7 Things to Do in Auckland

Auckland is a major gateway to New Zealand and when you tour the North Island your trip might start or finish here. Like any major city you can find world-class shopping, art galleries and museums in Auckland. Your tour itinerary will advise you of the tours and optional excursions you can take. You might also get free time to explore the city under your own steam. Whether you visit Auckland before, during or after your New Zealand tour, here are some of the Auckland experiences you might enjoy on your New Zealand tour.

In the city

Wander Queen Street down to the waterfront of Auckland Harbour, taking in the shops and the ornate buildings of eras past intermingled with those of modern times. Explore the diverse mix of shopping and dining in the heart of the city. Find high street labels, international designers and New Zealand’s own designers. Visit Auckland Art Gallery Toi o T?maki to view the largest collection of art in New Zealand. Explore the galleries of the Auckland Museum where you can see Maori and Polynesian artefacts and a Maori cultural performance.

Ascend the Sky Tower

Go to the observation deck of the Sky Tower to view the city and its surrounds from 220 metres above street level. Dine in the revolving restaurant or at one of 20 eateries or bars back at street level in the Skycity Complex. Challenge your inner dare devil with a guided walk along the edge of the Sky Tower or take a leap of faith and fall 192 metres below.

Go Eclectic on K Road

Running off the northern end of Queen Street is Kahangarape Road. Embrace the mainstream and the diverse in its eclectic mix of shops, bars, nightclubs and eateries. K Road, as the locals call it, is where you shop for vintage, avantgarde and designer fashion. Indulge in beauty and wellness shops, book shops and home décor. As evening falls, sip an aperitif in one of the cocktail lounges before you dine on your cuisine of choice. Then, hit the nightclubs and dance the night away into the early hours.

Go Upmarket in Ponsonby

Just two kilometres from the city centre you can find sophisticated boutiques and chic cafes in Ponsonby. This inner city suburb has long been known as Auckland’s most upmarket place to be seen. You will find five star restaurants with nightlife to match. Take a stroll down Ponsonby Road to round off your Auckland shopping spree before you head home.

Wind down on Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is a food and wine, adventure or relaxation haven. Just a short ferry ride from the city, some tours include an excursion to Waiheke. Visit the wineries, play golf or simply take a hike. For relaxation, find a quiet beach to lie on or savour a leisurely lunch in a winery restaurant. For maritime adventure you can hire a sea kayak, surf at Onetangi or ride the zipline through the forest.

Climb Mount Eden

Why not walk up to the top of Mount Eden, the highest natural point in Auckland. You can take a guided tour to learn the fascinating history from a local Maori guide. View the occupation terraces, homes and storage pits of the past on this fortified hill. Walking up the hill is the only way to get to the top of Mt Eden these days. Follow your climb and descent with a meal at one of the many tasty cafes in Mt Eden Village.

Chill at the Beach

Auckland has three harbours, so finding a beach is easy. Enjoy the calm waters, cafes and eateries at the inner city Mission and St Helier beaches. The safe waters and spectacular views from Devonport and Takapuna Bay are worth the ferry ride to the north shore. A short drive north west of Auckland you can visit the black-sanded Muruwai, Piha and Karekare beaches for surf and dramatic scenery. North of Auckland walk the long white sanded beaches of the Matakana Coast, like the three kilometre Orewa Beach, or relax at secluded Anchor Bay.