. It gets really busy here in the high season.

4. Waitomo Caves

Located beneath rolling green hills about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Hobbiton at the famous Waitomo Caves. These caves were created over 30 million years ago while the region was still under the ocean. There are about 300 known limestone caves in the area, and possibly more to be discovered.

There are several caving organizations that offer different experiences. Choose from a walking tour, a boat tour, a black water rafting tour, an abseiling tour, and even a ziplining tour.

The most popular tour is the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. It has a huge cavernous space where you can see the amazing limestone stalagmite and stalactite formations. The trip finishes with a silent boat ride in the dark, with thousands of illuminating glowworms sparkling overhead.

The Ruakuri Cave and Aranui Cave are also very popular options to visit too.

Beaches Near Auckland – The Rugged West Coast

The rugged black sand beaches on Auckland’s West Coast are some of the most unique and stunning places to visit near Auckland. We always take our overseas visitors to one or both of these beaches and they are always super impressed.

5. Piha Beach

You essentially leave Auckland behind as you pass the arty Titirangi Village located about 20 minutes southwest of the city. From there is another half-hour drive to Piha Beach on the rugged west coast.

You will reach Piha Beach by taking the Scenic Drive route. It’s a narrow road that winds its way over hills and through the green fern-laden rainforests of the Waitakere Ranges.

Along the way to Piha Beach, you can make a quick stop at the Arataki Visitors Centre. It is located in the middle of New Zealand’s native bush at the peak of a hill. Here you can get great views and learn about the cultural, colonial and natural history of the area.

Just before you reach Piha Beach there’s a left turn to Karekare Beach. This is where many scenes from the film “The Piano” were shot in the 1990s. Karekare Beach is another very rugged black sand beach with huge rolling surf.

As you drive down to the black sands of Piha Beach you will get great views of the entire coastline. The iconic Lion Rock landmark divides the beach into a northern and southern half. If you’re up for a hike, you can climb the steep trail to the top of Lion Rock for an awesome view of the beach where surfers challenge the huge waves below.

6. Muriwai Beach

Muriwai Beach stretches for 60 kilometers along the dramatic Tasman Sea with huge ocean swells and rolling breakers. This windswept, black sand beach is situated on Auckland’s west coast, about a one hour drive from the city through farmland, vineyards, and small rural towns.

While Muriwai Beach is a popular spot for surfing and windsurfing, it is also renowned for its large gannet colony. Viewing platforms located atop of the cliffs at the southern end of the beach offer close up views of these huge birds. Gannets weigh about two and a half kilos and have a wingspan of around two meters. From August to March about 1200 pairs of Gannets mate, nest and have their chicks on these windswept clifftops. You can normally see the chicks throughout December and January.

There is no public transport to Muriwai Beach so you will need a car or take a West Coast tour to get here. The last 15 minutes of the drive the beach goes down a narrow and winding section of road through native bush. Near the end of the road, opposite the local café, is a left turn that takes you up to the carpark. This is where the walking track to the Gannet Colony viewing platform begins.

New Zealand’s Thermal Area

Three hours south of Auckland is the not-to-be-missed geothermal area around Rotorua. There are so many unique things to do in this area. You won’t forget the unique smell! Rotorua has been called ‘The Sulphur City’ because it has a unique pungent aroma that smells very much like rotten eggs, but you do become accustomed to it over time!

Rotorua is situated on the southern shore of Lake Rotorua. Lakes and streams are abundant in the area, while trout fishing and white water rafting are a few activities that you may wish to take part in.

Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and spouting geysers can be seen at various parks and locations around the area. A few popular attractions are the Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa, the Waiopu Thermal Wonderland, and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

Other must-visit places are the Rotorua Polynesian Spa which was voted as a Top 10 World Day Spa by Conde Nast Traveller, the Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park where you can see a live kiwi, the Rotorua Agradome for an entertaining farm show, the magnificent Redwoods at Whakarewarewa Forest. So Many Places! So Little Time!

8. Matakana Village Farmer’s Market & Goat Island Marine Reserve

The Matakana Village Farmer’s Market is a great spot to visit on a Saturday morning. Matakana is about one hour north of Auckland. It is a quaint village with interesting boutique stores, art galleries, and a great little cinema complex.

