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Auckland City Attractions

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While you're in Auckland why not enjoy some of the attractions Auckland has to offer

1. Island hopping

A beautiful island just a quick trip from the city is one of the things which makes Auckland unique in the world. And so many to choose from!

Try stunning Tiritiri Matangi Island, one of the most successful conservation projects in the world. "Tiri" is home to many rare native bird species and is only 30 scenic minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland.

For something a little more upmarket, a day exploring Waiheke's vineyards, olive groves, cafés, galleries and restaurants always delights.

If you've still got some energy left after the big run, hiking, lava caves, volcanic terrain and fascinating history can all be found in an adventure day trip to Auckland's youngest and most distinctive volcano, Rangitoto Island.

And for the truly bold, travel by light plane to Great Barrier Island, renowned for its remoteness and rugged beauty. Enjoy secluded natural hot springs and visit historic kauri dams. Alternatively, get there on a scenic heli-fishing flight and land a big one from a remote rock ledge.

2. Get high

No Auckland visit is complete without a trip up the Sky Tower. You can admire the volcanic landscape, city sights and the sparkling Waitemata Harbour.

But if that sounds a little sedate, why not walk around the perimeter of the tower 192 metres in the air with nothing between you and the ground but a rope and your knocking knees? Or throw yourself off the top with Sky Jump?

Another high altitude option is climbing over (and under) the Auckland Harbour Bridge with Auckland Bridge Climb. Watch the traffic zoom beneath you, and check out the expansive city and harbour views. Draw straws on who gets to take the plunge and bungy 40 metres off the bridge with AJ Hackett Bungy.

You can purchase a Bridge Bungy Jump or Bridge Climb from our web shop here

If you like your feet to be planted firmly on the ground but you're still keen to check out the city from above, work off that champagne with a walk up Maungawhau (Mount Eden). Maungawhau is Auckland's tallest volcanic cone with a fascinating cultural history and brilliant views across both harbours and the city skyline.

3. Scholarly pursuits

After a recovery breakfast in the Atrium of the stylishly revamped Auckland War Memorial Museum, feed your mind with a stroll through the galleries.

Alternatively, critique the traditional and contemporary art at the Auckland Art Gallery. And to learn more about Maori culture and history, join the Tamaki Hikoi for an interactive guided walk around Maungawhau (Mount Eden).

Your guide from the local tribe Ngati Whatua will highlight the archaeological features of the cone and share the stories that shaped Auckland's past.

4. Feed me

If you're looking for some restaurants to boost those carbohydrates, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Auckland.

Check out the action on the water whilst dining in the Viaduct Harbour or on Princes Wharf. For the ultimate in people-watching visit Ponsonby or Parnell. Further afield, take a day to visit "slow-food" Matakana, north of Auckland, and sample the local organic and conventional fruit, cheeses and wine.

Pick and choose the freshest seafood and have it filleted to your liking at the Auckland Fish Market. Try one of the cooking classes at the seafood school next door.

5. Elegant, with a hint of plum

After a few hours on your feet with the marathon, sharing a good bottle of wine between friends is a great way to wind down.

Besides enjoying a tipple in a bar or restaurant, there are also plenty of Auckland vineyards open where you can educate your palate.

Waiheke Island, our very own boutique island of the Hauraki Gulf, has several wineries where you can sample award-winning wines and enjoy cuisine to match.

You might also like to head to west Auckland and Kumeu for a wineries tour. Kumeu's wineries date back to the 1940s when wine families of Croatian origin established winemaking in the area.

6. Black beauty

There aren't many places where rugged coastline and wild black sand beaches are in arm's reach of a city.

Auckland's west coast is famous for its expansive rainforest and powerful surf at beaches such as Piha, Karekare, Bethells and Muriwai. Stretch your legs on 250 kilometres of walking tracks that lead to beaches, breathtaking vistas, and waterfalls.

7. Scare me

If the Sky Tower and the Auckland Harbour Bridge aren't enough to satiate your desire for adrenaline, what's next?

Take the helm and experience the thrill of a match race on one of Auckland's two Americas Cup yachts. Or you can simply sit back, relax and enjoy an unforgettable experience usually only available to professional sailors.

Other endorphin-pumping activities include canyoning in the Waitakere ranges, hurtling down the indoor ski run at Snowplanet, and swimming with the sharks at Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World and Antarctic Centre.

8. I love the night life

Out on the town to celebrate your best ever marathon time?

Sing your heart out at a live performance at Vector Arena, host to international and national music acts, sport and other entertainment.

If you need a chuckle have a good belly-laugh at the Classic Comedy and Bar in Queen Street. And to end your day, join the dancing queens on K' Road and party till the wee hours at one of the many nightclubs.

9. My body is a temple

If 42 kilometres isn't enough exercise for one trip, try a round on some of Auckland's many golf courses. Tee off across the bay on the 16th at the fabulously scenic Gulf Harbour Country Club. Or get caught in a sand trap along the rolling fairways of Muriwai Golf Club, set in a protected bird sanctuary.

If it's pampering you're in need of revitalise with a Vichy shower, salt scrub and deep tissue massage at Spa de Serville on Princes Wharf. Other spa options include East Day Spa, Bliss Reflexology and Spa at the Hyatt.

10. Designer retail therapy

You might be more comfortable in runners and a pair of shorts, but there's always need for a few fashionable items in your wardrobe.

For the latest Kiwi and imported fashion check out the High Street fashion precinct, the nearby Chancery, or Newmarket. Local labels and a mix of homeware stores are also clustered around Ponsonby Road. For local designer homeware, check out the stylish stores around the historic Britomart area downtown.

There's an astonishing amount to do in Auckland so there's no excuse for a dull moment. Visit www.aucklandnz.com for more ideas or give us a call on 0800 AUCKLAND.