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Things to do in Auckland

Things to do in  Auckland

Welcome to Auckland

Fringed by rolling farmland, dense rain forests, peaceful bays, surf beaches, and volcanic peaks, Auckland is a natural beauty. Must-see attractions such as the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki and Auckland Museum bring the City of Sails’ culture and history to the fore, while creative menus in hip areas like Ponsonby and Karangahape Road (""K Road"" to the locals) lure diners with seasonal produce and craft cocktails. Waiheke Island, popular for its wine and only a quick ferry ride from Auckland CBD, is one of the top things to do—for Aucklanders, visiting kiwis, and international travelers alike.

Top 15 attractions in Auckland

Auckland Harbour Bridge

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The Auckland Harbour Bridge is a landmark site on the city’s skyline. The 8-lane engineering marvel connects downtown Auckland with North Shore suburbs. Visitors can experience the bridge and the stunning views of the Waitemata Harbour from several vantage points: while driving over it, climbing it, or jumping off it.More

Auckland Domain

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Enjoy the peace and tranquility of forests, gullies, and green spaces in Auckland Domain, a 185-acre (75-hectare) escape from the frantic Queen Street crowds. Get lost on a nature walk, admire the tropical plants at the Wintergarden, and marvel at the history on display at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.More

Piha Beach

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A short drive west of Auckland is Piha Beach, one of the West Coast’s most popular getaways. A small coastal village sandwiched between the Waitakere Ranges and the Tasman Sea, Piha Beach is much loved by surfers and fisherfolk alike, but it’s also a great place for everyone to explore nature, both on the coast and in the hills.More

Auckland War Memorial Museum

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The Auckland War Memorial Museum, one of New Zealand’s finest, displays thousands of items—including Maori and Pacific Island collections—reflecting the country’s history, culture, and nature. A dedicated children’s area allows kids to touch animals, fossils, and bugs. Visiting Auckland Museum is a must when spending time in New Zealand’s largest city.More

Auckland Sky Tower

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A dizzying 1,076 feet (328 meters) high, the Auckland Sky Tower is not only New Zealand’s highest building but also the tallest man-made structure in the Southern Hemisphere. The tower offers unbeatable views of Auckland’s skyline, with its distinctive spire visible from all corners of the city.More

Hauraki Gulf Islands

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Located off the coast of Auckland, Hauraki Gulf’s 16 beautiful islands are ideal for outdoor activities like walking, horse riding, swimming, and dolphin- and whale-watching. From the vineyards of Waiheke to the hiking trails of Rangitoto, the birdwatching of Tiritiri Matangi to the secluded hot springs of Great Barrier, each of the islands offers something special.More

Parnell

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Parnell, Auckland’s oldest suburb, is full of high-quality restaurants, cafes, galleries, and boutique shops, especially jewelers. There are also many noncommercial sites to explore, such as parks, churches, and other buildings. A visit to Parnell is essential for understanding Auckland’s unique, stylish character.More

Viaduct Harbour

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Whether you’re embarking on a short day cruise from the marina or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Viaduct Harbour is an energetic entertainment hub right on the Auckland waterfront. The harbor is best known for its food: there are more than 20 cafés, restaurants, and bars, almost all of them easily found on the harbor’s pedestrian mall.More

Queen Street

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All roads in Auckland lead to Queen Street, the bustling heart of the city. Running from the Downtown Ferry Terminal all the way up to artsy Karangahape Road, Auckland city’s shopping and cultural center is stacked with restaurants, bars, hotels, theaters, and stores catering to all kinds of tastes and budgets.More

Waitemata Harbour

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Waitemata Harbour is the real name for what is often just called Auckland Harbour. It means “sparkling waters” in the Maori language, which is a very fitting name. Numerous islands dot the harbor, and a day spent on the water, with city views in the background, is a memorable way to tour Auckland.More

Rangitoto Island

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Just a half-hour ferry ride from Auckland, Rangitoto Island offers active travelers an adventurous escape from the city. This 600-year-old dormant volcano boasts stunning panoramic views of Auckland and a selection of rugged walks both up and around the island, most of them suitable for people of all fitness levels.More

Tiritiri Matangi Island

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The open wildlife sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi Island is devoted to the protection and conservation of reintroduced threatened and endangered reptiles like the tuatara, and birds such as the flightless takahe. The island is tightly controlled to keep out predators that hunt fragile bird species like the nocturnal little spotted kiwi.More

Motutapu Island

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Motutapu Island’s emerald landscapes, striking coastline, and thick forests of Motutapu Island attract day trippers from nearby Auckland. Sandy beaches and easy walking paths offer up plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation, while a scattering of some 300 Maori archaeological sites detail a rich history of the island’s early inhabitants.More

