15 Best Places To Visit In Auckland

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Tucked away between two beautiful harbors, the city of Auckland is the metropolis of New Zealand and is regarded as one of the best places to live in the world. This guide to the best places to visit in Auckland is here to give you an overview of all the main tourist attractions in the city. Whether you are visiting for a day or have a few days planned in the City of Sails, this guide has something for everyone.

Auckland has a laid-back atmosphere and is the heart and soul of the country. Most visitors to New Zealand arrive into Auckland and spend a few days visiting some of Auckland’s top tourist spots before making their way around the country.

Auckland is bordered by the Tasman Sea on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, which means you have a variety of beautiful beaches to explore as well as the green countryside.

With a very multicultural make-up, Auckland is the most populated city in the country and is home to almost a third of New Zealand’s population. From outdoor activities, historical monuments, museums, art galleries, wineries and plenty more, Auckland has an inviting atmosphere no matter when you visit.

So, let’s get into some of the best places to visit in Auckland during your time here.

Best Places to Visit in Auckland

1. Skytower

Tall Tower amongst concrete buildings during daytime — Sky Tower

The Skytower is Auckland’s most iconic landmark and dominates Auckland’s skyline. It offers panoramic views of the city and its harbor and is a hub for tourists. Make your way to the upper levels where you can visit one of the three observation decks, restaurants or the café. Orbit, the revolving restaurant, offers 360-degree views as the restaurant rotates.

If you are an adventure seeker, you can sign up for the sky jump or the sky walk.

Planning Tip: As the Skytower is one of the most popular attractions in Auckland, head up early in the morning to avoid crowds. After spending some time on the observation deck, you can pop down to the Sky Café to grab a coffee and hot chocolate.

2. Auckland War Memorial Museum

Beige concrete building in a distance on a hill surrounded with green grass and trees during daytime — Auckland Museum

Auckland’s War Memorial Museum is located in Auckland Domain. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts with sections that feature New Zealand history, natural history and much more. There are also some extensive collections of Maori art and Polynesian treasures to explore.

The first floor hosts the natural history collection, including a reconstruction of the country’s famed and now extinct giant moa birds. The top floor of the museum is dedicated to the war memorials and displays the story of New Zealand’s involvement in world conflict throughout the country’s history. Guided tours are available, along with regular lectures and workshops.

It’s free to enter for locals and New Zealand residents otherwise you can check out ticket and tour prices here.

3. Waitemata Harbor

The best way to explore the delightful Waitemata Harbour is on foot. Apart from the spectacular views of the harbor, you’ll find plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities.

Other fun things to do here include exploring Quay Street, which runs parallel to the harbor in the central district with access to Princes Wharf and the ferry terminals to the Hauraki Gulf islands.

Waitemata Harbour is regarded as one of the top tourist attractions in Auckland due to the magnificent views of the Auckland city.

4. Waiheke Island

red flowers and green leaves with sea in the distance and boats on the water

Of all Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf islands, Waiheke Island is the most popular to visit. The island is around a 35 – 45-minute ferry ride that runs from Princes Wharf in central Auckland.

There are plenty of wineries where you can sample some award-winning New Zealand wines. In addition, the island has some beautiful beaches, art galleries and a thriving café culture.

For those wanting to linger longer, a variety of good accommodation options are available, from beachside cottage rentals to bed and breakfasts.

5. Devonport

Take a ferry from downtown Auckland across to Devonport. It’s only a 15-minute ferry ride to the charming North Shore suburb of Devonport. It’s a fun activity to do especially if you are traveling with kids.

When you arrive in Devonport, walk along the coast past the Navy Museum and up North Head, or Maungauika, where you’ll find stunning views of the city and Rangitoto Island.

North Head houses a network of historic tunnels and military defences built during WWII. Carry a torch with you and explore the abandoned military tunnel complex. You can climb the hillside and examine the cannons and gun emplacements or simply find a bench and take in the views of the city.

Have lunch at one of the local restaurants before you make your way back

6. Mission Bay

You can catch a bus from downtown Auckland’s Britomart Station to Mission Bay. The drive to Mission Bay from the city takes you along a picturesque route via the coastal Tamaki Drive. Relax at the beach, wander around the iconic water fountain or simply grab a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes.

7. Albert Park

Albert Park is located in the heart of the city and features beautiful gardens, a Victorian fountain, and just a great space to take a break from all the city sightseeing. The park is home to a variety of small attractions such as Albert Park House that contains an array of ceramics and clocks. The most prominent historic building nearby is the Old Government House which is now part of Auckland University campus.

