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50 Epic Outdoor Adventures Around Auckland To Have This Summer

By Urban List Writers

19th Jan 2021

Guess what, people?! Summer is here and there’s a heck of a lot to be excited about. We’re talking glowing skin, sun-kissed hair, cold cocktails and long, sunshine-y days—days which you’d be rude not to full with endless exploring.

To help you make the most of the coming months, we’ve rounded-up a nifty list of aaaall the outdoor adventures you should have this summer. Be it seeking out hidden rock pools, sipping a vino with views or going full intrepid mode, here are 50 adventures to have in Auckland this summer.

• Go smash about in the waves at Piha—between the flags people—and then hike up the boardwalk to Kitekite falls for an afternoon dip.
• Gym not cutting it for you? Soak up the rays and take your workout into the great outdoors, for free. Start with Panmure Basin and catch the rest here . Best of luck to your booty.
• Set up camp and sleep under the stars. Here are some stellar spots .
• Roughing it not your thing? Embrace Mother Nature without forfeiting comfort. Here’s some positively mind-blowing glamping spots around Auckland. 
• What’s SUP? Track down a paddle board and cruise out on the water. We’ve found the prettiest places in Auckland to do it.
• Balancing not your thing? You might be better in a kayak. Check out these epic spots .
• Do a roadie to Warkworth’s old Cement Works and prepare to be taken back in time. It’s a fresh water swimming hole amongst the ruins and is guaranteed to blow your mind.
• Not a fan of crowded beaches? We’re with you. Here are 10 secret spots in Auckland well worth a visit. 
• If you haven’t been to stunning Awawhata beach, now is the time! Nestled between Piha and Bethells, the scramble down to the beach (and the hike back up) is entirely worth it.
• Those stunning blue springs you see all over Instagram? The Putaruru springs are closer to Auckland than you think. Just over two-hours drive and you’ll find yourself in a cool 11 degrees.
• All this adventuring is bound to spark the tummy rumbles. Load up your picnic hamper and head to one of these pretty pozzies .
• Raglan practically screams summer and not adding it to your summer road trip hit-list should be a crime. There’s Bridal Veil Falls, top-notch surf and plenty of delish eats. Why not stay the night at one of these Gram-worthy spots .
• While you’re in the mighty Waikato, tackle Mt Pirongia. It’s the highest peak in the region and offers sprawling views for those willing to make the five-hour hike. Can't commit? Check out the other walks around Hamilton worth doing.
• Grab a ferry out to the stunning open sanctuary Tiritiri Matangi  island where you can marvel at the birdlife and have a go at spotting some giant weta.
• You can’t really call yourself an Aucklander unless you’ve conquered the Rangitoto summit . It’s a super short ferry ride away and the views are 100 per cent worth it.
• And that pink cycle track you see everywhere? Time to go check it out. The Lightpath is bang smack in the middle of the CBD and looks oh-so pretty with the twinkling city lights at dusk.
• Get high at Tree Adventures . This forest adventure park will see you monkeying about in the trees and even tree surfing!
• Or get even higher…with a skydive! Skydive Auckland will have you jumping from 20,000 feet with 85 seconds of freefall at speeds of 200+ kilometres per hour (this is the highest in the Southern Hemisphere, just quietly). How’s that for adventurous?
• Us Aucklanders love climbing things. Put your mettle to the test with these mountainous adventures .
• When in Rotovegas, be sure to brave New Zealand’s highest commercially rafted waterfall with River Rats . It’s a rush you won’t be able to beat. 
• Summer = beach days and sometimes you’ve got to get in the car to find the best of the bunch. Here are five epic beaches totally worth the car trip. 
• You’re on island time, baby! Some of Auckland’s surrounding islands are the most stunning in New Zealand and summer is the perfect excuse to escape the city bustle. 
• Speaking of islands, Waiheke is the ultimate island day trip from Auckland City. Sip vino at one of the many vineyards, get historical at Stony Batter, go zip-lining or find a secluded beach.
• Be sure to check out Wild on Waiheke . Featuring craft beers, epic food and a range of fun activities (archery, claybird shooting, giant chess and Wildtag). 
• The Awhitu Peninsula is a total Southern gem and belongs on your summer bucket list. Visit the Manukau Heads Lighthouse or frolic on the rugged black sand beaches (pro tip: bring jandals to avoid tootsie burns).
• Take the road less travelled and discover walks you didn’t know existed in and around Auckland. Best bit? We’ve found them for you. 
• Channel your inner Little Mermaid and get your snorkel on in the deep blue. There are some beautiful spots in and around Auckland. 
• On yer horse! Actually though. Murawai beach horse treks are a unique way to lap up beachy vibes and feel the wind in your hair this summer. 
• Or on yer bike! Hoon through Woodhill park or find your training wheels at Arch Hill Scenic Reserve—a hidden mountain bike trail in the city.
• Better yet, round up your beer-lovin’ buds and book in a bike pub crawl around the city. You’ll be able to cycle from pub to pub, enjoying the warmth of the sunshine and a bit of light exercise. 
• Wake up at the crack of dawn and head up Devonport’s Mt Victoria for a breath-taking sunrise. No better way to start the day.
• Take on some of the Hillary Trail, part of the Coast to Coast walkway. Want a full-blown hike? Challenge yourself on the full four-to-five-day walk.
• Go where the wild things are and shelter from the sun. Auckland (and beyond) is home to magical caves waiting for you to explore. 
• You know how you’ve been saying you’re going to learn to surf? This summer is your year! Here’s where to learn the ropes . 
• Rent an old-school Land Rover and go bush for a couple of days. Trekker Adventures  offer fully equipped trucks with rooftop tents, camping gear and everything you need for a blissful escape. 
• If you’re a sucker for adrenaline, book a spot on AWOL Canyoning Adventures . In the beautiful Waitakere Ranges, you’ll abseil under waterfalls, take underground streams into caves and slide into hidden pools and gorges. 
• Check out Goat Island, a protected marine reserve not too far from Auckland. Snorkel with the brightly coloured fish or stay dry in a glass bottom boat.
• Tick another Auckland must-do off and visit the Muriwai gannet colony. More than 1200 pairs of gannets call the cliff tops home.
• Hit up the Hauraki Gulf. It’s a beauty and we’ve tracked down 10 awesome things for you to do. 
• Suss out a playlist, say adios to A-town and check out some of the great towns near Auckland. We’re talking Mount Maunganui, Leigh and Waipu. 
• Work starting to drag already? Lock in some weekend escapes to these hidden baches around Auckland to make it more bearable.  
• Wriggle into that wetsuit and go black water rafting and tubing in the stunning Waitomo Caves . 
• Fan of the Hobbit? Us too! Cruise over to Matamata for a two-hour tour around Hobbition . Quench your thirst at the Green Dragon Inn afterwards.
• Partake in a spot of golf at one of these gorgeous golf courses . Who knows, you could be the next Lydia Ko! 
• Don your best sunhat and head out west to pick strawberries . It will be just like when you were a kid except we suggest you enjoy them with bubbly.
• ‘Lax on a beach, go for a wander or just get outdoors and finish off with a trip to one of these destination pubs for a bevy and solid feed.
• Knock off the Pinnacles. This Coromandel walk will make you feel like a total badass and there are plenty of places to pitch a tent up the top (the hut is known to book out quickly!).
• Always wanted to see Flipper? Go on a dolphin and whale-watching cruise . From bottlenose dolphins to up to six types of whales, marine-lovers will be in heaven. 
• Not big of getting out and about? Take your taste buds on an adventure instead and get some Vit D at these stunning  waterfront eating spots . 
• Take advantage of the warmer temperatures and space out at one of the best stargazing spots around the City of Sails.

