Auckland is among the most varied and stunning cities worldwide. With a lot to see and do, it can be difficult to understand where to begin. That’s why you require this list of the very best things to do in Auckland. It’s a one-stop-shop for your Auckland city schedule.
This extensive Auckland guide shares the very best trips, adventures, and field trip from Auckland by NinaOutAndAbout who resided in Auckland for a year. If you are searching for expert ideas, this is the very best list of all the leading locations to check out in Auckland by a regional specialist.
Enjoyable Things to Do in Auckland
From checking out the city’s lively areas to enjoying its spectacular natural surroundings, there’s something for everybody in Auckland. Prepare yourself to have a legendary journey to New Zealand with these Auckland activities!
Have a brief time in Auckland? This complete day explorer trip lets you see all the highlights of the city consisting of the Auckland Harbour Bridge, Auckland Waterside and Viaduct, Objective Bay, Tamaki Drive and Mount Eden. You’ll likewise check out Devonport and North Head (Maungauika), Bastion Point, Achilles Point, Muriwai Beach and far more! This is a day in Auckland you will always remember. Even if you are remaining longer, it’s a terrific intro to Auckland to assist get your bearings and prepare for what to review next. You can reserve it here with simple cancellation must you alter your mind.
1. Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb Up
Reach the top of Auckland Harbour Bridge for spectacular views of the city horizon and harbor. It is among the most popular things to do in Auckland!
The bridge climb takes about 1.5 hours and appropriates for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Or if you’re actually death-defying, you can bungee leap off the side of the Harbour Bridge with AJ Hacket– the very first bungee dive business worldwide! You’ll even get to crash in the harbour on your descent.
Take in the views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge on a harbour cruise. The 2.5-hour cruising experience consists of a 3-course supper after you have actually experienced the renowned sights of Waitemata Harbour.
2. War Memorial Museum
The Auckland War Memorial Museum is among the leading things to do in Auckland for history enthusiasts. Established in 1929, the museum informs the stories of New Zealanders who have actually served in wars and disputes worldwide.
The museum is totally free to get in for locals and work visa holders. Nevertheless, the expense is very little and it can quickly fill a rainy day. It’s a popular area on ANZAC Day in April when the nation keeps in mind the war efforts of Kiwi soldiers throughout WWI at Gallipoli. It is now a nationwide Remembrance Day.
3. Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is a little island in the Hauraki Gulf, about a 40-minute ferryboat flight from downtown Auckland. The island is house to a few of New Zealand’s finest wineries and vineyards. It’s the best location to invest a day if you’re searching for things to do in Auckland that are a little bit more subtle.
There are likewise lots of stunning treking routes to check out, with spectacular views of the ocean and native bush.
4. SkyTower
SkyTower is the highest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere, and among Auckland’s the majority of renowned landmarks. Take pleasure in spectacular views of the city from the observation deck, or take things to the next level with a bungee dive or skywalk around the beyond the tower!
If you choose to do the Sky Dive, be gotten ready for 11 seconds of pure adrenaline. At 192 meters high, it is greater than the Nevis in Queensland, however this is a regulated dive reaching speeds of 85km per hour. Expense: $225
SkyTower lies in the middle of the CBD (main enterprise zone) of Auckland, making it extremely available. Lots of residents utilize it as a landmark for satisfying up. On New Year’s Eve, it is likewise the area of the greatest fireworks show. I lived behind it and got to see the fireworks from my cooking area!
5. New Zealand Maritime Museum
The New Zealand Maritime Museum is among the very best things to do in Auckland if you have an interest in maritime history. The museum has a comprehensive collection of artifacts, from Maori waka (canoes) to European immigrant ships. You can even hop aboard a reproduction of Captain James Cook’s ship, the Endeavour!
The museum lies on Auckland’s waterside, making it a terrific area to integrate with a walk or picnic lunch on the wharf.
6. Auckland Art Gallery
The Auckland Art Gallery is the biggest art museum in New Zealand, and among the leading things to do in Auckland. It has a wide range of displays, from Maori art to modern Kiwi painters.
There’s likewise a café and sculpture garden onsite, making it the best area to invest a couple of hours on a rainy day. The art is mainly contemporary art, with some Maori shows that reoccured.
7. One Tree Hill
One Tree Hill is among Auckland’s most popular parks, and among the very best things to do in Auckland if you’re searching for some terrific views. The park is house to a renowned obelisk, which was integrated in 1845 to celebrate the initial Maori occupants of the location.
You can likewise see Auckland’s CBD, the harbor, and Rangitoto Island from the top of the hill. Make sure to load sun block! There’s no tree cover on the appropriately called hill.
8. Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island in the Hauraki Gulf, simply a brief ferryboat flight from Auckland. The island is house to a few of the very best hiking routes in Auckland, with views of native bush and lava fields. The top path is a must-do.
