Location: Auckland
Top Things to do in Auckland
What to do and see in Auckland, North Island: The Best Islands
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. 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. Motuora Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
3. 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.
4. Motutapu Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 17 reviews
Reviewed By SandraLatzel - Auckland, New Zealand
We had a lovely time on the island thanks to the camp's operations manager. Can highly recommend a trip over to the island,which is super close to Auckland.
5. 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.
6. 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!
7. Motuihe Island
8. 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.
