Auckland presents a remarkable blend of world-class shopping and dining, set against a backdrop of striking natural beauty from harbours and islands to volcanic cones, native bush, and black-sand beaches. Auckland is a lively destination where diverse cultures, historic sites, and outdoor activities come together, offering visitors a wide range of experiences suited to all interests and travel styles. Discover 10 of the best things to do in and around Auckland and experience the unique charm this dynamic city has to offer. From city views to island escapes, Auckland offers endless experiences. Before your trip begins, secure your NZ eTA online for a smooth and exciting New Zealand adventure.
Uncover Auckland’s most exciting highlights with this curated list of top 10 must-do experiences—each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s natural beauty, culture, and vibrant lifestyle.
Rangitoto is Auckland’s most iconic island, easily recognised by its symmetrical volcanic cone and its position just off the city’s coast. You can catch a quick ferry from downtown Auckland to reach this well-loved island, where many choose to hike up to the summit and take in wide views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Formed around 600 years ago, Rangitoto is the youngest and largest volcano in Auckland’s volcanic field. Many enjoy spending the day exploring its rugged landscape, relaxing with a seaside barbecue, or watching the sun set over the city skyline.
Explore Maori history and traditions at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which serves as the official war memorial for the Auckland region. The museum preserves one of New Zealand’s top three heritage libraries and plays a key role in safeguarding the nation’s historical legacy.
The museum presents outstanding Maori and Pacific collections alongside extensive natural history exhibits, allowing visitors to gain meaningful insight into the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. It also showcases important social and military history, as well as notable works in decorative arts and pictorial collections.
With its collection of both traditional and modern artwork, the Auckland Art Gallery occupies a significant position in New Zealand's cultural environment. The gallery, which is located in the city's major arts sector, invites guests to interact with art and deepen their cultural awareness.
SkyJump and SkyWalk take place at the Auckland Sky Tower, the tallest structure in New Zealand at 192 metres above ground level. You can get there by using public transport, booking a ride-share, or driving yourself. Parking is available in the SkyCity building at the corner of Federal and Victoria Streets.
If you want more adventure, visit the Auckland Harbour Bridge to join New Zealand’s only Bridge Climb or jump into the Waitemata Harbour on a bungy.
The New Zealand Maritime Museum presents a detailed account of the country’s maritime history, beginning with the first Polynesian explorers. It offers insight into the lives of those who first journeyed to New Zealand, their remarkable sea voyages, and the early chapters of the nation’s history.
The museum holds one of the most respected collections related to the sea in the country. The exhibits cover the full span of this connection, from the Pacific journeys over 1000 years ago to today’s sailing vessels and the design used in events like the America’s Cup.
Most people spend close to an hour at the museum. It suits families and anyone interested in New Zealand’s early past and the long sea journeys taken by Polynesian explorers.
Great Barrier Island is the largest and outermost island of the Hauraki Gulf in the Auckland region. For thousands of years, it has protected Auckland’s harbour from strong Pacific Ocean waves, making the area ideal for boating.
The island lies 90 kilometres from Auckland city. Travel by fast ferry takes approximately 4.5 hours, while flights with Barrier Air reduce the journey to about 30 minutes. Due to its remote nature and night-time appeal, it is advisable for visitors to stay at least 1 night , particularly if planning to observe the night sky.
Waiheke Island is a popular retreat, just 40 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland. Whether you visit for a few hours or spend the weekend, the island offers coastal views, local dining, and many activities. Known as the 'island of wine', it features several vineyards where you can enjoy a wine tasting or a relaxed lunch.
The island’s white-sand beaches, including Oneroa, Palm Beach, and Onetangi, slope gently into the Hauraki Gulf. These spots are ideal for swimming, kayaking, or having a picnic by the shore. Waiheke’s setting, pace, and lifestyle make it feel far removed from the city.
If you enjoy walking, the island’s tracks lead along cliffs, through native forest, and down to quiet beaches. On the eastern end, the Stony Batter walkway takes you to World War II gun sites and tunnels built into the hillside.
Standing at 196 metres, Maungawhau, also known as Mount Eden, is the tallest volcano in Auckland. From its summit, visitors can view the city skyline and both of its harbours with remarkable clarity.
The top of the mountain features a wide, well-preserved crater approximately 50 metres deep, offering a clear look into the geological history of the area.
You can reach the site from Mount Eden Road. The main gates remain open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. during summer, and from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in winter.
From the peak, you can also look beyond the city to the Hauraki Gulf, making this location one of the best vantage points in Auckland.
Few places allow you to stand on the edge of a volcanic crater while taking in the view of one of the world’s most scenic cities; Mount Eden/Maungawhau offers exactly that.
In Auckland, the coast is always nearby. Within an hour’s drive from the city centre, you can reach the rugged beaches along the western shore.
Piha sits 45 minutes west of the city and remains a favourite beachside village for many Aucklanders, especially during summer. The beach has high cliffs on both sides and attracts surfers across all seasons.
The water at Piha has strong and sometimes dangerous currents. During the summer season, surf lifesavers monitor a flagged area for safe swimming. Walking to the top of Lion Rock, which rises 101 metres, gives visitors wide views of the coastline.
In New Zealand, public parks are known as domains. The Auckland Domain is both the oldest and one of the largest parks in the city. It sits on the site of the Pukekawa volcano and includes the remains of its crater and surrounding tuff ring.
At the highest point of the park, Observatory Hill, you will find the Auckland War Memorial Museum. The park also includes duck ponds and the Wintergardens, which house tropical plants inside 2 large glasshouses.
Visitors can follow the Lover’s Walk, a peaceful path lined with tall, native trees that runs through a quiet part of the domain.
From certain spots near the museum, the park offers broad views across Auckland, including distant sights of Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands in the Hauraki Gulf.
Visiting Waiheke Island for the day stood out as a highlight in Auckland and remains one of the most memorable days spent in New Zealand.
Waiheke Island is the 2nd largest island in the Hauraki Gulf. It lies within sight of Auckland, and regular car ferry services make travel between the city and the island straightforward and convenient throughout the day.
This compact island features long beaches, scenic coastal areas, walking tracks, olive oil and gin producers, and a range of dining options. However, for many visitors, the main attraction is the island’s wineries. Vineyards cover much of Waiheke, and wine tastings or meals paired with local wines are among the most popular activities.
Auckland combines nature, culture, and adventure in one vibrant destination. From kayaking to volcanic islands to wine tasting on Waiheke, each experience reveals the city’s unique charm. Explore thoughtfully, plan ahead, and enjoy the best this dynamic region has to offer.
Content Disclaimer: Information provided reflects updates as of April 2025. Please consult official sources such as embassies, airlines, and government agencies to confirm current travel requirements and guidance before your trip.