Rangitoto is likewise a popular area for picnics, with numerous protected beaches that are best for swimming on a hot day. Simply make sure to bring bug spray, as sandflies can be an issue in some locations! If you actually wish to work out, lease a kayak to endeavor throughout the harbour in about 1-2 hours.
9. Devonport
Devonport is a charming seaside residential area of Auckland, situated on the North Coast. It’s the best area for a field trip, with a range of things to do to keep you hectic. Walk along the waterside, check out the marine museum, or invest your day sunning at Cheltenham Beach.
This is the most underrated beach in Auckland, with more individuals gathering to ones closer to Auckland. This little beach uses white sand and crystal clear water, without the crowds.
10. Piha Beach
Piha Beach is among the most popular beaches in Auckland, and for excellent factor. The black sand and remarkable cliffs make it a professional photographer’s dream, and it’s likewise a terrific area for swimming, browsing, and hiking.
There are numerous strolling routes that cause lookout points with spectacular views of the shoreline.
Piha lies about 45 minutes from Auckland, making it the best excursion. There’s even a waterfall path!
11. Auckland Domain
The Auckland Domain is among the biggest parks in Auckland, and a terrific area for a picnic or walk. The park is house to numerous museums, consisting of the Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa Tongarewa) and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
You can likewise see the Wintergardens, which are stunning glasshouses filled with unique plants. The Auckland Domain is likewise a terrific area for people-watching, with residents and travelers alike taking pleasure in the rich green area.
12. Viaduct Harbor
Viaduct Harbor is a popular area for dining and night life, situated in the heart of Auckland’s CBD. Throughout the day, you can walk along the harbor, check out the stores and dining establishments, or take a trip on the ferryboat to among the neighboring islands.
In the evening, the harbor comes alive with bars and clubs, making it the best area to go out for a night on the town.
In the summer season, there are likewise totally free outside screenings of popular films on the lawn. Bring a beer and have a picnic in the outside theatre. There’s something for everybody at Viaduct Harbor!
13. Auckland Zoo
Auckland Zoo is among the very best things to do in Auckland with kids. The zoo is house to over 1400 animals, consisting of lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants.
There are likewise numerous interactive displays, such as the Gorilla Forest and the Rain Forest Display. The zoo lies in Western Springs, simply a brief drive from Auckland’s CBD. It’s likewise available by Auckland Transit buses.
14. Auckland Free Strolling Trip
A totally free walking trip is a terrific method to see the city and find out about its history. There are numerous business that use trips, which usually last 2-3 hours.
You’ll find out about Auckland’s starting, its Maori history, and see a few of the most popular sights in the city. It’s a terrific method to get your bearings in the city and find out about its culture.
15. Coast-to-Coast Pathway
The Coast-to-Coast Pathway is a 16 km track that covers the width of Auckland, from the Waitemata Harbour to Manukau Harbour.
The pathway travels through numerous parks and reserves, consisting of the Auckland Domain and Western Springs. It’s a terrific method to see a few of Auckland’s green area, and you can state you have actually strolled throughout New Zealand in an afternoon!
The walk isn’t that interesting when you have to do with midway through. It ends up being more city streets than beaches. However the parks at the southern end of the walk are beautiful once you arrive!
16. Mount Eden
Mount Eden is among the most popular things to do in Auckland. The inactive volcano is the acme in Auckland and uses spectacular 360-degree views of the city. On a clear day, you can see for miles!
There are numerous strolling tracks that cause the top, so you can pick your own experience. Mount Eden is likewise a terrific area for stargazing.
17. Objective Bay Beach
Objective Bay is among Auckland’s most popular beaches, and for excellent factor. The golden sand and calm water make it a terrific area for swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding. It’s not extremely peaceful, with lots of people playing music or playing beach volley ball. This is more of a celebration beach environment.
There are likewise numerous dining establishments and coffee shops, along with a play area and a basketball court. Objective Bay lies simply a brief drive from Auckland’s CBD, making it the best area for a field trip.
18. Ponsonby
Ponsonby is among Auckland’s trendiest residential areas, and it’s simple to see why. The primary street is lined with store stores, coffee shops, and dining establishments. Here you’ll discover the very best dining establishments in the city– and the majority of are fairly priced.
Ponsonby is likewise house to a few of Auckland’s finest night life, with bars and clubs that remain open up until the early hours of the early morning. If you’re searching for a location to see and be seen, Ponsonby is the location to be.
19. Albert Park
Albert Park is a big park situated in Auckland’s CBD. The park is house to numerous monoliths, consisting of the War Memorial and the Cenotaph. It’s likewise a terrific area for picnicking, with lots of grassy area to expand a blanket.
In the center of the park is a big water fountain, which is popular with birdwatchers. Albert Park is likewise a terrific location to individuals see, as it’s typically filled with residents and travelers alike.
