Auckland surprised me. I arrived expecting a stopover city and left wishing I had given it more time. The City of Sails sits on a narrow isthmus between two harbours, dotted with around 50 volcanic cones that give the skyline a genuinely unusual character, and surrounded by beaches, islands and vineyards that are all within easy reach.
It rained for most of my visit, which made a few of the outdoor activities harder — my honest advice is give Auckland at least two days, ideally three, so weather does not dictate your entire experience.
Read more about planning the full trip in the Ultimate New Zealand Travel Guide.
Views and Volcanic Cones
1. Sky Tower
The tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. I did not get a clear day for my visit, which was disappointing — if you only have a short time in Auckland, check the forecast and go up on a clear day if you can.
2. Climb Rangitoto Island
A short ferry ride takes you to Rangitoto — an extinct volcanic island in the harbour. Climb to the summit for panoramic views back across Auckland. A half-day trip gets you to the summit and back with time to explore the lava caves along the way.
3. Mount Eden (Maungawhau)
The highest volcanic cone in central Auckland, giving 360-degree views across the city. A 2km walk up and back, completely free, and one of the best viewpoints in the city.
4. Mount Victoria
On Auckland's North Shore, standing 87 metres above sea level. Another excellent volcanic viewpoint, quieter than Mount Eden.
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Waiheke Island
5. Ferry to Waiheke and Rent a Bike
Waiheke Island is one of Auckland's genuine highlights and deserves a full day. A 35-40 minute ferry ride from downtown takes you to a completely different pace of life — vineyards, olive groves, beaches and a laid-back island atmosphere that feels a world away from the city. Rent a bike and ride between wineries, or join an organised wine tour if you would rather not navigate yourself.
Adventure and Adrenaline
6. Bungy Jump or Bridge Climb — Auckland Harbour Bridge
AJ Hackett runs both a climb and a bungy jump off Auckland Harbour Bridge. Either way, you get extraordinary views over the harbour along with the adrenaline hit.
7. Sky Walk and Sky Jump
If the harbour bridge is not enough, the Sky Tower offers its own Sky Walk (walking the outer edge of the tower) and Sky Jump (a controlled base jump from the top). Both are genuinely thrilling and give completely different perspectives on the city.
Culture, History and Green Space
8. Auckland War Memorial Museum
Excellent museum covering New Zealand's natural and human history, with strong Māori and Pacific collections and a genuinely moving war history section.
9. New Zealand Maritime Museum
Given Auckland's identity as the City of Sails, this museum on the waterfront covers New Zealand's maritime history and exploration in genuine depth.
10. Auckland Botanic Gardens
A peaceful stroll through native and international flora — a good half-day activity if the weather is kind.
11. Albert Park
Central, green and a good spot for a picnic or a break between sightseeing.
12. Aotea Square
Worth a stop for the public art, including a striking gateway sculpture by a Māori artist at the Queen Street entrance.
Beaches
13. Piha Beach
A stunning black sand beach about an hour from the city centre. Popular with surfers, dramatic scenery, well worth the drive if you have a car or want to join a tour.
Food, Shopping and City Life
14. Queen Street
Auckland's main shopping street — shops, restaurants and cafés lined up for browsing.
15. Wynyard Quarter
Sit down for lunch or a glass of wine overlooking the boats. A relaxed waterfront precinct with good food options.
16. Auckland Ferry Terminal
A beautiful heritage building on the waterfront that connects the city to its islands and suburbs. Worth a look even if you are not catching a ferry.
17. Sail on an America's Cup Yacht
The City of Sails lives up to its name — book a high-speed sail on an actual America's Cup racing yacht around the harbour. One of the more iconic Auckland experiences.
18. K-Road (Karangahape Road)
Auckland's street art and alternative culture hub. Great cafés, independent shops and some of the best street art in the city.
Rainy Day Options
19. Eden Park
Take a stadium tour or, better yet, book tickets to a rugby match — ideally an All Blacks game if the timing works out.
20. SnowPlanet
About 20 minutes north of the city — an indoor snow centre with skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing. A good option if the weather turns and you want something different.
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All New Zealand Posts
- The Ultimate New Zealand Travel Guide — 4 Weeks Around Aotearoa
- Stepping Into Middle Earth — Hobbiton Movie Set
- Rotorua — Geothermal Wonders and Māori Culture
- Wellington — New Zealand's Coolest Little Capital
- Christchurch — A City Rebuilding
- 20 Things to Do in Queenstown
- Nevis Bungy Jump New Zealand
- South Island Road Trip — Mount Cook to the Catlins
Frequently Asked Questions
At least two days, ideally three. Auckland has more to offer than a single day allows — Waiheke Island alone is worth a full day trip, and the city itself has enough volcanic cones, harbours and neighbourhoods to fill another two days comfortably.
