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One Day in Auckland Itinerary: Self-Guided Walking Tour & Trip to Devonport

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In comparison to many cities around the world, Auckland, New Zealand is brand spanking new. The oldest buildings date back to the 1840s and most of the downtown area has already gone through several major overhauls to create sleek and shiny reused spaces.

There are many things to do in Auckland – and the best way to get acquainted with the city is on an Auckland Walking Tour. To help other travelers to New Zealand, we created a One Day in Auckland Itinerary that includes a self-guided walking tour and one of the best half day trips from Auckland to Devonport. 

One Day in Auckland Itinerary Outline

Visitors with just 1 day in Auckland have an array of options for what to see and do, and very little time in which to do them! We recommend spending an Auckland one-day trip seeing the top sights and experiencing the city on foot. Many Auckland tourist attractions are located in the heart of the city – and others are just a ferry ride away. We have made planning what to do in Auckland For A Day simple with our easy-to-follow Auckland Itinerary 1 Day.

We begin our day of Auckland sightseeing in the center of the city – taking in sights like the historic Civic Theater, iconic Sky Tower and revitalized harbor. We continue our Auckland tour as we navigate to the west, to see the oldest part of the city and landmark War Memorial Museum. We complete our walk by strolling back to the center through spacious parks and the university campus. To end the day, we hop on a ferry to one of the best Auckland getaways: Devonport…just 12 minutes away by boat!

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Auckland Travel Guide to plan your trip to NZ!

Self-Guided Auckland City Tour

While the top places to see in Auckland are located in close proximity to each other, there is some walking between the sights. The total distance of our walking tour in central Auckland is seven miles (and doesn’t include the distances covered in Devonport at the end of the day). Be sure to pack good city walking shoes for your trip !

Our free Auckland walking tour highlights the top Auckland attractions. Visitors can simply enjoy the city by walking the route…or choose to visit the Auckland sights along the way. Three top Auckland activities that are along the route are soaring to the top of the Sky Tower ( buy tickets in advance ), eating lunch in the Wynyard Quarter and visiting the Auckland War Museum, which can include a cultural performance ( get your tickets today ).

If you plan on entering any of these top Auckland places to visit, be sure to calculate it into your itinerary and keep an eye on the time. 

Top Tip : Our city tour of Auckland covers some ground! Visitors who want to see the sights without the long walk can use the Auckland sightseeing bus. We include details of the Hop On Hop Off bus – which covers all of the places to visit in Auckland on our route (and more!) – at the end of the post.

Auckland, New Zealand Map

Auckland walking tour route.

Okay, we’ve given you an overview of what 1 Day in Auckland will look like, so let’s get started! Shall we? Our Auckland in a Day route begins at…

Britomart (and Auckland Ferry Building)

The central transportation hub for Auckland, the former post office, is a redeveloped district for all things fashion and food. Britomart is an ideal starting point, as it is a railway station, bus station and also near the ferry terminal if you’re coming to Auckland for the day via boat.

Set off on your Auckland walk, heading south on…

Queen Street

Walk south on Queen Street, Auckland’s shopping street. One of the main thoroughfares since the 1840s, Queen Street has been traversed by horse-drawn buses (circa late 1800s) and electric trams (circa early 1900s). Queen Street has also served as the site of numerous parades, demonstrations and Auckland celebrations. The street was heavily renovated in the early 2000s to be more pedestrian friendly and improve downtown Auckland’s walkability score.

Take time to window-shop on Queen St. and then make your way to…

Aotea Square

Aotea Square is a lovely green space in the city center of Auckland. Built in 1911, the Edwardian Auckland Town Hall sits just across the street and since 2016 has been home to the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra. The original Town Hall Organ is the oldest musical instrument in New Zealand and underwent a complete restoration in 2010.

Just north of Aotea Square is the Civic Theater, or just The Civic, that opened in 1929 and is the largest surviving atmospheric cinema in Australasia. After a hefty restoration in 1999, it still serves as a multi-purpose theater featuring musical acts, plays and film festivals.

Walk through/around Aotea Square to Mayoral Drive/Albert Street and walk north to Victoria Street. Turn west (left) and walk to…

Sky Tower Auckland

The iconic Sky Tower landmark, reaching 328 meters (1076 feet) into the Auckland skyline, it is truly one of the city highlights! Created as an entertainment hub, spending time in the tower is one of the fun things to do in Auckland. In addition to the viewing platforms, there is a revolving restaurant and the daring SkyWalk .

True thrill-seekers can bungee jump from the building at the SkyJump attraction. We were not so brave, so instead found a spot across the street where we could watch the bungee jumpers plunge from the 629 foot (192m) mark.

From the Sky Tower, walk south on Federal Street to…

St. Patrick’s Cathedral Auckland

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Mother Church of the Catholic Diocese of Auckland, sits on the site of the first Catholic church of Auckland, which was built in the 1840s. Step inside to see the sun shimmering through the beautiful stained-glass windows. 

Walk west on Wyndham Street to Nelson Street. Turn north (right) and walk (the street changes name to Market Place) to Pakenham Street. Turn west (left) and follow the street to Viaduct Harbor. Turn south (left) and walk around the harbor into the…

Wynyard Quarter, Auckland

Hopefully by now you are getting hungry, because there is no better place in Auckland for fish and chips than in Wynyard Quarter. The revitalized district is largely built on reclaimed land. Now locals and visitors alike flock to the area for seafood, cocktails and good times.

Stroll through the Auckland Fish Market , which is stocked with the morning’s fresh catch, and surrounded with some of Auckland’s best restaurants ready to serve it up to you. Looking for Lobster? Check out Lobster & Tap. Oysters on your NZ-must-eat list? Drop into Billy Pot. Not sure what you fancy? Head to the Market Galley for some of it all or just post-up at The Wreck for a beverage!

Alternatively, walk one block north to the harbor-facing North Wharf for lunch with a sea view. Good George Brewing has a solid lineup of craft beer and an excellent food menu to back them up!

From Wynyard Quarter, walk east to…

Viaduct Harbor

Once a busy, commercial port, Viaduct Harbour is another one of Auckland’s successful renovation projects that has evolved into a trendy place to live, work and eat. Take some time to enjoy the view and people watching.

Grab a seat on one of the large wooden loungers or sit on the steps that lead right down to the water. Cross the 100-meter-long Wynyard Crossing Bridge onto Te Wero Island, then take a stroll to the end of Princes Wharf. 

Walk east past the the Ferry Building and continue east on Quay Street to The Strand. Turn south (right) and walk a short distance to Gladstone Road. Turn east (left) and follow the road around the curve to the entrance of…

Parnell Rose Gardens

The spacious Parnell Rose Gardens feature bushes from world-renowned rose breeders. In November, the gardens host the Parnell Festival of Roses. When the flowers are in bloom, it’s an absolutely beautiful sight!

Continue walking south on Gladstone through the…

Parnell Neighborhood

Parnell , the oldest neighborhood in Auckland, was founded in 1841. Many of the historic dwellings have been converted into chic shops, trendy bars and upscale restaurants. 

Walk south on Gladstone to St. Stephen’s Avenue. Turn west (right) and walk to…

Holy Trinity Cathedral Auckland

The Anglican Holy Trinity Cathedral was built in the 1960s, but the site has a much deeper history dating to 1841. The 19th-century St. Mary’s Cathedral and the modern glass-walled Bishop Selwyn Chapel are located on the property as well.

From the cathedral, walk south on Parnell Road to Maunsell Road. Turn west/northwest and walk to…

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Located on the Auckland Domain, the largest open green space in the city, the neoclassical Auckland War Memorial Museum building sits atop Observatory Hill. Also simply called the Auckland Museum, the collections detail the history of the country, the area’s natural history along with New Zealand’s military history.

