Location: Auckland
Top Things to do in Auckland
10 Things to do in Auckland That You Shouldn't Miss
The Māori call Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau — a maiden desired by 100 lovers,
and a valuable territory fought over for centuries for its fertile land and
natural harbors on the Pacific Ocean (to the east) and Tasman Sea (to the
west). Today, it’s New Zealand’s largest city: A vibrant and diverse place
where nature and urban life go hand-in- hand, with 48 volcanic cones, more
than 50 islands, and 29,000 km of coastline and beaches just minutes away
from the arts and shopping of the central city.
Restaurants in Auckland
1. Rotoroa Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 117 reviews
Closed to the public for nearly 100 years, Rotoroa Island is now a sanctuary for wildlife and home to endangered native species including kiwi, tieke, takahe, pateke and skinks. Just over an hour from downtown Auckland, this beautiful and unique island warmly welcomes you to reconnect with nature. Come and see endangered species in their natural habitat, and learn about our ongoing efforts to protect them. Visit our award-winning museum and exhibition, and learn all about our fascinating history. Hiking, swimming, volunteering and fishing; on Rotoroa Island there's something for everyone.
Reviewed By 196barbl - Dunedin, New Zealand
We spent a day exploring the island and loved it. We walked to both the North Tower and then the South Tower and the views are spectacular. There is so much birdlife on the island, all you need to do it just stand and then it will appear, some of it quite close. We didn't swim, however others were and it seemed like the ideal way to cool off on a hot day. There is a fountain at the exhibition centre, that you can use to refill water bottles and their is a small kiosk that sells natural feel good icecreams on a stick, made in Nelson. You need to take all your rubbish with you and make sure that you check with the person who welcomes you from the ferry to the island about the return time as the information on fullers was incorrect and there is only one return ferry each day.
2. SkyTower
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11,422 reviews
Auckland's SkyTower is the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere, this tower is more than 300 metres high. Offering stunning views, along with award winning restaurants, a gift shop and an opportunity to push your limits by walking the outside of the viewing platforms, or by jumping off from 192 metres above Auckland's CBD. Off Peak Season - (1st May - 31st Oct) 9:00am - 10:00pm daily - Last tickets sold at 9:30pm Peak Season - (1st Nov - 30th Apr) Sun - Thurs: 8:30am - 10:30pm - Last tickets sold at 10:00pm Fri & Sat: 8:30am - 11:30pm - Last tickets sold at 11:00pm
Reviewed By LachmiPunjabi - New Delhi, India
Visit the Sky Tower in Auckland for an awesome view of the city and harbour.The ride in the lift to the top floor is amazing with the glass floor mesmerising anyone who looks down. The 360 degrees view of the tower is magnificent and the money is totally worth it.
3. Auckland Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,640 reviews
Discover and experience Maori culture, with daily cultural shows and an internationally significant Maori and Pacific collection to explore, the Auckland Museum is a must see attraction. Housed in an Iconic building within the grounds of a tranquil park, the Auckland Museum is a place to discover and learn about New Zealand's culture and its natural history. Since 1929, the Museum has served as place of remembrance for the many Aucklanders who have sacrificed their lives in war.
Reviewed By justinwL3694KP - Auckland Central, New Zealand
Much prefer from Te Papa great fun more of a world range to look at really nice way to spend a day. Has cafe food and nice tours, never feel to crowded and have plenty of time to look at everything
4. Rangitoto Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,208 reviews
This volcanic island, which last erupted 600 years ago, offers bird-watching, swimming, fishing, walking trails, colorful flora and spectacular views from the summit of its cone-shaped mountain.
Reviewed By cecorbett - Los Gatos, United States
Great hike with fantastic views! Short ferry ride from the downtown ferry terminal and then a fairly easy hike (takes about an hour) to the top. Stopped at the lava caves on the way down which were neat to see. Definitely recommend for anyone looking to get some fresh air and a nice walk in while in Auckland!
5. Mount Eden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,898 reviews
A trip up the highest volcanic peak in mainland Auckland offers striking views of the downtown area and harbor.