20. Pop-Up World
The Pop-Up World is a reproduction of the initial World Theatre in London. The theatre hosts a range of Shakespearean plays, along with other classical and contemporary works. It’s a terrific location to see a play, particularly if you’re a fan of Shakespeare.
I went to and viewed Hamlet, however the fairies were reinterpreted as Maori Gods. It included an entire brand-new layer to the efficiency! The Pop-Up World lies in Ellerslie, a residential area of Auckland.
21. Auckland Harbor Whale and Dolphin Seeing Cruises
If you’re searching for something a little various, why not go whale and dolphin watching? Auckland is among the very best locations in New Zealand to see these magnificent animals.
There are numerous business that use cruises, which usually last 2-3 hours. Throughout the cruise, you’ll have the chance to see whales, dolphins, and fur seals. Auckland Harbor Whale and Dolphin Seeing Cruises is the best activity for nature fans.
This Whale and Dolphin Seeing Cruise– is a half-day eco-cruise that takes you on a high-end catamaran and gain from ensured whale and dolphin seeing year-round
22. Giapo Ice Cream
Giapo is an ice cream store like no other. The ice cream is made fresh daily, and there are over 5 tastes to select from. The store likewise has a variety of special tastes, such as Guinness and wasabi. They alter daily!
They’re likewise Instagram-worthy with chocolate photo frames on their cones and even small finger cones! If you’re searching for an ice cream experience, Giapo is the location to go.
23. Stroll the Boardwalk
The boardwalk is a 4.4-kilometer-long seaside pathway that ranges from St. Heliers to East Auckland. The pathway is stunning, with spectacular views of the shoreline. There are likewise numerous coffee shops and dining establishments along the method, so you can pick up a coffee or lunch.
The boardwalk is a terrific method to get some workout, and it’s likewise a terrific location to take your pet dog for a walk. Get a flat white and roam along the harbour on a weekend early morning to feel the real magic of the city.
24. Dave and Deborah Bonus offer– America’s Cup Cruising
Nina has actually shared some fantastic things to do in Auckland, New Zealand and prior to we proceed to field trip from Auckland, we wished to share one special Auckland expedition that we did throughout our last check out. This America’s Cup Cruising expedition offers you the opportunity to see what it seems like to race a private yacht in America’s Cup. You get to take part in as much or just you like. You can get to work as a genuine racer or relax and race through the waters while taking pleasure in the city views. Reserve it here.
Finest Excursion from Auckland
Simply a brief drive from Au can discover a few of New Zealand’s the majority of amazing natural surroundings. From black sand beaches to towering volcanoes, there’s plenty to check out beyond the city. Here are a few of the very best field trip from Auckland:
Waitomo Glowworm Caves (2-hour drive)– See our experience at the Glowworm Caves in New Zealand Hobbiton (2.5-hour drive)– This trip integrates 2 of the very best field trip from Auckland. The Waitomo Glowworm Cavern and Hobbiton. Tongariro National Forest (4-hour drive)– Check out everything about it here The Tongariro Alpine Crossing: New Zealand’s Finest 1 Day HikePiha Beach (45-minute drive)– If you take the Complete Day trip of Auckland a stop at Piha Beach is consisted of. Waiheke Island (40-minute ferryboat flight)– Get this get on hop off pass of Waiheke Island. It lets you integrate your ferryboat take a trip a get on bus experience created to let you see more of the island for less and see it in an entire brand-new method, at your own pace!Rotorua (3-hour drive) Rangitoto Island (25-minute ferryboat flight) Fantastic Barrier Reef Island (1-hour ferryboat flight)
Where to Remain In Auckland
There’s no lack of lodging choices in Auckland, from high-end hotels to economical hostels. If you’re searching for a location to remain, here are a few of our leading suggestions:
Sofitel (high-end alternative) This contemporary hotel is within strolling range of all the sights. Take a look at Accessibility & & Rates Journey Consultant / Booking.comSkyCity Grand Hotel (mid-range alternative) Centrally situated high end hotel. Found beside the gambling establishment and linked to the home entertainment complex.Check out Accessibility & & Rates Journey Consultant / Hotels.comQuest on Eden (economical) 7-minute walk from Albert Park and Auckland University with completely geared up studios, 1 or 2-bedroom houses. Web is readily available for an additional charge. Keep in mind: Outside work is presently being done. TripAdvisor/ Booking.comSurf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers (hostel) Found throughout from Sky Tower, Browse ‘N’ Snow Hostel uses a typical lounge with cable and a swimming pool table and totally free WiFi in the reception location.
And these are the very best things to do in Auckland from field trip to a few of my preferred adventures. If you prepare a journey to New Zealand, ensure to put Auckland on your travel schedule.