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20 Auckland Tourist Spots Not To Be Missed

Our guide to the main tourist spots in Auckland

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Auckland: ship to shore half-day excursion, auckland: ship to shore full-day excursion, auckland: hologate virtual reality gaming experience, waitakere ranges wilderness experience tour from auckland, auckland city & west coast luxury tour.

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See the most popular scenic Auckland sights on an intimate small group tour.

Go on an extensive 8-hour Auckland tour together with a local guide. Marvel at the must-see attractions and listen to the stories your knowledgeable guide unfolds.

Immerse yourself in the fully-realized future of entertainment with Hologate virtual reality, a one-of-a-kind multiplayer gaming experience with a wide variety of games perfect for friends or family.

Escape the bustle of the city on a half-day tour to Auckland's wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest. Listen as your guides tell the story behind the forest that covers this land.

This tour of Auckland takes you to the most beautiful places of this gorgeous city: spectacular ocean views, volcanoes, rainforest and black and white sand beaches.

Auckland Harbour 1.5-Hour Sailing Cruise

Enjoy a 1.5-hour sailing cruise on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbor. Enjoy onboard refreshments and engaging live commentary from the crew while taking in the iconic city sights.

Auckland: Half-Day Scenic Sightseeing Tour

See the most iconic sights in Auckland with a small-group tour. Take in panoramic views of the city and its coastline from multiple outlooks.

The Inside Loop: See Auckland's Coolest Neighbourhoods

Auckland is regularly voted as one of the most liveable cities on Earth and this small group, guided electric bike tour is designed to showcase exactly why that title is deserved.

Auckland City Small Group Morning Discovery Tour

Explore Auckland on a tour designed to reveal the city's highlights and history. Benefit from the insights of your experienced guide and the comfort of a modern air-conditioned vehicle.

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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.

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

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

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

More on New Zealand

Auckland   Travel Guide

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

(1628 reviews)

from $ 230.39

Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

(675 reviews)

from $ 108.97

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

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from $ 223.54

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.

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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.

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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.

Auckland Explorer: Hop-on Hop-off Tour

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Hobbiton Movie Set Hobbiton Movie Set

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

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

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Discover Auckland

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

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

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

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

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

What shouldn’t I miss in Auckland?

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

What’s famous in Auckland?

Buildings & places.

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

Neighbourhoods & Spaces

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

Why is Auckland popular for tourists?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover Other Auckland Tours

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

• 10 Best Day Trips in Auckland
• Top 9 Shore Excursions in Auckland, New Zealand
• 6 Amazing Food & Wine Tours on Waiheke Island, Auckland
• Best Food Tours in Central Auckland. Really.
• Active Auckland Adventure Tours 2023 – Fishing, Hiking, Diving, Island-hopping and more

Places To Visit In Auckland

Known as the "City of Sails'’, and boasting as the most populous city of New Zealand, Auckland is undoubtedly the heart of the country. There are several places to visit in Auckland, including the country's largest port and occupies a narrow isthmus between Waitematā Harbour of Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana in the east and Manukau Harbour in the southwest. While visiting New Zealand, Auckland city is the touchdown point for most of its visitors. To explore the beautiful city is a must while visiting New Zealand.

The monuments and museums such as the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the New Zealand Maritime Museum among others, and the Auckland Art Gallery are one of the finest places to visit in Auckland. Exploring the suburban coastline of the city can be a fun experience if you're a fan of beaches. Waiheke Island is also a place with stunning aquatic views to add flavour to your trip. The natural scenery is worth it all! From zoos to maintained gardens, Auckland to home to multiple tourist attractions. The beautiful views of the harbour and the coastline will make you want to come back to this city again.

The favourite among Auckland tourist attractions is the Auckland Sky Tower. Not just an iconic building in Auckland's skyline, but standing 220m above street level, it is also the tallest building in the whole of the southern hemisphere! Hop onto the observation deck of the tower and get unobstructed views of the whole city. If luck favours, view the clear skies and magical sunsets, and catch the views faraway up to 80km! The sky tower in Auckland boasts an impressive casino and varied dining options to choose from such as Orbit 360°. You can enjoy a scrumptious meal at the backdrop of the beautiful city skyline.

Waitematā Harbour, also known as the Auckland Harbour is the prime gateway to Auckland via sea. With limited tidal range and sluggish tides, this harbour consists of ideal berthing conditions for large ships. The harbour offers a one-day regatta held annually with an enthusiastic atmosphere that attracts hundreds of tourists to Auckland. The nearby cafes and eateries serve good munchies if you want to take a short break between your visits.

Auckland Harbour Bridge is an 8-lane motorway bridge across Waitematā Harbour and is also an important place to visit in Auckland. This bridge is Auckland's landmark. Originally constructed in 1959, this honorary bridge expanded its lanes from 4 to 8 and introduced pedestrian crosswalks recently. It also has a special walkway. If you wish to explore the view while in Auckland, then crossing this bridge will serve you the best of the city's sights.

The Auckland War Memorial Museum counts amongst the most significant museums in New Zealand. The war memorial exhibits a historical focus on the past and the military stories of New Zealand making it one of the top places of attraction in Auckland. While in the museum, observe the symbolic characteristics that were built inside it. Take a look at the carvings of the war chronology of the country, and the exteriors that have the titles of battles participated by New Zealanders can be seen engraved.

The Auckland Zoo is one of New Zealand’s premier zoological parks. The Zoo is spread over 40 acres of land and is home to nearly 1400 native and exotic animals of 138 different species. It has a variety of enclosures and exhibits for the animals, like the hippo river, the orangutan trail or the tiger territory. If you are visiting with kids, then there is a kids' play area with animals like chickens, guinea pigs and frogs displayed for a fun activity.

While in Auckland, visit the largest public Art Gallery in New Zealand. With a wide range of national and international art on display, it conducts regular international travel exhibitions which invites tourists and art enthusiasts from all over the world.The art is a depiction of New Zealand's visual history. The Auckland Art Gallery is counted amongst the top places to visit in Auckland. And while there, it is ideal to understand the history of New Zealand through this visit.

Located 40 mins by a ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards and beaches. Waiheke is home to a dreamy experience, be it in landscape, lifestyle and experience. The white sandy beaches around the Hauraki Gulf are a perfect spot for swimming, having a picnic or to simply enjoy some surreal views. If you wish to stay overnight and sleep under the stars, you can rent a beach house or you can book a backpacker hostel on a budget. Getting around the island is also easy because there are multiple options of public transport.

Previously recognized as the Viaduct Basin, the Viaduct Harbour is an old commercial port on the waterfront of Auckland that has been turned into a collective of luxury homes, restaurants and huge buildings. If you're a foodie, the Viaduct is a fantastic place to grab a bite while enjoying the stunning views of the waterfront. With multiple restaurants and bars to choose from, catch the sight of the yachts and the boats from the edge of the water. A perfect place to spend your afternoon in Auckland.

Auckland is famous in the world for its maritime life. If you wish to experience a great variety of aquatic animals up close, then take an immersive ride through Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium in Auckland. Get the chance to witness the largest sub-Antarctic penguin community show in the world and the greatest shark collection in New Zealand. Stroll through a thrilling view of the Southern Ocean and explore the water kingdom including dolphins, sea horses and more. There is a live jellyfish show to add more fun to your visit.

Comprising marine reserves, vineyards and some thrilling hiking trails, the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is spread around in an area of around 1.2 million hectares. Located in the North Island of New Zealand, there are more than 50 islands in the park. Some of these islands are public conservation land while many other islands are open to the public. However, some of the islands are shelters for endangered animals for which the tourist needs a permit to visit.

Auckland's eastern coast is studded with gorgeous forest-rimmed beaches that are top spots for outdoor activities like swimming and sun-bathing during summers. Takapuna Beach, overlooking Rangitoto Island across the water, is one of the finest sandy beaches in the city and is absolutely worth the popularity. Nearby are the less crowded Milford Beach and Cheltenham Beach. If you are adventurous, then a short drive out of the city offers you with even more spectacular beaches. These unexplored incredible beaches will definitely be the highlight of your visit to Auckland.

In the North Island of New Zealand and the centre of the Tamaki isthmus resides the One Tree Hill Domain which is also known as Maungakiekie. Besides the majestic Rangitoto, it is the biggest impact crater in Auckland. If you trek to the top, you can see the exquisite views of the harbours of Auckland. The close proximity of this place of attraction from the town makes it an ideal destination for the tourists all throughout the year. If you visit at sunset or at night, the view from the top is exclusively spectacular.

With its great history and distinctive character, the Albert park owns a special place in the hearts of the people of Auckland making it a must- visit destination for visitors. Albert Park, a beautiful garden space is a substantial public park popular among the locals as well. Known for its floral clock and towering palm trees, the park has prime visiting spots such as the Victorian fountain, sculptures of Queen Victoria and the symbolic statue of Boyd. It also adorns an Argentine ombu tree with its roots growing above the grounds. The Auckland Art Gallery is also situated here.

Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens offers a great day out for an outdoor garden visit. If you are a sculpture and cafe enthusiast, then this place is for you. It is located on a rural property at a time distance of 45 minutes north-west of Auckland. This tourist destination adorns the stunning views over the Kaipara Harbour. A short trail of around 1km takes the people visiting through a variety of garden experiences and around 40 sculptures by established and emerging New Zealand artists. Plants within the gardens are arranged in a labelled manner, perfect for a knowledgeable nature visit, which is also soothing to the eyes.