If all that adventuring is making you hungry, why not have a feed at one of Auckland's best restaurants ?

Image credit: Talman Madsen  for Trekker Adventures

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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

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10 Ways to Enjoy Summer in Auckland

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, the summer city.

When is the best time to be in Auckland? Other than when you first arrive in New Zealand , it’s summertime! Auckland has the best of both worlds: urban adventures and wilderness exploration. We can’t think of many places in the world where you can be enjoying the atmosphere of a free gig in the park one day, then the next day you could be hiking on an ocean volcano. It’s crazy! And we love it! Oh, and not forgetting to mention all the beaches you can surf at or relax on the mainland or on one of the islands of the Hauraki Gulf.

Auckland covers a vast region including: Auckland Central , Auckland Suburbs , Auckland North Shore , and the Hauraki Gulf , so make sure you check out our complete travel guides on those awesome locations.

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

1. Discover Waiheke Island

Long white-sand beaches backed by stunning ranges make the perfect setting for a long summer day indulging away from the busy city centre. Explore the island by following tracks of the Te Ara Hura, that offer more than 100km of walking tracks around Waiheke. Otherwise, stick to the well-beaten path from one vineyard to another to sample some of New Zealand’s best wines. For a complete guide to Waiheke, give our Waiheke Island backpacker guide article a read.

2. Explore the Regional Parks

The Auckland area is filled with local parks and 26 regional parks. Refer to our extensive guides on Auckland to find the one that you’ll love. Better yet, pack up some barbecue food to make use of more than 180 electric, gas or wood barbecues available to across the parks.

3. Go Camping

Another great thing about the Auckland regional parks is that they are home to more than 40 campsites, most of which are on the coastline. They are the perfect spot to unwind from the crazy city and sleep under the stars. Remember to book your campsite by phone (09 301 0101) as you cannot pay onsite. Find out more on Where to Camp in Auckland .

4. Go for a Hike

Like every city in New Zealand, the Auckland area encompasses more hikes that you’ll have time to do. Need inspiration? Look into the historic Motutapu Island tracks, a well off the beaten path island linked to the famous Rangitoto Island .

5. Get to Work

We have tons of jobs listings live at the moment looking for staff this summer. It may be the best time ever for you to land a fun job that will pay the bills and help you save enough to travel around the country. If you’re a kind-hearted individual looking for something rewarding to do, there are also many conservation volunteer positions taking you to remote parts of the region to help preserve New Zealand’s natural beauty and unique wildlife.

6. Go to the Beach

The Auckland region harbours more islands than you could possibly visit in one gap year! From hidden jewels to wild west coast surf spots, you won’t be disappointed. One of the beaches that stands out is Piha. The black sand beach sheltered in the Waitakere Ranges is famous for its incredible surf and Lion Rock. If you are into paradise-looking beach, try Anchor Bay Beach in the Tawharanui Regional Park.

7. Go Fishing on the Rocks

The Rugged Auckland coastline is the perfect spot for rock fishing. It makes for a great homemade meal at the end of the day and stunning pictures like this to bring back home. Play it safe though: wear a life jacket, good shoes (no rain boots) and never turn your back to the ocean! We recommend Muriwai since the incredible Gannet colony is nearby to comfort you if you feel bad for failing to catch dinner.

8. Treat Yourself at the Wynyard Quarter

The newly-built area on the Auckland waterfront located only a short stroll away from the city centre features a fish market, stunning art installations and bars that makes it for a perfect relaxing afternoon. And like every summer, the Silo Cinema is a free event showcasing classic movies projected onto giant silo buildings.

9. Watch More Movies… and Live Gigs

The Movies in Parks and Music in Parks event offers 50 free events scattered across all suburbs of Auckland with outdoor movies in some parks and live bands in others. Take your pick, you are in for a fun evening or a crazy night out.

10. Kayak to the Islands

Did you know that you could kayak to many islands of the Hauraki Gulf from Auckland city? What other major city offers that? There is no better way to discover the gulf than navigating through it. Check out our article on the subject for destinations ideas and plenty of tips on this unique “city” thing to do!

More About Auckland

• 10 Things to Do in Auckland at Night
• 10 Alternative Things To Do in Auckland
• 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Auckland City

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.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Related posts, 10 best things to do in orewa, 10 luxury activities in auckland, great barrier island – guide for backpackers, the luxury travel guide to auckland, the guide to rangitoto island and motutapu island, 10 best things to do in devonport, recommended for you, wairarapa – guide for backpackers, tauranga & mt maunganui – guide for backpackers, 16 best things to do in ohakune, destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

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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

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50 fantastic fun and free things to do this summer

Summer is here and Auckland sure knows how to turn it on! Tāmaki Makaurau is known for its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches and vibrant culture. This summer, Auckland Council has a diverse range of activities and facilities to entertain the whole whānau without breaking the bank.

