Are you planning a trip to Auckland, New Zealand soon? This city offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments that make it a traveler’s dream destination. From stunning harbors to lush green parks, Auckland has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll be exploring the best attractions and things to do in Auckland that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re traveling solo or with your loved ones, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to this charming city. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the top attractions in Auckland!
The 18 Best Things to Do in Auckland
- Private Vip Luxury Tour Choose Number of Days and We Take You All Around Nz
- Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Tour in Small Groups Ex Auckland
- Hobbiton and Rotorua Te Puia Tour from Auckland in Small Groups
- From Auckland Hobbiton Waitomo Caves Small Group Day Tour
- Waiheke Island Vinyard Tour With Wine Tasting Appetizers
- Auckland Zipline and New Zealand Native Forest Tour
- Full Day Auckland Scenic Tour
- Auckland to Rotorua Via Hobbiton Tour One Way Small Groups
- Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland
- Tamaki Maori Village Evening Experience
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland
- Auckland Hobbiton Rotorua and Wai O Tapu Day Tour
- Te Puia Geothermal Valley Experience
- Auckland Ship to Shore Excursion Full Day 8 Hours
- Waiheke Hop on Hop Off Tour
- Auckland Shore Excursion City Sightseeing Tour Harbor Cruise and Sky Tower
- Waitomo Caves and Rotorua Te Puia Tour from Auckland in Small Groups
- Auckland
The 18 Best Things to Do in Auckland
1. Private Vip Luxury Tour Choose Number of Days and We Take You All Around Nz
Looking for a bespoke tour of New Zealand that lets you design your own trip and enjoy VIP treatment with everything taken care of? Look no further than this luxurious private tour, which lets you choose exactly where you want to go and what you want to see. Whether you’re interested in LOTR sites, stunning natural wonders, or world-class accommodation and dining experiences, our local guide will provide insider tips and recommendations to make your trip truly unforgettable. With hassle-free pickup and drop-off from any NZ airport or port and the option to pre-book attractions and accommodation, you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your trip. So why wait? Book your custom-made New Zealand tour today!
2. Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Tour in Small Groups Ex Auckland
On this fully-guided tour, visit two of the most popular sites in New Zealand in one day – Hobbiton and the Waitomo Caves. With a group size limited to just 15 people, you’ll receive personal attention from your guide as you explore the subterranean caverns of Waitomo and see the home of Bilbo Baggins in Hobbiton. The tour includes hassle-free round-trip travel from central Auckland, bottled water, snacks, and gratuities. Souvenir photos are available for purchase. Food and drinks are not included unless specified. Hotel pick-ups are available from select locations only. Pick-ups start up to 20 minutes before the tour time. If you don’t see your pickup location listed, select the closest one to you to be picked up from.
3. Hobbiton and Rotorua Te Puia Tour from Auckland in Small Groups
Maximize your time in New Zealand with this full-day combo tour to two of the North Island’s top attractions: the Hobbiton Movie Set and Te Puia Geothermal Park. Enjoy a scenic drive from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set and get guaranteed admission along with a guided tour of the famous Lord of The Rings site. Then head over to Rotorua to visit Te Puia Geothermal Park and observe the Pohutu geyser while immersing yourself in Maori culture. You’ll also have the option to try a traditional Maori hangi meal (own expense). With this tour, you’ll ensure admission to two popular North Island attractions, all in the comfort of a small group with a professional guide. Snacks, bottled water, gratuities, and souvenir photos (available for purchase) are included. Note that hotel pick-ups are available from select locations only. Check the provided list for more information.
4. From Auckland Hobbiton Waitomo Caves Small Group Day Tour
Join this small group day tour to experience two of New Zealand’s most popular attractions – the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves – on a single day trip from Auckland. After being picked up from your central Auckland hotel, enjoy the scenic drive south over the Bombay Hills with picturesque views of the Waikato Region and the Hauraki Plains.
Upon arrival at Hobbiton, you’ll embark on a guided tour walking through the world-famous Shire and marvel at the movie magic that was created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Snap pictures in front of iconic Hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn while sipping specially brewed beverages.
Afterward, head to Waitomo for a relaxing lunch before embarking on a guided tour through the enchanting Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Here, you’ll sail through the caves and witness thousands of glowing glowworms that light up the dark.
Throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the scenic beauty of New Zealand and listen to insightful commentary from your guide. At the end of the day, you’ll return to Auckland where you were picked up. Note that the itinerary may be subject to change.
5. Waiheke Island Vinyard Tour With Wine Tasting Appetizers
Spend a day exploring the Island of Waiheke with a vineyard tour and wine tasting experience. Visit multiple vineyards and enjoy tastings of wine, snacks, and olive oil throughout. Catch the ferry from Auckland City to Waiheke Island and meet your guide when you arrive. The tour includes transportation on the island, wine tasting, olive oil and honey tasting, snacks, and ferry tickets. A beautiful platter lunch is also included in the tour. The tour guides are fun and interesting, making the day unforgettable. This tour is not suitable for people with a cold.
6. Auckland Zipline and New Zealand Native Forest Tour
Hosted on Waiheke Island just 30 minutes by fast ferry from central Auckland, this 3-hour zipline adventure offers nature lovers a thrilling state-of-the-art dual zipline flight over native forest.
Enjoy a mini-tour of Waiheke’s beaches, million-dollar properties, and boutique wineries en route to the zipline site where you’ll be geared-up for one of New Zealand’s most exciting eco activities.
Soar along 3 dual ziplines, each more than 650 feet (200 meters) long, and glide smoothly side-by-side with a partner or friend over a working vineyard and stunning tracts of original and regenerating native New Zealand bush.
Catch views of Auckland, Rangitoto, and the Hauraki Gulf from 360-degree vantage points high above the treetops. Along the way, learn about the Maori and European history of Waiheke Island from informative and experienced local guides.
7. Full Day Auckland Scenic Tour
With this full-day Auckland scenic tour, experience the best of Auckland with a small group, where you can witness the city’s most popular attractions in just one day. Keep your cameras on standby to capture the beautiful Auckland Harbour Bridge, the Sky Tower, and One Tree Hill. Get lost in the scenic views of Tamaki Drive and Mission Bay, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Ponsonby, and visit off-the-beaten-track attractions like Muriwai Beach, the Auckland Domain, and Parnell. Taste some local wine with a visit to a winery and enjoy the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off and transport via an air-conditioned minivan. This great value tour is limited to either 11 or 14 persons, making it an intimate experience. If you’re staying in Downtown Centrally Situated Hotels or Cruise Ships, the tour will pick you up from there. Or, you can head directly to the meeting point at Sky Tower, Victoria Street West Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010 New Zealand. Personal expenses are not included in the tour.
8. Auckland to Rotorua Via Hobbiton Tour One Way Small Groups
Join a small-group tour from Auckland to Rotorua and make a stop at the famous Hobbiton Movie Set en route. With a maximum of 11 people on this hassle-free one-way journey, relive memorable moments from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films on a fully guided tour of Hobbiton. Enjoy a drink at The Green Dragon Inn and free time for lunch at the Shire’s Rest Café before continuing your journey to Rotorua. Upon arrival, you’ll be given an introductory tour of the city and have the opportunity to take photos of Lake Rotorua and the Government Gardens. Bottled water is provided, but food, drinks, and gratuities are not included. Hotel pick-up is available from select points in Auckland. Make the most of your journey, see stunning sights, and enjoy the magic of Hobbiton on this unforgettable tour.
9. Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland
Explore two of New Zealand’s top attractions in a single day on this small-group tour from Auckland. Start your journey with a pickup from your hotel and a scenic drive to Rotorua. With a knowledgeable guide, visit sites of interest including Te Puia and the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, and enjoy sweeping views over Lake Rotorua. After lunch, continue your trip to the famous Waitomo Caves, an attraction widely considered as one of the country’s top sights. On a boat ride, marvel at the luminescent glow worms illuminating the dark caves, and learn about their geological significance.
Throughout the day, travel comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan and listen to live commentary on board. At the end of your adventure, your tour concludes with a drop-off back at your Auckland hotel.
10. Tamaki Maori Village Evening Experience
Discover the Tamaki Maori Village Evening Experience! This fully guided tour includes return transfers from Auckland, complimentary refreshments and water on board, and admission ticket to Te Pa Tu where you’ll learn about Maori culture and experience a traditional hangi feast. You can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from Mövenpick Hotel Auckland. The tour starts at 2:00 PM and ends back at the meeting point. Please bring a coat or jersey if it’s cold outside and make sure you have a camera or phone with camera capability to capture your amazing experience. Additionally, note that this activity requires an easy and good fitness level and is not wheelchair accessible. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience. Join us for an unforgettable evening!
11. Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland
This tour is a great option for those looking to experience two of the North Island’s top attractions in one day trip from Auckland. Both the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves are included, with entry tickets and guided tours provided. This means you can learn more about the cultural and natural significance of these special locations. A small group with a fully guided tour will save you hassle and guarantee an enjoyable experience. Snacks and bottled water are also provided. With a full 12-hour day, this tour is ideal for travelers short on time in Auckland. Film and nature enthusiasts will be especially happy with this combo trip. Gratuities are included and there are souvenir photos available for purchase. Hotel pickups are offered from select hotels, so please check pickup points and details before booking.
12. Auckland Hobbiton Rotorua and Wai O Tapu Day Tour
Explore the stunning countryside on a fully guided Auckland Hobbiton Rotorua and Wai O Tapu Day Tour. Start your journey in Auckland and soak up the atmosphere on the way to Hobbiton, where you’ll explore the 12-acre Hobbiton Movie Set on a fully guided tour. Enjoy a complimentary beverage at the famous Green Dragon Inn before continuing on to Alexander Family Sheep Farm and Shire’s Rest.
Next, discover the ‘most surreal place on earth’ at Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park on a fully guided tour. See the Champagne Pool, Devils Home, and Devils Bath. Afterward, explore Rotorua’s highlights on a guided city tour. Throughout your journey, your knowledgeable guides will provide entertainment, and you’ll be treated to refreshments and snacks while driving.
Hotel pickup and drop-off is included from specific central Auckland hotels, making this tour a convenient and unforgettable experience.
13. Te Puia Geothermal Valley Experience
The Te Puia Geothermal Valley Experience is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the Māori heritage and culture. This tour offers a fully guided return transfer from Auckland, including a complimentary pick up and drop off from the Auckland CBD. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to explore Whakarewarewa Valley, home to the active Pohutu Geyser. You’ll also get to witness boiling mud pools and waters that are still used for cooking.
The tour also includes an interactive weaving experience and a traditional hangi lunch to enjoy in front of Pohutu Geyser, providing an intimate encounter with the people, culture, and place. Moreover, insightful commentary on the Māori heritage and historical uses of the land will be provided throughout the tour.
You have two options for pickup, the Mövenpick Hotel Auckland as the meeting point or a request to pick you up from your chosen location. The tour ensures your safety and comfort by providing complimentary refreshments and water on board. In addition, access to Wi-Fi on board is available for a small surcharge.
This tour is perfect for those who want to explore and truly understand the Māori culture and heritage. So come and experience the stunning beauty of the Pohutu Geyser and the natural beauty of the geothermal valley with the Te Puia Geothermal Valley Experience.
14. Auckland Ship to Shore Excursion Full Day 8 Hours
Experience the vibrant neighborhoods and coastal scenery of Auckland with this comprehensive full-day shore excursion. Travel by air-conditioned minivan and stop to discover the coastal villages of Devonport and Mission Bay. Take in the views from Mt Eden and North Head, and visit the Auckland Domain. Then head out along the coast to admire black sand beaches and enjoy an included wine tasting along the Kumeu Wine Trail. This small-group experience with a maximum of 14 people includes hassle-free pickup and drop-off at Auckland Cruise Terminal. Driver/guide, transport by air-conditioned minibus, and lunch are included, while personal expenses are excluded. Choose between directly heading to your preferred meeting point or requesting a pickup at a convenient location.
15. Waiheke Hop on Hop Off Tour
Discover the magic of Waiheke with a combined ferry and hop-on hop-off bus tour. This tour allows you to travel from Auckland harbor on a ferry and board a double-decker bus to attractions like Oneroa Village, Oneroa Beach, and several local wineries.
It’s the most flexible and cost-effective tour option on the island. You can hop on and off as much as you like at any of its 16 convenient stops which include vineyards, beaches, and restaurants. You’ll get to stop at iconic island wineries like the Batch Winery, the new Tantalus winery/brewery, Mudbrick Vineyard, Cable Bay Vineyard and more.
