Auckland | Must-Do Experiences in the City

Auckland, a buzzing urban hub nestled between two contrasting coastlines, hosts a combination of metropolitan delights and natural landscapes.

Explore the rugged West Coast beaches

You are never too far from the sea in Auckland and in less than an hour from Auckland City you will find yourself amidst the wild west coast beaches, where the Tasman Sea meets long, vast stretches of black sand. Visit Muriwai Beach to see the impressive clifftops and gannet colonies or head to Piha, a popular surf beach, and Karekare, made famous as the backdrop for the film The Piano.

Piha Beach is popular with experienced surfers, but it’s also a wonderful spot for picnics, relaxing walks and swims.

Kayak or hike to Rangitoto Island

Have you ever watched the sunset and had a BBQ on Rangitoto island? Auckland’s most iconic island, Rangitoto is a dormant volcanic cone that sits just off the coast from the central city. Take a short ferry from the city to walk to the summit for spectacular views, or glide across the harbour via paddle power on a sunset kayak tour(opens in new window).

Visit Waiheke Island

Spend a weekend or a day or a few hours, Waiheke Island is the ultimate island retreat, just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Best known as ‘island of wine’ for its many wineries and vineyards, a wine tasting tour or an indulgent lunch is a must. Enjoy spectacular views  and explore the beaches, restaurants and other activities on the island.

Indulge in world-class food & wine

Auckland is most known for its cosmopolitan nature in New Zealand and the diverse food options is reflective of that.  Auckland is home to world-class food producers. For those that are passionate about fresh, seasonal ingredients, Auckland is paradise – embark on a tour with The Big Foodie(opens in new window), Foodcraft(opens in new window) or Bush and Beach(opens in new window) and get to know Auckland gastronomy.

Experience the Farmers’ Market in Matakana

Matakana’s beautiful beaches, boutique vineyards, local arts scene and picturesque village with a superb farmers’ market make this region a divine destination. Pick up organic, seasonal produce or savour some fresh delicacies by the river’s edge at the Matakana farmers market. For a day of exploring and wine tasting, indulge in a deluxe vineyard tour with Great Tastes Matakana.

Great Barrier Island

A boating paradise, Great Barrier Island shelters Auckland’s harbour from the relentless swells of the Pacific Ocean. Covered in lush native forest, hike the Aotea Track, visit the rare wildlife of Glenfern Sanctuary or relax on Medlands Beach. Either Go Great Barrier Island Tours or Sundancer Tours offer great ways to see the island. Or if you’re feeling brave, why not try a kayak circumnavigation(opens in new window)?

Explore Hauraki Gulf

Auckland city is perched on the edge of a sheltered harbour that’s dotted with emerald islands which you can journey to by ferry. The Hauraki Gulf is home to stunning coastlines, world-class vineyards, wildlife sanctuaries, pristine beaches and active marine volacano. The gulf waters itself are teeming with marine life(opens in new window) and ideal for a cruise.

Adventure activities in Auckland

Leave Auckland with no regrets and having pushed all your limits. Try a Sky Jump(opens in new window) from the iconic Sky Tower(opens in new window), or walk its edge(opens in new window) – 192 metres above ground level! And if that’s not enough, head to the Auckland Harbour Bridge for New Zealand’s only Bridge Climb or bungy(opens in new window) into the Waitemata Harbour. Epic!

Discover Art and Culture

Explore world-class exhibitions at one of the many art galleries or wander through a contemporary collection of New Zealand sculptures amid stunning landscapes as part of the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail(opens in new window). Take a guided walking tour of Rangitoto Island or explore the Maori history and traditions at Auckland Museum(opens in new window).

Explore the vibrant Auckland Central

Central Auckland is a vibrant mix of shopping, dining and entertainment. Explore the city’s wide range of different shopping experiences from local and international designer clothes to retro and vintage fashions. Or soak up the lively nightlife with a visit to one of Auckland’s many bars and eateries.