To provide the perfect summer vibes inspo, here are 50 free activities across Tāmaki Makaurau for you to make it your best summer ever!

1. Feel the sand between your toes as you party at Mission Bay to the soulful sounds of Che Fu and King Kapisi as Hedlock, in just one of 17 epic Music in Parks concerts this summer!

2. Enjoy a BBQ under the pōhutakawa trees at Wenderholm Regional Park , and walk off lunch on a walking track around Auckland’s first and oldest regional park.

3. Get your steps in with a walk up the Maungawhau / Mount Eden boardwalk, and make sure you get a snap for the gram.

4. Dress in pink and get the whole crew along for a special screening of 2023’s biggest film, Barbie , under the stars as part of Movies in Parks .

5. Head to Auckland Botanic Garden for Holding Ground sculpture exhibition featuring the works of over 47 talented Kiwi artists!

6. Visit Te Wharekura , a cultural and marine education space held in the repurposed 108-year-old heritage kiosk next to the downtown ferry terminal.

7. For a fun activity for the young and young-at-heart, get on two wheels at the permanent bike pump tracks around Auckland at Grey Lynn Park , Waterview Reserve or Birkenhead War Memorial Park .

GREY LYNN PARK PUMP TRACK

8.Celebrate a fantastic family day out with great performances from Savage, Che Fu & The Kratez, Annie Crummer, Rei and more as part of Waitangi ki Manukau .

9. Head to the newly re-opened Arataki Visitors Centre to learn more about our native flora in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park with the nature identification trail.

10. Explore Devonport’s missing maunga at Mount Cambria Reserve and then discover local history at the Devonport Museum at the base of the maunga.

11. Let the kids run some energy out at Potters Park on Auckland’s iconic Dominion Road, a three-hectare reserve with a playground, basketball court and learn-to-ride track. Then cool them down at Auckland’s first water splash-pad, open seven days a week from 10am to 8pm.

12. Surf down the 100-foot sand dunes at  Te Henga / Bethells Beach for the ride of your life with your boogie board.

13. Picnic at Cornwallis Beach on Pūponga Peninsula, which has shade, safe swimming, barbecue spots and plenty of space for the whole whānau.

CORNWALLIS BEACH, PŪPONGA PENINSULA

14. Check out the inaugural Moana Festival celebrating Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s love affair with the ocean with a series of events both on and off the water.

15. Check out Auckland Council Libraries’ eagerly anticipated list of Top 100 books for the year – out soon! See how many you can tick off this summer!

16. Find out where the Rainbow Machine is headed this summer to learn more about the science of creating a rainbows with this interactive experience created by artists, architects and scientists working together.

17. Auckland Art Gallery has new collections for you to spend a day wandering through, including ‘Ngā Pakiaka: Like The Roots of a Tree’ and ‘Portals and Omens: New Work from the Collection’. Head to com to plan your visit.

18. Try your hand at disc golf at the Pae o te Rangi Disc Golf Course at Waitākere! Bring your own disc golf or borrow one from the disc honesty box at the entrance of the park and return when you’ve finished.

19. Check out Te Hokinga Mahara – A Collection of Memories – a sound and light installation that tells the story of Ngāti Manuhiri with a 16 minute-long composition at 8 and 9pm this summer.

20. Go Kiwi spotting after dark at Tāwharanui Regional Park , but leave your four-legged friends at home as dogs and pets are prohibited from the park at all times. Make sure you wear warm clothes; good shoes and your torch should preferably have a red light (red cellophane can work quite well). Remember to give kiwi plenty of space. Note: Gates close at 9pm, but they will let you out when you are ready to leave.

21. It’s not an Aotearoa summer if waters not involved! Head to Lloyd Elsmore Park Pool and Leisure Centre in Pakuranga to make the most of their free splash pad – including fountains, mist sprayers and elevated structures for children of all ages and abilities.

LLOYD ELSMORE PARK POOL AND LEISURE CENTRE SPLASH PAD

22. Watch one of the Vector Lights on the Harbour Bridge shows from Silo Park or Westhaven on a warm summer evening. For show dates and times, go to the Vector Lights website .

23. Te Rau Pūriri Regional Park , South Head is situated along the eastern coast of Te Korowai-o-Te-Tonga (South Head) Peninsula and offers breathtaking views of the magnificent Kaipara Harbour. Start your journey from Omokoiti Bay, where you’ll encounter a series of carefully crafted ponds that were used as fresh-water prawn farms in the 1980s.

24. Try a self-guided tour of Auckland’s heritage with the Walk Auckland app .

25. Explore Auckland’s foreshore by foot or bike from below the Harbour Bridge through Westhaven and along the fantastic tree-laden Quay Street to Mission Bay , or extend the walk an extra three kilometres and continue to St Heliers’ Achilles Point for stunning views back to the city centre.

26. Get up close and personal with a range of farm animals with a stroll around the Ambury Farm Path at Ambury Regional Park in Māngere Bridge.

AMBURY REGIONAL PARK, MĀNGERE BRIDGE

27. Explore internationally significant heritage landscape of Ōtuataua Stonefields Historic Reserve near Auckland Airport. A wāhi tapu (sacred place), it is a great place to observe how innovative Māori farmers were in using volcanic stones to keep the soil warm for tropical crops like taro and kumara.

28. Head to Auckland War Memorial Museum for Twilight Tuesdays as the museum opens late every Tuesday evening until 8.30pm. Take in the relaxed atmosphere as the whole Museum is open for you to wander at your own pace.

29. Snorkel amongst the mangroves in the Whangateau Harbour or around the coast at Leigh’s Matheson Bay .

30. Celebrate the Year of the Dragon and take in the wonder and beauty at the BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival at the Manukau Sports Bowl.

31. Celebrate the contribution of women in all spheres of life with a visit to the ‘1001 Spheres’ sculpture in Monte Cecelia Park by artist Chiara Corbelletto.

32. Explore the rock pools and the creatures that call those pools home at Tāwharanui Regional Park . Please leave your pets at home and leave everything as you find it as it’s a marine reserve.