The tour also includes return ferry tickets from Auckland to Waiheke, a day-pass for the Waiheke Hop-on Hop off tour, and winery tastings or tours. A cruise around the sparkling waters of the Auckland Harbor on the return trip to Waiheke Island is also included.
If you’re visiting Auckland and want to discover the beauty of Waiheke Island and taste some of New Zealand’s best wines, this tour is perfect for you!
16. Auckland Shore Excursion City Sightseeing Tour Harbor Cruise and Sky Tower
While in Auckland, experience the best the city has to offer with this shore excursion that includes a harbor cruise and a visit to the iconic Sky Tower. With a professional guide, explore the city center’s popular attractions such as Quay Street, the Auckland Museum, and Dominion Parks and Gardens. Take a 90-minute cruise around Waitemata Harbor and see the Tamaki waterfront and Harbour Bridge. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire Auckland from above at the Sky Tower, while browsing its audiovisual displays on the history of the city. This tour is covered by a worry-free policy, ensuring your return to your ship on time. Don’t miss out on experiencing Auckland’s many faces and attractions.
17. Waitomo Caves and Rotorua Te Puia Tour from Auckland in Small Groups
This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the natural beauty and cultural attractions of New Zealand in a short amount of time. The Waitomo Caves and Rotorua Te Puia Tour takes you to two of the country’s top attractions in one day. Explore the underground world of Waitomo Caves and marvel at the stalagmites and other geological formations. Enjoy panoramic views of the subterranean caverns before heading to Rotorua. In Rotorua, you’ll discover top attractions including the Government Gardens and Lake Rotorua. Hassle-free round-trip transportation from central Auckland is included, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. This is a small group and fully guided tour with entry tickets to Waitomo and Te Puia included, as well as bottled water. Food and drinks are not included, unless specified. Gratuities and souvenirs are also not included in the tour price. Hotel pickups are available from selected hotels in Auckland. Don’t miss out on this action-packed day of adventure and discovery!
18. Auckland
Discover the best places to visit in Auckland with this independent walking audio tour. Starting at the Sky Tower, you’ll have the freedom to explore the city at your own pace, choosing your own starting and ending point. The tour includes a zip folder of audio files and a map for download, as well as a link to download an MP3 file and map. Please note that this is a self-guided tour, so no physical guide will accompany you.
During your tour, you’ll visit top attractions such as St Matthew-in-the-City Church and other interesting locations throughout the city. While the tour doesn’t include admission tickets or food and drinks, it’s highly recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, a hat, and sunscreen.
Confirm your booking for this independent walking audio tour in Auckland and get ready to explore the city at your own pace!
Frequently Asked Questions About Auckland
Auckland is a beautiful, vibrant city located in New Zealand’s North Island. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand, offering the perfect balance of city and nature experiences. Visitors to Auckland often have several questions about the city, and in this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Auckland.
1. What is the best time to visit Auckland?
The best time to visit Auckland is during the summer months from December to February. This period is characterized by warm, sunny weather and a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, it is also the peak tourist season, and prices are generally higher during this time. The fall months (March to May) and spring months (September to November) offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and reduced prices, making them also great times to visit.
2. How many days do I need to explore Auckland?
Auckland has so much to offer, and the amount of time you need to explore the city depends on your interests. Generally, we recommend spending at least three to five days in Auckland to explore the city’s attractions, including its beaches, nature reserves, cultural landmarks, and museums.
3. What are Auckland’s must-see attractions?
Auckland has an array of must-see attractions, including:
- The Sky Tower – the tallest freestanding building in the Southern Hemisphere, offering breathtaking views of the city
- The Auckland Museum – showcasing New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural heritage
- The Auckland Harbour Bridge – offering a unique opportunity to climb and walk across the bridge
- The Auckland Art Gallery – with an impressive collection of both New Zealand and international art
- The Waitakere Ranges – a stunning natural reserve with fantastic hiking trails and scenic waterfalls.
4. What is the best way to get around Auckland?
Auckland has an extensive public transportation system, including trains, buses, and ferries. The best way to get around depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. For example, the bus and train networks are excellent for exploring the downtown area, while the ferries are perfect for accessing the islands in the Hauraki Gulf. Renting a car is also an option if you want to explore the surrounding regions.
