The 11 Best Things to Do in Auckland

This guide to the best things to do in Auckland is here to help you make the most of your stay, whether it’s a short stopover during a larger tour of New Zealand or an extended visit.

Auckland is a diverse metropolis and the largest city in New Zealand (though not the capital!). It serves as the gateway to the country and is likely to be your first stop, as it is home to the main international airport.

The city boasts a scenic harbour, exciting attractions, stunning natural spots, excellent wineries, and a vibrant dining scene, all of which are sure to keep you busy. I spent eight years living and working in Auckland, giving me plenty of time to discover its best features.

While Auckland might not be the highlight of your New Zealand trip, it’s well worth dedicating some time to explore why it’s considered one of the world’s most liveable cities.

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The Best Things to Do in Auckland

Although Auckland is famous for its stunning natural attractions and easy access to outdoor activities, the city is far from lacking in culture. Alongside its beaches and scenic islands, you’ll find museums and art galleries that are well worth exploring during your visit.

Go to the Top of Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is the iconic feature of Auckland’s skyline and the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere. While it can feel a bit like a tourist trap, I still think it’s worth a visit.

The view from the top allows you to fully appreciate the diverse and stunning landscape of the wider Auckland region, from the islands of the Hauraki Gulf to the numerous volcanic hills.

If you’d like to spend more time enjoying the breathtaking views, there’s a café and two restaurants at the top: the revolving Orbit and the upscale Sugar Club. I’d recommend booking a table in advance, as these venues are extremely popular.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, bungy jumping, called a SkyJump, and the SkyWalk—a walk around an outdoor platform 192 metres above the ground—are also available.

Admission for adults costs NZ$45 ($26 USD). You can skip the ticket line by booking your tickets online.

Visit Auckland Museum

Located in the Auckland Domain, a beautiful green space in the city, Auckland Museum is a must-visit for those seeking a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s history, culture, and people.

The museum’s collections span natural sciences, including botany and geology, archaeology, historic archives, and art and design objects. There are even some replica dinosaur skeletons included for added interest.

The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the museum’s unique Māori and Pacific collection, which features fascinating artefacts, from rare carvings to the last great Māori war canoe.

It’s also worth noting that this cultural landmark serves as a war memorial for the Auckland region. A permanent exhibition explores the experiences and artefacts of war, offering insights into New Zealand’s participation in international military conflicts.

International visitors are required to purchase General Admission tickets, which cost $32 NZD ($18 USD) per adult. You can book tickets directly on the Auckland Museum website or, for the option of free cancellation, via Get Your Guide.

Go to Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

Auckland Art Gallery houses the largest permanent collection of New Zealand art and frequently hosts high-calibre international exhibitions. The gallery is situated in a stunning building that has won numerous architectural awards both in New Zealand and internationally.

You can join one of the free English-language tours, which provide a comprehensive introduction to the gallery’s artistic treasures and history. These tours run on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 1.30 pm.

If you need to refuel after exploring the art, be sure to visit the gallery café. This modern, glass-clad space serves delicious coffee, sweet treats, and a selection of popular brunch dishes.

General admission is free, though temporary exhibitions may require a fee.

Enjoy the Views from Mount Eden

Located in the upscale suburb that shares its name, Mount Eden is a popular spot for a quick hike, offering superb views of the city. The walk to the summit takes only 10 minutes each way, though it can feel a little steep in parts.

If you’d prefer to minimise the walking, you can drive partway up. There’s a car park located halfway to the summit, but some walking is still required to reach the top.

The trip from Auckland CBD to Mount Eden takes about 20 minutes by bus. Once there, be sure to explore the village centre, where you’ll find a variety of independent cafés, restaurants, and bakeries.

I used to live in Mount Eden and had the chance to try many of the local dining options. My favourites include Circus Café, The Garden Shed, and Pasta & Cuore.

Explore Waiheke Island

No guide to the best things to do in Auckland would be complete without mentioning a trip to this stunning island. Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island boasts idyllic landscapes, beautiful beaches, delicious food, and excellent wine.

While parts of Waiheke have a high-end feel, the island still retains its unpretentious, bohemian charm. From art galleries and numerous nature walks to winery tours and seafood sampling, Waiheke truly offers something for everyone.

If you’d like to explore the local wine scene, I’d recommend joining a small group tour, such as this winery tour that includes visits to at least four vineyards to maximise your experience.

With wineries scattered across the island, having access to transport is essential for sampling as many as possible.

Visit Rangitoto Island

If you’re looking for excellent hiking opportunities and spectacular 360-degree views, Rangitoto Island is a must-visit. Just a short ferry ride from the city, its distinctive symmetrical cone is one of Auckland’s most iconic natural landmarks.

