Top 24 Activities and Attractions in Auckland

Auckland is one of the most diverse and beautiful cities in the world. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why you need this list of the best things to do in Auckland. It’s a one-stop-shop for your Auckland city itinerary.

This comprehensive Auckland guide shares the best tours, excursions, and day trips from Auckland by NinaOutAndAbout who lived in Auckland for a year. If you are looking for insider tips, this is the best list of all the top places to visit in Auckland by a local expert.

Fun Things to Do in Auckland

From exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods to enjoying its stunning natural scenery, there’s something for everyone in Auckland. Get ready to have an epic trip to New Zealand with these Auckland activities!

Have a short time in Auckland? This full day explorer tour lets you see all the highlights of the city including the Auckland Harbour Bridge, Auckland Waterfront and Viaduct, Mission Bay, Tamaki Drive and Mount Eden. You’ll also visit Devonport and North Head (Maungauika), Bastion Point, Achilles Point, Muriwai Beach and much more! This is a day in Auckland you will never forget. Even if you are staying longer, it’s a great introduction to Auckland to help get your bearings and plan for what to revisit next.

1. Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb

Climb to the top of Auckland Harbour Bridge for breathtaking views of the city skyline and harbor. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Auckland!

The bridge climb takes about 1.5 hours and is suitable for people of all fitness levels. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a thrill, you can bungee jump off the side of the Harbour Bridge with AJ Hackett – the first bungee jump company in the world! You’ll even get to splash down in the harbor on your descent.

Take in the views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge on a harbour cruise. The 2.5-hour sailing experience includes a 3-course dinner after you’ve experienced the iconic sights of Waitemata Harbour.

2. War Memorial Museum

The Auckland War Memorial Museum is one of the top things to do in Auckland for history buffs. Established in 1929, the museum tells the stories of New Zealanders who have served in wars and conflicts around the world.

The museum is free to enter for residents and work visa holders. However, the cost is minimal and it can easily fill a rainy day. It’s a popular spot on ANZAC Day in April when the country remembers the contributions of Kiwi soldiers during WWI at Gallipoli. It is now a national Remembrance Day.

3. Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is a small island in the Hauraki Gulf, about a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. The island is home to some of New Zealand’s best wineries and vineyards. It’s the perfect place to spend a day if you’re seeking quieter activities in Auckland.

There are also plenty of beautiful hiking trails to explore, showcasing stunning views of the ocean and the native bush.

4. SkyTower

SkyTower is the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere and one of Auckland’s most iconic landmarks. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck, or elevate the experience with a bungee jump or skywalk around the outside of the tower!

If you opt for the Sky Jump, prepare for 11 seconds of pure adrenaline. At 192 meters high, it surpasses the Nevis in Queenstown, but this jump is controlled, reaching speeds of 85km per hour. Cost: $225.

SkyTower is centrally located in Auckland’s CBD (central business district), making it highly accessible. Many locals use it as a meeting point. On New Year’s Eve, it is the venue for the largest fireworks display. I enjoyed watching the fireworks from my kitchen nearby!

5. New Zealand Maritime Museum

The New Zealand Maritime Museum is perfect for those intrigued by maritime history. The museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts, ranging from Maori waka (canoes) to European immigrant ships. You can even hop aboard a replica of Captain James Cook’s ship, the Endeavour!

This museum is located on Auckland’s waterfront, making it a prime spot to combine with a scenic walk or a picnic lunch on the wharf.

6. Auckland Art Gallery

The Auckland Art Gallery is the largest art museum in New Zealand and a must-visit in Auckland. It hosts a variety of exhibits, from Maori art to contemporary Kiwi commissions.

There’s also a café and a sculpture garden on-site, making it the perfect destination for spending a few hours on a rainy day. Much of the collection features modern art with rotating Maori exhibitions.

7. One Tree Hill

One Tree Hill is one of Auckland’s most beloved parks and an excellent spot for stunning views. The park features an iconic obelisk, built in 1845 to honor the original Maori inhabitants of the region.

From the summit, you can see Auckland’s CBD, the harbor, and Rangitoto Island. Be sure to pack sunscreen, as the aptly named hill lacks tree cover!

8. Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island in the Hauraki Gulf, a short ferry ride from Auckland. The island offers some of the best hiking trails in Auckland, with paths leading through native bush and lava fields. The summit trail is definitely a must-do.

Rangitoto is popular for picnics, hosting several sheltered beaches ideal for swimming on warm days. Just remember to bring insect repellent, as sandflies can be pesky in some spots! For those craving exercise, rent a kayak to navigate the harbor in about 1-2 hours.

9. Devonport

Devonport is a charming seaside suburb of Auckland situated on the North Shore. It’s an excellent spot for a day trip, offering various activities to keep you engaged. Stroll along the waterfront, visit the naval museum, or sunbathe at Cheltenham Beach.

This beach is incredibly underrated, with more tourists flocking to beaches closer to the city. This small beach features white sand and crystal-clear waters without the crowds.

10. Piha Beach

Piha Beach is among the most popular beaches in Auckland, and it’s easy to see why. The unique black sand and dramatic cliffs create a photographer’s paradise, while it also provides a great venue for swimming, surfing, and hiking.

Several walking trails lead to lookout points showcasing breathtaking views of the coastline.

Located about 45 minutes from Auckland, Piha is ideal for a day trip and even features a waterfall trail!

11. Auckland Domain

The Auckland Domain is one of the city’s largest parks, perfect for a day out Picnicking or walking. Home to numerous museums, including the Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa Tongarewa) and the Auckland War Memorial Museum, it is sure to impress.

