Mar 17, 2022

Visiting the largest city in New Zealand? Don’t miss out on the must see attractions in Tamaki Makaurau / Auckland. 

 

Did you know?

  • The city is nicknamed ‘City of Sails’, as one in three Aucklanders own a boat
  • Auckland is the largest Polynesian city in the world, in terms of population
  • There are around 50 volcanoes in the Auckland region
  • Auckland was the capital of New Zealand for 24 years, from 1841-1865
  • The city frequently ranks amongst the world’s top 20 most liveable cities
  • Many public businesses in New Zealand are headquartered in Auckland, whereas government departments generally have Head Office in Wellington, so in the same city as the Beehive (Parliament). If you want to find out more about Wellington and what to see and do whilst visiting, check out our blog: Things to do in Wellington

 

Auckland City Night Scape

 

Queen Street

Explore Auckland’s main strip - grab a bite or a drink in one of the eateries and bars along Queen Street. Or visit later at night to immerse yourself into the lively nightlife and entertainment.

Auckland Museum Auckland City  

Visit a museum

Auckland has numerous museum you can visit. Here we list a few museums we enjoy visiting: 

 

Auckland Art Gallery – Toi o Tamaki 

Join a free tour in the ground floor of the foyer daily at 11.30am and 1.30pm (this will take approximately one hour). With ever changing exhibitions and events there will definitely be something sparking your interest. This museum is free of admission.

 

Auckland War Memorial Museum – Tamaki Paenga Hira   

This museum hosts all you need to know about the history of New Zealand. Allow a reasonable amount of time, as there is a lot to discover on three exhibition levels.  The museum is open daily from 10am-5pm, admission is free for New Zealanders, international visitors pay $25 per adult and $10 per child.

 

MOTAT – Museum of Transport & Technology        

This highly interesting museum features the history of technology starting from steam engines, leading its visitors all the way into the digital world. The MOTAT is open seven days a week (excluding Christmas day) from 10am - 5pm. Prices for adults are $16 and kids $8, children under 5 years are free of charge. 

 Sky Tower

Sky Tower    

At 328 meters the Sky Tower is currently the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. Take a trip up and view Auckland and surrounding key landmarks from 220 meters above street level. You may also fancy to enjoy a coffee or dinner in the Orbit 360-degree revolving restaurant – sip on your drink whilst enjoying the changing views.

For adrenalin junkies there is the opportunity to do the SkyWalk or SkyJump. Base jump from 192 meters or take a walk at the same height, around the 1.2 meter wide platform on top of the Sky Tower. You will definitely take home some awesome memories and breathtaking views.             

 

Visit Waiheke Island

Just a 35-minute ferry ride from the city you can enjoy an island of vineyards, olive groves and white sand beaches. Visit Waiheke Island for a day trip and explore the historic sites, wildlife and diverse habitats of this national treasure of New Zealand. Or stay overnight and book yourself into one of the cosy accommodations available.

Waiheke Island is renowned for vineyards with stunning views over the island and out to sea. The island also offers local art galleries and studios for you to explore. For the adventurous ones, swing across the tree tops on flying fox ziplines after having calmed your nerves during an all-included eco-immersive forest walk. 

Mt Eden

Hiking at Mt Eden

At 196m Maungawhau, or Mt Eden, is the highest volcano in Auckland. Walk or bike up to the summit and enjoy stunning 360 degree views of the city and its surrounding harbours.

 

Waitemate Coast to Manukau Coast

This 16km (4-5 hours) hike runs from the Waitemata Coast to the Manukau Coast. Take a stroll through landscapes shaped by 600 years of Maori occupation and discover stunning views of natural and built heritage areas along the path.

If you are up for it you can also continue your journey on Te Araroa (the Long Pathway) connecting Cape Reinga to Bluff a 3000km continuous walkway.

 

 Auckland City

 

We hope you enjoy your time in Auckland!


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