The best 5 things to do in Auckland

Auckland was the first stop of our world trip and we decided to stay for 2 weeks to settle a bit and plan our upcoming 5 week campervan trip.

We met a lot of travelers who did not really like Auckland but we think that Auckland does have awesome places, maybe you have to closer look but we recommend not to skip Auckland when traveling New Zealand.

Auckland's a cool mix of city and nature, boasting beaches, volcanic cones, and a laid-back harbor vibe. With diverse neighborhoods offering global eats and a vibrant cultural scene, it's the perfect spot for a memorable city visit.

Let's explore our 5 best places to check out:

Explore the pins

Skytower

Great surrounding view of Auckland

photo of Skytower
SILVER
New Zealand, North Island
Attractions
1-2 hours

The Skytower offers a 360 degrees observation platform in the heart of Auckland. We were at first unsure to go up, but the views are really worth its price (40NZD, definitely).

Go up when the weather is good and you can see all of Auckland’s surrounding neighborhoods

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  • Get the 2 adults pass if you are 2 people (it’s cheaper).
  • If you are up for an adrenaline activity try the famous Sky Jump falling 192m straight down. If you are not keen on doing that you can also just watch others jump from the observation platform. Or do you want more like this? Then do not miss out on AJ Hackett Bungy Jump in Queenstown with a possible water-touch!

Waiheke Island

Paradise island close to Auckland

GOLD
New Zealand, North Island
Nature & Animals
daytrip, multidays

Waiheke Island is the get-away island for Aucklanders and just a short 45min ferry ride away from Auckland CBD.

The island is very green, offers nice beaches and you can enjoy good food and drinks, especially wines at the local wineries. It is perfect for a day trip or if you can stay longer which we would recommend, you can book a AirBnB or hotel. We used the buses to get around which worked like a charm or you can rent a bike or even car as well.

And the ferry ride? It's like a bonus scenic tour. So, if you're up for good times, Waiheke's the spot!

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Use the bus or bike to get around the island.

Here are some of our favorite things to do on Waiheke Island:

  • Enjoy exquisite wine and cheese platters at Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant
  • Do a wine tasting at Tantalus Estate, a renowned boutique winery
  • Breathe in the fresh ocean breeze during a beach walk at Oneroa Beach
  • Stay at this affordable Airbnb with the best views onto a peaceful bay and relax in the hot pool at night.

Giapo

Delicious ice cream

SILVER
New Zealand, North Island
Food and Drinks
15 minutes

Giapo is a fancy Italian ice creamery in the heart of Auckland. We loved their in-house produced ice cream and can highly recommend it.

PICKING TIP

  • Check out their unusual waffles and ice cream styles
  • We really liked the broken cone style with Hokey Pokey ice cream
  • Be aware, it is a bit pricey
  • Be prepared to queue

Maungawhau / Mount Eden

Stunning panoramic views of Auckland

SILVER
New Zealand, North Island
Attractions
1 hour

The Maungawhau or Mount Eden is the highest volcano in Auckland.

Its summit features a large crater known as a volcanic caldera. The crater is one of the best-preserved in the Auckland region, providing a unique geological landscape.

You can stroll up for a laid-back walk, enjoy the peaceful vibes, and take in the awesome scenery from the summit.

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Super easy to get to from downtown Auckland, it's the go-to spot for a relaxed afternoon stroll.

Devonport

Charming Auckland neighborhood

SILVER
New Zealand, North Island
Attractions
1 – ½ days

Devonport is a laidback neighborhood of Auckland and only a 12 minutes ferry ride away from Auckland CBD the little seaside town feels like a perfect relaxing get away from bustling CBD.

With its nice boutique shops, cafes and restaurants Devonport feels like a holiday destination. You can relax at the Cheltenham beach, hike up Mount Victoria to enjoy sensational views or visit the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum or art galleries.

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How to send a perfect day at Devonport:

  • Before you hop on the ferry, check the weather forecast. Try to visit on a sunny day.
  • Enjoy the scenic ferry ride to Devonport providing stunning views of the Auckland skyline at the harbour.
  • Get off the ferry and start by strolling along Victoria Road with its cute boutique shops, book stores and little cafes.
  • Eat a carrot cake at Corelli's Cafe, it was the best we have ever had!
  • Take a short 15min hike up Mount Victoria starting from Victoria Road. The summit provides a fantastic panoramic view of the incredibly lush greeen surrounding landscapes, the Auckland skyline and the harbor.
  • Relax at Cheltenham Beach afterwards with a view of the volcanic Rangitoto Island. Bring some snacks for a picnic!
  • Stroll around the area with its charming houses.
  • End your day with eating fresh seafood and enjoying a glass of wine at The Kestrel before hopping on the ferry back to Auckland.