In addition to special exhibits, the museum has a large collection of Maori (native) artifacts – and has Maori performances, as well. Part of the museum and grounds are dedicated war memorials, honoring New Zealand soldiers who have died in wars.

Walk north through the Auckland Domain to Grafton Road and continue walking north onto the campus of…

University of Auckland

The country’s largest university, University of Auckland, dates to 1883. Comprising multiple campuses (although the Auckland campus is the largest), the university has over 40,000 enrolled students. 

After wandering through campus, walk west on Alfred Street to…

Albert Park, Auckland

The hilly Albert Park features both forested grounds and formal gardens. Once military fortifications, the park was developed in the late 1800s. Dotted with statues, fountains, memorials and artwork, Albert Park is the perfect place to end a city tour of Auckland. 

From the park, walk west on Victoria Street to Queen Street. Turn north (right) and walk to the Auckland Ferry Terminal where we began!

Half-Day Trip To Devonport, New Zealand

One of the best Auckland half-day tours is a trip to Devonport. Located across the Waitemata Harbor on the end of a peninsula, Devonport is a suburb of Auckland. Although it has a long history with the Royal New Zealand Navy, the town also exudes a charming, laidback atmosphere. 

Devonport Ferry from Auckland

We think taking the ferry ride to Devonport is one of the best things to do outside Auckland! Hop aboard the Auckland to Devonport Ferry for a short sail across the bay. On the ferry to Devonport, find a seat on the back of the boat to watch get excellent Auckland skyline views. 

Top Tip : There are private tour boats and public ferries that make the Devonport-Auckland trip. Find information at the terminal – or check out the Devonport Ferry Timetable on the official public transport website  (where you can also check the Devonport Ferry price).

Things To Do in Devonport

Planning what to do in Devonport will be based on your interests and time. There are many Devonport things to do – from getting a taste of locally made Devonport Chocolates to visiting military sights to eating at a chic café. Below, we outline that top Devonport attractions that we enjoyed on our day trip from Auckland. 

North Head Devonport

After we docked at the Devonport Wharf, we strolled along the waterfront on King Edward Parade, passing the Devonport Beach along the way. We continued our route toward North Head, an old military base. Formerly know as Fort Cautley, the New Zealand army and navy occupied the hill from the 1870’s until 1996 to protect Auckland from an attack from the water.

Now a park, North Head features the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, remaining military barracks and replica artillery. Beneath the surface are the subterranean Devonport tunnels that can be freely explored. The biggest North Head attraction is the ‘Disappearing Gun’, housed in the side of the hill and built to recoil below ground level after being fired.

Devonport Restaurants, Bars and Cafes

The main streets in Devonport are lined with shops, restaurants, cafes and a handful of bars. During our trip, we wandered into a local craft beer bar,  Tiny Triumphs , which has nice outdoor space and was staffed with friendly bartenders. If you are looking for the best Devonport cafes and restaurants, read fellow traveler reviews on TripAdvisor . 

More Devonport, Auckland Things To Do

Although a small town, visiting Devonport on a half-day trip from Auckland doesn’t allow for too much exploring. However, there are other things to do in Devonport, NZ than we did on our day trip.

In addition to the chocolate shop, other popular Devonport shops are book stores and art galleries. The Victoria Theater Devonport – or just The Vic – is a historic cinema that was built in 1912 and ranks as New Zealand’s oldest operating movie theater. 

Devonport to Auckland Ferry

Keep an eye on the time and catch a return ferry to Auckland at sunset for stunning views of Auckland CBD and harbor. Regardless of how much time you have in Devonport, a ferry ride is the perfect way to end one day in Auckland!

Devonport Map

Use this link to Google Maps to find all the best sights in Devonport, NZ!

More Auckland Day Trips & Tours

Travelers who are visiting Auckland in a day (and visitors with 2 days in Auckland – or more !) may opt to take one of the popular day tours from Auckland. Although we have not personally taken these Auckland day tours, they come highly-rated by fellow travelers. 

Hobbiton Tours

Tours to the Lord of the Rings movie set – Hobbiton – is one of the most popular day trips from Auckland. The highly-rated Hobbiton tour from Auckland includes visiting the Waitomo Caves, where visitors can see Gloworms during a boat ride in the grotto. The Auckland to Hobbiton full-day tour includes transport in a luxury bus, lunch and photo opportunities. Find out more about this Auckland to Hobbiton tour on Viator ! 

Auckland Wine Tours

Join a top-rated Waiheke Island food and wine tour from Auckland to discover the taste of highly-acclaimed New Zealand wine. Visit three wineries for tastings, stop at an estate for an olive-oil tasting and enjoy an included lunch. Book this trip now!

Rangitoto Island in Hauraki Gulf

Accessible via a half-hour ferry ride, Rangitoto Island in the Hauraki Gulf is an excellent option for a half-day tour. The island features a dormant volcano, which can be summited for incredible views. Besides hiking, other Rangitoto Island activities include exploring lava caves, snorkeling Wreck Bay and bird watching. Find Out More !

Auckland Tours

Would you rather a guide lead you to the best places to visit in Auckland? Join one of the Auckland sightseeing tours and learn about the city from a local guide. Small group tours, like this one , are limited to just 11 guests for a more personalized tour experience. 

Hop On Hop Off Auckland

Our list of things to do in Auckland, New Zealand in one day includes a lot of walking! City visitors who are jet-lagged – or visiting when there is foul weather – may be more inclined to take an Auckland Bus Tour.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Auckland city tour bus makes stops at (or near) all of the sights on our Self-Guided Downtown Auckland Walking Tour. The sightseeing bus has a second route that goes further afield to sights like, Mount Eden, the Auckland Zoo and the Sea Life Kelly Tarlton Aquarium. 

Learn more and book your tickets online ! 

Our Top Tips For Your Trip To Auckland

Before you travel to New Zealand, we have a few tips and packing hacks for your trip to Auckland!

Where To Stay in Auckland, NZ

During our visit to Auckland, we stayed at Titirangi Beach in an awesome Airbnb Apartment . We have found that staying in apartments is often less expensive than hotel rooms – with the added benefit of a kitchen and, usually, more space. 

However, for those who prefer staying in traditional accommodations, there are many Auckland Hotels to choose from in – or close to – the city center. Start your search for the best priced hotel rooms on Booking.com – but read all our Top Hotel Tips first!

Getting To Auckland, NZ

Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying (we are JetSettingFools, after all!). We arrived at the Auckland International Airport (AKL) from French Polynesia (and Easter Island !) and departed to Sydney (via Wellington, NZ). Direct flights to Auckland from the US are available from San Francisco , Chicago and even NYC ! When we need to purchase plane tickets, we start our search for the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner .

Before You Go To New Zealand

• We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your vacation to New Zealand. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos) and a Canon PowerShot ELPH which takes beautiful pictures and is a slim and lightweight budget camera .
• It’s easy to get turned around in any foreign place…even Auckland! Make sure to have a good city map and/or guidebook before arriving. Comfortable Travel Shoes and our favorite Day Bag are also must-pack travel items for us!
• If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to New Zealand ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

Also Traveling to Wellington NZ? We highly recommend it for the best NZ Craft Beer alone, and be sure to use our list of the best Free Things To Do in Wellington !   

We want to know: What would you add to our One Day in Auckland Itinerary? Do you have any other tips for free things to do in Auckland? Give us your best advice in the comments!

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The Complete Travel Guide to Auckland 🏙️ [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, how to plan the best trip to auckland, new zealand.

For many travellers visiting New Zealand, it all starts in Auckland . New Zealand’s largest city covers a vast area well beyond its famous city skyline defined with the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest building, the Sky Tower . The region encompasses around 26 regional parks with lush forest, rolling farmland and sandy beaches. Just off the coast is the Hauraki Gulf , famous for its volcanic islands each with its own unique features. So whether you’re an urbanite or a country bumkin, there are experiences and accommodations to suit a huge range of travellers in Auckland.