Rangitoto is the youngest and largest volcano in the Auckland volcanic field. The most popular walking trail to the summit takes about an hour each way. You can also explore the island’s coastline or walk to the adjoining Motutapu Island.

Guided walks are available if you’d like to learn more about the history and unique nature of this stunning day-trip destination.

You can book your Rangitoto Island round-trip ferry pass here. The return trip costs $58 NZD ($33 USD) per adult.

Take a Trip to Tiritiri Matangi Island

This one is my personal favourite. Tiritiri Matangi is another stunning island (there are many!) in the Hauraki Gulf. It is a wildlife sanctuary for New Zealand’s native birds and one of the country’s most successful conservation projects.

The island is home to many rare bird species, some of which are found only in New Zealand. Upon arrival after a 75-minute ferry ride, you’ll be greeted by the enchanting sound of birdsong.

In addition to the incredible wildlife, you can explore various walking trails, pristine beaches, and New Zealand’s oldest operating lighthouse.

I highly recommend joining a guided walk led by a local volunteer. This will provide an introduction to New Zealand’s natural world and help you discover the best birdwatching spots.

Book your round-trip ferry tickets to this extraordinary island here. A return ticket costs $95NZ ($55US) per adult.

Go to Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

Another Auckland gem, the Waitākere Ranges are perfect for nature lovers. The area features a stunning combination of native rainforest, unique wildlife, and a rugged coastline with breathtaking black sand surf beaches. One of these beaches, Karekare, was famously featured in the 1993 film The Piano.

The best way to explore this area is on foot. The walking trails range from short, scenic strolls to challenging hikes that require a good level of fitness, so there’s something for everyone.

Unfortunately, reaching the Waitākere Ranges can be a bit tricky without a car, as public transport connections to Auckland’s more remote areas are limited.

There are small-group tours available, such as the Waitākere Ranges Wilderness Experience, which can take you there. However, for maximum flexibility, I’d recommend renting a car for the day.

Visit Auckland Zoo

Located in the suburb of Western Springs, just a 20-minute bus ride from the CBD, Auckland Zoo is a much-loved attraction for both locals and visitors. Its extensive collection of animals includes 130 species from around the world.

Animal enclosures are grouped by the region of origin of their occupants, including Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. The highlight is the Te Wao Nui section, where you can experience New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna, including the iconic kiwi bird.

Auckland Zoo also offers guided tours and animal experiences. The Te Wao Nui tour provides fascinating insights into New Zealand’s distinctive plants and animals. Tours run daily at 11 am during the summer months. However, outside of summer, the schedule may vary, so it’s best to check in advance to confirm availability.

For those seeking a more interactive experience, the zoo offers opportunities to get up close with animals such as giraffes, barn owls, red pandas, and more. A full list of animal experiences is available on the Auckland Zoo website.

General admission for visitors to Auckland is $29 NZD ($17 USD) per adult. If you’d like to join the Te Wao Nui tour as well, the ticket price is $82 NZD ($48 USD).

Indulge in Auckland’s Gastronomic Delights

Auckland’s cultural diversity and international communities, spanning the Pacific Islands, Asia, and Europe, have heavily influenced the city’s dining scene. The result is a fantastic array of restaurants, bars, and cafés that skilfully blend local produce with global flavours.

For easy access to a variety of food and drink vendors, I recommend visiting the Auckland Fish Market, where you’ll find outlets serving creative Asian fusion, grilled seafood, burgers, and New Zealand craft beer and wine.

Auckland also boasts a wealth of affordable Asian eateries offering flavours from across the continent, including Japanese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, and everything in between. Lorne Street in the CBD and Dominion Road in Mount Eden are particularly great spots for Asian cuisine.

If you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate a special occasion, consider iconic establishments like The Grove, The Sugar Club at Sky Tower, or Cassia. These venues promise an exceptional gastronomic experience.

For dessert, head to Giapo on Gore Street to enjoy unique gelato creations that look like pieces of art. I’m also a big fan of Miann, which offers innovative desserts that are sure to delight even the most discerning foodie.

Go on a Whale & Dolphin Safari

Another fantastic wildlife experience in Auckland is a whale and dolphin watching cruise departing from Viaduct Harbour in central Auckland.

The four-and-a-half-hour cruise takes you through the stunning Hauraki Gulf, offering the chance to encounter local marine life, including dolphins, whales, and seabirds, among others.

As this is a journey into the wild, wildlife sightings can vary from day to day. Science experts on board are available to provide insights and share fascinating information about the animals and birds you spot during the cruise.

The cruises run year-round. Tickets for adults cost $209 NZD ($122 USD). You can book your spot on the Get Your Guide website.

The Best Time to Go to Auckland

Summer in the Southern Hemisphere runs from December to February, offering excellent weather and plenty of sunshine. However, this is also the high season, so be prepared for crowds of tourists, higher prices, and fully booked activities.

