Top Things to do in Auckland Central
Top 7 Historic Sites 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. Highwic
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
Built in 1862, Highwic, once the home to the prominent Buckland family, is one of the finest examples of Carpenter Gothic architecture in New Zealand.
Reviewed By Staffshire - Stafford, United Kingdom
Like so many beautiful historic buildings in Auckland, Highwic is a gem of a property - with such a story to tell - but which is gradually being penned in by high rise commercial development on all sides Access presently IS off Gillies Avenue as Mortimer Pass is closed for building development. We visited on a very wet day and, indeed, were the only visitors at the time. We were warmly greeted by Christopher and given a very comprehensive introduction to Alfred Buckland and his family before being allowed to wander freely in the house. Chris was never far away and always enthusiastic to answer our questions as we toured room after room making many discoveries along the way. I enjoyed the opportunity to play the well maintained piano in the ballroom and Chris made us a pot of tea which was greatly appreciated. We were at Highwic for about three hours, enjoying the building; its history and its gardens. It was well worth the walk up the hill. Thanks to all those who work hard to preserve this building and to Chris for looking after us so well.
2. Howick Historical Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 320 reviews
Walk through our front gate of our Living Museum and step into the pages of a colonial history book. Explore the early settlement of Howick as it was in the mid to late 1800s. Open the doors of real homes and experience living history for yourself. See how the early settlers would have lived as they went about their daily activities. Better still, come along to one of our monthly "Meet the Villagers" Days where you will get the opportunity to interact with costumed villagers. Explore the heritage garden, have a picnic on the lawn or relax with home-style food and coffee in our cafe. And please ask questions of our volunteers on site. We love to share our knowledge of local history.
Reviewed By 970lynne
We have just visited this village on our way to Coromandel. What a lovely way to pass a couple of hours. It is about 20 mins from the city Center and easy to find with clear directions on the website. ( the sat nav did not recognise the address) The village consists of original houses brought together by the historical society and lovingly restored. There is lots of information about the buildings and the ‘fencibles’ Members are around in role and are welcoming, friendly and informative. There was an activity trail which children appeared to be enjoying. The cafe food was delicious with a good choice at reasonable prices. I am surprised it only features as 52 on things to do in Auckland.
3. J.F Kennedy Memorial Park
4. Ewelme Cottage
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 12 reviews
This meticulously preserved 19th-century cottage, built of kauri wood, has much of the original family furniture and possessions.
Reviewed By Truejaffa - Auckland Central, New Zealand
An interesting place to visit full of the actual Lush family furniture and artifacts . The garden is beautifully maintained. It's easy to imagine the family living there in early Auckland and the Heritage NZ volunteer was full of fascinating information.
5. Parnell
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 571 reviews
Saved from demolition by the efforts of one individual, this restored historic village has specialty and antique shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants and is a trendy nightspot.
Reviewed By klvmar
Spending a day in Parnell Village was the perfect way to end our two-month vacation in New Zealand. The quaint little shops and galleries in this beautifully designed suburb were fun to explore and the large variety of cafes and restaurants offered an unlimited variety of delicious cuisines. What a great discovery! We will definitely be back.
6. Auckland Town Hall
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 134 reviews
Auckland Town Hall is a prominent civic landmark of neo-Baroque style. Protected as a Category A heritage building, from 1994 to 1997 the building was fully restored, allowing the addition of modern amenities and re-establishing the building's standing as a multi-functional venue and world class performance hall.
Reviewed By ChristopherWaiheke - Waiheke Island, New Zealand
I heard a number of New Zealand Symphony Orchestra concerts here last year and intentionally sat in different parts of te hall to judge the acoustics. Except for seats directly above the orchestra,the sound was amazing. And the setting! A neo-Baroque style building built in 1911 and restored in 1997, it's pleasure to look at and a treat to be inside! The thunderous organ deserves a review of its own. Alas, the public can only see inside if they go to a concert (why no guided tours?) so go to a concert!! Upcoming shows on the Town Hall web-site.
7. Symonds Street Cemetary
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 31 reviews
Reviewed By jeanettem190 - Cairns, Australia
Just near the far end of Queen St you'll find this cemetery. It's larger than you might think & you'll have to cross the street to see all the sections, segregated by religious conviction: Anglican, Catholic, Jewish, Protestant, etc. The cemetery's well cared for & many of the inscriptions are still legible. As you arrive / leave check out the very grand, ornate Victorian Public Toilets. It's remarkable how much effort the Victorians went to when it comes to public buildings!