33. Play a full-sized game of snakes and ladders, climbing up ladders and slithering down slides at the Bramley Drive Reserve playground in Farm Cove.

34. For a unique after dark adventure, look for bioluminescence in the water at Mahurangi Regional Park . Note: Gates close at 9pm, but they will let you out when you are ready to leave.

MAHURANGI REGIONAL PARK

35. Shoot some hoops at the newly opened Archibald Park basketball court in Kelston!

36. Pop in your headphones and check out the new season of Ngako: The Collections podcast from the Auckland Council Libraries team while you run, rest or recover this summer, then head to Central City Library to see some of the incredible materials mentioned for yourself!

37. If you’ve never been to Point View Lookout in East Tāmaki, now’s the time! Gaze out at Rangitoto and the beaches of Waitākere through to Manukau Heads, then turn around and check out views of the East Auckland beaches. With 29-hectares to explore, Point View Reserve offers a range of bush paths and an open countryside to explore.

38. Marvel at the incredible plants and architecture at the recently re-opened Auckland Domain Wintergardens. 

AUCKLAND DOMAIN WINTERGARDENS

39. Take in the colour and culture of the Ōtara Markets , time your visit with a special edition of Music in Parks held at the iconic markets for the first time ever!

40. Wander through the city to discover vibrant street art scattered throughout our city. Head to com to plan your walk.

41. Just behind Toi O Tāmaki / Auckland Art Gallery , Albert Park proudly watches over the city centre. This summer, make a date to sit under an old majestic tree or on the steps of the beautiful Victorian band rotunda and relax.

42. Keep the kids busy this summer school holidays with a reading challenge at Auckland Council Libraries , and once school returns, check your local library for after-school programmes.

43. Visit the newly refurbished Greenslade Reserve in Northcote as it hosts a special screening of Super Mario Bros. Movie as part of this year’s Movies in Parks

44. Take a stroll along the waterfront and find Te Wānanga on the seaward side of Quay Street – a modern architectural take on a rocky tide shelf with openings like rock pools and steel balustrades like giant kina shells.

45. Stroll around the stunning 64-hectare oasis of horticulture beauty and diversity that is Auckland Botanic Gardens to see rare and threatened native plants, stunning African plants and native forest!

46. Challenge yourself to a brand-new set of staircase climbs at Ōwairaka / Te Ahi-kā-a-Rakataura / Mt Albert . As part of ongoing construction work to protect important archaeological sites on the maunga, new tracks have been built!

47. The Auckland International Buskers Festival returns over Auckland Anniversary weekend to showcase some of the best street performers in the world!

48. If your New Years’ Resolution is to get into e-biking, head to E-bike experience for guided rides for those comfortable on e regular bike but curious about going electric. Bring your own bike or borrow one of ours.

49. Head to the much-loved weekly Takapuna Sunday Market to take in the newly opened Waiwharaiki Anzac Square which makes the most of Takapuna’s incredible lake and beach location.

50. Midnight Oil frontman Peter Garrett will headline Waitangi @ Waititi concert at Parrs Park , Glen Eden to celebrate our national day on February 6.

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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

Things To Do in Auckland in Summer

Although Auckland is not New Zealand’s capital city, it is the largest city. Being the place most travellers enter the country almost everyone will spend some time here. Fortunately it’s a great city to visit at any time of year, with loads of free or cheap things to do for those on a budget. If it’s a bit rainy or cold then check out these Auckland indoor activities ; if it’s a glorious summers day then read on…

10 Things To Do in Auckland in Summer!

1. auckland memorial museum.

There’s no better place to escape the heat in summer than heading indoors to the beautiful Auckland Museum. With 360 degree views of the city, Rangitoto Island and the Sky Tower from the doorstep, it’s not only a chance to be immersed in Maori culture but also a chance to get some snaps of Auckland.

On entering the building you’re offered the chance to watch a cultural Maori performance. The performance, by Ngāti Whātua Maori tribe’s people, culminates in a spine-tingling rendition of the ‘haka’, a tribal war dance. From here the museum is full of the history of New Zealand; the struggles between Maori tribes and early colonial settlers and what it really looked like back then. The newest exhibitions in the museum include another crucial moment in New Zealand’s history, the suffrage movement which celebrates 125 years since women got the vote. There is also The Secret World of Butterflies, for the first time ever. The museum is the home of the National War Memorial Museum with an entire level dedicated to both World War 1 and 2.

It’s easy to make a day out of a visit to the Auckland Museum as it’s located within the Auckland Domain. The Domain is Auckland’s oldest park and at 75 hectares is also one of the largest. Why not have a picnic in the grounds, feed the ducks or just explore the extensive grounds?

2. Giapo Ice-Cream

Summer isn’t summer without having an ice-cream, and New Zealand has excellent ice-cream! In Auckland though you’ll find an ice-cream place that is a bit different. This place is Giapo, it’s not just delicious ice-cream, it’s an entire experience.

Giapo has been world ranked as the best gelato place in the world and Lonely planet has it as possibly the best ice cream on the planet. This is a totally un-missable experience when you are in Auckland!

From the moment you walk in the door you’re greeted with a brand new spin on how ice cream should be experienced. You won’t find a colourful range of ice creams laid in front of you like a normal ice cream store. Instead you’re greeted with an extensive menu which includes gluten-free, halal and vegan options. The smiling staff greet you and will happily explain to you why Giapo is something new and different to Italian gelato and American ice-cream.

There are loads of options to choose from but fortunately they’ll let you try anything before you buy it. And sure, you can purchase the beautifully crafted sweet treat in a cup or a cone but why do that when you can try a whole new experience? These ice-creams are art! You can eat a colossal squid, use ice cream to take a selfie, or even wear your ice cream before you eat it. Yes, really!

3. Mission Bay

No-one wants to be stuck in the city on a glorious summer day, so make sure you head out to Mission Bay for some beach time. Depending on how energetic you’re feeling you could walk there, hire a bike or just jump on one of the regular buses. If you’re walking or cycling there are a few little places on the way that you can stop and take a dip in the sea or just rest for a short while.

