Auckland

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Captivating view of Auckland's skyline at dusk featuring the iconic Sky Tower under a colorful sky.
Donovan Kelly, Pexels

Auckland, often called the "City of Sails," provides a vibrant metropolitan experience seamlessly integrated with breathtaking natural landscapes. It offers a diverse range of activities, from cultural exploration and fine dining to adventurous outdoor pursuits across its harbours, volcanic islands, and beaches.

For socializing, key areas include the bustling Central Business District (CBD), the trendy Britomart precinct, the lively Viaduct Harbour, and the eclectic Ponsonby and Karangahape Road (K Road) neighbourhoods, all featuring various cafes, restaurants, bars, and unique shops.

Top 7 Things to do in Auckland

Visitors to Auckland can explore a diverse range of experiences, from soaring above the city for panoramic views to island-hopping for wine tasting or volcanic hikes, and immersing themselves in marine life or local culture.

1. Ascend the Sky Tower

From the Sky Tower, one can witness expansive 360-degree views of Auckland, its sparkling harbours, and distant volcanic landscapes. Standing at 328 metres, it is the Southern Hemisphere's tallest man-made structure, offering a unique perspective of the city. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the SkyWalk allows for a stroll around the pergola at 192 metres, or the SkyJump offers a controlled base jump from the tower. Experiencing sunset from one of the observation decks can be particularly memorable.

Cost: General admission is approximately NZ$45 for adults and NZ$30 for children aged 10-14, with cheaper rates for younger children. Online bookings may offer slight discounts. Adventure activities like SkyWalk or SkyJump incur additional costs, which vary.

Transport: The Sky Tower is centrally located in Auckland's Central Business District (CBD) and is within walking distance of many hotels. Public buses, such as the Line 82, stop nearby with fares typically costing NZ$3-4, and the journey from Auckland Town Hall takes around 13 minutes. A taxi from Auckland Town Hall would cost approximately NZ$7-9 and take about 3 minutes.

2. Day Trip to Waiheke Island

A short ferry ride transports one to Waiheke Island, often referred to as the 'island of wine,' known for its beautiful vineyards, olive groves, and pristine beaches. Visitors can indulge in wine-tasting tours, relax on the golden sands, or explore local art galleries and eateries. The island offers a tranquil escape with a distinctly relaxed pace.

Cost: A return ferry ticket for an adult on Fullers Ferry typically costs NZ$59, with off-peak deals available for NZ$44 if departing Auckland after 1 pm and returning from Waiheke after 7 pm. Using an AT HOP card can reduce the one-way adult fare to NZ$29.50. Families (2 adults, 2 children) can find return tickets for around NZ$126, or NZ$98 for off-peak. Once on the island, public buses, taxis, or rental cars are available for exploration.

Transport: Ferries depart frequently from the Downtown Ferry Terminal in Auckland CBD. The journey across the Waitematā Harbour takes approximately 40 minutes. On Waiheke, public buses connect the ferry port to main townships and attractions, with fares typically covered by an AT HOP card or cash. Taxis are also readily available.

3. Explore the Auckland War Memorial Museum

Situated in the Auckland Domain, the Auckland War Memorial Museum serves as a vital custodian of New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can delve into the country's rich Māori history, witness significant cultural performances, and explore exhibits detailing New Zealand's involvement in various conflicts. The museum also features extensive natural history collections, providing a comprehensive journey through the land's past.

Cost: Admission for international visitors is NZ$28 for adults and NZ$14 for children. Auckland residents enjoy free entry with proof of residency.

Transport: The museum is a short distance from Auckland CBD. Public buses offer convenient access, with routes stopping near the museum; a bus journey from University General Library typically costs NZ$3-4 and takes around 9-17 minutes. A train from Waitemata to Parnell Station costs NZ$1-2 and takes about 4 minutes, followed by a 20-minute walk. A taxi from the CBD would cost approximately NZ$12-15.

4. Hike Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island, a distinctive volcanic cone, offers an adventurous day out just a 25-minute ferry ride from Auckland. One can embark on a summit walk through lava fields and the world's largest pōhutukawa forest to reach the top, where panoramic 360-degree views of the Hauraki Gulf await. Detours allow for exploration of ancient lava caves and a historic shipwreck graveyard. The island is a pest-free sanctuary for native wildlife.

Cost: A return ferry ticket typically costs around NZ$58 for adults and NZ$26 for children. It is essential to bring all necessities as there are no shops or facilities on the island.

Transport: Ferries depart from the Downtown Ferry Terminal in Auckland CBD. The ferry journey itself takes approximately 25 minutes.

5. Visit Mount Eden / Maungawhau

Mount Eden, or Maungawhau, is the highest natural point in Auckland, offering sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline, its harbours, and surrounding areas. This dormant volcanic cone is a significant Māori historical site, providing a peaceful yet active outdoor experience. The walk to the summit is a gentle incline, rewarding visitors with breathtaking vistas.

Cost: Access to Mount Eden is free.

Transport: Mount Eden is located about 5 km (3.1 miles) south of Auckland's CBD. Public buses are a convenient option, with routes such as the 27H, 27T, and 27W departing from Britomart to Mount Eden Village. A bus ride typically costs NZ$3-4 and takes around 11-13 minutes. A taxi from the CBD would cost approximately NZ$19-24 and take about 7 minutes.

6. Discover Marine Life at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium offers an immersive journey through the underwater world, featuring diverse marine species, including New Zealand's largest collection of sharks and the world's only sub-Antarctic penguin colony. Visitors can walk through the first curved aquarium tunnel, observe gigantic stingrays, and engage with interactive exhibits. Special experiences, such as penguin encounters or shark cage adventures, are also available for an additional cost.

Cost: General admission for an adult is around NZ$32.80 when booked online in advance, or NZ$45 for walk-up. For children (2-15 years), online advance tickets are approximately NZ$23.20, and walk-up is NZ$32. Family passes (2 adults + 2 children) are about NZ$140.

Transport: The aquarium is located approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) from downtown Auckland. The TāmakiLink public bus service (TMK Bus) runs frequently from Britomart Transport Centre to Kelly Tarlton's, costing NZ$3-4 and taking 12-13 minutes. A taxi from Auckland CBD would cost approximately NZ$25-30 and take about 10 minutes. Free car parking is available on-site.

7. Explore Central City Precincts (Viaduct Harbour, Britomart, Federal Street)

The Viaduct Harbour, Britomart, and Federal Street areas form the vibrant heart of Auckland's metropolitan life. One can wander along the waterfront at Viaduct Harbour, admiring superyachts and dining at numerous restaurants and cafes. Britomart offers a blend of heritage buildings, trendy cafes, upscale restaurants, and designer boutiques for a lively shopping and dining experience. Federal Street, adjacent to the Sky Tower, is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, offering a range of international flavours.

Cost: Exploring these areas is free; costs will vary based on individual spending for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Many restaurants offer diverse price points.

Transport: These precincts are all located within Auckland's CBD and are easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations. Public transport, including buses and trains, connects these areas, with stops conveniently located throughout.

Check out our other pages on Auckland

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