Things to do in Auckland – Activities, Experiences & Tours

Known as New Zealand’s largest city, Aukland has many activities and experiences to offer: a rich history, stunning nature and amazing climate. Let’s review what are, to us, the top 10 things to do in Aukland during your holidays.

1. Visit the Sky Tower

If it’s your first time to Aukland, enjoying the biggest view in Auckland is an excellent way to discover the city and its main points of interest. 

Climbing the Sky Tower is a must for anyone travelling with you. At a height of 328 metres, the tower has a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal. You can also take part in the SkyJump, if you're a thrill-seeker.

  2.    Explore Waiheke Island

A 40-minute ferry ride will take you to Waiheke Island. Known for its many natural wonders to explore, it's a sports lover's paradise. There are plenty of activities on offer, including sea kayaking, cycling, fishing, surfing and archery.

The island of Waiheke is home to many local artists who sell all kinds of paintings, wooden objects and sculptures. You can even stay for a few days, as there are plenty of properties to rent on the island. 

3. Auckland War Memorial Museum

The War Memorial Museum is one of the most important in the country and will enable you to learn more about New Zealand's history and culture. It's an area that's also designed for younger visitors, making it an ideal attraction to share with the whole family.

The museum also has a cafeteria where you can eat before or after your visit. 

4. Go to Rangitoto Island

Take the ferry about 25 minutes to Rangitoto Island and explore Auckland's youngest and largest volcano. You can also visit the accessible lava caves and tunnels. 

There are several walking routes on the island, making it a popular destination for hikers. You can also discover some incredible sandy beaches and breathtaking viewpoints.

5. Walk the Auckland Harbour Bridge

With its 8 lanes and kilometre-long span over Waitematā Harbour, the Auckland Harbour Bridge links St Marys Bay and Northcote. 

It's one of the city's icons, and a trip over it is a must if you want to make your stay in Auckland official!

6. Discover the Viaduct Harbour

A must-see area of Auckland, Viaduct Harbour is a lively district with many quality bars and restaurants. It is also home to many luxury yachts and sailing boats. In fact, the marina is the starting point for a number of maritime excursions around Auckland Bay.

While it's great for families during the day, Viaduct Harbour can get very lively in the evening, making it a more suitable destination for couples and groups of friends. 

7. Visit Auckland Zoo

With over 2,800 animals, Auckland Zoo is a place of endless discovery. Numerous events and activities are on offer throughout the year. You'll discover over 130 different species, including giraffes, elephants and rhinos, as well as exotic birds, reptiles and fish of all kinds. 

8. Auckland Domain and Wintergardens

Exploring Auckland Domain and Wintergardens is a great way to enjoy one of Aukland jewels. Designed in the early 1900s by Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jeckyll, the park opened in 1913 and display a spectacular collection of rare flowers of all kind. 

The access is totally free, so make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Auckland Domain and Wintergardens before you leave the city!

9. Mission Bay Beach

Mission Beay Beach is one of Auckland's most popular areas. Here you'll find walking trails, bars and restaurants.

Events are regularly organised by Mission Bay Beach businesses. Check out their website to find out all about what's on at the moment.

10. Explore the Waitākere Ranges

The Waitākere Ranges are an 18km mountain range to the west of Auckland. The area is almost entirely forested and is an inexhaustible playground for hiking enthusiasts. With more than 160 km² and 143 hiking trails, it will be impossible to get bored here. 

The coast also boasts 4 well-known surfing beaches. With their black volcanic sand, however, they are particularly dangerous for swimmers because of the strong currents.