Visit the Huakaiwaka Visitor Centre to enjoy the seasonal displays and garden information. Then head out into the beautiful gardens for some natural panoramic views that will delight and inspire you in multiple ways. Visit the award winning Harry Potter Children’s Garden, and know about the rarest native plants. You can also enjoy the collection of large scale outdoor sculpture. The Gardens in Auckland are one of the finest attractions for tourists to visit in New Zealand.

Puhoi Historic Village is a pretty settlement located 50 kilometres north of Auckland. The quaint and quiet village is nestled alongside the Puhoi River. The Church of Saint Peter and Paul is a beautiful structure much photographed by the visitors. If you are hungry, the hotel and pub overlooking the river is a popular spot for lunch and drinks. There is also a quaint store where the tourists can grab a coffee and enjoy the small library in it. If you're planning to visit Auckland, then a visit to the Puhoi village is a must on that checklist!

FAQs for Places To Visit In Auckland

What is special about auckland .

Known as the "City of Sails", Auckland is undoubtedly the heart of New Zealand. While visiting New Zealand, Auckland city is the touchdown point for most of its visitors. The monuments and museums such as the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the New Zealand Maritime Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery are one of the finest places to visit in Auckland. The beautiful views of the harbour and the coastline will make you want to come back to this city again and again.

Which are the best places of interest in Auckland to go with kids?

The best places to visit in Auckland with children are:

• The Sky Tower in Auckland
• Auckland Zoo
• Waiheke Island
• SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
• Albert Park
• Kaipara Coast Plant Centre & Sculpture
• The Gardens in Auckland

What is the ideal time to visit Auckland ?

If you're planning to visit the beautiful city in New Zealand, then summers in Auckland are the perfect time for you! The months from December through March are an ideal period to visit the city full of outdoor experiences like visiting the gorgeous beaches or go hiking on the exquisite mountains in the country.

How many days are enough to visit Auckland ?

Auckland city is a beautiful place to visit during the travel season. However, it is not a very big geographic point. One can cover most of the city in around 3 days including the major attractions in Auckland such as The Skytower, the Auckland Museum and the Maritime Museum, many art galleries and gardens to stroll by. If you plan to visit for a longer period, it's another adventure to explore the unexplored locations in Auckland.

Is Auckland worth visiting?

Auckland is definitely a city with an array of multiple attractions. The food, culture, history and the people are also a part of what makes Auckland a fulfilling visit for the tourist. From busy to quiet beaches, the city has a lot of character. The Auckland city in New Zealand has one of the most beautiful travel experiences to offer to the tourists who visit the place.

Explore Auckland City

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Must-see attractions in Auckland

One Tree Hill

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Housed in a gorgeous 1879 mansion with views to One Tree Hill and the Manukau Harbour, this arts centre is endowed with contemporary NZ art from an…

Auckland Zoo

At this modern, spacious zoo, the big foreigners tend to steal the attention from the timid natives, but if you can wrestle the kids away from the tigers…

North Head was a Māori pā and is still a fortress of sorts, with the navy maintaining a presence. It's riddled with tunnels, started at the end of the…

Civic Theatre

The 'mighty Civic' (1929) is one of only seven ‘atmospheric theatres’ remaining in the world and a fine survivor from cinema’s Golden Age. The auditorium…

The impossible-to-miss Sky Tower looks like a giant hypodermic giving a fix to the heavens. Spectacular lighting renders it space age at night and the…

Old Government House

Built in 1856, this stately building was the colony's seat of power until 1865 when Wellington became the capital. The construction is unusual in that it…

Wintergarden

The Wintergarden, with its fernery, tropical house, cool house, cute cat statue and neighbouring cafe, is in the Auckland Domain.

Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium

In this topsy-turvy aquarium sharks and stingrays swim over and around you in transparent tunnels that were once stormwater tanks. You can also enter the…

Western Springs

Parents bring their children to this picturesque park for the popular playground. It’s a pleasant picnic spot and a good place to get acquainted with…

New Zealand Maritime Museum

Viaduct Harbour & Wynyard Quarter

This museum traces NZ’s seafaring history, from Māori voyaging canoes to the America’s Cup. Recreations include a tilting 19th-century steerage-class…

Auckland Domain

Covering about 80 hectares, this green swath contains the Auckland Museum, sports fields, interesting sculpture, formal gardens, wild corners and the…

Auckland's most recent installation of public art is this replica 'state house' – a form of public housing popular in NZ in the 1930s and 1940s – erected…

Albert Park

Hugging the hill on the city’s eastern flank, Albert Park is a charming Victorian formal garden overrun by students from the neighbouring University of…

Bastion Point

Politics, harbour views and lush lawns combine on this pretty headland with a chequered history. An elaborate clifftop garden mausoleum honours Michael…

Parnell Rose Garden

These formal gardens are blooming excellent from November to March. A stroll through Dove-Myer Robinson Park leads to peaceful Judges Bay and tiny St…

University Clock Tower

The University Clock Tower is Auckland's architectural triumph. This stately ‘ivory' tower (1926) tips its hat to art nouveau (the incorporation of NZ…

St Patrick’s Cathedral

Auckland’s Catholic cathedral (1907) is one of the city's loveliest buildings. Polished wood and Belgian stained glass lend warmth to the interior of the…

St Mary's Church

Next door to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, this wonderful wooden Gothic Revival church (1886) has a burnished interior and interesting stained-glass windows.

Torpedo Bay Navy Museum

The navy has been in Devonport since the earliest days of the colony. Its history is on display at this well-presented and often moving museum, focusing…

Mt Victoria

Mt Victoria was a Māori pā and is still a fortress of sorts, with the navy maintaining a presence.

This technology boffin's paradise is spread over two sites and 19 hectares. At the Great North Rd site look out for former Prime Minister Helen Clark’s…

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Auckland's Anglican cathedral is a hodgepodge of architectural styles, especially compared to St Mary's Church next door, a wonderful wooden Gothic…

Auckland Botanic Gardens

This 64-hectare park has more than 10,000 plants (including threatened species), dozens of themed gardens and an infestation of wedding parties. By car,…

Near the excellent children’s playground, this observatory offers regular stargazing and planetarium shows that aren’t dependent on Auckland’s fickle…

Kinder House

Built of volcanic stone, this 1857 home displays the watercolours and memorabilia of the Reverend Dr John Kinder (1819–1903), headmaster of the Church of…

A classic colonial mansion (1863), Alberton featured as a backdrop for some scenes in The Piano. It's a 1km walk from Mt Albert train station.

Achilles Point Lookout

A great vantage point for gazing over Auckland Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf. Traditional Māori carvings honour important historical chiefs.

Ewelme Cottage

Built in 1864 for a clergyman, this storybook cottage is an exceptionally well-preserved example of an early colonial house.

Ponsonby & Karangahape Rd

This reproduction of Michelangelo's Moses was made from marble from the same quarry as the original.

St Stephen’s Chapel

Tiny St Stephen's Chapel was built for the signing of the constitution of NZ's Anglican Church (1857).

A marvellous Carpenter Gothic house (1862), sitting amid lush, landscaped grounds.

Aotea Square

The civic heart of the city.

Rainbow’s End

It's a bit dull by international standards, but Rainbow's End has enough rides (including a corkscrew roller coaster) to keep the kids happy all day.

Karangahape Road Art Gallery Trail

Filling the spaces between ethnic restaurants, hip wine bars and vintage-clothing shops, Karangahape Rd is home to the highest concentration of studios…

The 15 Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Auckland

1. skyjump off the skytower.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Go Whale Watching In The Hauraki Gulf

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

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

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

Book a Whale Watching Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

Get Your Auckland War Memorial Museum Ticket

5. Try Traditional Hāngī

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

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

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

6. Watch The Stars On Great Barrier Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy a SEA LIFE Aquarium Ticket

9. Kayak To Rangitoto Island For Sunset

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

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

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

10. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth With Pavlova

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

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

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

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

11. Go Skiing In The Middle Of Summer

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

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

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

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

12. Check Out The Best Views From Mount Eden

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

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

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

Book an Auckland Sightseeing Tour

13. Relax At The Auckland Domain

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

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

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

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

14. Have The Best Summer Ever At Splore

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

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

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

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

15. Walk Across New Zealand In An Afternoon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Capturing the essence of travel through photography

Inspiring New Zealand travel through photography

15 Beautiful Places in Auckland New Zealand – We Love Our City! 

Auckland is my home, and it is full of natural beauty that is overlooked by people predisposed to see only a concrete jungle. We have lived in and explored many of the beautiful places in Auckland for about 20 years.

Built on the cones of 48 dormant and extinct volcanoes, it’s a vibrant city with an array of gorgeous places to explore. From breathtaking natural attractions to panoramic cityscapes, there is plenty to see.

So, get ready, and let us show you 15 of what we believe are the most beautiful places in Auckland. They are sure to take your breath away.  Whether you are here for a week, or arriving for just one day via cruise ship , we’ve got you covered.

We do know we have a slight bias for the North. After all, it’s part of the reason we chose to live here.

• 15 Beautiful places in Auckland

Click the expand / collapse icon in the upper left corner of the map for the details and interactive options.

Cornwall Park

Takaparawhau / bastion point, maungawhau / mount eden.

• Civic Theatre
• Auckland skyline

Shakespear Regional Park

Lucas creek falls.

• North Shore coastal beaches

Waitakere Ranges

Muriwai gannet colony, awhitu peninsula, hunua ranges.

• Omana Regional Park

Inside the Civic Theatre

Skyline at night, orewa beach, north shore coastal beaches and walkway, Ōmana regional park, did we include your favourite beautiful places in auckland.

Before we get into the details, be inspired…

Beautiful places in Auckland city

Don’t let its population density fool you. There are plenty of alluring places in the central city.