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand during the summer, I strongly recommend booking your accommodation, transport, and activities well in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.

If you have more flexibility, the shoulder seasons of October–November and March–April are also fantastic times to visit Auckland. You’ll still enjoy plenty of sunshine, but the atmosphere is much less crowded, and travel costs are more affordable.

Auckland winters which from June to August are mild, but rainy, which may affect your outdoor experiences. However, if you are mainly focused on indoor cultural experiences, visiting in winter is no issue either.

How Many Days in Auckland Do You Need

The ideal trip duration depends on how much you want to see and do in Auckland. Two full days are sufficient to explore the main attractions in the CBD and even fit in a trip to a nearby island or the Waitākere Ranges.

However, if you’d like to delve deeper into the Auckland region, you’ll need more time. For a more comprehensive visit, plan to stay for five days or longer.

If Auckland is just one stop on a larger New Zealand itinerary, I would recommend allocating only a small portion of your time to the city. While Auckland boasts some superb natural spots, many other parts of New Zealand should take precedence.

How to Get to Auckland

Most international visitors arrive in Auckland by air. The city’s international airport receives flights from Australia, the Pacific Islands, Asia, the Gulf, the US, and Latin America.

From the airport, you can reach the CBD by taxi, shuttle (shared minibus), or bus. As expected, taxis are the most expensive option, with a trip costing $70–$80 NZD ($41–$47 USD).

The most affordable option is the Airport Link bus operated by Auckland Transport. However, it only takes you to transport hubs in the southern part of the city, meaning you’ll need to change buses or catch a train—an inconvenience after a long-haul flight.

The SkyDrive Airport Express shuttle service, run by a private operator, offers trips from the airport to the SkyCity entertainment complex in the CBD for $20 NZD ($12 USD).

Shared minibuses, known as SuperShuttles, are my favourite option as they are quick and convenient yet still relatively affordable. A ride for two adults from the airport to the CBD costs $40 NZD ($23.50 USD). You can pre-book your ride on the SuperShuttle website.

How to Get Around Auckland

If you only have a couple of days and are staying in or around the CBD area, the best way to get around the city is on foot. The CBD is quite compact, and most places of interest are within easy reach.

If you’d like to venture further, you can take advantage of the public transport network, which includes buses, ferries, and trains. While the network is not perfect, it is sufficient for most travellers’ needs.

For example, a quick bus ride can take you to Mount Eden or Auckland Zoo, while ferry trips are essential for reaching Rangitoto, Waiheke, and Tiritiri Matangi.

Personally, ferries are my favourite mode of transport in Auckland. They are scenic, and occasionally, you might even spot some local wildlife. For instance, on one of my journeys from Waiheke, we were lucky enough to see dolphins.

The Auckland Transport website is an excellent resource for planning your public transport journeys.

However, if you’re keen to explore the regional parks or locations on the outskirts of Auckland, a car is the best option. The public transport network does not cover all places of interest in and around the city.

Where To Stay in Auckland

During your visit to Auckland, I recommend staying in the CBD to avoid wasting precious time travelling from your accommodation to key attractions.

Auckland caters to every budget, offering options ranging from affordable hostels to luxurious hotels. One of my favourite places to stay is SO/ Auckland, a stylish hotel just a stone’s throw from the Auckland waterfront. It features an excellent rooftop bar that’s well worth a visit, even if you’re not a guest at the hotel.

For more information on local hotels, check out this guide on where to stay in Auckland. Although it’s aimed at those who are only planning a short stay in the city, the options featured in the article are suitable for longer stays too.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ve found this guide to the best things to do in Auckland helpful. If you’re looking for more travel ideas in the area, check out this list of the best day trips from Auckland. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring some of New Zealand’s most incredible locations.

In addition to Auckland, I highly recommend visiting New Zealand’s capital. In this guide to Wellington, you’ll discover the best things to do, along with practical information on transport and accommodation.

FAQs: Things to Do in Auckland

Is Auckland city worth visiting?

I wouldn’t recommend travelling to New Zealand solely to visit Auckland. However, if you’re planning to tour the country, I’d still suggest including Auckland in your itinerary. It’s a highly liveable city—albeit an expensive one—and experiencing some of its highlights is a fantastic way to ease into the Kiwi lifestyle.

Is Auckland a walkable city?

Auckland’s CBD and its nearby suburbs are walkable. However, beyond these areas, you’ll need to rely on public transport or your own vehicle.

Is visiting Auckland expensive?

Yes, Auckland—and New Zealand in general—is an expensive destination. However, there are ways to make your trip more affordable, such as staying outside the CBD, travelling during the winter months, and cooking your own meals. Even so, it’s always going to be a relatively pricey trip.

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The 11 Best Things to Do in Auckland