We’ll go through our top travel tips, activities and hotels for several travel styles in this complete travel guide to Auckland.

Common Questions About Auckland

We’re not messing around with this travel guide to Auckland; here are the most common questions travellers have about visiting.

What is Auckland Well Known For?

Auckland is known for being the most populated city and region in New Zealand with around 1.7 million people, notably more than the entire South Island. The city is also known as “The City of Sails” due to its access to both the Hauraki Gulf and Tasman Sea and its abundance of sailing yachts and marinas.

Where is Auckland Located?

Auckland is the second northernmost region of the North Island , New Zealand.

What is the Weather Usually Like in Auckland?

Auckland has a mild climate with its fair share of sunny and rainy spells. The daily average temperature is 15.2°C /59.36 ° F, while the yearly average rainfall is 1,284mm /50.6″. Find out more in What is the Weather Like in Auckland?

When is the Best Time to Visit Auckland?

There’s never a bad time to visit, but if you’re looking for desirable weather or specific festivals/events, check out The Best Time to Visit Auckland .

How Do You Get to Auckland?

Auckland is home to New Zealand’s largest international airport. Find out more about connecting flights to Auckland in A Beginner’s Guide to Getting to New Zealand . The city has a vast public transport network as well as vehicle rentals. Find out more in Public Transport in Auckland and The Best Car Rental Companies in Auckland . Auckland is on New Zealand’s main highway, State Highway 1, and also has train connections with Hamilton and Wellington .

Is Auckland a Beautiful City?

Auckland’s beauty is in its natural features, such as turquoise harbour waters, volcanoes and islands. Its architecture is relatively modern with the occasional example of innovation. As a relatively new city, it lacks historical charm.

What to Do in Auckland

Everything about Auckland is huge, from its iconic Sky Tower piercing the sky to the sprawling landmass making it the largest city in the country. Add to that the list the fact that there’s so much to do in Auckland and you can start to feel a little overwhelmed.

The Top Experiences in Auckland

If your Auckland visit means staying in the city centre, then follow our One Day in Auckland: City Walking Tour Itinerary . That way, you can see highlights such as the Sky Tower , Auckland Domain , Mt Eden , the Auckland Museum and Auckland Art Gallery all in one day.

But some of the top experiences in the city centre and region include:

• Climb through lava caves on Rangitoto Island
• Get the best views of the city from Mt Eden
• Snorkel or clear kayak at the Goat Island Marine Reserve
• Take a trip to the waterfalls and black sand beaches of the Waitakere Ranges .

Find out more about these experiences and others in the  20 Best Things to Do in Auckland . Or do something a little different by doing the  10 Alternative Things to Do in Auckland .

If you have more time in Auckland to explore the exciting region surrounding the city, then let us guide you to our Auckland activity articles:

• 10 Best Art Galleries & Museums
• 10 Best Walks
• 5 Best Places for Shopping
• Top 10 Natural Attractions
• 8 Best Cultural Experiences
• 9 Best Adrenaline Activities
• Top 20 Golf Courses
• Mountain Biking Guide
• 20 Parks You Can’t Miss
• The 10 Best Islands to Visit
• The Best Day Trips .

Rainy Day Activities

It’s no secret that it rains in Auckland. If you find your trip coinciding with too much liquid pouring from the sky, then try these wet weather activities:

• Learn about New Zealand’s connection with the ocean at the New Zealand Maritime Museum
• Hit the indoor ski slope, Snow Planet
• Have an ice cream masterpiece at Giapo …

… And much more that we mention in the  20 Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Auckland .

Things to Do at Night

At dusk, the Auckland night scene is just getting started:

• Hit the clubs and bars, such as those listed in  The Guide to Auckland Nightlife
• Do sunset kayaking to Rangitoto with Auckland Sea Kayaks (more info on  Viator and Klook )
• Go to an Auckland Night Market …

…, As well as all of the  10 Things to Do in Auckland at Night .

Where to Stay in Auckland

Aside from our top recommendations listed beside this complete travel guide to Auckland (or below, if you’re on mobile), we’ve compiled the best accommodations based on price, suitability for families or couples, as well as more premium offerings. What’s more, each article is written by real people rather than robots!

• The 50 Best Accommodations
• 20 Best Hotels
• 20 Best Budget Accommodations
• 20 Best Luxury Hotels
• 20 Best Boutique Accommodations
• 30 Best Backpacker Hostels
• 10 Best Family Accommodations
• 21 Most Romantic Accommodations
• 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations
• Where to Camp and  10 Free Camping Spots
• Auckland City : A Guide to Cheap Long-Term Accommodation
• Auckland Region : A Guide to Cheap Long-Term Accommodation

Stay at the President Hotel Auckland

For one of the best-value stays in the city, set your sights on the President Hotel Auckland . The three-star hotel offers affordable yet appealing rooms, suites and units, some complete with kitchen facilities – all in the heart of Auckland Central. Enjoy complimentary WiFi and even a cooked breakfast if booked directly! Check out deals on the President Hotel Auckland at cpghotels.com .

Where to Eat in Auckland

Auckland represents a huge array of cultures and, therefore cuisines. The food scene is so vast that it’s almost dizzying, so take a look at The Food Guide to Auckland: Places to Eat & Food Tours to check out some of the highlights. To incorporate foodie experiences into your trip, discover more about the Auckland wine-making region, indulge in fine dining experiences, check out creative markets and much more.

The Best Restaurants in Auckland

• One Tree Grill (9 Pah Road, Epsom)
• Kazuya (193 Symonds Street, Eden Terrace)
• Harbourside (Ferry Building Level 1/99 Quay Street, Auckland CBD)
• Cotto (375 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD)
• Teed St Larder (7 Teed Street, Newmarket).

Learn more about these eateries and more in The Food Guide to Auckland .

Things to Do for Foodies

• Tour wineries and vineyards of Waiheke Island
• Browse Auckland’s vibrant farmers’ markets
• Join a culinary tour of Auckland CBD with The Big Foody
• Do a craft beer tour with Bush & Beach
• Combine sailing and sustenance on the Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise .

Find out more about each activity and more in our 10 Best Foodie Experiences in Auckland .

Auckland for Budget Travellers

New Zealand’s largest city might not have a reputation for being a budget-friendly city, but with plenty of cheap accommodations and inexpensive activities for those in the know, you can still have an amazing experience in Auckland without breaking the bank.

The city has a range of natural features and parks to discover for free between the huge Auckland Domain and the volcanic cones peppering the city. In fact, there’s so much to discover across the region that we have multiple guides for budget travellers. Check out Auckland City Centre – Guide for Backpackers  and Auckland – Guide for Backpackers . Additionally, check out The Guide to Auckland on a Budget .

Things to Do on a Budget

• See Auckland from the top of the Sky Tower (more info and book tickets on Viator and  Klook )
• Watch a free movie at Silo Park (in summer )
• Climb Mt Eden for amazing views
• Take a cheap ferry to Devonport
• Walk in the forest… in Auckland Domain .

Find out more about each activity and much more in 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Auckland .

Where to Stay on a Budget

Auckland is a city of motels, cheap hotels and backpacker hostels. Check out some of our top recommendations in 20 Best Budget Accommodations  and 30 Best Backpacker Hostels .

Auckland for Luxury Travellers

Fine dining, luxury brand shopping, winery-hopping, golf course sampling and scenic flights… It’s all part of the luxury experience in Auckland. Whether you’re in Auckland to celebrate a special occasion or simply prefer to travel in style, you’ll find everything you need to organise a luxurious getaway to Auckland in The Luxury Guide to Auckland .

Luxury Experiences

• See the city from spectacular heights on a seaplane tour
• Rejuvenate with an indulgent spa treatment
• Hit the water for a lunch cruise or on an America’s Cup Yacht (on  Viator and Klook )
• Try your luck at the vibrant SkyCity Casino
• Discover historical and cultural sites on a Maori culture tour (on  Viator and Klook ) .