Centred around Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill, Cornwall Park features thousands of trees, historic buildings, the Stardome Observatory , remnants of a Māori pa, a playground, sports fields, an olive grove, farm animals, and more.

In fact, the park is all that Sir John Logan Campbell envisioned when he gifted it to the people of Auckland in 1901.

Our two favourite things to do here are to hike up to the One Tree Hill summit for the massive views or grab lunch and a coffee at the Cornwall Park cafe.

Whether you are after New Zealand history or a relaxing spot for a picnic, you won’t want to miss Bastion Point. Once up the hill from Mission Bay, you can relax in the gardens and enjoy expansive views overlooking Waitemata Harbour and the wider Hauraki Gulf.

The park is home to a number of historic sites, including the tomb and memorial gardens for former New Zealand Prime Minister Michael Joseph Savage.

It’s also a place to discover some of New Zealand’s tumultuous past . 

An extinct volcano, Maungawhau / Mount Eden, is the highest natural point in the city, rising 196 metres above sea level. Although driving to the top is no longer permitted (except for those with accessibility issues), the gradual walk to the summit is well worth the effort.

Each time we go, we meet visitors and locals enjoying the impressive 360º Auckland views. Additionally, we often stare in wonder at the now grass-covered 50-metre (160-foot) deep crater.

An iconic landmark, the volcano last erupted 28,000 years ago. Today, it is one of the most recognisable features of Auckland’s skyline. 

If you find yourself walking down Queen Street and the iconic Civic Theatre is open, be sure to stop in and enjoy its intricate Indian motif.

Magnificent on its exterior, you will be instantly impressed when entering, as it’s one of only a few dozen remaining “ atmospheric theatres ” in the world.

The main theatre holds nearly 2400 guests and first opened in 1929. If you get a chance, we recommend seeing a live show.

There are several places to enjoy the sunset overlooking the city skyline, each a bit different but all stunning to those who love city lights. The images just above feature three of my five favourites, the other two being Mt Eden (featured above) and Rangitoto after a kayak adventure out to the island and a climb to the summit. Reserve your kayak adventure here .

• Westhaven Marina With 1,800 recreational boats calling it home, Westhaven Marina is the largest yacht marina in the southern hemisphere. Visitors to the marina can take in breathtaking skyline Auckland views, as well as the stunning Waitemata Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf beyond.
• Takarunga / Mount Victoria Located in Devonport, just across the Harbour Bridge, it is an easy walk (on a trail or the steps) to the Mount Victoria summit . Here we can enjoy the sunset over city, a disappearing gun encasement, colourfully painted mushroom-shaped vents, and a few Maori pā terraces and pits.
• Motorway overpass I questioned whether or not to include my last image above, as the beauty comes from my camera’s slow shutter speed as the cars pass on the motorway and isn’t the view we see with our eyes while standing on the bridge. However, the photo won out.

Beautiful places in Auckland – north of city centre

North of Auckland city, across the Auckland Harbour Bridge, lies miles of stunning coastal North Shore beaches and the magnificent Hibiscus Coast.

If you follow us at all, you already know that Shakespear Park is one of my favourite spots in the region, with the big advantage for me of it being close to home.

Following the completion of a predator-proof fence in 2011, the park is now an open bird sanctuary. The park features hours of walking and hiking trails where we often see the waterfall, cows, or sheep. There are also three main beaches, a popular campground, and 360º views of the Hauraki Gulf from the lookout tower.

The park is home to a variety of rare plants and animals, including several skinks and kiwi birds .

The nearly 3km long Orewa Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Auckland, and for good reason. Located on the Hibiscus Coast, it features stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf.

In addition, the seaside community of Orewa offers a wide range of recreational facilities, including a nearby skate park, the 7.6km Estuary cycleway and walkway, and a number of restaurants.

What makes Orewa truly special is its gentle mix of natural beauty and holiday destination fun.

Ok, let’s be honest, Lucas Creek Falls probably doesn’t deserve a place here on its own, but it was more the surprise of finding this lovely forested path through Gills Reserve in the middle of the dense suburb of Albany that led us to something so pretty.

A short walk, it was a perfect break from the day.

The North Shore of Auckland is home to more than ten stunning golden-sand beaches, stretching from Cheltenham to Torbay.

In fact, there is one stunning coastal area after the next. Many are separated by cliffs revealing rocky walkways at low tide. The image above was my most recent low tide walk, exposing interesting marine life in the tide pools. Although, one of our personal favourite sections is Milford to Takapuna .

However, the long expanse of Browns Bay and Long Bay beaches are better suited for relaxation or swimming than tide pooling. The reality is that each beach offers a unique experience with its own set of activities and facilities.

Beautiful places in Auckland – west of city centre

The wild west coast is where we head for surfing, black sand, subtropical rainforests, and impressive coastal views.

The Waitakere Ranges are an area of lush native sub-tropical rainforest located west of Auckland city. The Waitakares cover an area of around 17,000 hectares, with the highest point being Te Toiokawharu, in the southern part of the ranges, which rises to 474 metres above sea level.

The area is home to a wide variety of native flora and fauna and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. In fact, there are over 250 kilometres of trails ranging from short walks to a 4-day hike. 

The 15-metre Karekare Falls (photoed) is one of my favourite picturesque spots and is well worth visiting. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the falls offer a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape.

The Waitakere Ranges are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the beauty of the New Zealand wilderness. It’s one of the best things to do in West Auckland .

Super popular with surfers, Piha Beach is located on Auckland’s West Coast. It’s world-renowned for its surf break and black sand beaches.

It is also home to the famous outcropping known as Lion Rock, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the area.

Piha Beach is a great spot for swimming, surfing, fishing, and simply taking in the natural beauty of the West Coast. If you’re looking for a  surfing lesson, check for discounts  depending on the day and times you choose. 

Muriwai beach is well known for its distinctive black sand and its breeding colony of Australian gannets.

The gannet colony, which hosts up to 1,200 breeding pairs at any given time, is a unique opportunity to see breeding birds and chicks in their natural habitat. The birds are generally here from August to March. Our best gannet images, including video of some of the chicks, can be found here .

Similar to Piha, it’s also a well-known black sand surf beach with nearby options for surf lessons. Reserve your Muriwai surf lessons here

Beautiful places in Auckland – south of city centre

It doesn’t seem to matter which direction you travel, there are lovely options everywhere. Here are our favourites south of the city.

The magnificent Āwhitu peninsula is  southwest of Auckland . A unique feature of the peninsula is its black sand on one side and white sand on the other.

At the end of the peninsula is the Manukau Heads lighthouse. Here, despite the wind, we climbed to the top and enjoyed spectacular views, including the sandbar responsible for the wreck of the HMS Orpheus . It remains the worst maritime disaster in  New Zealand’s nautical history .

We were glad to find it open, as it turns out to be one of the few remaining lighthouses that still allow visitors, and even better, it’s free!

If you have allocated enough time, be sure to stop for a hike through the Awhitu Regional Park on your way back down the Peninsula.

What makes the Hunua Ranges so special and beautiful is its pristine environment and the popular Hunua Falls along the Wairoa River. This stunning 30-metre cascade is a short walk from the carpark or part of a 3-hour loop.

Although there have been swimmers at the base each time we have visited, swimming is discouraged here due to safety issues.

The park covers 400 square kilometres with hours of hiking trails, and it’s the Auckland region’s largest forest. Bird watchers tend to flock to the eastern side of the park.

Tucked between Beachland and Maraetai Beach, Ōmana Regional Park’s gentle slopes and lovely views make this a fabulous place for a family picnic. We enjoyed the boardwalks and dirt trails that led us along the Beachlands-Maraetai Walkway and found ourselves equally engaged with bush walk sections as with the inland coastal views.

We visited at low tide, so swimming wasn’t really an option.

Final thoughts on beautiful places in Auckland

With panoramic Auckland views of the skyline and spectacular natural attractions, we tried to select the most breathtakingly beautiful places in the Auckland region.

We know there are hundreds more that could have been added to the list, especially if we included some of the islands of the Hauraki Gulf , like Rangitoto Island, Waiheke Island, or Kawau, all easy destinations to catch the ferry from the city.

Also, if we went a bit farther out in any direction, we might have added Tawharanui Regional Park, the marine reserve of Goat Island, and Duder Regional Park.

Want more? Check out some of the other stunning spots in New Zealand .

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These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), Bookabach (self-contained in NZ), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
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• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article on the most beautiful places in Auckland, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

More from Auckland you might also like … starting with these 75 free and nearly free things to do in the city

18 Short Walks in Auckland: Stunning Views on the Best Walks

20 Unique Restaurants in Auckland New Zealand to Try in 2024

Explore the Islands of the Hauraki Gulf – Auckland NZ

Queen Street Auckland: Self-Guided Walk Uncovers Quirky Facts

For more tips … join Explore New Zealand, the country’s largest NZ travel and photography group on Facebook (free).

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

February 9, 2023 at 3:43 am

Auckland is really a beautiful place. I love your photos. The skyline night time photos are fantastic. I’m glad you included the one with the skyline and the car lights. I love it.

Travelling Tam

February 6, 2023 at 8:42 pm

Auckland has such a fantastic combination of attractive man made and natural places to see! I love Maungawhau / Mount Eden and the view especially!

Linda (LD Holland)

February 6, 2023 at 5:57 am

Your posts are helping me build a long list of places to see when we finally get to New Zealand. I can see we will need several days in Auckland. And that this will be a great spot to use as a base to explore from. I love that there is such amazing outdoor spots so close to the city too. The beaches and waterfalls would surely draw us in.

Gallivanting Laura

February 6, 2023 at 5:47 am

Auckland looks incredible and so diverse! Waterfalls, beaches, extinct volcanoes, the city skyline… wow, I’d love to visit!