Mission Bay really has that summer vibe. There are some excellent bars with outdoor seating that have spectacular views of Rangitoto Island. After lunch or a refreshing beer head down to the beach and sunbathe or go for a swim in the sea. One of the best things to do in Mission Bay is to take a kayak tour to Rangitoto Island. Just make sure you cover yourself in sunscreen as the sun in New Zealand is hot!

4. SeaLife Kelly Tarltons

One of the places you can stop at on the way to Mission Bay is SeaLife Kelly Tarlton’s. It’s the perfect place to visit in the middle of the day when the sun is at it’s hottest.

As far as aquariums in New Zealand go this is the one that you do not want to miss. Kelly Tarlton wanted to bring the underwater world to everyone and so he built the worlds first curved aquarium tunnel equipped with over 1500 fish and sea animals.

During his travels Kelly collected various artefacts from shipwrecks across the world which are scattered across the aquarium. Name any kind of sea creature and it will be there, with everything from penguins to sharks, jellyfish and sea horses, there is an animal for everyone. What’s really special about Kelly Tarlton’s is their dedication to animal preservation and rehabilitation. It’s the only place in New Zealand that rescues and rehabilitates turtles.

If adrenaline is your thing, jump in a cage and snorkel and swim with the sharks Much like most places you go in Auckland, this one also has amazing views of the city from the outside.

5. Great Barrier Island

The reason why people visit New Zealand, above all, is for the nature we are blessed with. Auckland has many great spots to see this iconic dose of nature but possibly none more so than Great Barrier Island. With more walking tracks than you could possibly imagine, animal marine reserves and hot springs – this is the one stop you need to make for a full injection of nature. The island is so remote and so dedicated to protecting the abundance of wildlife that it is solely powered by a generator and solar power.

On the island you can hang out with native birds and wildlife, heli-fish, snorkel and something really special – visit a Dark Sky Sanctuary. The area is one of only two places in the world given this special status so star-gazers are in for something special due to the scientifically measured darkness which gives it this special title, as well as the fact that there are no outdoor lights.

The island is so untouched that just by taking one of the many walks you can stumble across untouched natural hot pools. The Kaitoke hot pools are the only undeveloped hot pools in Auckland and an easy 80-minute walk will get you there.

6. Puhoi Cheese Factory, Pub and a Kayak – all in one!

If you drive 45-minutes north of Auckland you’ll find a quaint little rural community called Puhoi. Once there you’ll find New Zealand’s oldest pub, decorated with trinkets from all over the world as well as some symbolically kiwi items. After a pub lunch (or before) you can take a relaxing paddle down the Puhoi river. It takes about an hour and leads you to the picturesque Wenderholm park.

In the summer months, you can do the whole kayak trip as a guided moonlight tour. If this isn’t enough to fill your day, head up the road from the Puhoi pub to the world famous Puhoi Valley cheese factory. The chocolate milk is divine! If there is one thing that New Zealand knows how to do, it’s dairy.

There’s also the Puhoi Museum which pays homage to the original bohemian settlers of the community.

7. Sky Tower

Being the major city in New Zealand has it perks, one of them being the iconic skyline. Whether you’re beachside, city side or hill side, the one thing you’ll notice about Auckland’s sky line is the Sky Tower. At a colossal 328 metres high and a long time (20 years) feature of Auckland it’s no surprise this is one of the most popular destinations in Auckland. In the cloudless skies of an awesome summer day the views are amazing!

The view from the sky deck offers 360 views of the 80 km stretch of city and also offers fine dining with a real view. If you’re looking for something a bit more thrill seeking you can sky jump off the tower or sky walk around it, on the outside. It also partners up with the iconic harbour bridge which you can bungy jump off. It may not be for everyone so instead you could enjoy one of the many restaurants it offers. Or head down to the casino for live music, black jack or a drink at one of the many bars it offers.

8. Waiheke Island

A visit to Auckland is not complete without a day trip (or overnight trip) to the serene Waiheke Island. Head to downtown Auckland and jump on the 40-minute ferry. Leaving every half hour, buy a day pass that includes public transport on the island to get you in-between wineries.

Once you arrive you’ll be spoilt for choice as to where to head for your first wine of the day. My tip, start with Stoneyridge, which the Guardian has recommended as one of the best wineries in the world. It sits on top of a hill and the views are to die for.

Waiheke isn’t just known for the wine and food but activities as well. There’s art galleries, yacht charters, resorts, walks and ecozip lines. It’s probably worth visiting for more than just one day as it’s the perfect place to spend a summer weekend.

If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie then you should consider jumping out of a plane. You can find Skydive Auckland in Parakai which is a short drive out of Auckland. Once up in the plane the view over Parakai is amazing and the scenery is beautiful. You can see both The Tasman Ocean on the West Coast and the Hauraki Gulf and Pacific Ocean on the East Coast. Wow!

Skydiving is on many backpackers bucket list but fear can stop a lot of people from having this experiencing. Fear is healthy, but don’t let fear stop you from having this amazing experience.

The view during this skydive over Auckland is spectacular. The team who work at Skydive Auckland are all really lovely people who know how to calm your nerves and help you have an unforgettable freefalling experience. They are in fact living the dream and love sharing these experiences every day.

10. Piha Beach and the Waitakere Ranges

Somewhere well worth a visit is Piha Beach , located on the West Coast. Not only is the beach beautiful but it has black sand, a mixture of volcanic sand and iron oxide. Being black, the sand gets hot quickly so always take footwear because you will burn the soles of your feet!

Piha Beach is famous for surfing, as are many of the beaches on the West Coast, just stay between the flags!

Before heading to the beach head into the Waitakere ranges for a walk and to discover some pretty waterfalls. Kitekite falls has very cold water, thankfully the sun will warm you up quickly when you get out! Or if you really fancy it then go canyoning in the Waitakere Ranges. A day of abseiling, sliding and jumping into rock pools and much more.

I highly recommend getting together with a few other backpackers and hiring a car for the day to visit Piha.

Want to hear about some more things to do in Auckland? Check out What To Do in Auckland

Author: Bridie Chetwin-Kelly is a recent graduate of journalism. She works both freelance and full time for one of New Zealand’s leading lifestyle magazines. She enjoys writing about music and food in her spare time.