Find out more about each experience in our 10 Best Luxury Experiences in Auckland .

Luxury Accommodation

Make the most of your stay in Auckland, as it is the only city in New Zealand offering a variety of five-star hotels. Find out more in our 20 Best Luxury Hotels in Auckland .

Auckland for Families

Taking the little ones to the big city can always be a daunting experience, but with fantastic museums, family attractions and numerous day trips, your family is sure to have a blast. Whatever the weather, there’s always something to do in Auckland. Get inspired by The Family Guide to Auckland .

Things to Do with Kids

• Wise up about the world of technology at the kid-friendly MOTAT museum
• Learn about the Kiwi farming lifestyle at Sheepworld in Warkworth
• See the wild and wonderful birds of New Zealand on Tiritiri Matangi Island
• Watch a Maori cultural performance at the Auckland Museum (available on  Klook and KKday )
• Take a family road trip to one of Auckland’s regional parks .

Find out more about each experience in our 20 Things to Do in Auckland with Kids .

Family-Friendly Accommodation

Family rooms are easy enough to come by in Auckland, with options to suit a range of styles and budgets. Check out our top picks in our 10 Best Family Accommodations in Auckland .

Auckland for Couples

Auckland often represents the start or the end of a honeymoon in New Zealand, so make the most of your time here with some of the city’s most romantic activities. Spend the day exploring one of the islands in the Hauraki Gulf , treat yourself to a romantic cruise seeing marine mammals, or enjoy a quiet dinner with panoramic views atop the Sky Tower . Get more inspiration for your romantic getaway with The Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to Auckland .

Romantic Things to Do

• Take a ferry to one of Auckland’s nearby islands
• SkyWalk and/or dine in a revolving restaurant at the top of the Sky Tower
• Discover Auckland’s breathtaking beaches
• Experience a whale and dolphin cruise (more info on Viator and  Klook )
• Learn something new at Auckland’s museums .

Sounds like you? Check out the complete list in our 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Auckland .

Where to Stay for a Honeymoon or Romantic Getaway

From luxurious hotels to boutique hotels to attractive budget hotels, Auckland provides plenty of romantic accommodations for couples. Check out some of our top picks in the 20 Best Romantic Hotels in Auckland .

Auckland Accommodation

• President Hotel Auckland
• Ohtel Auckland
• SkyCity Hotel Auckland
• Ponsonby Manor Guest House
• The Sebel Auckland
• Pullman Auckland
• Eden Park Bed and Breakfast Inn
• Nesuto St Martins Apartment Hotel
• Empire Apartments
• Hotel DeBrett
• ibis Budget Auckland Airport
• ibis budget Auckland Central
• Terry & Cindy’s Bed & Breakfast
• Grand Millenium Auckland
• VR Auckland City
• YMCA Auckland
• Kiwi International Hotel
• Auckland City Hotel
• Cordis, Auckland
• Stamford Plaza Hotel
• The Grand by SkyCity
• Spencer on Byron Hotel
• Parkside Hotel & Apartments Auckland
• The Shakespeare Hotel
• Novotel Auckland Airport
• Crowne Plaza Auckland
• Sofitel Auckland
• Jet Park Airport Hotel
• Barclay Suites
• Auckland Harbour Residences
• Attic Backpackers
• Verandahs Parkside Lodge

Find out more about our top picks in The 50 Best Accommodations in Auckland .

More About Auckland

That’s it for our complete travel guide to Auckland but by no means the end of our Auckland travel tips! Check out the following guides for more advice on what to do in the region:

• The Best Day Trips from Auckland
• 10 Best Things to Do in Orewa
• 10 Best Things to Do in Warkworth
• 5 Best Things to Do at Goat Island Marine Reserve
• 10 Best Things to Do on the Matakana Coast
• 10 Best Things to Do in Leigh
• 10 Best Things to Do in Waiuku
• 5 Best Things to Do in Piha
• 5 Best Things to Do in Wellsford
• 5 Best Things to Do in Pukekohe
• 5 Best Things to Do in Muriwai
• 5 Best Things to Do in Howick & Half Moon Bay

Finally, plan more of your North Island trip using the  North Island in Two Weeks: Road Trip Itinerary or  North Island in One Week: Road Trip Itinerary . You’ll also find more advice for planning an epic NZ trip in  The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Discover Auckland (Regional tourism website)
• Auckland Council (Local council website)
• Hauraki District Council (Local council website)

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

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Things to Do

15 best auckland tours to book in 2024.

Looking for the best tours to do in Auckland, New Zealand?

You’re in the right place, as the 15 best Auckland tours are listed right here.

I’ve lived in Auckland for two decades and done many different activities, so I’ve compiled a list of the best-rated Auckland day tours for anyone visiting. These are experiences I have enjoyed and recommend.

Don’t have time to read the entire article? Book this Half Day Discover Auckland City Sightseeing Tour – with a perfect 5 Star ⭐️ rating.

Whether you’re an adventure-seeker looking to hike a volcano, enjoy being out in nature or want to go on a scenic sightseeing trip, I’ve hand-picked this list to capture the very best of Auckland .

How about mesmerizing glowworms, wine-tasting, and Hobbit Holes? Are you excited yet? I’ve also included the best day trips from Auckland for an unforgettable trip to New Zealand’s largest city. Let’s go.

After finding your perfect tour, check out where to stay in Auckland , the best things to do at night , and our guide to the best activities for kids if you’re traveling as a family to help build your Auckland itinerary . And if you need a break from the sun, we’ve got you covered with these fun indoor activities .

Table of Contents

Our Top 3 Picks: Best Auckland Tours

#1 top auckland tour.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Half Day Discover Auckland City Sightseeing Tour

✅ Badge of Excellence

✅ Transportation and local guide

#2 Best Day Trip from Auckland

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

✅ Viator Experience Award

✅ Transportation, admission, lunch

#3 Best Auckland Day Tour

Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

✅ Transportation on luxury catamaran

Top 10 Auckland Tours

1. half day discover auckland city sightseeing tour.

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 4 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 10am or 2:30pm

See the best highlights of Auckland in half a day, including a short walk to the top of a volcano!

This Discover Auckland Sightseeing Tour is perfect for those short on time, but who want to see beyond the inner city. The small group size ensures a personalized experience.

Brilliant tour! – All of this tour was memorable and made more so by the brilliant tour guide. It was extremely interesting and visually stunning. It’s the best tour we’ve been on and we would highly recommend it. – Jacky ( see more reviews )

Meet your local guide near the Ferry Building in downtown Auckland or arrange pick up from your inner-city hotel, then relax as your guide navigates to the best spots around Auckland sharing insights about the city.

First, explore the Viaduct Harbour, one of Auckland’s top spots for bars, restaurants and nightlife on the marina. Next, you’ll see the Harbour Bridge up close, visit the best spots for photos that only locals know about, and pass by Auckland’s unique neighborhoods.

Afterward, you’ll get to see the stunning views of Auckland from the top of Mt Eden Volcano, Auckland’s highest natural point, followed by a drive around the beautiful coastal neighborhoods with more great photo stops.

There’s even more! But you’ll have to take the tour to experience it all.

It’s a convenient way to see all the highlights, then decide the places you want to re-visit and spend more time at after the tour.

2. Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 4.5 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 8am or 1:30pm

Treat yourself to a day of Auckland’s natural wonders with this Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise .

You’ll head out on the water aboard a custom built 65-foot (20-meter) catamaran to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, one of the world’s most biologically diverse marine parks.

Awesome!!! – Wonderful tour and crew. Saw up to 100 Dolphins and then a whale too. It was breathtaking. Would do it again. -Franziska ( see more reviews )

Over the next 4.5 hours, keep your eyes peeled for up to six types of whales as well as dolphins , penguins and other marine life. Learn about the ecosystem and behaviors of the mammals from expert Marine Research Scientists onboard the vessel.