February 5, 2023 at 10:20 pm

This is super inspiring! New Zealand is so far away from where I am but it looks so beautiful! The cities and nature! I wish I get to visit someday ☺️

February 5, 2023 at 3:32 pm

What a walk down memory lane, you made me wish I was still there in my childhood home.

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Home » Oceania » New Zealand » Auckland

19 BEST Places to Visit in Auckland (2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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#1 – Auckland’s Sky Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#3 – Auckland War Memorial

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#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.

Get insured for your trip to Auckland!

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

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in Auckland?

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

What can you do in Auckland for free?

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

What can couples do in Auckland?

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on the Coolest Places to Visit in Auckland

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

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11 Best Places To See in Auckland

Auckland is a beautiful city with a wealth of cultural and natural attractions to explore. From iconic landmarks to art galleries and stunning parks , there are so many amazing things to see in Auckland. Here are 8 of the best places to see when you’re in this vibrant city, Auckland.

Table of Contents

The SkyTower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Auckland and offers stunning views over the city. It’s a great place to take photos or just admires the spectacular scenery.

If you are exploring Auckland in a campervan , this is a great stop to make. You can park your vehicle and explore the area on foot or catch a bus down to the waterfront.

Auckland Zoo

For animal lovers, Auckland Zoo is a must-see attraction. With over 1500 different species of animals, you’ll be sure to find something interesting here. The zoo also has plenty of activities for children, making it great for families.

Auckland Art Gallery

The Auckland Art Gallery is the largest art gallery in New Zealand and houses an extensive collection of both local and international works. You can explore the different galleries and exhibitions or take part in a tour to learn more about the history of art in the country.

Auckland Botanic Gardens

The Auckland Botanic Gardens is a great place to relax and explore the city’s natural beauty. With over 65 hectares of native plants, trees, and shrubs, it’s a great spot for a stroll or picnic.

Mount Eden is an extinct volcano located in the centre of Auckland. You can hike or drive up to the summit and admire incredible views over the city. There’s also a collection of interesting historical sites located here, making it an ideal place for a day trip.

Uncover the past and embark on a historical journey at your own pace, as renting a car in New Zealand opens the door to explore the rich cultural heritage the country has to offer. From ancient Maori settlements to colonial-era landmarks, every historical treasure is within your reach. Experience the convenience and freedom of discovering New Zealand’s historical wonders with a rental car from Go Rentals .

Auckland Museum

The Auckland Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of New Zealand. It has extensive galleries and exhibitions, as well as a planetarium for some out-of-this-world experiences.

Auckland Harbour Bridge

The Auckland Harbour Bridge is an iconic landmark that connects the north and south parts of the city. On a clear day, you can get stunning views of the harbour and surrounding area.

Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a must-see for nature lovers. It’s located just off the coast of Auckland and offers spectacular views and hikes. You can also take boat trips around the island to explore its fascinating geothermal features and native wildlife.

Waitemata Harbour

Waitemata Harbour is one of the perfect places to see for a leisurely stroll or picnic in Auckland. You can admire the stunning views of Rangitoto Island and take in the hustle and bustle of Auckland’s bustling city center. From here, you can spot some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as SkyTower and Mount Eden.

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is a great day trip from Auckland. Here, you can explore some of the most stunning beaches in the country or take a journey through the island’s vineyards and olive groves. You can also enjoy some delicious local seafood or explore the many galleries and boutiques.

Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium

Located on Auckland’s waterfront, Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium is a great place to explore the city’s underwater world. Here, you can learn about some of the fascinating marine life that calls New Zealand home.

Tips To Make the Most of Your Visit to Auckland

Since there are so many places to see and visit in Auckland, it can be difficult to decide where to go. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time in this incredible city:

Start Planning Early

Start planning your visit to Auckland as early as possible so that you can make the most of your time here. Don’t forget to research attractions, book tickets in advance, and make reservations for restaurants or accommodations.

Take Public Transportation When Possible

Public transportation can be more convenient than driving in the city, so consider taking buses and trains when possible. This is also a great way to explore parts of Auckland that you may not have seen otherwise. You can also rent a campervan or bike to get around.

Stay Flexible

Things don’t always go according to plan when you travel, so be flexible and open to new experiences. This way, you can make the most of your time in Auckland by exploring the off-the-beaten path and finding some hidden gems along the way.

Explore Beyond the City Centre

Auckland is more than just its city centre. Make sure to explore beyond the CBD and discover the many neighbourhoods that make up the city. You’ll find plenty of unique attractions, restaurants, and activities in these areas.

Auckland is an amazing city full of stunning sights, cultural attractions, and incredible nature. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an adventure-filled journey, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Auckland. With some planning and flexibility, you can make the most of your visit here.

I hope you enjoy our article, do check out more of our  amazing articles .

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Hey there! I'm Jesica, the dedicated writer at The Travel Vibes. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for discovery, I research and write about fascinating places around the world. Whether it's exploring ancient ruins or uncovering the latest urban gems, I bring you engaging and well-researched insights. Join me as we venture beyond the ordinary and discover the wonders of the world together!

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12 Top Tourist Attractions in Auckland

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

12. Auckland Art Gallery

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

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

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

11. Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium

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

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

10. New Zealand Maritime Museum

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

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

9. One Tree Hill

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Auckland Zoo

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

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

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

6. Tiritiri Matangi Island

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

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

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

5. Rangitoto Island

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

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

4. Waiheke Island

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

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

3. Mount Eden

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

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

2. Auckland War Memorial Museum

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

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

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

1. Sky Tower

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Auckland

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

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

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

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

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

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is a place filled with incredibly diverse attractions. Whether you’re an avid thrill-seeker looking for adrenaline, a nature lover visiting for the local mountains or an art aficionado on the lookout for the local cultural scene, New Zealand’s largest city is sure to keep you captivated. Here are the 25 must-visit attractions in Auckland.

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The Sky Tower

Along with being a prominent feature of Auckland’s skyline, the Sky Tower is the tallest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Fine diners, adventurous bungee jumpers and travellers wanting to catch some of the best views of the city are among those attracted to this magnificent architectural landmark.

Mt Eden (Maungawhau)

Auckland’s highest natural point, Mount Eden ( Maungawhau in Maori), is a dormant volcanic cone that rises 196m (643ft) above sea level. An astonishing bowl-like crater with a depth of 50m (160ft), it is as much a part of the summit’s appeal as the spectacular 360-degree city views on show.

One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie)

One Tree Hill is a 182-m (597-ft) volcano that serves as an important memorial place for Maori and other New Zealanders. Maungakiekie (the mountain of the kiekie vine), was home to the largest indigenous pā (defensive settlement site) prior to European colonisation. A 30-m (100-ft) stone obelisk was also erected on top of the summit to mark Auckland’s centenary commemorations in 1940.

Waiheke Island

Take a 40-minute ferry ride from Downtown Auckland to reach the popular Waiheke Island . The island is situated on the Hauraki Gulf and has a length of 19km (12mi). Visitors are drawn to this local gem for its famous vineyards, picturesque beaches and wondrous natural landscapes.

Just west of Auckland is the black-sand Piha Beach , famous for its strong surf conditions and rugged scenery. Landscape photographers are particularly drawn here to take in Lion Rock and its Maori carvings. Film buffs will also know the picturesque beach for its cameo in movies such as the 1993 film The Piano.

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Tiritiri Matangi Island

If you love nature and wildlife, a visit to Tiritiri Matangi Island is a must. The island, which can be reached from Auckland city via ferry, is a wildlife sanctuary for threatened and endangered native birds and reptile species. After a brief introductory walk from a local ranger on arrival, visitors are welcome to join guided walks or simply explore the surrounding tracks and beaches on their own.

Shakespear Regional Park

At the tip of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, 50km (30mi) north of Central Auckland, Shakespear Regional Park is the most visited and accessible open sanctuary in the region. With a focus on conservation and farming, the park provides a pest-free habitat for endangered wildlife – to the extent that dogs and other pets aren’t permitted here.

Great Barrier Island

Also known as Aotea, Great Barrier Island is the sixth-largest island in New Zealand. Along with featuring the only multi-day wilderness walk in the Auckland region (the Aotea Track), the Great Barrier Island is also home to an array of spectacular beaches and was the first island in the world to hold Dark Sky Sanctuary status.

Rangitoto Island

Having come into existence approximately 600 years ago, Rangitoto Island is home to Auckland’s youngest volcano . Wherever there is a view of the Hauraki Gulf, you’ll be able to spot the Rangitoto summit – you could say it’s a bit of a local icon due to its prominence. The island is a popular hiking destination as well as a favourite spot for kayakers and boaties.

Mission Bay

Mission Bay is quite close to Auckland’s central business district on Tamaki Drive, and Aucklanders are particularly drawn to the local beach here. Mission Bay is also renowned for its cafes and restaurants, plus the picturesque park that lies right on the doorstep.

Auckland Botanic Gardens

The Auckland Botanic Gardens, in the South Auckland suburb of Manurewa, 24km (15mi) from the city, comprises 64ha (158 acres) of gorgeous blooms, foliage and native forestry that are sure to enthral visitors. Admission is free, and the garden organises a number of events such as workshops and school holiday programmes for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Auckland Domain

As well as being the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain is the largest. It comprises the entire explosion crater and most of the crater rim of the Pukekawa Volcano, and is home to several sports fields, tranquil walking tracks and notable tourist attractions such as the Domain Wintergardens and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Auckland War Memorial Museum

The Auckland War Memorial Museum was the first of its kind in New Zealand. It currently serves as a memorial site for war casualties and holds some of the country’s most significant archival records and heritage treasures. The museum is notable for its extensive collection of Maori and Pacific artefacts and its annual Anzac Day dawn service commemorations.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

With a collection that features more than 15,000 works, the Auckland Art Gallery is New Zealand’s largest art institution. The gallery originally opened in 1887 and has since undergone a massive architectural transformation. Its modern building is home to artworks and collections from New Zealand, the Pacific and abroad, while also hosting an array of international exhibitions throughout the year.

