Auckland is regularly rated one of the world’s top cities to live, so it comes as no surprise that it’s a destination everyone loves to visit.
More than just New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland has beautiful surf beaches, rainforests, wildlife, and wineries right on its doorstep.
With so much on offer here we have selected a top 10 of things to do and see so you can get the most out of your trip to this diverse city.
#1 Davenport
Only 12 minutes across the harbour from Auckland CBD you will find Davenport. It’s a charming seaside village steeped in history, charm, and character.
Here you can hire a bike and ride along the bay, take a walk up Mt.Victoria for spectacular views of Auckland city and the Gulf.
Or if you like your war history, head to Maungauika where you will find 19th and 20th-century bunkers, guns and ammunition storage tunnels from which you can explore freely.
If you’re looking for a delicious lunch, Corelli’s is the place to be and is often recommended by the locals.
#2 Waitomo Glowworm Caves
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must for anyone coming to Auckland.
The ‘Arachnocampa Luminosa‘ is unique to NZ where they make their home by the thousands in the caves. They have been fascinating and intriguing guests for years with tourists flocking here every year
A guided boat tour will take you underground through the caves along the Waitomo River; here you will find a galaxy of tiny living lights that illuminate the cave walls. Then head through the Glowworm Grotto and marvel at mother nature’s light display.
The caves are open every day from 9 am with tickets costing $49 per person for a 45-minute tour and leave every half hour.
#3 Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is a drop of heaven for the wine buffs. With over 25 different wineries on the island, you are spoilt for choice.
Wine tours are aplenty on Waiheke and are the best way to sample everything the island has to offer.
We suggest Waiheke Island Wine Tours who offer great one or two day tours and can also accommodate large groups.
#4 Hobbiton Movie Set
Experience Hollywood in Auckland with a tour through the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings movies.
A short 2-hour drive from the centre of Auckland and be transported to The Shire in Middle Earth. The sets have been completely rebuilt and are now a year-round attraction.
Take a photo out the front of Frodo’s house and see The Green Dragon Inn where the Hobbits go to throw back a few ales.
#5 Mount Eden
For a picture perfect view of Auckland, head to Mount Eden, Auckland’s highest natural point.
A walk to to the top of Mt Eden’s volcanic cone is worth the hike.
As mentioned the views across the city are the main highlight as well as the volcano crater. You can take a bus directly to the top if you are pushed for time or don’t feel like walking.
Stop in at the Village after your decent for lunch in one of their many cafes. They also have great art galleries and jewellery shops.
Then take a stroll through the award-winning gardens. Here you will find waterfalls, colourful plants and rock formations, located on the side of the mountain.
#6 Viaduct Harbour
The Viaduct is the go-to place for restaurants and nightlife.
A buzzing entertainment precinct that sits on the waters edge amongst luxurious yachts and sail boats.
Very much Auckland’s answer to Darling Harbour with open air bars and speciality restaurants.
From here you can also book whale watching tours, Extreme Jet Boat rides as well as lunch and dinner cruises.
#7 Auckland Zoo
Sitting on over 40 acres is the Auckland zoo. Home to over 750 animals, it is the biggest zoo in New Zealand.
Only minutes from central Auckland, the zoo is open year round and offers behind-the-scenes experiences and animal encounters.
The three endangered Sumatran tigers is the main attraction as well as the opportunity to feed giraffes.
For a unique experience, why not book a safari night. Enjoy a BBQ dinner followed by a torch-lit adventure discovering lions, hippos, and elephants. Then stay the night and wake with the animals while enjoying breakfast.
#8 Auckland Museum
To truly discover New Zealand’s history and culture, make your way to the Auckland Museum.
Situated in The Domain, a central city garden, the museum boasts one of New Zealand’s most historic buildings.
Here you will discover the cultures of the Pacific people as well as Maori and Polynesian artefacts, sculptures and carvings.
The museum also holds a war memorial exhibition. This tells the story of New Zealand at war and is called ‘Scars on the Heart.’
#9 Sky Tower
An icon in Auckland’s skyline is the Sky Tower. Here you can take in 360-degree panoramic views for up to 80km’s in every direction.
There are three restaurants and cafes inside the tower. The very elegant Revolving Restaurant, the Sky Cafe, and The Sugar Club. Perfect for a quick coffee and cake.
The SkyJump may be tempting if you’re an adrenaline junkie. You can base jump off the tower 192 meters straight down.
If that’s a bit too daunting, you can also try the SkyWalk where you can walk on a 1.2-meter platform dangling over the edge of the tower.
#10 Queen Street
The hub of the city for shopping is Queen Street. With upscale shops like Louis Vuitton and boutiques like MADE, there is something for all tastes, and budgets.
While in Queen Street, catch a movie, go to the art gallery, or duck up the Sky Tower which is only a short walk away.
New Zealand cuisine is ever present along Queen St with buzzing cafes and coffee shops all awaiting tired shopped out feet.
