Have you been wondering about the best things to do in Auckland? As a local I’m here to share my insider tips on my favorite things to do in my home town.
This article is part of my Wander Like a Local series, where guest writers reveal the best-kept secrets, must-see spots, and unique experiences that only locals know. Discover hidden gems and authentic tips from those who call it home.
Having lived in New Zealand’s largest city for over 25 years, I know all the best things to do in this coastal city. The amazing thing about Auckland is we are totally surrounded by water so if you love the ocean, then you’re in for a treat.
Of course, there’s plenty of other incredible things to do in this city from visiting the Sky Tower to exploring the streets of Ponsonby and watching the sunset at Bastion Point.
Most travellers fly into Auckland but leave before they get a chance to see the city. I’m hoping to convince you to spend at least a day or two here. Let’s get into the best things to do in Auckland!
Have You Been to Auckland?
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1. Take a Drive Out to Piha Beach
Located on the rugged west coast, 40 kilometers from the city center is where you’ll find Piha Beach. Famous for its dramatic black sand beach, powerful surf, and of course the iconic Lion Rock.
Due to its prime west coast location, this is where you’ll find the best sunsets in Auckland. Like many beaches in New Zealand, there aren’t many food options once you get here, so it’s best to bring a picnic with you, or you can visit the surf club.
The drive itself is lovely. As you get closer to the West Coast, you’ll wind through lush native forest and be rewarded with some incredible views. You’ll completely forget you were in a busy city 45 minutes ago!
2. Spend a Day on Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is a true gem. If you’re visiting Auckland during the warmer months, a trip to Waiheke to drink in its natural beauty should definitely be on your list. The ferry takes just 45 minutes, so it’s perfect for a day trip.
Wine lovers will want to experience wine tasting at one of the amazing vineyards on the island such as Mudbrick, Stonyridge, and Cable Bay—just to name a few. Man O’ War is also an incredible spot on the beach but because it’s located on the other side of the island it’s a little harder to reach.
Be sure to spend time enjoying the island’s beautiful beaches. Oneroa Beach is just a short drive from the ferry and has lots of shops nearby that are worth checking out. Onetangi Beach is also a popular spot and is the largest beach on the island.
It’s fairly easy to get around Waiheke, so you don’t need a car. Just catch the local bus to where you want to go.
3. Eat at Hello Beasty
Hello Beasty is probably my favorite restaurant in the whole of Auckland. If you’re an Asian fusion fan then you’re going to love this place as well. Located in the Viaduct Harbour, Hello Beasty is a blend of Japanese, Korean, and Chinese influences. Their dishes are creative and perfect for sharing. It’s a small place, but don’t let that put you off. The atmosphere is vibrant, which makes for a fun night out.
4. Relax on Omaha Beach
Omaha Beach is just an hour’s drive north of Auckland’s CBD and IMO, it’s definitely one of the best beaches in Auckland. If you love a beach day then make sure you set aside some time to explore Omaha and Tawharanui Beach. As they’re in a similar location, it’s easy to tick both off within a day.
Stop by Matakana and explore the shops, or head to Charlie’s Gelato for a delicious treat on your way home—the dark chocolate flavor is my all-time favorite!
5. Visit the Sky Tower
As one of Auckland’s most iconic landmarks, visiting the Sky Tower is a must-do. At 328 meters tall, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city. Look for the glass panels on the floor, and stand on them to see the town below you (if you aren’t afraid of heights)!
To make an evening of your visit, book a reservation at The Sugar Club or the Orbit 360° restaurant. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is awesome when you’re up so high in the sky!
6. Wander the Viaduct Harbour
The Viaduct Harbour is a lively area of Auckland filled with great bars, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal or take a walk and enjoy the atmosphere. If you visit in the evening, this is when the area really comes alive making it perfect for a night out.
I love spending time in the Viaduct, especially on a warm sunny afternoon—it’s my favourite spot within Auckland CBD. For the best places to eat, be sure to check out White & Wongs, Saint Alice (their mushroom pizza is SO yum), Dr Rudi’s, and of course Hello Beasty. Soul Bar is great too if you want something a bit fancier.
