Auckland is an exciting city that has traditionally attracted younger tourists as well as older individuals arriving via cruises. Today, however, it is a destination for everyone, and thousands of tourists come here every year. The city offers incredible views of the water, and here you will find many historic buildings.
Auckland surprises with many adventures, an exciting history, a rich culture, and great food. In this small big city, there is something for everyone. You will never regret a trip to Auckland, whether you travel with family, friends, or your partner.
Things to do in Auckland
In this guide, we have gathered 10 things you absolutely must not miss when you are in exciting Auckland. Since we know how important it is for everyone in your travel group to be happy and satisfied, we have made sure to include something for all kinds of interests and wishes. So let yourself be inspired and find the right experiences for you and your travel companions during your time in this fun city.
1. Visit Mount Eden, Maungawhau
One of the major attractions in Auckland is Mount Eden, or Maungawhau, which is its original name. This is one of the city’s approximately 50 dormant volcanoes and a protected archaeological site that is both historically and spiritually significant to the Māori people.
It is an easy, albeit steep, walk to the top, where the hill suddenly disappears into a remarkable 50m deep crater.
For those who are particularly interested in learning more about the important Māori culture, you can book a special guided walk that will undoubtedly give you insights you haven’t had before. An excellent outing for the whole family.
2. Spend the day at Muriwai Beach
Some of Auckland’s most remarkable beaches, known for their rugged landscapes, large waves, and sparkling black sand, are located on the west coast, about a 40-minute drive from the city center. Muriwai is a favorite among many, and it is a long, dark beach that stretches far away.
The black sand can get very hot during the day, so a recommendation if you come here in the summer is to arrive in the afternoon instead.
3. Visit Auckland’s Fish Market
For a taste of local seafood, head to the fish market in Wynyard Quarter in Auckland. Choose from the food stalls and enjoy fresh fish, whether it’s sashimi, poke bowls, lobster rolls, or traditional fish and chips. You won’t be disappointed after a meal here!
Feel free to enjoy your meal outside at a seating area in the sunshine. On weekends, you are often treated to live music while you eat. Then take a walk through nearby Silo Park, where there are often exciting events in the summer, and if you have children with you, there is also a playground where the little ones can burn off some energy.
4. Take the Ferry to Devonport
From the city center, it’s just a 15-minute boat ride to Auckland’s North Shore and the charming suburb of Devonport. The ferry itself gives visitors the opportunity to see Auckland from the water and get a clear picture of why the city is called the “City of Sails.”
When you arrive in Devonport, walk along the coast past the Navy Museum and up to North Head, or Maungauika, one of Auckland’s many volcanoes, which juts out into the harbor. From here, you get a fantastic view of the city and Rangitoto Island. North Head also houses a network of historic tunnels and military defenses built during World War II. On the way back to Devonport, explore the colonial village and choose a local restaurant for lunch – there are many good options to choose from.
5. Climb the Harbour Bridge
Auckland’s Harbour Bridge is impressive even for those standing on the ground. The bridge connects central Auckland with the popular North Shore and is generally only for cars. Adventurous visitors, however, can take a guided tour to the top, where they will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the city – a fantastic activity for those who want to see Auckland from a different perspective.
It is a steep climb along dedicated walkways, and it can get very windy as you climb. A visit that suits those traveling with older children or other adults. Looking for a more intense adrenaline rush? You can also choose to bungee jump from the bridge.
6. Rangitoto Island’s Volcano
Auckland’s youngest volcano rose from the sea about 600 years ago, and its dark cone is easily visible from much of the city. Rangitoto Island’s volcano is now completely dormant and a scenic nature reserve just a 25-minute ferry ride from the city, making it a convenient option for a day trip.
Hiking to the top is the most popular activity on the island, and the trail takes only about an hour, winding through native greenery before reaching the summit with spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf.
If you prefer a longer hike, there are a number of other trails on the island, including a route to nearby Motutapu Island, which is only accessible at low tide. Note – there are no shops on the island, so it is always recommended to bring plenty of water and not forget your sunscreen at home.
7. SkyJump from the Sky Tower
Feeling really adventurous and want an adrenaline rush like no other? Then this might be for you! This activity must be booked in advance. You and your group can head to the top of the tower where you check in.