North Head Historic Reserve (Maungauika)

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To the early Maori, the strategic viewpoint of North Head was known as Maungauika. Looking out over Auckland Harbour and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, the summit of this ancient volcanic cone was perfect for fending off enemies. Today, tunnels, guns, and cannons—built in the 1800s to deter attacks under British colonial rule—remain.More

Kumeu Wine Country

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New Zealand is known for its crisp whites and bold reds and there is no better way to sample its flavors than by taking a trip through Kumeu Wine Country. The scenic vineyards of this world-class wine destination are home to quiet cafes, small breweries, five-star restaurants, and, of course, some of the best wine-makers in the country.More

Trip ideas

Top Auckland Neighborhoods

Top Auckland Neighborhoods

Top activities in Auckland

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland
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Afternoon Black Sand Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland
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Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner
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The Hobbiton Movie Set Small-Group Guided Tour from Auckland
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Auckland Scenic Day Tour Full-Day- 8 HOURS
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Hobbiton, Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip in Luxury Minibus from Auckland
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Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland
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Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour Including Te Puia from Auckland
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Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Options -
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Half-Day Auckland City Guided Tour
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Half-Day Auckland City Guided Tour

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Coast and Rainforest Eco-Tour from Auckland with Lunch
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A local’s pocket guide to Auckland

Emma Knock

Emma is an Auckland-based writer. You’ll find her working her way through the Metro Top 50 eateries, road-tripping around the North Island, or at Piha with her wife and dog.

The first thing you should do in Auckland is...

get your bearings with a stroll around Britomart, the waterfront, and Wynyard Quarter.

A perfect Saturday in Auckland...

starts with a walk up Maungawhau / Mt. Eden (followed by cheesecake from Frasers and bookshopping at Time Out), involves a trip to Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, and ends with dinner and drinks on K’ Road.

One touristy thing that lives up to the hype is...

wine tasting on Waiheke—plan to hit Mudbrick and Cable Bay, and book for lunch at Casita Miro (pro tip: order the croquettes).

To discover the "real" Auckland...

go to K’ Road, the city’s former red-light district and Ponsonby’s grittier cousin, where you’ll find vintage stores, art galleries, ridiculously good restaurants, LGBTQ bars, live music, and every kind of Aucklander.

For the best view of the city...

most people would say to head up Mt. Victoria in Devonport, but try the Westhaven Marina boardwalk for a different perspective.

One thing people get wrong...

is spending only one night in Auckland before flying to the South Island. You could easily fill a week—or at least a weekend—seeing the sights and checking out the city’s food scene.

People Also Ask

What is Auckland famous for?

Auckland is famous as the largest city in New Zealand, even though it’s not the capital. The Sky Tower is a prominent feature on the skyline and a popular tourist attraction. Other famous sights include One Tree Hill, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, Auckland Domain, Rangitoto Island, and Waiheke Island.

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Is there anything to do in Auckland?

Yes. There’s a lot to do in Auckland. Enjoy views from Sky Tower or bungee jump from it; hike volcanic Rangitoto Island; take a Waiheke Island wine tour; sail on the Hauraki Gulf; surf the west coast's black sand beaches or chill out in the sun on white sand ones.

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How do I spend a day in Auckland?

Spend one day in Auckland exploring the CBD area and waterfront. Visit the War Memorial Museum, stroll through the Domain, and stop for lunch in upmarket Parnell. In good weather, chill at Mission Bay Beach and enjoy the views of Rangitoto. Dine and drink at the Viaduct Harbour at night.

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How can I spend 3 days in Auckland?

With three days in Auckland, spend day one in the central city, checking out the museums, art galleries, Sky Tower area, and waterfront. On days two and three get out of the city, heading to the Waitakere Ranges, Piha Beach, Waiheke Island, Rangitoto Island, or the North Shore.

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What can you do in Auckland for free?

Free activities in Auckland include spending time at the public parks and gardens, chilling at the beaches, hiking, and walking around interesting neighborhoods, including the CBD and waterfront. In summer, free concerts and festivals in public spaces provide entertainment for all.

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What do locals do in Auckland?

Auckland locals like to make the most of nature and the great outdoors surrounding the city by swimming at the beaches, sailing, cycling, hiking in regional parks and along coastal tracks, and chilling out in city parks. Weekend markets are a popular place to shop for food.

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Auckland information

Number of Attractions

57

Number of Tours

433

Number of Reviews

11,885

Currency

NZD
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
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