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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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Auckland   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Onfokus | iStock

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

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland

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Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

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Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

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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.

Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

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Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland

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Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Options - Smaller groups

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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.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour with lunch from Auckland

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Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland

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Small-Group Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland with Lunch

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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.

Hobbiton & Rotorua including Wai-O-Tapu - Small Group Tour from Auckland

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Auckland City Highlights Half Day Tour

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Hobbiton & Waitomo Small Group Tour - EX Auckland

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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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9 of the best things to do in Auckland these summer holidays in 2024

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Music in Parks offers free concerts at various locations in Tāmaki Makaurau throughout the summer. Photo / Auckland Council

Staying around Auckland city this summer? As well as ample parking and no traffic jams, there are many other reasons why you’ll have a great holiday. Here are some of the best things to do to keep the whole family entertained.

1. Classic Auckland summer at the ASB Classic

If you’re spending the first days of 2024 in the big smoke, you’re unlikely to find better summer entertainment than the ASB Classic. It begins on New Year’s Day with the women’s tournament, featuring 19-year-old US Open champion Coco Gauff and former World No 1 and mum-of-two, Caroline Wozniacki. The men’s tournament follows from January 8 to 13, with former Bucklands Beach Tennis Club member turned British No 1 Cam Norrie, French-Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime and rising American star Ben Shelton. The food and beverage game is always strong at Stanley St with the G.H. Mumm garden, Aperol Serve Up Summer bar, Schweppes Social Club, Grey Goose bar, new Heineken Silver and Gwen by Church Road, as well as some quality culinary delights. All in all, it’s a great place to spend a lazy day or three watching other people work hard.

January 1-13. ASB Tennis Arena, Stanley St, Tāmaki Makaurau. Tickets $14-$69 for day and night sessions, tournament passes start at $475 from asbclassic.flicket.co.nz

2. Family fun in the CBD

At the height of summer , the CBD isn’t always the first destination that comes to mind for a family day out but it has more on offer than you might think. Start at the bottom at Wynyard Quarter where, aside from great eateries, there’s plenty for the kids to explore including the Sounds of Sea silver funnels along North Wharf, the play space at Silo Park, the Auckland Dockline Tram that runs weekends during the holidays and the Silo Park basketball court. If the younger members of your party can handle a bit of a hike , work your way up through the city - possibly stopping in for some light summer sales shopping - finishing up with a cool-off at the Myers Park splash pad and a run around the playground. A city adventure can be cheap as chips or throw in some high-end eats and treats and you’ve got yourself a chic urban extravaganza.

Any time. Auckland CBD.

3. Walk away your worries

Here’s an idea for a New Year’s resolution that might not fail by February with all the others. Walk1200km is Aotearoa’s largest “walking group” in which members aim to walk 100km a month, every month for a year - that’s about 3.3km a day. Now in its third year, Walk1200km is hoping to get 10,000 people to join the group in 2024. Registration is free and walking is free so the barriers to entry are few. Members of the group have cited grief, mental health and physical wellbeing as their motivations for signing up. When your willpower is waning, there’s strong camaraderie, regular micro-challenges and a support network available through the Facebook group. Last year, Walk1200km doubled its membership, this year they aim to double it again and you could help.

January 1 - December 31. Wherever you feel like walking. Visit wildernessmag.co.nz/walk1200km/ to register. Free.

4. Shakespeare in the Park

“Lord, what fools these mortals be!”... if they don’t get tickets to the Auckland institution that is Shoreside Theatre’s Shakespeare in the Park. It launches in mid-January with A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Measure for Measure at the delightful outdoor amphitheatre at The Pumphouse in Takapuna . This year’s rain debacle put a literal dampener on the 2023 season but 2024 is set to be a cracker. Shoreside has gone with two comedies for its 28th season, with Grae Burton directing romantic farce Midsummer and James Bell taking on the problem play Measure for Measure . Plan a picnic by the lake or a meal at the lakeside cafe beforehand and you’ve got yourselves a magical summer’s evening of entertainment .

January 20-February 17. The Pumphouse Theatre (Outdoor Amphitheatre), Killarney Park, Takapuna. Tickets $24-$28 from pumphouse.co.nz Children under 12 free when accompanied by a paying adult.

5. Music in Parks

Always a highlight of Tāmaki Makaurau’s summer calendar, Music in Parks starts on January 13 at Maraetai with The RVMES, MOHI and Levi Lights On, followed by Jazz at the Rotunda on January 14. The concerts are free at different locations every weekend. Throughout summer you get to see a broad range of up-and-coming and established New Zealand artists do their thing while lapping up the summer sun in local parks. Check the schedule to see when it’s coming to a park near you.

January 13 - March 23. Various locations in Tāmaki Makaurau. Visit musicinparks.co.nz or the Music in Parks Facebook page for the full schedule.

6. Summer School at Corban Estate Arts Centre

Kids don’t have to be the only ones who get to explore their passions at school holiday programmes; anyone who has ever fancied themselves a wee bit creative, should consider signing up for the Corban Estate Arts Centre Summer School. For a week in mid-January, CEAC hosts a collection of adult art workshops led by skilled practising artists in a range of mediums from physical theatre to off-loom weaving to ceramics and more. Whether you’re an experienced artist or haven’t picked up a paintbrush since high school, so much joy can be derived from an intensive week of art exploration . Give yourself, or someone else, the gift of creative immersion this Christmas and sign up.

January 15-19. Corban Estate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson, Auckland. Workshops $405-$550. Visit ceac.org.nz/events/summer-school/summer-school-2024 for more information and to register.

7. Calling all budding penguin keepers

Seven weeks or more without school can feel like an eternity, especially when you’re greeted each morning with the phrase “what are we doing today?” followed in quick succession by “I’m bored”. One way to keep young people entertained this summer is by taking them to Kelly Tarlton’s where they can participate in the summer Junior Penguin Keeper programme. There are keeper talks, an interactive trail and a “Penguin Hospital” where Junior Penguin Keepers can do penguin check-ups on plushies guided by the education staff. This isn’t a drop-off situation, you’ll need to stay with your kids but at least you’ll learn a thing or two about the plight of penguins yourself.