The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) is the ultimate go-to for curious minds. Innovative machinery-based exhibitions, remarkable aviation displays, a model railway and a collection of fascinating historic relics come together to educate museum visitors about the evolution of transport and technology in New Zealand and its effect on life at large.

Auckland Zoo

The Auckland Zoo has come a long way since opening its doors in 1922. Along with the largest collection of wildlife in New Zealand, the zoo has expanded its scope of operations to include a number of conservation and environmental research activities. Visiting animal lovers can get involved in behind-the-scenes experiences, safari nights and zookeeper talks, among other events and activities.

Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium

Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium has been marvelling marine wildlife enthusiasts since 1985. The aquarium was the brainchild of diver and marine archaeologist Kelly Tarlton, who not only built this remarkable aquatic attraction out of unused sewage tanks but is also known for constructing the first buoyancy compensator suit in New Zealand.

As an architectural landmark, performing arts hub and live music venue, the Civic is bound to impress its spectators. Built in 1929, this was the first talkie cinema to emerge in New Zealand. Nowadays, it is a theatre venue with more than 2,300 seats and a starry auditorium designed to recreate the southern hemisphere skies. The Civic is mostly open for performances, though special guided tours are offered on occasion.

Michael Joseph Savage Memorial

The Michael Joseph Savage Memorial commemorates New Zealand’s first Labour prime minister who was widely respected by both Maori and European New Zealanders for his role in the development of the country’s social welfare system. The memorial is situated on Bastion Point and features an obelisk and mausoleum surrounded by beautifully landscaped garden grounds.

New Zealand Maritime Museum

Discover Aotearoa’s ocean-faring history at the New Zealand Maritime Museum situated at Viaduct Harbour. This Pacific Island nation’s history is intertwined with a long tradition of travelling by boat. Waves of vessels arrived from Europe in the 19th century to modern-day trade. Visitors can cruise the Waitemata Harbour on a heritage boat, the Nautilus.

Manukau Heads Lighthouse

Take in fantastic views of the Manukau Heads and the Waitakere Ranges with a walk up 120 steps to the old wooden lighthouse, on top of the Awhitu Peninsula. You can even walk around the lightkeepers balcony. Gates are open from 9am to 5pm and to enter the lighthouse you just need to pay a small donation. Keep an eye out for the rare Māui dolphins, which can sometimes be seen in the surf below.

Arataki Visitor Centre

Go for a picnic at the Arataki Visitor Centre, an outdoor park that is the gateway to the Waitakere Ranges. Learn more about Maori culture by viewing the 11-metre (36-ft) pou (post), which is a guardian to the visitor centre and the ranges. The whakairo (carvings) are carved from the kauri tree by Te Kawerau ā Maki, the local mana whenua (guardians of the land). They tell the story of the well-known ancestors of Te Kawerau ā Maki.

Tāwharanui Open Sanctuary

Only a 90-minute drive from Auckland city centre is Tāwharanui Open Sanctuary, a reserve aimed at protecting the takahē, a large, colourful flightless bird that was thought to be extinct for a long time until they were rediscovered in Fiordland in 1948. They are still regarded as vulnerable as there are only about 400 alive today, of which eight reside at the sanctuary.

Ōtuataua Stonefields

Go back in time to about 1300CE to the Ōtuataua Stonefields in Māngere, an archaeological site that depicts how early Polynesian settlers adapted to growing food in their new home. Featuring a series of ancient stone walls that still exist today, this site provides insight into the early Maori way of life.

Additional reporting by Bianca Ackroyd

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Blooming Marvels

The 14 most beautiful gardens in auckland you can visit.

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

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

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

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

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

Auckland Botanic Gardens

102 Hill Road, The Gardens

Open daily, free entry

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

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

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

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

Ayrlies Garden

125 Potts Road, Whitford

Open weekdays, $20 admission

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

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

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

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

Cornwall Park Gardens

Green Lane West, Epsom

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

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

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

Domain Wintergardens

Wintergarden Road, Parnell

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

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

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

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

Eden Gardens

24 Omana Avenue, Epsom

Open daily except Tuesday, $12 admission

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

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

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

Government House Garden

14 Glenfell Place, Epsom

By appointment only, free entry

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

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

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

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

Highwic Garden

40 Gillies Avenue, Epsom

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

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

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

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

Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens

1481 Kaipara Coast Highway, Kaukapakapa

Open daily, $15 admission

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

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

Mincher Garden

338 Coatesville Riverhead Highway, Coatesville

By appointment only, $20 admission

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

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

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

194 Whitmore Road, Tāwharanui

By appointment only; admission is payable .

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

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

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

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

Parnell Rose Gardens

85-87 Gladstone Road, Parnell

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

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

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

Totara Waters Subtropical Garden

89 Totara Road, Whenuapai

By appointment only, $10 admission

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

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

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

83 Sunnyside Rd, Coatesville

By appointment only, $15 admission

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

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

West Lynn Garden & Butterfly House

73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn

Open daily, $3 admission

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

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

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

Wrights Watergardens

128 Mauku Road, Patumahoe

Open Thursday-Sunday, $8 admission

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

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

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

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

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

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

But really, why not just visit them all?

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Top 10 Natural Attractions in Auckland

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, islands, beaches, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries.

Auckland: a traveller’s first stop for their travels in New Zealand… Usually. But let’s be honest, travellers in New Zealand are not here for the cities, so many make the mistake of leaving straight away in search of the wilderness that New Zealand is famous for! However, if you are staying in Auckland for work or need a quick shot of nature right after landing, then this is the list for you.

By no means is Auckland all about city life. In fact, it has many wonderful natural experiences in close proximity, from superb surf beaches to sanctuary islands. If you know what to do and where to go in Auckland, it will be a mighty long time before you get bored.

Plus, for more ways to connect with nature, check out the  10 Best Walks in Auckland and find a place to stay using The 50 Best Accommodations in Auckland .

1. Rotoroa Island

The small island of Rotorua is only a 1h30min ferry trip away from the busy Auckland city centre. The island features stunning beaches and sculptures, but it is more commonly known for being Auckland’s newest wildlife sanctuary, releasing the likes of kiwi birds, saddlebacks, reptiles and more. Get your ferry ticket on Viator or Tripadvisor .

2. Whale and Dolphin Safari

Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is one of the most biologically and geographically diverse marine parks in the world. In fact, whales and dolphins are seen on most trips! Check out the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari on Viator or Tripadvisor .

3. Rangitoto Island

A local’s favourite, Rangitoto is easy to access, cheap to travel to, and a lot of fun to explore. Featuring lava fields, lava caves, a large crater, and a stunning view over the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland’s “baby volcano” is a must-see when visiting the city of sails. How about kayaking to Rangitoto Island for the sunset? Find out more on Viator and Tripadvisor .

4. Muriwai Beach

Home to a huge colony of gannets, the west coast beach is not to be missed! The rugged coastline overlooking black sand beaches is populated by thousands of birds that are incredibly fun to watch come and go. Check out more activities in the area in the 6 Magical Things to Do in Muriwai .

5. Cornwall Park

Home to One Tree Hill, the park is probably the best panoramic view of Auckland city centre. But the climb up passes through a fine array of trees and dense plains on which sheep and cows are grazing. And if you are the sort of person who gets hungry easily, pack your BBQ kit as the park has free wood BBQs.

6. Great Barrier Island

The huge island is Aucklanders’ favourite! In fact, in summer it gets quite hard to secure a spot on the ferry, especially if you are planning to take your car. At Great Barrier Island, you will find a lot of hikes and walks, pristine beaches and even hot springs! But the Glenfern Sanctuary Wildlife Trust is not to be missed neither! Plan your trip with our Great Barrier Island – Guide for Backpackers .

7. Piha Beach

Mostly known for its surf, the black sand beach is one of the most picturesque of the Auckland area. Climb the Lions Rock for a 360-degree view of the beach or walk through native forest on the hills nearby: there is a lot to do after surfing. Check out activities in the area in the 6 Priceless Things to Do in Piha .

8. Waitakere Ranges

Covering over 16,000 hectares (39,537 acres), the Waitakere Rages Regional Park is Auckland’s crown jewel. Gorgeous beaches, lush native forest, and worthwhile waterfalls await visitors that willingly get lost along the way.

9. Auckland Domain

Sick of the hustle and bustle of the city but don’t have the time or the means to leave it right here and now? Head to the Auckland Domain in the heart of Auckland to find a bit of peace in this huge park. The Domain holds the Auckland Museum, the duck pond, winter gardens, bush walks and sports fields. Find out more about the Auckland Museum on Viator and Tripadvisor . It’s one of the awesome 15 Free or Cheap Things to Do in Auckland .

10. Goat Island Marine Reserve

As the world’s first underwater reserve, Goat Island Marine Reserve is one of Auckland’s most famous attractions. You can choose to stay dry and take a glass-bottom boat tour or get stuck in by renting scuba or snorkel gear.

