Auckland is a city in New Zealand’s North Island and is the most populous urban area in the country. Auckland boasts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes, as well as the country’s best museums and cultural institutions. Take a look at 11 adventures you can only have in this incredible city.
Paddle Out to a Volcanic Island
Hire a kayak or take the ferry to Rangitoto Island, a dormant volcanic island not far from downtown Auckland, where you can walk up the old lava flows to the summit for spectacular views of the city.
Cross the City in 5 Hours
Starting in the Viaduct Harbour on Auckland’s east coast and ending in Manukau Harbour, the Coast to Coast Walkway crosses New Zealand’s narrowest neck of land. Explore urban landscapes, lush parklands, and volcanoes over 16 km.
Swim the East, Surf the West
Thanks to Auckland’s location, there are two coastlines very close to each other. Visitors can take a dip at one of the city’s east coast beaches in the morning, and head to the west coast’s rugged black-sand surf beaches in the afternoon.
Visit the Isle of Wine
Known as Auckland’s Island of Wine, Waiheke Island is a 35-minute ferry ride from the city. This haven of spectacular island beaches is a little piece of paradise and home to over 30 wineries. Enjoy various wine tasting tours and linger longer over a lazy vineyard lunch.
Place Your Bets 24/7
SKYCITY Auckland is host to some of the most thrilling casino games, top-notch live entertainment, and enticing restaurants, bars, and clubs. Open 24/7, SKYCITY Auckland has 1700 gaming machines and 130 table games, but if you prefer a more laidback experience you can always enjoy online pokies real money NZ instead.
Experience the World’s Largest Penguin Colony
Visit Kelly Tarlton’s SEALIFE Aquarium and see the world’s largest penguin colony exhibit, the world’s only display of Spiny Sea Dragons, the world’s largest species of stingray, and visit the sharks at feeding time or book a shark dive!
World’s Largest Collection of Māori Taonga
The Auckland Museum is home to over 1000 Māori taonga (treasure) which is the largest collection in New Zealand and the world. From tiny, precious artefacts to an original full-size marae (meeting house) and waka (canoe), this is a fascinating look into the earliest Māori culture.
Explore a Lost Island
Rotoroa Island was once a private rehabilitation centre, but was re-opened to the public in 2005 after close to 100 years. Visit the exhibition centre and museum, the historic chapel and jailhouse, and trek along the spectacular white-sand beaches and trails.
Hike a 77km Trail
Head to the Waitakere Ranges and unleash your inner adventurer on the 77km Hillary Trail. Stroll or cycle through virtually untouched native forests, discover ancient kauri trees, and roaring waterfalls. The Hillary Trail can be divided into sections if the 77km trail is too daunting a task!
Encounter a Pasifika Festival
Auckland has the largest Polynesian population of anywhere in the world and visitors can explore a variety of authentic villages which depict different Pacific Island nations at the annual Pasifika Festival. Enjoy authentic cuisine, music, art, and dance.
The Volcanic Cones
Auckland is a city built upon 48 volcanic cones, but fortunately they are entirely dormant – the last eruption was over 600 years ago. These volcanic cones are the most distinctive characteristic of the Auckland landscape and provide lush green spaces, walking trails, perfect picnic spots, and the most spectacular views one could ever ask for.