The best part? Auckland is one of the few places where you can see dolphins and whales all year round. If you don’t see any during your tour, you can go again for free!

This is a wonderful way to soak in the scenery and refreshing sea air in a natural paradise.

3. Auckland Scenic Day Tour Full-Day

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 8 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 8:30am

Make the most of your time in Auckland with this comprehensive full day tour that takes you from the city to the beach!

This Auckland Scenic Day Tour  is perfect for those who want to see Auckland’s best spots in one day – from city highlights to off-the beaten-track locations like Muriwai Beach! Perfect if you’ve arrived on a cruise ship or have a limited time in Auckland and want to see as much as possible.

Mike and his tour was wonderful !  We got to see many points of interests. Mike would give us reference points to help us follow the lay of the land. He included a variety of activities that were fun, educational, and tasty! – Lynette ( read more reviews )

Meet your local guide near the Sky Tower or arrange pick up from your inner-city hotel or cruise terminal, then enjoy a scenic drive through the city to the coastal village of Devonport. 

Throughout the day you’ll visit two volcanoes, explore Auckland’s vibrant neighborhoods, enjoy wine tasting at a local winery and lunch on the riverfront, drive along Auckland’s scenic coastal road and experience top attractions with plenty of photo opportunities.

There’s so much more! Too many to list, so you’ll have to take the tour to experience it all. You won’t regret it!

4. Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 5 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 12:30pm

Discover Auckland’s rugged west coast and popular black sand beach on this Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour .

Meet your guide at SkyCity or get picked up at your inner-city hotel, then relax as your driver navigates the highways and mountain roads on the 50-minute drive to Piha Beach.

This is an excellent way to see the beauty of New Zealand’s north island and the best part is that it doesn’t take all day. -Glen ( read more reviews )

First stop is the Arataki Center, the gateway to the Waitakere Ranges. Drink in the fantastic views, learn about the history of the Waitakere Ranges and see beautiful Māori carvings.

Enjoy a short walk through the rainforest followed by a 30-minute walk along Piha Beach with plenty of photo opportunities. You might even see surfers and paragliders while you’re at the beach.

Finish off with a light snack and refreshments before heading back to the city.

5. The Classic: Electric Bike Tour of Auckland Highlights

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3.5 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 9am

If you like exploring on two wheels, this Electric Bike Tour of Auckland could be a fantastic choice.

Explore the highlights of Auckland in the fresh air. Electric bikes make it a suitable option for cyclists of all levels of fitness to tackle this hilly city and enjoy the outdoors.

What a great way to see the city . The E-bikes are easy to use and make riding around a lot more fun. Our guide, Carson was great and a joy to be around. -Craig ( read more reviews )

An experienced guide will navigate you safely around the city to some of the best spots, from the waterfront to the top of a volcano and along the famous pink cycle path. Cycle-specific headsets mean you can hear commentary from your guide as you ride.

This is a family-friendly activity that includes cycling gear, a helmet and headset.

📸 As an added perk, you’ll get photos of the experience to take home.

6. Sunset Kayak Tour to Rangitoto Island

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 6.5 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 4pm

Adventure fanatics, this tour is for you. What better way to end your day in Auckland than exploring the volcanic Rangitoto Island on this sunset kayak tour ?

Join an experienced guide on a beautiful kayak tour across the Waitemata Harbour taking in the views as you go.

Best part Auckland visit! Must do. Love the night trip back. Best guide. Cherished memory and great for active person. -Alexandra ( read more reviews )

First up, a safety briefing and paddling instruction. Then, after about an hour of paddling, you’ll arrive at Rangitoto Island for a 60-minute hike to the summit, where lava fields give way to stunning panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.

Take in the views and enjoy a BBQ meal before embarking on the return journey in the dark. It’s an exhilarating experience!

No kayaking experience is necessary , but you’ll need a decent level of fitness. This tour includes an experienced sea kayaker as your guide, top-notch equipment, transportation from central Auckland upon request and a BBQ meal.

7. Auckland Small Group Walking Tour with Treats

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 10am or 2pm

Want to experience Auckland’s secret laneways and hidden gems? If so, this Auckland Small Group Walking Tour may be the one for you.

Lace up your walking shoes and follow your knowledgeable local guide to areas you might not have found on your own.

Excellent walking tour of Auckland. Liz was a fantastic guide and extremely informative . Visited some wonderful Auckland locations. -Cindy ( read more reviews )

Explore local secrets as well as the main sights, sample what the locals eat and learn about both Auckland and Māori history during this 3-hour walk.

It’s a great introduction to the less touristy areas of Auckland and you’ll be able to confidently navigate the city on your own afterward.

8. Bioluminescence Kayak Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 2 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: Varies

Imagine paddling in dark inky water under a night sky while the water below you comes to life, glowing iridescent blue with each movement.

This Bioluminescence Kayak Tour is both unique and captivating.

Once in a lifetime experience – Absolutely beautiful!! It’s like the night stars are coming to life sparking under the water. The tour guides were super friendly and very knowledgeable. Well worth the money -Ambur ( read more reviews )

This 2-hour tour begins from the North Shore. The exact meeting location depends on the conditions and will be emailed to you the day before your tour.

Once in the water, away from the light pollution of the city, watch as the bioluminescent plankton light the beach and water as you paddle along. You may even see fish swimming below.

No experience is needed. The tour includes an expert guide, kayaking and safety equipment, plus digital photos of your adventure.

9. Auckland Food Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 2pm

Are you looking to experience the flavors of Auckland while taking in the sights and learning about the history of the city along the way? Then you’ll love   this Auckland Food Walking Tour .

During this easy walking tour, you’ll taste some Auckland’s culinary highlights while discovering the city’s coolest places.

Liz was fantastic!!!! The places she took us and the information she shared were all great. I learned not only about Aukland but specific food. Elizabeth  ( read more reviews )

Your local foodie guide with take you to a minimum of 4 stops including an open air restaurant with views of the Sky Tower. You’ll get to try some of the most incredible seafood, beef and cheese dishes, as well as designer ice cream.

The reviews for this experience are super positive. Travelers raved about the guide, food and drinks on this excursion – a top choice for a food tour in Auckland.

10. Muriwai Scenic Wine Tour from Auckland

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3.5 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 1pm

Want a tour that takes you off the beaten path combing nature and award-winning wine in Auckland?  You’ve found it!

Visit Auckland’s scenic west coast without the hassle of hiring a car on this  Muriwai Scenic Wine Tour from Auckland .

This was the perfect afternoon tour. The guide John was exceptional. Very friendly and so knowledgeable about not just wine but everything New Zealand! We only had one day in Auckland and we are happy we spent it on this tour. – Regina ( read more reviews )

First stop is Muriwai Beach in West Auckland, a popular surf spot famous for its volcanic sands, rugged coastline and gannet colony.

Walk along the sparkling black sand, take in the breathtaking views from the lookouts and learn about area’s history from your knowledgeable guide. Then continue to the cliff-top to see the region’s only gannet colony.

Next, you’ll visit two great wineries for a guided wine tasting where you can sample local varietals such as pinot noir (my favorite), pinot gris and Riesling, before returning to the city center. 

I have a soft spot for Muriwai, definitely worth a visit.

Best Day Trips from Auckland

11. hobbiton movie set and waitomo glowworm caves guided day trip from auckland.

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 11 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 6:30am

Explore TWO of New Zealand’s unique must-do attractions on this fantastic guided day trip from Auckland .

Kick off the excursion with a scenic drive over the Bombay Hills and through the Hauraki Plains to Matamata. Next you will take a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set.

See Hobbit Holes, The Mill, have a drink at the Green Dragon Inn and learn how the Hobbiton Movie Set was created. Then enjoy a Kiwi style lunch at the Homestead.

