Auckland travel guide, best things to see and do — tips

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city. Stroll along the coastal inlets, hike on a volcanic island,  spend an afternoon at the Auckland Museum perched above the Memorial Gardens or a cruise the harbour are just a few ways to absorb the delights of the city. This city has the largest Polynesian population in the world, contributing to the Pacifica, cosmopolitan and dynamic appeal of Auckland. High-end fashion houses, sophisticated restaurants and chic bars compliment the abundance of outdoor activities.

Auckland is situated on 50 islands and over 50 dormant volcanoes which make it unusual and breathtaking to behold.  It is located in the upper part of the North Island, New Zealand. Being the largest gateway to New Zealand visitors have a tendency to rush past Auckland in their desire to see the rest of the place. Great intentions yet visitors are missing out on the magic that is Auckland.

Best Itineraries and trips from Auckland

Gardens & parks

Auckland is a city of parks. The Domain is the city’s oldest park based around an extinct volcano and home to the formal Winter Gardens as well as the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Walks

Heritage and city walks. Self-guided walks for Auckland and surrounding districts. 

Walk coast to coast across an entire country crosses New Zealand’s narrowest neck of land. Start in Viaduct Harbour on Auckland’s east coast and travel west through urban landscapes, beautiful parklands and over dormant volcanoes to finish 16km later at Manukau Harbour. Check travel pack information for map and track details.

Culture & heritage

Historic Places are a must-visit for lovers of history, architecture and gardens.

Art galleries

Commercial galleries are listed in Heart of the City website.

Museums

City attractions

Festivals

Auckland with its multi-cultural population including the largest settlement of polynesian people is home to many festivals. During the summer months Pasifika festival is a highlight. The beat of drums and the rhythm is a must do Pacifica immersion and should be on your bucket list.

Beaches

Swimguide is a mobile friendly app “It helps you easily find your closest beaches, know at a glance which ones are safe for swimming, and share your love of beaches” 

For beach aficionado’s city beaches do not compare with the well known beaches of Northland, Nelson and South Island. Unlike in Sydney with its iconic Bondi Beach or Manly esplanade Auckland is not a beach focused destination.  

City beaches include:

Kohimarama and its busy neighbour Mission Bay. Both beaches provide excellent views of Rangitoto Island, Auckland’s most recent volcanic eruption. Both beaches can be crowded on a hot day. A walk towards Achilles Point you will find Ladies Bay Beach. 

Devonport is a scenic harbour cruise destination with a village feel to its main street. Lined with cafes and gift shops as well as historic.

Five City Family Attractions

Top Ten day trips from Auckland

Getting around

Due to its recent growth spurt and the international interest developing in Auckland as a tourist destination, traffic has gotten more congested than it was 5 years ago. Given this, Auckland is still a relatively small city and the traffic is still manageable compared to other large cities.

Travel pack information

• Coast to Coast walking map PDF
• Coast-to-Coast-Walkway trail notes PDF

Photo Gallery