Location: Auckland
Top Things to do in Auckland
Things to do in Auckland, North Island: The Best Nature & Parks
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. Tawharanui Regional Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 259 reviews
Reviewed By GaryandLesleyTravel - Auckland Central, New Zealand
Just 85km north of Auckland’s CBD find this beautiful predator free regional park. Several beaches to choose from for the day tripper swimmer, surfer, sun lover or various walks around the peninsula. We enjoyed a great walk on the well pathed Ecology Trail, great native bird life, fauna and forest. Amongst the usuals we saw, Saddle Backs and Bellbirds. On arriving at the top of the forested trail if the tide is low you can drop down through the farmland to the coast and return to the beach / carpark via the beautiful coastline and its rocky outcrops dynamic in colour and design. A great public facility.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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!
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. Ambury Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 91 reviews
Reviewed By RubikcubeC
Must visit place, beautiful, kids loved it and on top of that it is free. Lovely farm for kids to roam and learn.