The Farmer’s Market is laden fresh organic food. It sells a wonderful array of tasty foods like fresh oysters, the prawn tacos, homemade bread, local cheese, honey, and chutney. You can sit by the river, listen to live music and enjoy whitebait, paua or mussel fitters and a great cup of coffee!

Ten minutes past Matakana is the very upmarket Omaha Beach and fifteen minutes further on is the Goat Island Marine Reserve with the best snorkeling and scuba diving near Auckland.

There are so many interesting places to visit near Auckland. We hope that you get a chance to visit and enjoy some of these top destinations. When you’re finished exploring Auckland, have you thought about a cruise around New Zealand ? Here are 9 reasons why it is worth considering.

Author bio: This article was written by Maureen Spencer from So Many Places! So Little Time! An online travel magazine and blog. Maureen is a passionate traveler and hopes the detailed travel guides on her website can help other passionate travelers on their journeys too.

Discover more of New Zealand with these articles:

• The stunning route from Franz Josef to Wanaka
• Mount Cook and the Hooker Valley Track
• Nine Stunning Islands in the Hauraki Gulf
• Eight Scenic Lakes in New Zealand’s South Island
• Milford Sound Cruise, Fiordland National Park

Photo credits: Waiheke Island – flickr , Hobbiton – flickr , Waitmo Cave – CaveWorld Waitomo , Rotorua – flickr , Goat Island Marine Reserve – flickr

G'day I'm Josh (some call me Fishtank) and on this blog I'll show you how to travel Asia beyond what you thought was possible. We'll explore the highest waterfalls, most remote islands, eat the best street food, and plenty more! Josh Shephard

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Review: This bohemian Auckland hotel offers remarkable value

A s soon as I walked into Abstract I was struck by how unique it felt. I've been in plenty of boutique hotels before and each has its own quirky sense of identity, but this one feels its own kind of special.

There are a great deal of bespoke art pieces and clever design flourishes, but there is also just a vibe within the place that is distinctly bohemian and charmingly reflective of K Rd culture.

Abstract opened earlier this year and has apparently been busy from day one. That may not be surprising considering the room rates start at $140 per night for up to two guests, which is much cheaper than many other central Auckland hotels. So how does it compare to those?

I stayed at the hotel earlier this month and while most of the luxury that has been scaled back to keep costs down is easy to do without, some of it is not. Here are my thoughts.

There is a stunning attention to detail in this hotel's design that helps make staying at it a richer experience than many others can offer.

That appears to be largely thanks to the leadership of Nigel McKenna who heads up the Templeton Group that developed Abstract. He's a particularly particular man who used his decades of experience on this passion project, meticulously tinkering with seemingly every aspect, sometimes literally down to the millimeter.

The results are easily sensed as you walk about the shared areas and take time to observe the colours, the materials, the staff uniforms, the flooring and - of course - the art.

A couple of those shared areas on the ground floor are particularly charming: the Winter Garden and the Library Lounge.

The former is a wonderful indoor/outdoor area for eating and drinking, covered from harsh sun or light rain but still providing outdoor ambiance. It's a pleasure to spend time in, whether sitting down for a meal, enjoying a few drinks, or just hanging out. It would make a great venue for certain types of private gatherings if it's available for hire - I foresee countless great nights being had here by a great many people.

The Library Lounge is a quieter area with plenty of great, carefully curated books to get into. You can take them back to your room, but then you'd be missing out on enjoying a really lovely area custom designed for chilling with a book in.

Some of those books and indeed the art on the walls of the Library Lounge is a little risqué, intentionally so as a reminder of the Karangahape Road area that Abstract is now a part of.

There is art in every hallway and every shared space that is just really cool. Even if you don't have the eye to notice the clever design of this place, the art really will jump out and grab your attention. I even ventured to a few of the storeys other than that of my room just to see the unique art on each level.

If it's not the art that's the first thing to hit you as you enter Abstract, it will likely be the beaming smiles of the staff. While some of them knew I was a reviewer, others did not, and all exhibited a great warmth - without the awkwardness that sometimes comes with it at other places where you're working out whether they're just doing it for a tip.