Reviewed By LindaK631 - Auckland Central, New Zealand
I’m an Aucklander. I love the views from the top of Maungawhau/ Mt Eden. I’ve been here for years and I’m a great supporter of taking the traffic away from the summit. More tranquility and space for the pedestrians. The views from the top are excellent and you get a 360 degree view of the city and the two harbours - Waitemata and Manukau. There is little of the city you can’t see from here and the walk to the top is not too strenuous if you take your time. You can also take a variety of routes up and down the mountain - stick to the road or take one of the more scenic cross-mountain routes. Then pop over to Mt Eden Village for lunch - there are so many cafes to choose from.
6. Karekare Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 148 reviews
Reviewed By 1SunLovingCouple
This wild beach is found at the end of a crazy, skinny winding road. But it's worth the insane drive to visit. On the Monday morning we went, there were 3 surfers and a handful of people walking their dogs ... no one else around for miles. We drove into the parking lot without noticing the path in the grass/bush, so we ended up walking on the path that runs from the end of the lot, past the statue, and along the side of the cliff - so no access to the main beach unless you want to get your feet wet (water was fairly deep and we weren't up for it). But that small part is nice too because you're right up against the rocky cliff side and you can get some great photos. This was a gorgeous, secluded area where we felt like we were alone on a whole different planet! There is a waterfall across the street, the path was steep & muddy so we just took photos from the road because you can see it clearly.
7. Auckland Botanic Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 368 reviews
"Where ideas grow'. Explore a garden of national significance that can delight, inspire, entertain and relax your senses. The collections of natives and exotics are complimented by lakes, the award winning Potter Children’s Garden and a growing collection of large scale outdoor sculpture by New Zealand artists. Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch at Cafe miko, located in the Huakaiwaka Visitor Centre with views out over the gardens. Enjoy the changing centre displays introducing you to the beauty and fascinating facts about plants. View many of our sustainable initiatives from vegetated swales to green roofs. Only 20 minutes from the city or airport Auckland Botanic Gardens is open every day of the year and entry is free.
Reviewed By 196barbl - Dunedin, New Zealand
These gardens are huge and well spaced out. The areas are broken up by particular plant groupings so if you have a particular interest then you can go directly to that area. The edible garden is great as it gives examples of what you can do in your own backyard. The gardens are dog friendly, and dogs are on a lead, however if you or your child is not a dog person then it could be overwhelming. The cafe is reasonably priced with a good selection of food, and if you are just wanting a coffee then you can skip the line and go to the coffee cart at the rear or the other one down by the rose garden.
8. Eden Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 243 reviews
Home to Auckland Cricket and Rugby for over 100 years, this is New Zealand's largest, most iconic stadium. Behind the Scenes Experience Tours operate weekdays daily.
Reviewed By The_bald_gourmet - Chicago, United States
Eden Park is the home of New Zealand Rugby Union and has been on my bucket list for years. I grew up playing rugby and watching the New Zealand "All Blacks" and had always wanted to see a game at this iconic ground. Whilst I didn't get to see the "All Blacks" I did get to see "The Blues" beat "The Stormers" and it was a terrific match. I also got to eat a meat pie at half-time (which for the uninitiated is quintessentially New Zealand!). If you have any interest in rugby then watching a game at Eden Park should be top of your list. If you don't know much about rugby and find yourself in Auckland on a match day I strongly recommend going to a game. It is a spectacle and an experience that is not to be missed!
9. Waiheke Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,640 reviews
Reviewed By russypooh - Long Beach, United States
Highlights: Food and wine tasting Beaches and beautiful landscapes Walking trails Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 40 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.
10. Tantalus Estate Vineyard & Winery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 257 reviews
The newest edition to Auckland’s vineyard destinations has been honored with international accolades for our estate-grown wines, plus national awards in architecture and design, building craftsmanship, cuisine and dining. The idyllic sloping vineyards of the family owned Tantalus Estate are located in the heart of the Onetangi Valley - a gentle picturesque twenty-acre vineyard in Waiheke’s renowned wine growing region. Complete with olive groves, macadamia trees, an apiary, kitchen gardens, native trees and boardwalks, Tantalus Estate is a destination not to be missed.
Reviewed By KiwiKerry53 - Wellington, New Zealand
Very cool place providing a home to a micro brewery underneath the restaurant and wine tasting area, I loved the ambience - fabulous light fittings, good wine and warm and welcoming surroundings. I really loved this place. I think one should spend the day here! Lovely gardens, views of the vines and a great atmosphere.