After putting on your safety gear, you then take the leap from the 629-foot-high tower. You will fall for about 11 seconds before reaching the soft landing at the base of the tower.
8. Visit Auckland Art Gallery
For those who prefer something more relaxed, a visit to the Auckland Art Gallery might be perfect. Here you can see plenty of interesting art, both historical and modern, and from several well-known artists. Try to come here on a weekday if possible, as you will avoid the crowds that sometimes occur during peak season. Feel free to enjoy something delicious at the nice café and wander around for a few hours.
9. Whale Watching in the Hauraki Gulf
Auckland and New Zealand in general are well-known for their incredible wildlife and nature, so you should not miss the chance to see whales in their natural environment while you are here. There are several companies that organize these trips from the port in Auckland. Choose one with good reviews and look forward to a day of exciting experiences. An outing that the whole family is guaranteed to appreciate!
10. Try Hāngī
New Zealand offers plenty of wonderful food experiences, but something you absolutely must not miss while you are here is the dish Hāngī, a traditional Māori dish with a long history. Hāngī is a unique way of cooking that gives the food an incredible earthy, smoky flavor.
This fantastic tradition involves digging a deep hole, filling it with hot stones, and placing a layer of leaves on top. Meat, such as game, lamb, pork, and chicken, is then placed on top of the leaves, along with a selection of vegetables.
Another layer of leaves is placed on top of the food with a little water before it is all covered with soil. Book this experience during your time in New Zealand. You won’t regret it, as it will truly be a memory for a lifetime.
Price Levels in Auckland
As with most things in life, everything is best with a little planning. This also applies when you go on a trip, and finding out what things cost on-site in Auckland is a good first step for a great trip. Here we have gathered information about what things cost in Auckland. Everything to make it easy and convenient for you to get an idea of what you will need to spend while you are in the city.
Accommodation
If you want to stay comfortably in a hotel with around four stars, you can find central options for between 1200-1600 Swedish kronor. In general, the earlier you book your room, the less you pay, but it is also often possible to find good last-minute deals.
Most hotels are conveniently located near areas with many attractions and experiences, making it a pleasure to visit Auckland no matter which hotel or area you choose to stay in.
Also read: Where should you stay in Auckland? Recommended areas and neighborhoods
Food
Most people who travel to Auckland do so to experience adventures, but the food will also surprise you. It is sometimes cheap and sometimes expensive to eat out in this city, depending on where you go. You can easily find a pub breakfast for around 100 kronor.
For a restaurant lunch, you pay around 100-120 kronor, while dinner costs between 100-200 kronor if you eat out. Of course, you can also choose to eat something lighter and often find prices below 100 kronor.
Nightlife and Alcohol
In Auckland, people like to live out on the streets and squares, and this has resulted in a city with many nice bars and restaurants. Normally, only clubs charge an entrance fee, and it usually costs around 100 kronor.
A beer costs between 40 and 50 kronor, depending on which bar you choose to buy it from and whether the place is located in a tourist area or not. If you prefer a glass of wine or two, the cost is usually around 60-70 kronor for a glass from a good bottle.
Cocktails often cost around 100 kronor, depending on what you order. At the finer clubs, they often cost over 100 kronor.
How to Get Around Auckland
For those who are not prepared, getting around a new city can cost a lot more than necessary. By finding out in advance what options are available, you can more easily make decisions that suit you and your travel budget.
Here you can read more about your options for getting around the big city of Auckland in the best way. Simply the best options for smoother days during your trip.
Bus
The bus system in Auckland works very well, and there are stations at practically all major attractions. For a one-way ticket, you pay 4.20 New Zealand dollars for an adult and 2 for a child, and you buy the ticket at ticket offices or in machines. You can also choose to buy them online in an app. Children under six, however, travel for free.
Subway
If you prefer to go underground, you can choose to take Auckland’s subway. Here you also pay the same price as for the bus for a one-way ticket for an adult, but you can also choose to buy a one-day, three-day, or weekly pass.
It is fine to travel on the same ticket for 60 minutes if you need to change trains or prefer to switch to a bus.
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