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Auckland City Attractions

Auckland Zoo has New Zealand's largest collection of animals and is recognised as one of the most progressive zoos in the world. A winner of national and international environmental-related awards, it is home to 117 different species and over 700 animals.

The Zoo covers 50 acres next to Western Springs Park, which is not far from Auckland's CBD.

There is lots to see and do all year, including events, eye-to-eye encounters, Zoom (behind the scenes) tours and more.

If you're wanting a non-standard trip to the Zoo, you can attend one of our ZooMusic concerts in summer, attend one of our Safari Nights where you can see the Zoo and our animals at night, or sleep in our Old Elephant House.

For more information, phone 09 360 3805 or visit www.aucklandzoo.co.nz.

While you're in Auckland why not enjoy the variety of adventures Auckland has to offer.

Copy and images provided by Tourism Auckland

 

1. Island Adventures in the Hauraki Gulf

A beautiful island just a ferry ride from downtown Auckland is one of the many elements that makes the city so unique. And there are 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 of New Zealand’s rarest native bird species and can be accessed by ferry from the city.

For something a little more sophisticated, 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 why not explore Auckland's youngest and most distinctive volcano, Rangitoto Island. Here you can go hiking through volcanic terrain, climb through lava caves, and learn about its fascinating history.

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. Got a head for heights?

No Auckland visit is complete without a trip up the Sky Tower. As far as your eye can see is the expansive Auckland region. 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 - a heart stopping base jump by wire.

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, and has a fascinating cultural history with brilliant views across both harbours and the city skyline.

3. Culture Vultures

After a recovery breakfast in the Atrium of the stylishly revamped Auckland 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. Food Lovers

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 the city fringe suburbs of Ponsonby, Mission Bay or Parnell. Further afield, take a day to visit "slow-food" Matakana, north of Auckland, or Clevedon in the south and sample the local organic and conventional fruit, cheeses and wine.

Why not 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. Wine Connoisseurs

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 or regions to explore where you can educate your palate.

Waiheke Island, our very own boutique island of the Hauraki Gulf, has numerous wineries where you can sample award-winning wines and enjoy cuisine to match. Equally as good, but on dry land and north of Auckland, is the Matakana region.

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. The Wild West

There aren't many places where rugged coastline and black sand beaches are within arm's reach of a metropolitan city, however there are some great adventure to be had on Auckland’s doorstep.

The 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. Adrenaline Junkie

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

Take the helm and experience the thrill of a match race on one of the Americas Cup yachts. 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 a personal best in your 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. Indulge in Auckland

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 near 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 Chuan Spa, 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 a need for a fashionable item or two in your wardrobe.

For the latest Kiwi and imported fashion check out High Street or Chancery, or Newmarket - the fashion capital of New Zealand. Local labels and a mix of homeware stores are also clustered around Ponsonby Rd and Parnell. 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.