7. Go Shopping in Ponsonby
Ponsonby is a trendy suburb known for its boutique stores, amazing dining options, and vibrant nightlife. Take a stroll down Ponsonby Road, and you won’t have to go far before you find a store you like.
Even if you’re just planning on window shopping, it’s still worth a visit. Some of the best spots to stop for a bite to eat include Prego, Elmos, and The Blue Breeze Inn.
8. Have Brunch at Amano
If you’re a fan of a good brunch, then you’ll want to make sure you book a table at Amano. I say book a table because this spot is popular! To avoid disappointment you’ll want to make sure you’ve booked something in advance.
The menu at Amano focuses on fresh, seasonal products with a yummy Italian twist. Their freshly baked pastries and homebaked bread are to die for.
9. Visit Auckland Zoo
If you’ve never seen a kiwi before then this is your chance to check out New Zealand’s iconic native bird! Auckland Zoo is home to over 135 species and provides a fun day out for everyone.
10. Walk Along the Waterfront
The Waterfront is where you’ll find Mission Bay, Kohimarama Beach, and Saint Heliers Beach. This popular walkway is a favorite with locals and is always busy on the weekends.
It’s lovely walking along the water, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Mission Bay if you’re feeling peckish. My favourite spot is Good George. They have great beer, great food, and occasional live music.
11. Have a Drink at Bedford Soda & Liquor
Located in the heart of Ponsonby, Bedford Soda & Liquor is worth stopping by if you’re in the mood for a drink. This trendy bar is known for its creative cocktails and cozy atmosphere. It’s not the biggest place, but it’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The cocktails are delicious, too!
12. Watch the Sunset from Bastion Point
For one of the best sunset views in Auckland, make your way to Bastion Point. This historic site has awesome panoramic views of the Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto Island.
There’s lots of grass to sit on and enjoy the view so why not bring a picnic with you and make an evening out of it? It’s the perfect way to end your day in Auckland.
13. Take a Walk Around Auckland Domain
The Auckland Domain is the city’s oldest park and a perfect place for a walk. Explore the paths that wind through towering native trees and big open green spaces. It’s a lovely, peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Auckland city.
In the Domain, you’ll find the Wintergardens, which are free to visit, as well as the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Even if you decide not to visit the museum, you can still take a stroll past the building. It’s perched on a hill, and you can get great views of the city.
How to Get Around Auckland
Thanks to being a big city, getting around Auckland is pretty easy. There’s a network of buses and trains that will get you to most popular destinations. We also have ferries but unless you’re heading over to Waiheke for the day, it’s unlikely you’ll need to catch one to get around.
If you’re planning on visiting other places in New Zealand and will be hiring a car anyway, then this would be an easier way to get around and allow you to squeeze more in! Be aware that there can be a lot of traffic in Auckland during peak hours so make sure you plan accordingly to try to avoid traffic jams.
If you want to catch a taxi, there are plenty of options available in Auckland. I usually opt for Uber because it’s more convenient, and the service is pretty reliable, thanks to the large number of vehicles available.
Conclusion: Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand
Well, that’s a wrap on the best things to do in Auckland! Hopefully, by now I’ve convinced you that this city is worth visiting.
It really is a beautiful city with a vibrant urban atmosphere. We’re very lucky to be surrounded by so much ocean. The great thing about Auckland is that you can visit any time of the year, but the summer months are when the city really comes alive, with outdoor events, festivals, and beach days in full swing!
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Auckland offers a diverse range of activities and experiences to suit every type of traveler. So pack your bags and come explore what Auckland has to offer!
Ready to Go?
Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!
- Find low fares with airfarewatchdog and Skyscanner
- Book your plane ticket with Expedia or Kayak
- Or take the scenic route on an epic road trip in a rental car or an RV from Outdoorsy
- From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or Vrbo
- Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from eBags
- Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with CityPASS, Tiqets, and Viator
- Don’t leave home without travel insurance from AXA
- Discover the sights, history, and culture of your destination with an interactive scavenger hunt
- Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners. Happy wandering!
Samantha Green
Sammy Green, the Founder of My Blonde Bucket List. She is a travel blogger, born and raised in New Zealand, who has spent most of her life exploring her beautiful country. She has also travelled to 24 countries (and counting)! Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.