This tour is worth every penny! A perfect day from start to finish . Danny was an incredible guide who you can tell genuinely loves what he does. His knowledge of the area, NZ and LotR is top notch. Wish we could do it all over again. -Amanda ( see more reviews )

Afterward, you will head to the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves where you’ll travel by boat for 45 minutes through dark caverns where thousands of glowworms sparkle above you. It’s a truly unique experience.

On the way back to Auckland, you’ll get to see more beautiful countryside and pass through significant Māori sites.

This full day experience is one the best day trips you can take from Auckland.

12. Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 5.5 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 9.50am

Discover one of Auckland’s beautiful islands on this fantastic Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour .

Take the 40-minute ferry to Waiheke Island and meet your guide at the ferry terminal on the island, then spend the day amongst the vineyards enjoying wine tastings at boutique vineyards and sampling local artisan treats.

Absolutely incredible experience! Michael was such an awesome tour guide and each of the 4 wineries was gorgeous. The wines and food at each were delicious! Best way to do Waiheke for sure. -Carli ( read more reviews )

A friendly local guide will take you to a selection of the island’s top wineries with scenic stops in between. Enjoy wine tastings plus locally produced award-winning olive oil, fresh oysters and artisan cheese.

Finish with a delicious platter lunch in a beautiful vineyard.

⛴ Book the 9am ferry to Waiheke Island and get to the ferry terminal early. Boarding is based on your place in line.

13. Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set Day Trip with Festive Lunch

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 8 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 7:15am

If you love Lord of The Rings, this Hobbiton Movie Set Tour with Festive Lunch is an excellent choice.

This full day tour from Auckland provides the full Hobbiton experience including a drink at the Green Dragon Inn, a themed buffet lunch and the chance to step inside a Hobbit Hole.

The trip was an absolute highlight for us. Tony did a great job driving as well as filling us in on the history of the sights. Hobbiton is exquisite . And the meal they provide is incredibly delicious — and LOTS of it — enough to fill a hobbit’s tummy! Worth every penny. -Mike ( read more reviews )

After meeting your guide in Auckland, your journey starts with a 2.5-hour journey on a modern bus with air-con and onboard Wi-Fi.

Once you arrive, skip the line and prepare to be mesmerized as you stroll around taking in all the incredible details of the movie set while learning about how the movies were made.

Step inside the Hobbit hole of Bilbo Baggins to see how they lived. Enjoy a drink at The Green Dragon Inn. And finish with a full buffet feast at the Party Marquee.

So much goodness packed into this 8-hour day. A must-see experience!

14. Waitomo Caves, Rotorua & Te Puia Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 13 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 6am

If Hobbiton isn’t your thing, this Waitomo Caves and Rotorua Tour is a great alternative.

Glowworms, stalagmites, geothermal wonders, and Māori culture come together in this incredible full day tour from Auckland.

First, you’ll be guided through Waikato’s ancient cave system before boarding a boat for a cruise on the grotto river where thousands of glowworms sparkle above you.

Great tour 🙂 loved it!! Big day but you get to see some cool once in lifetime kind of experiences. -Kate ( read more reviews )

Next, you’ll head to Te Puia for a fully guided tour of the geothermal and cultural wonders of the area. You may even get to see a Kiwi bird in the Kiwi viewing house. You’ll finish the day with a driving tour of Rotorua and secret stops on the way back to Auckland.

It’s a full day with a lot of driving but you’ll get to experience unique sights in three locations! Bring snacks and water.

15. Coast and Rainforest Eco-Tour from Auckland with Lunch

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 stars | ⌛️ Tour Length: 7 hours | ⏰ Departure Time: 10am

If you love adventure and hiking, this  Coast and Rainforest Eco Tour  is your chance to experience the untamed beauty of Auckland’s west coast.

Join a passionate guide for an epic journey through the Waitakere Ranges filled with breathtaking views, giant kauri trees, black sand beaches and cliff top walks.

Wonderful Day!!! Spectacular views!!! Excellent guides – nice, very informative experience. A day very well spent! – Cheryl ( read more reviews )

You’ll visit the Arataki Center, the gateway to Waitakere Ranges National Park, where you can see authentic Māori carvings and soak in the panoramic views of the Tasman Sea all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

After a picnic lunch, enjoy a walk on the magnificent black sand beaches, visit giant kauri trees and walk along the clifftop track of one of my favorite day walks in Auckland with views you don’t want to miss.

You’ll need a moderate level of fitness for this tour which includes light refreshments, a picnic lunch, local guide and driver, plus hotel pickup and drop off in Auckland.

This is easily one of the best Auckland day tours for nature lovers and those who enjoy the outdoors, highly recommend!

What are the best tours in Auckland?

The proper question is, what are the best Auckland tours for YOU? Here are the cliff notes.

Adventure seekers will have a blast on the sunset kayak tour to Rangitoto Island , while LOTR fans will enjoy an excursion to Hobbiton , a great option if you have a few days in Auckland .

For nature lovers, there’s the Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise or the unique opportunity to see bioluminescent plankton on the Bioluminescence Kayak Tour . If you’re short on time or have only one day in Auckland , you can’t go wrong with an Auckland sightseeing tour .

All these tours are highly rated and allow travelers to explore different aspects of this beautiful city.

Can you do a day trip from Auckland to Rotorua?

Yes, you can! In addition to the Waitomo Caves, Rotorua and Te Puia tour mentioned above, this 13-hour Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Options will give you more time in Rotorua. It will pick you up at your inner-city Auckland hotel and take you on a guided tour of Rotorua. You’ll have the option to visit up to two top attractions or enjoy free time in Rotorua.

You can also combine a visit to Hobbiton with an afternoon exploring Rotorua including a visit to the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland on this full day Hobbiton & Rotorua including Wai-O-Tapu – Small Group Tour from Auckland.

Our Recommended Auckland Hotel

The Hotel Britomart ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

✅ 9.1/10 Superb

✅ Perfect location

Tipping on a Tour

You might be wondering what the etiquette is for tipping when you take a tour in New Zealand. Tipping is neither required nor expected in New Zealand. People in New Zealand get paid a living wage, even servers, and tips are not relied on to supplement wages.

Tipping tour guides and drivers is more common though, mainly because they are providing a service to visitors from North America and other countries where tipping is common practice.

If you believe your tour guide provided an exceptional service or experience and you would like to leave a small token of appreciation, 5-10% of the tour price matching the level of service you believe you received is a good rule of thumb, and 2% for drivers (if different to the guide). You would hand this tip directly to the guide at the end of the tour.

Tipping is completely at your discretion. If it’s not in your budget, don’t worry! A great review also goes a long way.

Where to Stay in Auckland

Since most tours either meet at designated place in the city center or offer pickup from an Auckland city hotel, it’s best to stay near the action. Anywhere near SkyCity, Britomart or the Viaduct are great options. 

Here are my top recommendations for budget, mid-range and luxury stays.

Lylo Auckland ($ ) : Auckland’s newest hostel-style accommodation located in the city center. They have a few different room types including ‘pods’ in a shared room and private rooms. Read Reviews  |  Book your Stay

Holiday Inn Express ($$) : A newer 3.5 star hotel in the center of it all, within easy walking distance to a lot of attractions, restaurants and bars, and the waterfront. The rooms are on the small side, but it offers good value in a central location.  Read Reviews  |  Book a Stay

The Grand by SkyCity ($$$ ) : Well-appointed rooms in an awesome location. It’s right next to SkyCity with plenty of bars and restaurants nearby, and a fabulous spa on site. Read Reviews  |  Book your Stay

The Hotel Britomart ($$$$ ) : An outstanding 5-green-star luxury hotel located in the Britomart area, featuring natural materials throughout. It’s close to the waterfront and ferry terminal with many upscale bars and restaurants nearby.  Read Reviews  |  Book your Stay

Frequently Asked Questions About Auckland

What is so great about Auckland?

