Eden Park - City
THINGS TO DO IN AUCKLAND
Auckland is New Zealand’s most populous city and is a multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts and culture.
Also known as Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland sprawls over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, offering an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.
Auckland offers an urban environment where most people live within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping, and you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland, New Zealand, our largest and most diverse city.
More than just a city, Auckland is a whole region full of things to see and do. With so many experiences close by it’s easy to hop from one adventure to the next. Watch this video to explore activities in Auckland.
TOP ATTRACTIONS IN AUCKLAND
Nature and Outdoors:
Auckland’s diverse landscapes provide countless opportunities to be immersed in nature. In the west, lush native rainforest plunges down the hills to meet the sea on dramatic black sand beaches, while the east’s sheltered golden sand beaches are fringed with red-flowering pohutukawa trees. To the north, the rolling hills of wine country meet stunning coastlines. In the south, you'll find picturesque country gardens, unspoilt forest and tranquil bays to explore.
Volcanoes:
New Zealand's Auckland region is dotted with 48 volcanic cones, which provide spectacular panoramic views of the city and harbour. Many are surrounded by lush parkland, making them perfect picnic spots. Rangitoto Island, just a 25-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, is the region's most iconic volcano and a favourite day-trip destination for visitors, hikers and bird watchers.
Hauraki Gulf and Islands:
Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Park encompasses an incredible 1.2 million hectares of coast, sea and islands.
The jewel of the Hauraki Gulf is Waiheke Island, a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves, farmland and golden beaches - and only a 40-minute ferry ride away from downtown Auckland. Sip on award-winning wines at some of the 30 boutique vineyards and wineries, enjoy fine dining and pick up superb local artwork.
Make sure you get out on the water while you're here, whether it’s a relaxing harbour cruise, a fishing charter, whale and dolphin spotting, diving, kayaking the gulf or surfing.
Shopping and Dining:
Auckland is a shopaholic's paradise, with everything from top-end designers to open-air street markets. Discover the diverse range of cafes and restaurants offering cuisine from around the globe and check out the buzzing nightlife of the central city. Favourite spots include Wynyard Quarter, the Viaduct Harbour, the Britomart precinct and City Works Depot.
Once you've seen the city, head out to one of Auckland's beautiful wine regions where you can sample local wines against the backdrop of vine-covered hills and sparkling ocean.