On now until January 31. Kelly Tarlton’s, 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland. $45 per adult and $32 per child (free for under 3). Book at visitsealife.com/auckland/plan-your-day/information/school-holidays-activities/junior-penguin-keeper

8. Inflatables at the beach

It might not be the Coromandel or the Bay of Islands but Tāmaki Makaurau isn’t short of beaches and throughout the summer you can find the Waterworld inflatable obstacle course popping up all around the isthmus. From next week and throughout January it’ll be touring Browns Bay, Mairangi Bay, Takapuna Beach, Little Bucklands Beach, Big Manly and Stanmore Bay. You have to be able to swim to participate and anyone aged 5-9 has to be accompanied by a paying, participating adult. It gets booked out so get in quick for a super-fun way to get a little bit more excitement out of our urban beaches.

December 18-February 9. Various locations in Tāmaki Makaurau. Tickets $22 for a one-hour session from wipeout.co.nz

9. Golden Lights Music Festival

Avoid the post-New Year’s Eve party blues by getting tickets to Auckland’s first big music festival of 2024, Golden Lights. The two-day festival is being held in the Fields of Trusts Arena on January 4 and 5, and has a varied lineup of artists from drum ‘n’ bass heavy hitters Becky Hill, Wilkinson and Sub Focus to indie rock musicians Foals, Peggy Gou and Park Rd. There are single-day and two-day passes available. Don’t forget your music festy checklist: Eftpos card (it’s cashless), hydration (empty drink bottles only on entry), sun protection and good vibes for your fellow festival buddies.

January 4-5. Fields of Trusts Arena, 65-67 Central Park Drive, Henderson, Auckland. Tickets start at $99 + booking fee from goldenlights.co.nz

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Top 10 things to do in Auckland

Auckland is the perfect mix of city sophistication and a stunning natural playground.

World-class shopping and dining experiences are never too far from beautiful scenery that includes harbours and islands, volcanic cones, native bush and black-sand beaches. 

Discover 10 of the best things to do in and around Auckland city. 

1. Kayak to Rangitoto Island

Auckland Sea Kayaks, Auckland

By Miles Holden

Have you ever watched the sunset and had a BBQ on Rangitoto island?  Auckland’s most iconic island,  Rangitoto   is a dormant volcanic cone that sits just off the coast from the central city. Take a short ferry from downtown Auckland to walk to the summit for spectacular views, or glide across the harbour via paddle power on a  sunset kayak tour .

2. Discover art and culture

Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland

By Geoff Dunne

Learn about the Māori history and traditions at the  Auckland War Memorial Museum  and explore the modern and traditional world-class exhibitions at the  Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki .

3. SkyJump off the Sky Tower

Sky Tower Bungy, Auckland

By 100% Pure New Zealand

Looking for an adventurous weekend activity? Try jumping off the plane for a thrilling experience with Sk y dive Auckland (opens in new window) . Or go for a   SkyJump (opens in new window) from the iconic Sky Tower (opens in new window) , or walk its edge (opens in new window)  - 192 metres above ground level! And if that's not enough, head to the Auckland Harbour Bridge for New Zealand's only Bridge Climb or bungy (opens in new window) into the Waitemata Harbour. Epic!

4. Explore the Hauraki Gulf on a whale safari

Auckland Harbour, Auckland

By Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari

Spend a family-fun weekend spotting the rare marine life on  a Whale & Dolphin Safari (opens in new window) . The Hauraki Gulf is home to stunning coastlines, world-class vineyards, wildlife sanctuaries, pristine beaches, and an active volcano. From dolphin spotting to luxury dinner cruises or racing an America's Cup yacht, there’s a maritime experience to suit every taste and budget.

5. Go stargazing on Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island by night, Tairāwhiti Gisborne

By Mark Russell

Go on a magical nighttime journey and marvel at the clear dark skies for stargazing with  Good heavens dark  sk y  experiences.  Great Barrier Island is the first in the world to be designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary – with only ten other places.   Great Barrier Island  is covered in lush native forest and you can hike the Aotea Track or visit the rare wildlife of Glenfern Sanctuary or relax on Medlands Beach.

6. Experience the Farmers' Market in Matakana

Matakana Farmers Market, Auckland

By Auckland Unlimited

Matakana’s   beautiful beaches, boutique vineyards, local arts scene, and picturesque village with a superb farmers' market make this region a divine destination. Pick up organic, seasonal produce, or savour some fresh delicacies by the river's edge at the Matakana Village Farmers Market. 

7. Indulge in world-class cuisine

Urban adventures in the city, Auckland

By Tourism New Zealand

Auckland is known for its cosmopolitan nature and the diverse food options are reflective of that. Auckland is  home to world-class food  producers . For those that are passionate about fresh, seasonal ingredients, Auckland is sensational – embark on a tour with  The Big Foodie ,  Foodcraft (opens in new window)  or  Bush and Beach  and get to know Auckland gastronomy.

8. Visit Waiheke Island 'the island of wine'

Mudbrick Vineyard, Waiheke Island, Auckland

Spend a weekend or a day or a few hours,  Waiheke Island  is the ultimate island retreat, just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown  Auckland . Best known as the 'island of wine' for its many wineries and vineyards, a wine tasting tour or an indulgent lunch is a must. Enjoy spectacular views and explore the beaches, restaurants, and other activities on the island.

Explore Waiheke

9. Explore the rugged beaches in West Auckland

Piha, Auckland

By Luke Thurlby

You're never too far from the sea in Auckland. In less than an hour's drive from the city centre, you can find yourself on wild  rugged beaches , where the Tasman Sea meets long, vast stretches of black sand. Visit Muriwai Beach to see the impressive clifftops and gannet colonies or head to Piha, a popular surf beach, and Karekare, made famous as the backdrop for the film  The Piano .

10. Relax with glamping getaways

Castaways Resort, Karioitahi Beach, New Zealand

Looking for a relaxing weekend escape or a family-fun staycation?  Castaways Resort (opens in new window) , set on the cliffs at Karioitahi Beach on the Āwhitu Peninsula makes for a perfect escape to go glamping under the stars. With epic sea views, gourmet meals, luxury spa, and beauty treatments, it is complete with activities like archery, blokarting, clay bird shooting, and more. You could also explore luxury lodges and tents around Waiheke and the West Auckland beaches.