Auckland has the best of both – city and nature. It’s urban center has popular attractions, cultural experiences, bars, restaurants and nightlife which is surrounded by stunning beaches, rainforest-covered mountain ranges and a picturesque marina, offering a variety of experiences for visitors.

How many days do you need to visit Auckland?

Ideally 2-3 days is a good amount of time to experience Auckland. You can see most of the top attractions, visit one of the island’s such as Rangitoto or Waiheke Island and explore the west coast beaches such as Piha or Muriwai Beach.

How do you explore Auckland?

The best way to explore Auckland is on foot, public transport and tours. If you have a car, you can venture further afield, but traffic can be a pain and parking in the city center is expensive.

How much is the Hop-on Hop-off bus in Auckland?

The Auckland Hop-on Hop-off Bus is $55.00 NZD per adult / $30 NZD per child for a 2-day pass, and $65.00 NZD per adult / $35 NZD per child for a 2-day pass.

Final Thoughts

Auckland is a hub of New Zealand history, culture, nature and marine life. Going on a tour is a wonderful way to add depth to your trip. Whether you visit Hobbiton, trek to the top of Rangitoto Island, embark on a whale watching adventure, or explore the city highlights, I hope you’ve found the perfect option on this list of the best Auckland tours.

Travel Planning Guide

🚗 Where should I book my rental car?

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around New Zealand. Public transportation can only get you so far, even in the cities. I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks the prices of all major rental car companies, so you get the best rates.

🚐 What about a campervan?

Renting a campervan is a fantastic way to experience the more remote areas of New Zealand. I really like JUCY because they have a big range of vehicles and locations around the country, which offers more flexibility with pick-up and drop-off. I also like Motorhome Republic , which compares all the campervan options available in NZ.

🛏 What’s the best way to book my accommodations?

For hotels and vacation rentals, Booking.com or Expedia.com are the best sites. You can also book through TripAdvisor. If you’re considering renting a house instead, try VRBO which often has good deals.

🛩 What’s the best site to buy flights to New Zealand?

For finding the best deals on flights to New Zealand from around the world, I recommend Kayak.com .

Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again.

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Heather is a travel enthusiast living in New Zealand with her family. She writes about living in and enjoying travel to New Zealand.

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Popular Tours

• Hobbiton Movie Set
• Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
• Hobbiton and Rotorua
• Hobbiton and Waitomo
• Rotorua and Waitomo
• Rotorua Geothermal Valley

Nature/Eco Tours

• Horse Riding & Wine Tasting
• Muriwai Beach & Gannet Colony
• West Coast Discovery
• Waiheke Island

Auckland City Sightseeing

• Auckland City Discovery
• Matakana Art & Wine Escape

Summer Tours

• Bay of Islands
• The Coromandel Coast

Private Day Tours

• Hobbiton Movie Set Private Tour
• Hobbiton Evening Banquet
• Rotorua Geothermal Experience
• Waitomo Glowworm, Zealong Tea & Kiwi Bird House Tour

• Coast to Coast Eco Tour
• Dairy & Sheep Farm Tour

• Auckland City Highlights
• Auckland Maori Culture Experience
• Waiheke Island Luxury Experience
• Matakana Wine & Art Village

• Scenic Off-road experience
• Coromandel Beach, Caves & Forest

• Auckland Shore Excursions

• Paihia Shore Excursions

• Tauranga Shore Excursions

• Wellington Shore Excursions

• Testimonials

• Sustainability

Terms & Conditions

• Job Vacancies

Auckland is known as the city of sails; Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and busiest city. Discover this multicultural hub on a half-day Auckland city tour that will take you around Auckland Highlights.

We start by picking you up from Auckland CBD; then we head to Mission Bay waterfront suburb about 5 km east of Auckland central. Driving through the scenic Tamaki Drive with unobstructed views of Rangitoto Island After that we will take you to MJ Savage Memorial Park also known as “Bastion Point”, which overlooks The Harbour Bridge, Waitemata Harbour and Auckland City Skyline. We will also take you to Achilles Point where you will capture some fantastic photos with Rangitoto Island as your background; Rangitoto Island is the most recent and the largest Volcano in the Hauraki Gulf.

One Tree Hill “Maungakiekie” is another volcanic summit in Auckland City set at 182 meter (597 foot) & the second largest volcanic field intact in Auckland City. 

You will enjoy the 360 views of Auckland at One Tree hill summit and learn about the history of the mount. Our Next Stop will be at Mount Eden Summit. It is one of the most prominent volcanic cones remaining in the Auckland region where you’ll be able to see amazing views over the Hauraki Gulf. Our tour will end and we will drive back to Auckland central for your hotel drop-off.

Tour Highlights

• Pick up from Auckland CBD
• Snacks & Water
• Professional tour guide/driver
• Harbour Bridge & Auckland City skyline
• Mission Bay Coastal suburb
• One Tree Hill
• Mt Eden Volcano
• Achilles Point
• Bastion Point “MJ Savage Memorial”
• Drop Off to Auckland CBD

Frequently Asked Questions

We offer complimentary pick ups and drop offs from Auckland Central Accommodation.

DESTINATIONS

Quick links, contact details.

Auckland & Beyond Tours +64 220 474 575 [email protected]

Get in touch

Website by Flow | Auckland & Beyond Tours. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2023.

Discover Hidden Auckland with a local guide

Auckland Walking Tours

Walk with the professional guides of Auckland on one of New Zealand's Best First Day Experiences. Discover the city's hidden lanes, legends, art and best places to eat, shop and go on our top-rated Hello Auckland walking tour. Hear entertaining stories at the heart of the city, ditch the maps or apps and leave the big tour groups behind. Our small-group or private walking tours guarantee an enriching encounter with a local Aucklander. 

Walk this way and follow us to kickstart your stay or Auckland shore excursion.

Our small-group tours are instantly bookable from October- April.  Private tours are available all year round. Please get in touch.

• Small Groups
• Local guides
• City centre start
• Private tours

Popular Tour

Hello auckland tour.

Kickstart your stay on this small-group Auckland walking tour. Your expert guide will reveal the city's landmarks, lanes, art and best food spots. Tour includes sit-down refreshments and a tasting.

Taste Auckland Food Tour

Eat and drink like a local on our delicious Auckland food tour. Join your guide on a restaurant hop (including hidden lanes and street art) on this culinary caper of 4 courses. Price covers all food.

Artwalk Auckland Tour

Discover hidden treasures in the heart of Auckland on this private tour art walk. Learn the stories behind the city's murals, sculptures and landmarks before enjoying a drink (on us).

Explore Auckland Combo Tour

Combine our Hello Auckland walking tour with an afternoon electric bike tour through cool inner-city neighborhoods.

EXPLORER BUS

Hop-on hop-off, city sightseeing tour.

Kia ora, and welcome to Auckland Explorer Bus, the city’s original hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour. Explore Auckland’s top attractions in your own time and enjoy the interesting commentary and friendly service along the way.

Visit Top Auckland Attractions

Entertainment complex with fun for all

Explore a fantastical film effects facility

Guided encounter showcasing the All Blacks

Experience New Zealand history & culture

View and learn about wild marine life

Bringing you closer to the wild

Get hands-on with science and technology

Timetables and route info

See where our tours will take you and get timetable details

About us - Local tour experts

Proudly showing visitors the best of Auckland for over 30 years

Our Services

Our Auckland Hop-on Hop-off tour provides the perfect introduction to the city, with access to top attractions as well as perfect photo opportunities around our open-top and glass-roof buses

Ticket availability is restricted per day.  To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking online prior to departure.

BUSES EVERY 30 MIN

We operate 364 days a year, with buses departing every 30 minutes from all stops*. 

TICKET OPTIONS

Choose a 24-hour or 48-hour pass, or add attractions with a combo and save! Family passes are also available.