More About Natural Attractions in Auckland

• 10 Auckland Must-Dos
• 10 Alternative Things To Do in Auckland
• 10 Unique Beaches in New Zealand

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

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2024])
• Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])

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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• 10 Best Places To Visit In Auckland For An Unforgettable NZ Vacay

11 Apr 2023

Verdant green suburbs or skyscrapers , Auckland has the best of all. It would be pretty fair to call it a sin if you’re missing out on this lovely city on your New Zealand vacation . The city is much like a canvas, on which you can paint memories you’ll always cherish.

Thanks to its geographical location, and modern infrastructure, there’s no end to what you can explore; from the lush Mount Eden to the Sky Tower – one of the tallest buildings of New Zealand.

Famous places to visit in Auckland for fun & adventure

1. sky tower – touch the sky.

The iconic 328-meters-tall Sky Tower dominates Auckland’s skyline. This observation and telecommunication tower is also a hub for tourists. In fact it is the best among top Auckland tourist attractions. Visit the Sky Tower to admire the view, go for adventure activities, and enjoy luxury dining.

Entry fee : INR 1900 per person for adults | INR 735 per person for children between 6-14 years | None for children below 5 years

Timings : 8:30 am to 10:30 pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 8:30 am to 11:30 pm (Friday and Saturday)

Things to do : Dining in the revolving restaurant, Orbit 360˚, and adrenaline adventure such as sky jumping and sky walking

Note : The Sky Tower may be closed sometimes due to adverse weather conditions

2. Rainbow’s End – Enjoy to your heart’s desire

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One of the fun places in Auckland for those with a young heart, Rainbow’s End is the largest theme park in New Zealand. The rides vary right from kid-friendly to more thrilling ones like the Log Flume, Corkscrew Roller Coaster, and Power Surge. The park also features a special kids’ zone for children below 8 years.

Entry fee : INR 3800 per person for adults | INR 3100 per person for children

Timings : 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (Open all days)

What’s special : Rainbow’s End organizes special events at night on various occasions

Other recommended theme parks in Auckland : Silverdale Adventure Park and Vector Wero Whitewater Park

3. Queen Street – Nightlife, shopping, and more

The hub of Auckland attractions, the Queen Street is flecked with restaurants, cafes and shops. At night, it turns all the more enchanting with many local theater performances, and live music shows. Art aficionados too have a lot to gulp as they stroll through the Auckland Art Gallery, which exhibits artworks from around the world.

Highlights of Queen Street : Explore fashion hotspot – High Street & Chancery, try out adrenaline activities in Sky Tower, and grab the best food in the city

Must Read: 20 Famous New Zealand Tourist Attractions That Are Staggeringly Beautiful

Beautiful places to visit in Auckland for splendid natural views

4. cornwall park – recreational hub of the city.

When you’re in New Zealand, you cannot miss this expansive parkland which is a peaceful hideout for people to unwind and indulge in recreational activities. Cornwall Park, along with having avenues lined with trees, has ancient heritage sites, farms, bistros & cafes, and a sports ground. The volcanic cone, called One Tree Hill is one of the most salient features of the Cornwall Park. Still thinking of the best places to visit in Auckland New Zealand?

Timings : 7:00 am to dusk (Closing time varies from season to season)

Other parks in Auckland : Auckland Domain, Long Bay Regional Park, Auckland North Shore Motels & Holiday Park, and Ambury Regional Park

5. Waitemata Harbour – Crystal clear waters and glistening skyline of Auckland

Providing the main sea-access to Auckland Waitemata Harbour, for the same reason, is also known as Auckland Harbour. The name Waitemata comes from the Maori language and means obsidian glass. It was named so owing to the sparkling water which resembles dark volcanic glass found in the region by early-settlers.

Waitemata Harbour is counted as one of the best tourist attractions in Auckland as it allows a magnificent view of the Auckland city, something you’d want to glance at forever.

Things to do : Boat ride, sailing, and cruise lunch

Other harbours in Auckland : Manukau Harbour and Pine Harbour

6. Rangitoto Island – Flaunting the youngest of Volcanic cones

In your NZ itinerary, do not forget to add Rangitoto Island , one of the most iconic islands of the country. It houses the largest and youngest of the 48 volcanic-cones in Auckland. It has its history dating back to 600 years, when it suddenly emerged from the sea.

Frequent ferries ply between Auckland and Rangitoto, making it among the easiest places to visit near Auckland. Some of the other facilities include toilets, and walking tracks.

Things to do : Guided sea kayaking trip, night kayak, and 4WD road train guided tour

Other beautiful islands in Auckland : Waiheke Island, Motutapu Island, Motuihe Island, Rakino Island, and Ponui Island

7. Mount Eden – A suburb with its own taste of life

Glancing at the glimmering skyline of one of the most influential cities in the world is nothing less than a delight. The suburb, Mount Eden gives a hypnotic 360 degree view of the city. It is one of the best places to relax and treat your eyes!

Also, please your tastebuds with a local lunch in a cafe in the area. Tour the heritage spots and learn about the Maori community. With lush green environs and magnificent beauty, Mount Eden is indeed one of the most beautiful places to visit in Auckland New Zealand.

Popular attractions : Mount Eden Prison, Firth Castle, and Whitecliffe College Of Arts & Design

Suggested Read: 15 Fun Things To Do In New Zealand

Best places to visit in Auckland to witness the marine & wildlife

8. auckland zoo – home to the largest collection of animals in new zealand.

Covering an area of 40 acres, the Auckland Zoo is known to house a large number of animals and birds. This is among the most fun places in Auckland as a visit is not merely about looking at the animals from afar, behind a fence; there are a number of experiences that make the visit special. There are photography workshops, safari nights, and behind-the-scenes experiences to make your visit into a memorable one.

Entry fee : INR 1900 per person for adults | INR 1500 per person for senior-citizens | INR 800 per person for children between 4 to 14 years

Timings : 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (Winter timing) (Open all days)

Animals in Auckland Zoo : African lion, Asian small-clawed otter, Asian elephant, cheetah, giraffe, cotton-top tamarin, red panda, zebra, Southern-white rhinoceros, spider monkey, and Subantarctic fur seal

9. Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium – Marine miracles for you

Yet another of the popular places to visit in Auckland is Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium. Named after a famous marine archaeologist and diver, this public-aquarium has one of the largest penguin colonies in the world to show. That’s not all, the Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium houses the biggest species of stingrays, along with the largest collection of sharks in whole of New Zealand.

Entry fee : INR 2100 per person for adults | 1200 per person for children above 2 years | None for children under 2 years

Timings : 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (Open all days)

Historical places to visit in Auckland that walk through the legendary past

10. auckland war memorial museum – peek into the rich history of new zealand.

One of the most popular places to visit in Auckland, Auckland War Memorial Museum narrates New Zealand’s natural and military history. The building’s neo-classical styled architecture deserves a special mention.

The Auckland War Memorial Museum was inaugurated back in 28 November 1929, and since then it has become an important landmark of the city.

Entry fee : Starts from – INR 1700 per person for adults | INR 670 per person for children between 6 and 14 years | None for children below 5 years

Timings : 10 am to 5 pm (Open all days, except Christmas)

What’s special : Collection of Pacific Island and Maori treasures and artefacts; permanent exhibition covering wars of the country; exhibitions

Other best museums in Auckland : New Zealand Maritime Museum, Auckland Art Gallery, and Museum of Transport and Technology

Further Read: 20 Best Beaches In New Zealand For A Romantic Holiday You Always Wanted

Make a note of all these places to visit in Auckland and make sure you’re don’t give any of these a miss when you’re in New Zealand!

Disclaimer:   TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Auckland

What is Auckland famous for?

Auckland is one of the largest pacific cities in the world and one of the major cities in New Zealand. Auckland is also called “The City of Sails” because of the coasts on both its sides. Apart from that, Auckland is quite popular for its towering buildings, nightlife, shopping and more!

What can you do in Auckland for free?

Some of the budget friendly and adventurous things to do in Auckland include hiking in the regional areas, exploring the Arataki Center, climbing a volcano, exploring the pristine beaches, visiting the waterfront, and exploring the Auckland Museum.

Is it safe to visit Auckland during covid times?

New Zealand is the first country to contain the spread of covid, hence the Government of New Zealand have issued some important covid guidelines to be followed by all the visitors such as the visitors including the citizens must be vaccinated and provide a negative RT PCR report done 48 hours prior to departure. A 10 days quarantine on arrival is also mandatory for everyone in order to enter New Zealand.

What is there to do in Auckland at night?

Some of the things to do in Auckland at night include exploring the night market, stargazing at Stardome, escape rooms, dining at harbor cruise, night canyoning at Piha, and sunset sea kayaking.

What is the best area to stay in Auckland?

Some of the best areas to stay in Auckland are the Newmarket (best for retail and public transportation), Mt. Eden (best for family stay and dining options), Mission Bay(comprises some of the best beaches), and Piha(known for watersports).

What can you do in Auckland?

Some of the most adventurous things to do in Auckland are Sky Walking and Sky Jumping at Sky Tower, Sailing in Yachts, Zip Lining and Jet Skiing at Waiheke Island, Taking a Waitomo Glowworm Cave Express Tour, exploring the Beaches on both East Coast and West Coast.

Which is the best time to visit Auckland?

March to May and September to November is the most perfect time to visit Auckland as it is not crowded and you can enjoy the warm climate, indulge in several adventurous activities, and explore some of the best beaches.

Is Auckland expensive?

Auckland is one of the most expensive places in New Zealand with a very high cost of living for local residents. Food, rentals, and transportation is also quite expensive as compared to other states of New Zealand.