Find more glamping spots

Bonus. Immerse yourself in the world of movie making

Wētā Workshop Unleashed Auckland, Auckland

By Wētā Workshop Unleashed Auckland

Wētā Workshop Unleashed Auckland kids, Wellington

By Ocean Mead

Discover Wētā Workshop Unleashed (opens in new window) , Wētā Workshop’s global award-winning movie-making experience in Auckland. Explore interactive and immersive make-believe film sets, focusing on the worlds of horror, fantasy and sci-fi. It's your chance to get up-close and hands-on with enchanting environments, resident creatures, one hyper-realistic giant, a galactic robot, and much more.

#VisitAuckland

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You may also be interested in

Top 10 things to do in Northland and the Bay of Islands long-arrow-right

Top 10 things to do in the Coromandel long-arrow-right

New Zealand itineraries long-arrow-right

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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

• 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.

#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!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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The best time of year to visit Auckland

Oct 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Choose the best time of year to visit Auckland with this seasonal guide © denizunlusu / Getty Images

New Zealand's biggest and most cosmopolitan city, Auckland , is a year-round destination.

Its regular schedule of cultural and culinary events are part of its appeal, with plenty of free attractions to experience . Kiwis love to explore their own country, so school holidays  –  which happen throughout the year in New Zealand – can drive up prices and lower availability for accommodation and attractions. Planning a trip outside of those times will help to alleviate the higher overall costs associated with the country also known as Aotearoa .

January to April is the best time for warm weather and summer festivals

Warmer and (usually) drier, the summer months of January to April are some of the best times to visit Auckland. Popular annual festivals feature arts, music and dance, often reflecting the city's role as the unofficial cultural capital of Polynesia.

Anniversary Day Regatta takes place in January – head up to the top of the Sky Tower for the best views of the event and to see for yourself why Auckland is dubbed the "City of Sails". This is the perfect time of year to visit Auckland's rugged west coast beaches and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf . January also marks the beginning of three months of free council-sponsored entertainment, starting with the popular Music in Parks and Movies in Parks programs. 

February remains sunny and warm for the music, dance and cultural extravaganza of Splore , and for Pride , the inclusive celebration of the LGBTIQ+ community. The Auckland Blues and Moana Pasifika Super Rugby teams kick off their seasons late in the month. Accommodation prices soften slightly in February and March, after the summer school holidays; Easter can again be more expensive.

March's late summer weather is the backdrop for the  Pasifika Festival 's celebration of Auckland's South Pacific communities from Samoa, Tonga, Niue and the Cook Islands. The Auckland Lantern Festival illuminates Chinese New Year, Waiheke Island is enlivened with spectacular clifftop sculptures and arts spaces around central Auckland present an eclectic program from local and international performers during the Auckland Arts Festival . With a proud maritime history including multiple wins in yachting's America's Cup, Auckland is one of the world's great harborside cities. The Boat Show  in March presents the best of Auckland's salt-spray-tinged personality.

Street food, music, and a seven-a-side soccer tournament are highlights of April's CultureFest, which represents the 70-plus global communities that call Auckland home. The arrival of cooler fall weather also sees audiences filling cozy venues for barrels of laughs from Kiwi and overseas comedians at the NZ International Comedy Festival .

May to August is the time for Māori New Year and food and drink festivals

Indoor festivals provide shelter from cooler winter weather. Neighborhoods on the fringes of the city center – including Ponsonby, Parnell and Mt Eden – offer good-value accommodation, making ideal bases for venturing downtown. 

In May, readings, conversation and performances at Auckland Writers Festival  bring to life fiction, nonfiction and poetry, providing inspiration for Auckland book lovers as the city's weather cools heading further into winter. Sports fans watch the Blues and Moana Pasifika (rugby union) or the Warriors (rugby league); Auckland's welcoming pubs are top places to catch all the action on the big screen. 

The annual Matariki Festival  marks the Māori New Year. It follows the lunar calendar but is typically in June. Since first becoming a public holiday in 2022, it's continued to grow in scope and importance. Winter's shorter days and longer nights set the stage for various events based around traditional Māori cosmology; rain becomes more prevalent though, so fingers crossed for clear skies for stargazing.

July is when New Zealand's All Blacks are playing rugby matches at Eden Park , usually against traditional rivals such as Australia and South Africa, but also visiting teams from France, Ireland, and the UK. It's often cool, so bundle up for the game. Craft-beer fans look forward to GABS Festival , Australasia's best brewfest, while Elemental AKL fills inner-city public spaces with one-off culinary and cultural events.

Often the coolest and wettest month of the year, August is the ideal time to dive into Auckland's eating and drinking scene. Highlights of Restaurant Month include themed dinners and fixed-price special menus, an affordable way to experience the city's culinary diversity.

September to December is the best time to learn about the city's history

The southern hemisphere spring months of September to December are also a good time to visit. Mild weather is ideal for walking atop the city's dormant volcanic field, and the occasional rain shower cools things down.

Fresher spring breezes in September make it a good time to sail a yacht on Waitematā Harbour. Days are lengthening as spring approaches in October, and the Auckland Heritage Festival offers free access to various museums, historical locations and events around town. The weather's still cool, conducive to learning about the Māori history of Auckland's maunga (ancestral mountains), or catching a ferry across the harbor and walking up the dormant volcano of Rangitoto Island.

New Zealand's best up-and-coming rugby players feature in the National Provincial Championship from August to November. (Hopefully the Auckland NPC team has made the finals.) Fireworks light up Auckland's soaring Sky Tower on November 5 for the annual Guy Fawkes festival, a legacy of New Zealand's British colonial past.

High above the surf beaches of Muriwai Beach  on Auckland's west coast, walking trails lead to clifftop views of a gannet colony – the city's favorite avians – with the first chicks being born in December at the Takapu Refuge. By January they're testing their wings on short flights, ahead of their trans-Tasman migration to Australia in March. Before summer heats up and the west coast gets busy again, it's also a good time to hike the clifftop Mercer Bay Loop Walk at Piha Beach. New Year's Eve sees even more spectacular fireworks shooting out from the top of the Sky Tower.

This article was first published January 2022 and updated October 2023

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