MODERN FLEET

Take in the sights from our open-top and glass-roof double-decker buses. English commentary on board.

TOP AUCKLAND SIGHTS

The Explorer Bus tour takes you to Auckland’s most popular attractions and destinations.

CRUISE SHIPS

We make it easy for visitors to explore Auckland with us – we stop close by the cruise ship terminals.

Learn about the historical and current City of Sails with entertaining and informative commentary.

*Please note that timings may vary due to traffic conditions

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Kid cudi cancels tour after breaking foot at coachella, kid cudi gotta cancel my tour ... long recovery after foot surgery.

Kid Cudi won't be raging around the globe anytime soon ... his recently broken foot will require surgery and a recovery time that will keep him from touring, this according to him.

Cudi broke the news to fans on Wednesday -- saying that his Insano: Engage the Rage World Tour was canceled for good as he prepared to go under the knife.

He promised to revamp the tour once he returns back to health but is unsure when that will be ... apparently, the injury is more severe than he first thought.

The 40-year-old took a terrible tumble last weekend while attempting to jump off the massive Coachella stage ... and failed to complete his set, although the festival wasn't prepared for the technical difficulty and kept the live stream booming with no action.

Cudi owned up to no longer being a spring chicken once he was safe in bed -- at least he knows what stunts not to pull when the tour rolls back around.

The good news is fans who purchased tickets will get refunds. The bad news is Pusha T , Jaden Smith and Earthgang are currently SOL without a summer tour schedule!!!

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AMC Theatres Building Distribution Team With New VP Hire After ‘Eras Tour,’ ‘Renaissance’ Box Office Success

By Rebecca Rubin

Rebecca Rubin

Senior Film and Media Reporter

• AMC Theatres Building Distribution Team With New VP Hire After ‘Eras Tour,’ ‘Renaissance’ Box Office Success 1 day ago
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AMC Theatres , the world’s largest cinema chain, is leaning into distribution.

The company is expanding its distribution team with a key hire and promotion, underscoring its commitment to releasing its own movies in addition to showcasing titles from traditional and independent studios. AMC Theatres launched its distribution team with the premieres of last year’s concert films, “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” and “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé.” 

Popular on Variety

AMC is bolstering the team by promoting Kevin Arnold to VP of programming promotions and partnerships, effective immediately. Arnold, who joined AMC in 2011, has risen through the ranks in the film programming department. Now, he will oversees promotional strategies that aim to drive moviegoer engagement and increase ticket sales.

“The remarkable success of AMC Theatres Distribution last fall opened an exciting new business for AMC, and we are thrilled to have Stephanie Terifay’s expertise and enthusiasm build upon the brilliant leadership of Nikkole Denson-Randolph,” said Elizabeth Frank, AMC’s chief content officer. “Through the addition of Stephanie and the much-deserved elevation of Kevin Arnold, AMC Theatres Distribution is well positioned to continue to deliver exciting and compelling content to moviegoers at AMC and across the industry domestically and internationally.”

AMC seems to be heeding the advice of its unofficial box office queen: “Shake it off.”

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Nadal outclasses Blanch in Madrid first round

Rafael Nadal thrashed 16-year-old wild card Darwin Blanch 6-1 6-0 in the first round of the Madrid Open on Thursday and will face Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur next.

LaLiga leaders Real Madrid are virtually assured of a record-extending 36th Spanish title after Jude Bellingham's late goal secured a 3-2 comeback win over Barcelona last Sunday.

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New Zealand's drinking water safe from harmful ‘forever chemicals’

24 April 2024

Sustainable impact , Environment , Faculty of Engineering , Faculty of Science

New research shows low levels of PFAS in New Zealand’s drinking water – but caution is urged.

New Zealand's drinking water is largely free from elevated levels of dangerous “forever chemicals”, according to new research from the University of Auckland.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), or “forever chemicals”, are known for their persistence and potential health risks, including developmental effects, immune system disruption and certain types of cancer.

The New Zealand study, led by Associate Professor Lokesh Padhye from the Faculty of Engineering and Associate Professor Melanie Kah, Dr Erin Leitao, Professor David Barker and PhD candidate Shailja Data from the Faculty of Science, analysed samples from twenty locations across the country, including various suburbs in Auckland.

They found that the PFAS levels detected were below the most stringent drinking water regulations in the world, including the levels proposed recently by the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA).

The results from the study are “overwhelmingly positive news,” says Padhye.

Contaminated drinking water is one of the main routes for human exposure to PFAS and is a major public health concern for industrialised countries.

A study by the US EPA indicated widespread PFAS contamination in drinking water sources around the US, with many exceeding safe drinking limits.

The recent mapped data suggest Australia, China, Europe, and North America are PFAS hotspots relative to the rest of the world.

“Our findings were a pleasant surprise as the samples indicate that PFAS levels in New Zealand's drinking water are relatively low. It's a significant outcome for the community well-being of Aotearoa, especially in light of the recent global studies,” says Shailja Data, who coordinated the nationwide sampling for the study.

PFAS contamination can originate from many different sources, including industrial sites, firefighting foams, landfills, wastewater treatment plants, agricultural practices, consumer products, atmospheric deposition and food packaging. Industries using or manufacturing PFAS can release them into the environment through air, water or improper disposal.

While New Zealand lacks PFAS manufacturing sites, industries like metal plating may still contribute to contamination, says Padhye. Historical use of firefighting foams and improper waste disposal also pose ongoing risks. Due to the lack of national regulations for the manufacturing and import of consumer products, many ‘proper’ waste disposal practices can also contribute to PFAS load to the environment due to the widespread presence of PFAS in consumer products .

The researchers, who are investigating the burden of PFAS on New Zealand's environment, tested the tap water, borewell water and lake water for 30 PFAS, including regulated ones and found most PFAS below one part per trillion level.

Despite the positive findings, the research underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard the quality of New Zealand’s drinking water, they say, especially considering thousands of PFAS exist in the environment. The samples, although representative, do not capture fluctuations or long-term trends in contamination levels.

“Regular water monitoring of emerging contaminants such as PFAS is crucial in New Zealand to address water quality issues and ensure public safety. It helps identify contamination sources, assess the effectiveness of water management practices, and protect the environment and public health,” says Padhye.

Other recommendations from the research include enhancing waste management practices, regular monitoring and sharing results to quell disinformation about water quality, and conducting public awareness campaigns about water issues. Collaboration among stakeholders is also essential to address global challenges associated with emerging contaminants in water, according to the research team.

The study sampled water from the following locations: Auckland CBD, Beachlands, Beach Haven, Botany, Christchurch, Dunedin, Flat Bush, Hamilton, Mairangi Bay, Mount Maunganui, Mount Roskill, Pukekohe, Remuera, Rotorua, St Heliers, Taupō, Te Atatū Peninsula, Titirangi, Queenstown (including a lake sample) and Waiheke.

Media contact

Hussein Moses | Media adviser M: 027 361 1000 E: hussein.moses@auckland.ac.nz

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Thomas Cook India, 11th Floor A Wing, Marathon Futurex , Mumbai , India .

Itinerary includes Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Greymouth, Franz Josef and Queenstown.

Itinerary includes Auckland to Rotorua, Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland, Te Po - Indigenous Evening Experience. Tranz Alpine Train, Punakaiki Tour, Milford Sound Tour with Cruise. Queenstown, Aoraki Mt Cook to Christchurch Tour. One night in Auckland, 2 nights in Rotorua, one night in Christchurch, 1 night in Greymouth, 1 night in Franz Josef and 3 nights in Queenstown based on the hotel category selected.

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This website helps visitors connect with providers of great New Zealand tourism experiences. It is not intended to give any assurance that any particular provider meets certain quality standards or legal obligations. Please contact this business for more information. See also: newzealand.com terms of use (opens in new window) .