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19 Best Photography Spots in Auckland, New Zealand

Looking for the best photography spots in Auckland? In this post, join me on this virtual photography tour around the city, from instagrammable places in the CBD and Harbour to the North Shore and hidden gems you might not yet have thought of. Although North Island is spectacular, Auckland isn’t best known for its photogenic scenery. With cities like Melbourne and Sydney or further afield in Europe being lauded for their ‘instagrammable spots’, and tourists heading to the South Island’s beautiful mountains and often seeing nothing more of Auckland than the airport and Mt Eden! But there is far more to see – and photograph – in New Zealand’s largest city. You just have to know where to look! 

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

I still live and work full-time in Auckland , so for more regular tips for photo spots and things to do in Auckland , you can follow me on Instagram. Of course, I’ll still update this post monthly as I visit more photoshoot locations in Auckland.

This post is split up into three easy-to-read sections:

• CBD & HARBOUR
• CITY SUBURBS
• NORTH SHORE
• BONUS SPOTS

Table of Contents

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN AUCKLAND CBD & HARBOUR :

1. britomart fairylights.

Near Britomart Station, you can find these fairy lights, so they’re an easy detour if you’re going into the city. I really love the way the vibrant skyscrapers and twinkling fairy lights mix together, giving this hard-working city a magical glow amidst the commuters and roadworks. Definitely one of the best photo spots in Auckland after dark!

2. AUCKLAND SKY TOWER

I was pretty confident that I WOULDN’T end up listing this as a photo spot before I visited; however, I was pleasantly surprised! Viewing platforms often make it complicated to get good photos due to barriers, misty windows or terrible inside lighting. Plus, a viewing platform is often in the city’s most prominent sight, and thus WON’T be in your shot, haha. Okay, so the windows were tinted, and the lights did reflect in the shot, but I still think it’s one of the coolest Auckland Instagram spots. And it’s cool that you can see Rangitoto or the Waitakeres in the distance too! 

My best tip for visiting the Auckland Sky Tower is to stay over sunset – this way, you get to see the city in daylight AND at night within your one-hour ticket window. Both my photos were taken within around 30 minutes of each other!

3. QUEEN’S WHARF

Walk along the pathway from Auckland Harbour to see some more potential photography locations. I thought this red pathway with the city buildings behind and the little blue wooden hut thingymajig could make for a good shot. What do you reckon? 

4. AUCKLAND HARBOUR BRIDGE VIEWS

Although the Auckland Harbour Bridge isn’t the MOST photogenic piece of construction (I’m sorry, guys, but it does kinda look like a squashed version of its Sydney counterpart), it’s still striking at night time! 

I have to admit, I have become fond of seeing it stretch out across the Northshore and city, and it does look pretty sexy if you find the right angle. Sexy for a bridge, anyways.

At sunset, you can view the bridge from many spots. From the left, you can visit Herne Bay Beach or Home Bay Beach Reserve (left), and from the right, there’s a good angle from Silo Park (right). Though personally, I think it looks best looking over the water from the North Shore.

5. ALBERT PARK

This sweet little park is in the middle of the city, making it a relaxing spot for city workers to take a break from the busy streets. From the picturesque bandstand to the Sky Tower above, some great angles can be found here.

BEST PHOTO SPOTS IN THE AUCKLAND CITY SUBURBS :

6. domain museum.

The domain museum is one of the few aesthetic buildings in Auckland that really reminded me of Europe, with its columns and ‘historical-esque’ architecture. 

There are also some great views from the museum back down over the harbour, too.

7. DOMAIN WINTERGARDENS

After visiting the museum, Domain Wintergardens are one of my absolute favourite photo spots in Auckland! Since I work full-time (and I’m here on a limited visa), I knew I might never see the famous lakeside lupins in the South Island … but thankfully, this Summer, I got to see them in the Wintergardens instead! There are two greenhouses and a little walk between ferns, so there are lots of angles here. I didn’t take any wide angles as there were other people taking photos here too during my visit – but who can blame them?! Alongside the colourful flowers, the dome-like construction of the glasshouses makes for a very aesthetic backdrop. 

The displays switch over the year, giving you plenty of reasons to visit again. 

8. AUCKLAND BOTANIC GARDENS

For more garden scenery, Auckland Botanic Gardens is definitely worth a look. Enjoy the native flora and fauna while exploring the forest, or find your favourite little spot between the vibrant blooms to take your pose. The most picturesque spot in the Botanic Gardens will, of course, shift depending on the season in which you visit. (Although, that’s also an excellent excuse to visit more than once!) I visited in Spring when the cherry blossoms were in bloom. It was beautiful! 

Mt Eden’s grassy crater is the first thing you’ll notice when walking up to the summit – it’s 50m deep and very photogenic with the Auckland city stretching out beyond it. The volcano last erupted 15000 years ago.

When you reach the top – at 196m high – you get a 360 panoramic view over Auckland’s surrounds – you can see everything from the famous Auckland Sky Tower and the North Shore beyond to the Waitakere Ranges and the Pacific Ocean. It’s this 360 vantage point that makes Mt Eden the perfect sunset spot – no matter what time of year you visit, you will always get to see the sunset in one direction!

Little anecdote – when I first moved to Auckland, I asked for recommendations on what to do here… And only got 2 suggestions over and over; Mt Eden and Giapo ice cream. (I mean, at least Giapo is one of the many vegan-friendly eateries in Auckland .) I was so scared that I’d arrive here, and there was literally nothing else to do, haha!

Mt Eden is also one of the many beautiful spots to visit on a walk across Auckland , from coast to coast in one day.

The free car park is 300m from the summit. Alternatively, take the train from Auckland Britomart or Newmarket to Mt Eden Station. From here it is a 25-minute walk to the summit. Various buses also stop at Mt Eden Road, from where there is a short walk to the summit (usually 600m – 1km depending on the direction you are coming from).

Alternatively, visit ONE TREE HILL.

For another worthy contender for best sunset photography in Auckland, you could also try One Tree Hill!

10. MISSION BAY

Another great beach in Auckland and one of the easiest to get to from the city since it’s a 10-minute train away. Mission Bay has a lovely sandy beach, making it an excellent spot for sunrise or summer photography.

My favourite photography viewpoint from here is a short walk down the road to the car park next to Tamaki Yacht Club. It’s actually marked on Google maps as ‘Scenic View Point’!

11. MICHAEL JOSEPH SAVAGE MEMORIAL PARK

This spot is next to Mission Bay so you can visit all these Auckland Instagram spots simultaneously. My personal favourite place to take photos here is ‘Bastion Point’, which has a beautiful view back over the city. 

The vibrant gardens below are part of the memorial to Michael Savage. The symmetry and beautifully maintained gardens are more than photogenic, but a vital reminder of a political shift in New Zealand when Michael Savage became the first Labour politician of New Zealand in 1935. He is remembered for joining Britain in declaring war against Germany in 1939 and for his social welfare policies.

12. NELSON STREET CYCLEWAY

Oh gosh, well… if there were such a thing as the ‘most instagrammable place in Auckland’, then this would undoubtedly be it. There, I said it. 

And not only did I say it, but I walked down Nelson Street Cycleway – better-known as the ‘pink street’ just to take this photo. (I must say it’s a great walk with some lovely city views!) Be respectful if you’re taking photos here – check for cyclists, move away as soon as you spot them, and don’t visit during peak or commuter times. I visited one evening, which corresponded with the Summer holidays, and it was pretty quiet.

But seriously, guys, if you’re one of those people who declares, ‘I know not what the word Instagrammable means and thus refuse to include it in my vocabulary., then well… Here it is. This is what an ‘instagrammable place’ means, okay? 

Whether we like it or not. 😉

 […at least until Instagram slowly dies forever cuz everyone gets so fed up with pink streets idk]

MOST INSTGRAMMABLE PLACES ON THE NORTH SHORE: 

I’ll add more North Shore spots to this list of photoshoot locations Auckland over the next few weeks, so keep an eye out!

13. NORTH HEAD

This is my favourite sunset so far in Auckland! It’s a great vantage point for the sunset (or sunrise, depending on which time of year you visit) as the sun drops directly behind the skyscrapers and the Auckland Sky Tower. The greenery in the foreground and the vast harbour beyond make this spot seriously photogenic. 

14. CYRIL BASSETT VC LOOKOUT

This is another well-known Auckland sunset spot with some of the city’s best views over the harbour.

15. TAKAPUNA BEACH

As if you needed more excuses to head to one of Auckland’s best-loved beaches, Takapuna offers a great view of Rangitoto Island . Definitely, the place to go for a sunset, even in Winter when you can head to one of the cute eateries in the area after dusk.  

16. TAKAPUNA ROCK POOLS

Follow the path from the left-hand side of Takapuna Beach car park, and you’ll come across these reflective rock pools. This was one of my favourite photography spots here in Auckland. Although I’m a ‘beginner’ in photography (no sh*t, you’re thinking), it was great to practise composition here… I’m borrowing my friend’s phone now; I’d love to come back here if I can save up for a proper camera one day. 

17. SULPHUR BEACH RESERVE

Um, yeah, so I took this photo at 7am from the bus on the way to work… as you can tell.

But there’s a little spot to pull over here (also marked on Google Maps as ‘Auckland Skyline View’ and it’s a great place to capture the sunrise over the city. I highly recommend avoiding this spot during peak times since commuters need to take this route more than you do, and the bridge gets exceptionally busy. (In fact, always bear the Harbour Bridge traffic in mind when planning a trip over to the Northshore.) You can always take a phone shot from the bus if you must, eh? 

BONUS AUCKLAND PHOTO SPOTS :

Outside the city centre, there are plenty more awesome locations for photographers, a short drive or ferry ride away.

18. RANGITOTO

As well as being the incredible backdrop for photos taken on Takapuna and Mission Bay beaches, you can also visit Rangitoto itself, the largest and youngest volcano in Auckland.