5. What are the best day trips from Auckland?
Auckland is surrounded by scenic landscapes and charming towns, offering visitors plenty of options for day trips. Some of the best day trips from Auckland include:
- The Waiheke Island – a stunning island region with world-class wineries, beaches, and hiking trails
- The Coromandel Peninsula – with its golden sand beaches, hot water pools, and scenic driving routes
- The Bay of Islands – a popular tourist destination with fantastic water activities, including dolphin and whale watching
- The Waitomo Glowworm Caves – a magical underground cave system with thousands of glowworms
6. What is Auckland’s weather like?
Auckland’s weather is moderate, with generally mild temperatures throughout the year. However, the city can experience sudden changes in weather, including rain, wind, and occasional heatwaves during the summer. It’s best to check the weather forecast before you embark on any outdoor activities to ensure that you’re adequately prepared.
7. What is Auckland’s food scene like?
Auckland’s food scene is diverse and vibrant, with an array of world-class restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors. The city offers a unique blend of indigenous Maori dishes, Pacific Island cuisine, and international flavours. Some of the must-try dishes in Auckland include fish and chips, meat pies, and pavlova, which is a traditional New Zealand dessert.
8. What is Auckland’s nightlife like?
Auckland’s nightlife scene is bustling and diverse, with an array of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues scattered throughout the city. The Viaduct Harbour and Ponsonby Road are popular areas for a night out, offering a variety of nightlife options, ranging from contemporary clubs to relaxed wine bars.
9. Can I go bungee jumping in Auckland?
Yes, you can go bungee jumping in Auckland, and it’s a popular activity for thrill-seekers. The Sky Tower offers a bungee jumping experience from a height of 192 meters, providing a unique and unforgettable adrenaline rush.
10. Is Auckland safe for tourists?
Auckland is a safe city for tourists, but as with any major city, there are areas and situations to be aware of. It’s always advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping valuable items out of sight, staying alert in crowded areas, and avoiding isolated areas at night.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Auckland
If you’re planning a trip to Auckland, New Zealand, you’re in for a treat. Auckland is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning natural scenery, a rich culture, and an endless array of activities to enjoy. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Auckland.1. Visit the Auckland Sky Tower
One of the most iconic landmarks in Auckland is the Sky Tower. This towering structure stands at 328 meters tall and is the tallest freestanding structure in the southern hemisphere. From the observation deck, you’ll have a 360-degree view of the entire city, including the Waitemata Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf.2. Take a Stroll in Auckland Domain
Auckland Domain is the largest park in Auckland and is the perfect place to go if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is home to several gardens, including the Fernery and the Wintergardens. There are also several other attractions within the park, such as the Auckland War Memorial Museum and the duck ponds.3. Go on a Harbour Cruise
If you want to see Auckland from a different perspective, then take a harbour cruise. You’ll be able to see several of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Harbour Bridge and the Sky Tower, from the water. There are several different types of cruises available, including dinner cruises and adventure cruises.4. Explore Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is a short ferry ride from Auckland and is home to several vineyards and beautiful beaches. The island is perfect for a day trip, where you can explore the island’s stunning natural scenery, go wine tasting, and relax on the beach.5. Visit the Auckland Art Gallery
The Auckland Art Gallery is home to over 15,000 works of art from New Zealand and around the world. The gallery is located in the heart of the city and is open seven days a week.6. Take a Walk on Piha Beach
Piha Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Auckland and is known for its black sand and powerful waves. The beach is located on the west coast of Auckland and is perfect for surfing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun.7. Visit the Auckland Zoo
The Auckland Zoo is home to over 135 different species, including lions, tigers, and elephants. The zoo is located in Western Springs and is open every day except Christmas Day.8. Walk the Coastal Walkway
The Coastal Walkway is a 10-kilometer walk that takes you from Mission Bay to St Heliers Bay. The walkway provides stunning views of the coastline and is the perfect way to spend a sunny day in Auckland.9. Climb Mount Eden
Mount Eden is the highest natural point in Auckland and provides stunning views of the city. The walk to the top is relatively easy and takes about 20 minutes.10. Visit the Auckland Harbour Bridge
The Auckland Harbour Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Auckland. If you’re feeling adventurous, then you can climb to the top of the bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the city and the harbour.Book Your Tour Now
Auckland is a beautiful city with an endless array of activities to enjoy. Whether you want to enjoy stunning natural scenery, explore the city’s rich culture, or simply relax on the beach, Auckland has something for everyone. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to Auckland.
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