You can also explore the stunning Wintergardens, filled with exotic plants. The Auckland Domain is a prime people-watching site where locals and tourists alike enjoy the lush greenery.

12. Viaduct Harbor

Viaduct Harbor is a trendy area for dining and nightlife, nestled in Auckland’s CBD. By day, you can stroll the harbor’s promenade, explore shops and eateries, or hop on a ferry to nearby islands.

At night, the harbor buzzes with bars and clubs, making it an ideal location for a vibrant night out.

During the summer, outdoor screenings of popular movies are often held, allowing you to enjoy a film under the stars with a picnic in the open-air theater. Viaduct Harbor truly has something for everyone!

13. Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo ranks among the best activities for families in Auckland. Home to over 1400 animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants, it promises a day of adventure.

Interactive exhibits such as the Gorilla Forest and Rainforest Exhibit enhance the experience. Accessible via a short drive or Auckland Transit buses, the zoo offers a memorable day out.

14. Auckland Free Walking Tour

A free walking tour is an excellent way to explore the city while learning about its history. Different companies provide tours lasting 2-3 hours.

Throughout the tour, you’ll discover Auckland’s founding moments, its Maori heritage, and visit significant city highlights, making it a delightful way to familiarize yourself with the area.

15. Coast-to-Coast Walkway

The Coast-to-Coast Walkway is a 16 km path stretching from Waitemata Harbour to Manukau Harbour.

This walkway guides you through various parks and reserves, including the Auckland Domain and Western Springs. It’s a fantastic opportunity to appreciate Auckland’s green spaces and a unique chance to say you’ve traversed New Zealand in a single afternoon!

Although the trail becomes more urban about halfway through, the parks at the southern end are gorgeous once you arrive!

16. Mount Eden

Mount Eden is a must-see attraction in Auckland. This dormant volcano ranks as the highest point in Auckland, offering stunning 360-degree vistas of the city. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent sights!

Numerous walking tracks lead to the summit, allowing you to choose your level of adventure. Mount Eden is also an excellent place for stargazing.

17. Mission Bay Beach

Mission Bay is one of Auckland’s most beloved beaches, and it’s easy to see why. The golden sand and calm waters provide an inviting environment for swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding. However, it may not be very relaxing, as many people enjoy beach volleyball and listening to music in this lively atmosphere.

Mission Bay also features various restaurants and cafes, along with a playground and basketball court. Located just a short drive from Auckland’s CBD, it makes for a perfect day trip.

18. Ponsonby

Ponsonby is one of Auckland’s trendiest suburbs, and it’s easy to understand its appeal. The main street is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, home to some of the finest dining experiences in the city at reasonable prices.

In addition, Ponsonby boasts fantastic nightlife with bars and clubs that stay open late into the night. If you’re seeking excitement and a vibrant atmosphere, Ponsonby is the place to be.

19. Albert Park

Albert Park, located in Auckland’s CBD, is a spacious area filled with monuments, including the War Memorial and the Cenotaph. It’s a wonderful venue for picnicking, providing plenty of green space to lay out a blanket.

The park features a prominent fountain that attracts birdwatchers and is perfect for people-watching as locals and tourists frequent the area.

20. Pop-Up Globe

The Pop-Up Globe is a replica of the original Globe Theatre in London. The venue showcases a variety of Shakespearean plays and other performances from classical to modern works. If you’re a Shakespeare enthusiast, this is a fantastic place to catch a show.

I attended a performance of Hamlet, where the fairies were intriguingly interpreted as Maori Gods, adding an enriching layer to the production! The Pop-Up Globe is located in Ellerslie, a suburb of Auckland.

21. Auckland Harbor Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruises

If you’re in search of a unique experience, why not embark on a whale and dolphin watching adventure? Auckland is one of the top destinations in New Zealand for observing these majestic marine creatures.

Multiple companies offer cruises that typically last 2-3 hours, granting guests the chance to see whales, dolphins, and fur seals. Auckland Harbor Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruises is especially suitable for nature enthusiasts.

This Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise – is half a day eco-cruise on a luxury catamaran, guaranteeing whale and dolphin sightings year-round.

22. Giapo Ice Cream

Giapo is an ice cream shop like no other. The ice cream is made fresh every day, and you’ll find over five unique flavors to choose from. The shop features innovative flavor combinations, like Guinness and wasabi, that rotate daily!

With Instagram-worthy creations like chocolate picture frames on cones and even mini finger cones, Giapo is an ice cream adventure waiting to be experienced.

23. Walk the Boardwalk

The boardwalk stretches 4.4 kilometers along the coast from St. Heliers to East Auckland. You’ll be treated to stunning views of the shoreline, and there are numerous cafes and restaurants along the path, perfect for a coffee break or lunch.

This trail is ideal for exercise and provides a fantastic setting for a stroll with your dog. Grab a flat white and meander along the harbor on a weekend morning to feel the true essence of the city.

24. Weta Workshop Unleashed

Looking for an entertaining family activity, particularly on a rainy day? Visit Weta Workshop Unleashed at Auckland’s Sky City precinct. Renowned for its film industry, New Zealand offers this interactive and immersive movie experience.

With engaging film sets focusing on horror, fantasy, and sci-fi, you’re in for an exciting time. You’ll have a chance to get up close and hands-on with enchanting environments, resident creatures, one hyper-realistic giant, a galactic robot, and much more! It currently holds the top spot on TripAdvisor for Museums in Auckland.

Conclusion

And these are the best things to do in Auckland, including day trips and some of our favorite excursions. If you plan to visit New Zealand, make sure to include Auckland in your travel itinerary.