As well as superb views over Auckland from the Summit Lookout, you can also get some interesting vantage points of the lava caves, historic bach houses, or the Beacon Lighthouse.

The only disadvantage from a photography standpoint is that ferry times leave after sunrise/before sunset for safety reasons, but it’s still worth going for a day trip nonetheless. 

You can read my blog post here for more ideas on what to do in Rangitoto .

19. PIHA & THE WEST COAST

The West Coast beaches have to be THE most photogenic places in Auckland, right? From the black sand volcanic beaches to the winding coastal walks , luscious rainforests and gloriously photogenic waterfalls.

Below are photos of Piha Beach and Kitekite Falls, but for more ideas of things to do in Piha and the West Coast, you can read more on my blog post here . Alternatively, combine photography with stunning coastline and wineries by taking a day trip to Waiheke Island .

MORE PHOTOGENIC DAY TRIPS FROM AUCKLAND:

Mangawhai (left)

Cathedral Cove and Coromandel

Complete list of Best Auckland Day Trips

Hamilton Gardens and Bridal Veil Falls (right)

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Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

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Such beautiful spots! I can’t wait to go to New Zealand and spend as much time as possible there enjoying sights (sites…) like these.

I always like to know some nice photo spots before I travel to a new city so thanks for sharing these!

I can’t wait to visit New Zealand again. I didn’t spend nearly enough time in Auckland last time! These spots are so gorgeous!

Wish I knew about Britomart Fairylights when we visited Auckland. Mt Eden and Albert park were some of my favourite places in the city. This list sure has some lovely areas and lovely pictures!! 😀

Wow! All of these photo spots are so beautiful Cassie. I didn’t realize Auckland was this stunning. 🙂

Auckland looks awesome! We were hoping to visit last year but weren’t able to – hopefully this year! Thanks for this helpful guide for the best photo spots – bookmarking for future travels!

Cassie these photos are all so beautiful! I can’t wait until the Aus-NZ travel bubble is up and going and I can come visit all these spots!

I only had 1 day in Auckland so I am really eager to return and see all these beautiful places myself.

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Things To Do In Auckland

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1. Sky Tower

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

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

2. Cornwall Park

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

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

3. Rangitoto Island

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

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

4. Waiheke Island

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

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

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

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

6. Auckland Zoo

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

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

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7. Auckland Domain

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

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

8. One Tree Hill

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

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

9. Auckland War Memorial Museum

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

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

10. Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium

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

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

11. Martime Museum

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

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

12. Albert Park

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

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

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13. Museum of Transport and Technology

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

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

14. SkyCity Auckland

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

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

15. Auckland Harbour Bridge

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

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

16. Motutapu Island

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

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

17. Mount Eden

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

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

18. Waitakere Ranges

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

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

19. The Viaduct Harbour

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

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

20. Piha Beach

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

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

21. Rainbow's End

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

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

22. Tiritiri Matangi Island

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

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

23. Hobbiton Movie Set

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

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

24. Muriwai Beach

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

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

25. Ponsonby

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

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

26. Devonport

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

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

27. Hunua Falls

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

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

28. Auckland Botanic Garden

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

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

29. Silo Park

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

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

30. Wild On Waiheke

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

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

31. Coast to Coast Walkway

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

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

32. Kawau Island

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

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

33. Great Barrier Island

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

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

34. The Civic Theatre

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

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

35. Parnell Rose Gardens

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

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

36. Hauraki Gulf Islands

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

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

37. Rotoroa Island

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

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

38. Orewa Beach

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

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

39. Stardome

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

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

40. Arataki Trails

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

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

41. Motuihe Island

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

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

42. Tawharanui Regional Park

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

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

43. Wenderholm Regional Park

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

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

44. Parnell Rose Gardens

44 out of 82 Things To Do in Auckland

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

45. Manukau Heads Lighthouse

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

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

46. Bethell's Beach

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

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

47. Queen Street Auckland

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

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

48. Puhoi River

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

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

49. Mahurangi Regional Park

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

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

50. St. Patrick's Cathedral Auckland

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

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

51. Domain Wintergardens

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

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

52. Stonyridge

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

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

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The 49 best photo spots in Auckland

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1 Auckland Domain

2 Rangitoto Island

3 Piha Beach

4 auckland botanic gardens, 5 kitekite falls, 6 maungawhau / mount eden, 7 britomart, 8 westhaven marina management, 9 maungawhau / mount eden, 10 sky tower, 11 auckland war memorial museum, 12 domain wintergardens, 13 auckland harbour bridge, 14 achilles point, 15 ghost donkey, 16 mission bay auckland, 17 nelson street cycleway (pink street), 18 karekare falls, 19 te henga walkway, 20 takarunga / mount victoria, 21 murrays bay jetty, 22 bethells beach cottages, 23 devonport, 24 auckland zoo, 25 soul bar & bistro, 26 mudbrick vineyard and restaurant, 27 cornwall park, 28 maungakiekie / one tree hill, 30 albert park, 31 muriwai gannet colony, 32 the conservatory, 33 te henga (bethells beach), 34 dove myer robinson park (parnell rose garden), 35 feriza's, 36 silo park, 37 michael joseph savage memorial park, 38 aotea square, 39 foxtrot parlour, 41 cyril bassett vc lookout, 42 muriwai beach, 43 holey moley golf club auckland, 44 takapuna beach, 45 waitemata harbour, 46 north head, 47 lion rock, 49 mission bay, top searches in auckland, popular road trips from auckland, what's the weather like in auckland.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Auckland for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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All road trips from Auckland

• Auckland to Rotorua drive
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Auckland throughout the year

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Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Wellington
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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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Vancouver ranks No. 7 on this year's list.

• Drazen Zigic/iStockphoto/Getty Images via CNN Newsource
• Copy article link

Vienna has been named the most liveable city in the world on the EIU’s Global Liveability Index.

• Emmanuele Contini/NurPhoto/Getty Images via CNN Newsource

Canada's Toronto dropped out of the top 10 most liveable cities list this year, coming in 12th.

• Destination Toronto via CNN Newsource

Swiss city Zurich scored impeccably in the education and health care categories.

• Gaetan Bally/Zürich Tourismus via CNN Newsource

The world’s most liveable cities for 2024

• By Tamara Hardingham-Gill, CNN
• Jun 26, 2024
• Jun 26, 2024 Updated Jun 27, 2024

(CNN) — It’s considered among the most beautiful cities in the world to visit, and it seems that Vienna may also be an unbeatable place to live.

The Austrian city has been crowned the most liveable city in the world yet again in the annual list from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), which was released today.

The EIU, a sister organization to The Economist , ranked 173 cities across the globe on a number of significant factors, including health care, culture and environment, stability, infrastructure and education.

Vienna topped the list for the third consecutive year, receiving “perfect” scores in four out of five of the categories — the city was marked lower for culture and environment due to an apparent lack of significant sporting events.

Perfect scores

Just behind the Austrian capital, Denmark’s Copenhagen retained its second place position, while Switzerland’s Zurich moved up from sixth place to third on the list.

Australia’s Melbourne fell from third to fourth place, while Canadian city Calgary tied for fifth place with Swiss city Geneva.

Canada’s Vancouver and Australia’s Sydney were in joint seventh place, and Japan’s Osaka and New Zealand’s Auckland rounded out the top 10 in joint ninth place.

While Western Europe performed well, with 30 cities scoring an average score of 92 out of 100, the region saw an overall decline in stability scores, which was attributed to “increasing instances of disruptive protests” and crime.

In 23rd place, Honolulu, Hawaii was the highest US city on the list, while Atlanta, Georgia moved up four places to number 29.

Los Angeles was further down the list in 58th place, while New York came in at No. 70.

‘Acute housing crisis’

North America achieved the highest average score for education. However, marks for infrastructure were lower than the previous year in Canada due to “an acute housing crisis,” which has affected several regions.

“The situation is particularly worrying in Australia and Canada, where the availability of rental properties is at an all-time low and purchase prices have continued to rise despite interest-rate increases,” reads the report.

Vancouver fell backwards while remaining in the top 10, and Toronto (ninth on the list in 2023) dropped out of the top 10 to 12th place.

UK capital London was ranked as the 45th most liveable city in the world.

Over in Asia, Hong Kong saw the largest score improvement since last year, climbing from 61st place to 50th thanks to an improvement in its stability and health care scores.

UAE cities saw some of the biggest score increases this year, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai climbing up the list, and Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar also making significant gains.

Meanwhile, Israel’s Tel Aviv experienced one of the biggest declines, dropping 20 places to 112th due to the Israel-Hamas war.

Stability decline

“Global liveability has risen fractionally over the past year but risks to stability remain,”  said Barsali Bhattacharyya, deputy industry director at EIU.

“Still-high inflation accompanied by high interest rates and other economic headwinds led to another year of frequent protests across the world.”

There was little change at the bottom of the list, with Damascus, Syria still ranking as the least liveable in the world, with Libya’s Tripoli, Algeria’s Algiers and Nigeria’s Lagos ranking just above.

The study noted that none of the bottom four cities had seen any improvement in its overall score since 2023.

“Since we conducted our survey, there have been more instances of civil unrest and demonstrations around the world, such as the campus protests across the US, suggesting continuing stress on liveability that is unlikely to ease in the near future,” said Bhattacharyya.

2024’s Global Liveability Index: The top 10

1. Vienna, Austria

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

3. Zurich, Switzerland

4. Melbourne, Australia

5. Calgary, Canada

5. Geneva, Switzerland

7. Sydney, Australia

7. Vancouver, Canada

9. Osaka, Japan

9. Auckland, New Zealand

The-CNN-Wire

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