The food and drink on offer at the on-site bar and restaurant is all high quality. I don't know if it's quite impressive enough to become independently popular with patrons who aren't hotel guests, but it's diverse and delicious enough that you definitely don't need to head out of the hotel for a great meal and tipple, even with the amazing offerings of K Rd just a brief stroll away.

There's also a small gym and the Gallery, which has a large amount of tables, powerpoints and yet more art. The actual bedrooms aren't good spaces to do much aside from sleep in, so if you want to get some work on your laptop done the Gallery is ideal, although I actually preferred the Winter Garden for that too.

There's one other area of the hotel that I really loved - more on that later. But first, what about the shortcomings?

The tradeoffs to get prices down appear to all have been made in the bedrooms, which suffer from some issues that will be easy to fix as well as others that won't be.

The main thing to think about when deciding if you want to stay at Abstract or not is how much you value bedroom space. Compared to most hotels in Aotearoa these are small bedrooms with just a bed, a TV, a little bedside table, cupboards and drawers.

The bathrooms are also cramped compared to most other hotels in the city, but these and the bedrooms are actually spacious when compared to many Japanese hotels I've stayed in.

Also, if you're not staying in one of the studio rooms, the apartments offer generous space in the kitchen/dining/lounge room. Still, the smaller bedroom and bathroom size is notable.

The kitchens oddly feature a stovetop, but no pots or pans, so it seemed useless. However, you these are available on request.

The rooms don't have aircon, which could be a real problem at certain times. There is a heater and a cooling tower fan, but I don't think that would be very effective mid-summer.

Costs have also been cut on the cheap TCL TVs, which are kind of fine, but they're small and have very average image quality.

While many hotel rooms have bizarre lighting setups that end up delivering dark spaces, the Abstract bedrooms went for two little roof spotlights and that's it. When they're on, it's definitely not dark, but rather too harsh a light if you're lying on the bed relaxing.

Although the supplied bedroom photo has a bedside lamp, mine did not, and that would have been a simple fix which would make reading a book or anything like that much more pleasant.

It's probably harder to fix the bed base issue, however. The mattresses themselves are beautifully comfortable, but the bed bases are of that wooden style with unforgiving corners that just love painfully finding your shin or knee.

There is also limited soundproofing, which could be a major problem if you have the wrong type of people in rooms nearby. Fortunately I didn't during my stay, but there was the odd loud noise that startled us in our room.

Depending on why you're in Auckland, the hotel's location may not be great. It's quite a distance from the touristy waterfront area, but is very handy for other locations and once the City Rail Link is up and running the location will become considerably more attractive.

There's also no on-site parking or valet staff, nor is there a phone in your room to contact staff; none of which was an issue for me. There's a porte cochère to park in and unload or reload your stuff and then paid carparks nearby, and you can just use your mobile to call the front desk if you need to.

But then, while I'm happy to lose those features and have extra cash in my pocket, not everyone will be.

The amazing

Perhaps my favourite aspect of Abstract is Sa-Ni the day spa where I received one of the very best massages I've ever had.

Like other areas of the hotel, a lot of care has been taken to custom design this space with plenty of little touches executed by someone who is passionate about the service rather than some corporate overlord who isn't fussed.

My masseuse was very skilled and it came as no surprise when she told me she'd had decades of experience.

After blissfully floating away from the massage table, there's a wonderful relaxing area to chill out in and sip on tea in a comfy chair for as long as you need before heading back to your room or off into the real world.

Price-wise, the options at Sa-Ni are not cheap, but they're certainly competitive with the offerings at other CBD hotels. The 90-minute aromatherapy massage I got - and wholeheartedly recommend - will set you back $220.

It was so good it makes it tempting to stay at Abstract over a more expensive hotel and use the savings to pay for a treatment at Sa-Ni.

The verdict

Abstract is an offbeat CBD hotel that offers great value for money.

If you don't mind giving up some in-room luxuries, it's an alluring accommodation option in the K Rd area that I can see earning fans.

Do your homework to see what you'll be missing out on if you choose this over a 5-star place, and you'll probably be delighted with the character it offers instead.

Newshub received a complimentary two-night stay at Abstract for this review .