8. Mount Eden

Bench on a hilltop overlooking view of the city during sunrise — Mt Eden

Mount Eden is the highest natural point in the city and offers some of the best views in Auckland. It’s a great spot for a walk to the summit and is open between 6.00am – 6.00pm. Conquer it in the morning and then reward yourself with breakfast at one of the neighbourhood cafes.

9. Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park

This Memorial Park is set amongst 49 hectares of land with panoramic views overlooking Waitemata harbour and Rangitoto Island. It is the site of the tomb and memorial garden for Michael Joseph Savage, a former Prime Minister.

It’s definitely a great spot to head to on a sunny day. Carry a picnic or some lunch along and enjoy the spectacular views.

10. Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is one of the most visited places in Auckland. It’s a great place to spend the day especially if you are traveling with kids.

Set across 40 acres in the Western Springs neighborhood, Auckland Zoo offers plenty of fun things to do for families. Highlights include more than 1,400 creatures contained in themed areas featuring animals from Africa, Australia, and South America, including giraffes, meerkats, wallabies, and a variety of monkeys.

The zoo also offers a variety of unique experiences including an after-dark safari, photography workshops, and junior zookeeper programs that take kids behind the scenes.

11. Auckland Botanic Gardens

Auckland’s Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and tranquil garden that spans over 64 hectares and is home to over 10,000 plants from across the world. Located in South Auckland, the gardens are free to enter and also has a café where you can grab a bite.

12. Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a dormant volcano and home to the world’s largest forest of Pohutukawa trees. It is a defining feature of Auckland’s landscape and probably one of the most iconic images in Auckland. Hiking to the island’s summit rewards walkers with stunning views across the Hauraki Gulf.

You can take a 30-minute ferry across to the island from the Auckland Ferry Terminal on Quay Street.

Fun Fact: Rangitoto Island is both the youngest and largest of the 50 or so volcanoes found in and around Auckland, the volcanic island of Rangitoto was only formed around 600 years ago when an eruption pushed it up from the seabed.

13. Explore the rugged West Coast Beaches

The great thing about visiting Auckland is that you are never too far from the sea. Less than an hour’s drive from the city centre, you’ll find yourself amongst some of the rugged black sand West Coast beaches.

The beaches are home to some of the city’s best surf, but be sure to check the lifeguard flags before you pop in for a dip, these are some of New Zealand’s wildest waters. Here are some of our favorite beaches to visit on the West Coast:

Birds on a mountain facing the sea during sunset — Muriwai Ganet Colony

Muriwai Beach: See the impressive clifftops and gannet colonies
Piha is popular for those who want to surf but be careful as the currents here are very strong. With the beautiful Kitekite Falls nearby and a number of hikes for you to do in the surrounding ranges, Piha is a popular place to visit in Auckland.
Cornwallis is perfect for a family day out providing plenty of shade if you need it during the hot summer months.
Karekare is part of the Karekare Regional Park and became popular with its role in the Oscar winning 1993 film ‘The Piano’.

14. Auckland North Shore Beaches

Visit some of Auckland’s most pristine North Shore beaches.

Takapuna Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the North Shore
Cheltenham Beach
Browns Bay Beach
Long Bay Beach

15. Wynyard Quarter

Wynyard Quarter is an incredible neighbourhood in Auckland overlooking the Waitamata Bay. This part of Auckland has a playground, plenty of wonderful restaurants and bars and is the perfect place for an afternoon or evening stroll.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, these are some of the top tourist attractions in Auckland and perfect to visit for those who only have a short time in the city. If you have more time in the city of sails, there are further recommendations for you below.

Happy Travels!

