Top Things to do in Auckland Central
The 10 Best Nature & Parks in Auckland Central, North Island
European, Polynesian, Asian and strong Maori heritages give the Auckland its distinctive culture. Discover the history of the world's largest Polynesian city through Maori treasures at Auckland Museum and experience the lives of 19th-century settlers at Howick Historical Village. Find Polynesian handicrafts at Otara Market or people-watch in bustling Ponsonby and Parnell. Adventure junkies can get their fix from kayaking, sailing and high-octane bungee jumping.
Restaurants in Auckland Central
1. Hauraki Gulf
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 363 reviews
This area comprises 47 islands, the most popular of which is Waiheke for its excellent beaches and bays.
Reviewed By raewyn2015 - Auckland Central, New Zealand
A fabulous place to explore, close to the centre of the City and a great ferry ride to Waiheke Island to enjoy the vineyards and the local Hospitality, Highly recommended
2. Tiritiri Matangi Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,924 reviews
Reviewed By Escape50291134045 - Auckland, New Zealand
the trip was amazing walking up to the lighthouse to have a break and and seeing native birds fly around you is just amazing even getting to see the little blue penguins and a surprise stingray in the bay.
3. Auckland Zoo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,513 reviews
Auckland Zoo is home to the largest collection of native and exotic animals in New Zealand, set in 17 hectares of lush parkland and just minutes from central Auckland. Auckland Zoo is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 9.30am.
Reviewed By 795hana_
I have seen already several ZOOs around the world and this one is one of my favourite. Besides that you can see some rare animals like red panda, or kiwi bird ( where else ????), it is also visible, that they really take care and love those animals there. Currently there is freshly born small red panda and zebra. Recommended not only for kids, but for everyone who likes animals.
4. Cornwall Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,362 reviews
This lovely urban park offers an escape from the city hustle and bustle with oak tree-lined roads, winding paths and grazing sheep and cattle.
Reviewed By NicholasM2408
Other than having the best cricket club in NZ, Cronwall Park boasts lush fields, old oak trees and great icecream
5. Auckland Domain
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 969 reviews
Characterized by its formal gardens, this park is a great place to relax just minutes away from the city center.
Reviewed By amandacJ5606BH
Just beautiful. So much green space, gorgeous old trees, and a brilliant outdoor arena for summer events. Think Christmas in the Park. Auckland is so lucky to have many of these areas to enjoy without travelling from their city.
6. Viaduct Harbour
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,419 reviews
Visit the center of Auckland sailing and the place for the finest restaurants, bars, and luxury apartments.
Reviewed By 48andreww - Broad Oak, United Kingdom
Lots of super yachts to admire and Admiral's Cup yachts. Plenty of places to eat and drink. Not to be missed when in Auckland.
7. 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!
8. Albert Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 739 reviews
This elegant garden close to downtown Auckland has towering palm trees, a floral clock, a Victorian fountain, statues and an Argentinian ombu tree, whose enormous roots grow above ground.
Reviewed By Jeff1903 - King's Lynn, United Kingdom
A lovely little park close to the city. The art gallery is in the corner. There are formal flower beds, interesting trees, statues old and new, a bandstand and some old guns. It is quiet and peaceful and a nice break during a busy day.
9. 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.
10. One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,215 reviews
The second highest volcanic peak in Auckland, next to Mount Eden, One Tree Hill offers views of the city and has a huge obelisk at the top.
Reviewed By jeanettem190 - Cairns, Australia
After your walking visit to Mt Eden; a caldera volcano, it makes sense to stroll through tony, leafy Mt Eden Village & Epsom Village to Cornwall Park (vast! Check out the sheep & cows grazing!) up to One Tree Hill; a cone volcano (Check out the difference!). There are two horseshoe shaped calderas on two different sides of the 'cone'. As you wander up the very gentle slope, you'll see the Vicotrian Folly. Then there's the heritage-style Bistro where you can snag an ice-cream or similar & have a seat on the verandah. Right next door is Huia Lodge; a heritage listed little cottage & info centre promoting early Auckland & current cultural exhibitions. Across the road is Acacia Cottage; the oldest surviving structure in Auckland. 1841. No wonder it survived; it's made from super-strong kauri wood. The cottage is beautifully restored, having been shifted from it's original location in inner Auckland. There're all kinds of historic everyday items on display, which was quite interesting & nostalgic. Buses are no longer permitted beyond this point, so there're no more obnoxious loud hordes of shouting 'tourist' type people elbowing the walkers & shoving their selfie sticks all over. It's very scenic at the top. You're bound to find several nice photographic subjects. After all this walking you're liable to feel tired. No worries, just walk down another path, not through the vast public park, into a suburban street. You'll soon find a bus stop. If the bus is headed further out from Auckland, just cross the street! All the northbound city buses will meander their way back to the Auckland CBD!