Things to do in Auckland at night

Sunset view of a bridge over water — Auckland Harbor Bridge

Visit a nightmarket: The Auckland Night Markets take place in a different Auckland suburb every night of the week. At each market, you’ll find dozens of different food stalls with cuisines representing many of the diverse cultures that exist in the city.
Dine at one of the many restaurants in Auckland
Have dinner at the revolving restaurant, Orbit, or visit an observation deck in the Sky Tower: The views from Auckland’s Sky Tower are spectacular and on a clear night, you can catch a glimpse of the city’s bright lights. You can either visit Orbit and have a meal at the revolving restaurant or simply visit one of the observation decks.
Auckland Stardome and Stargazing: Visit Stardome to do a bit of Stargazing of some of the clearest night skies in the world. Their main telescope lets you get up-close views of distant stars and planets.
Play a game of Mini Golf: If you are looking for a bit of fun, head to Holey Moley for a great night out. This place is a unique mini golf venue that even has a bar and serves food.
Auckland Harbor Dinner Cruise: What better place to cruise around the harbor than the City of Sails? The Auckland Harbour is captivating at night and there’s no better way to experience it than on a sailboat. Check out some cruise deals here.
Take a walk-through Commercial Bay: Commercial Bay is Auckland’s newest and trendiest downtown spot in the heart of downtown Auckland. There are plenty of retail stores that include top international fashion and lifestyle brands, as well as great restaurant options.
Watch the sunset at Muriwai Beach: Arrive a little before sunset and make your way to the top of the cliff which you can catch some incredible views of the sun setting.

Best Parks and Playgrounds to Visit in Auckland

Western Springs
Auckland Domain
Parrs Park
Craigavon Park
Tui Glen Reserve
Cornwallis
Auckland Botanical Gardens
Ambury Regional Park
Omana Beach Reserve Roadside Playground
Eastern Beach Playground

Other Places to Visit in Auckland

New Zealand Maritime Museum
MOTAT
Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium
Auckland Art Gallery
Rainbows End

If you are visiting with kids and looking for places to visit in Auckland, check out our in-depth guide on things to do in Auckland with kids.

Day Trips from Auckland

Auckland is a great city to use as a base whilst your explore other parts of the North Island. If you are a local and looking for something different to do, try one of these day trips from Auckland that make a fun and enjoyable family day out.

For those traveling to Auckland, if you have extra time in the City of Sails, choose one of these incredible day trips. You won’t be disappointed.

Whether you want to unwind in nature, have an adventure or soak in the sights before stopping for something to eat and drink, here are some of the top day trips from Auckland.

Matakana and Omaha: With a lovely village, plenty of wineries and beautiful coastline, Matakana is one of the best day trips from Auckland. Omaha beach is one of the most pristine beaches to visit. with white sand and safe swimming.
Pakiri Beach: Located one-hour and 30-minutes north of Auckland, Pakiri Beach is a white-sand beach that provides the best spot for swimmers, surfers, and fishermen. It’s also a popular beach for horse riding.
Anchor Bay is nestled in the heart of Tawharanui Regional Park and offers crystal clear turquoise waters and spectacular views.
Goat Island: Goat Island is a marine reserve just north of Auckland that has plenty of snorkelling and scuba-diving.
Hobbiton: This is one of the most popular day trips from Auckland. Highly recommend booking a tour or tickets in advance. Whether you are a Lord of the Rings fan or not, this unique place is definitely one to visit.
Discover art and culture in Hamilton
Waiheke Island
Rangitoto Island
Visit the Coromandel (I’d recommend spending a few nights to explore this region)
Be wowed by the geothermal parks in Rotorua
Tauranga and Mount Maunganui

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit In Auckland

Is Auckland expensive?

New Zealand in general is one of the more expensive countries in the world and Auckland is one of the most expensive places in New Zealand. The cost of living is very high and food, fuel and transportation is also quite expensive as compared to other parts of New Zealand.

What is Auckland famous for?

Auckland is popular for its major attractions like the Skytower, Museum, nightlife, viaduct harbor, shopping and more!

What can you do in Auckland for free?

You can hike or do one of the many walks around Auckland
Visit Arataki Visitor Centre
Visit the Waterfront
Spend a day at one of the many beaches or parks
Climb a mountain

What is there to do in Auckland at night?

Visit Stardome to do some stargazing
Grab dinner at one of the restaurants in the harbor or even better take a harbor cruise
Visit one of the many nightclubs or rooftop bars

Which is the best time to visit Auckland?

It all depends on what you want to get out of your trip. If you want to do a lot of outdoor activities aim to be here between November and March. November is probably not as crowded as the summer months of December to February but still has some moderate temperatures. While summer months has lesser rain, you can never predict the weather in Auckland. You could literally have all four seasons in one day. As I write this, it’s meant to be peak summer but we’ve had a week of non stop rain.

What is the best area to stay in Auckland?

Being central is always key especially if you don’t have your own car. Somewhere are mid city or Newmarket or Mission Bay could see you positioned well for your trip.

In saying that if you were to find reasonable accommodation a bit further away, travelling during off peak times can get you from one end of the city to another within a reasonable amount of time.