Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is a multi-cultural urban oasis of food, music, arts and culture. It’s where sparkling waters and lush landscapes meet city sophistication.
You’ll find the best of both worlds in Auckland, with beautiful rainforests, parks and beaches all so close to the city centre. The Waitakere Ranges Regional Park west of the city centre has more than 250 kilometres of walking and hiking tracks through lush native rainforest, past cascading waterfalls and along a magnificent coastline. Walk through the region’s largest native forest in the Hunua Ranges or explore the striking landscapes of some of Auckland’s 26 regional parks, such as Duder, Shakespear, Tapapakanga or Āwhitu.
Auckland has an impressive variety of restaurants, cafes and bars to suit every taste and budget. In the inner city you’ll find modern dining at Britomart, Commercial Bay, Federal Street and City Works Depot. Enjoy dinner and drinks or a casual bite on Auckland’s beautiful waterfront in the Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter precincts.
Top 10 Activities to do in Auckland!
Kayak to Rangitoto Island
Have you ever watched the sunset and had a BBQ on Rangitoto island? Auckland’s most iconic island, Rangitoto is a dormant volcanic cone that sits just off the coast from the central city. Take a short ferry from downtown Auckland to walk to the summit for spectacular views, or glide across the harbour via paddle power on a sunset kayak tour.
SkyJump Off the Sky Tower
Looking for an adventurous weekend activity? Try jumping off the plane for a thrilling experience with Skydive Auckland. Or go for a SkyJump from the iconic Sky Tower, or walk its edge - 192 metres above ground level! And if that's not enough, head to the Auckland Harbour Bridge for New Zealand's only Bridge Climb or bungy into the Waitemata Harbour. Epic!
Explore the Hauraki Gulf on a Whale Safari
Spend a family-fun weekend spotting the rare marine life on a Whale & Dolphin Safari. The Hauraki Gulf is home to stunning coastlines, world-class vineyards, wildlife sanctuaries, pristine beaches, and an active volcano. From dolphin spotting to luxury dinner cruises or racing an America's Cup yacht, there’s a maritime experience to suit every taste and budget.
Go stargazing on Great Barrier Island
Go on a magical nighttime journey and marvel at the clear dark skies for stargazing with Good Heavens dark sky experiences. Great Barrier Island is the first in the world to be designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary – with only ten other places. Great Barrier Island is covered in lush native forest and you can hike the Aotea Track or visit the rare wildlife of Glenfern Sanctuary or relax on Medlands Beach.
Experience the Farmers Market in Matakana
Matakana’s beautiful beaches, boutique vineyards, local arts scene, and picturesque village with a superb farmers' market make this region a divine destination. Pick up organic, seasonal produce, or savour some fresh delicacies by the river's edge at the Matakana Village Farmers Market.
Indulge in World-Class Cuisine
Auckland is known for its cosmopolitan nature and the diverse food options are reflective of that. Auckland is home to world-class food producers. For those that are passionate about fresh, seasonal ingredients, Auckland is sensational – embark on a tour with The Big Foodie, Foodcraft or Bush and Beach and get to know Auckland gastronomy.
Visit Waiheke Island 'The Island of Wine'
Spend a weekend or a day or a few hours, Waiheke Island is the ultimate island retreat, just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Best known as the 'island of wine' for its many wineries and vineyards, a wine tasting tour or an indulgent lunch is a must. Enjoy spectacular views and explore the beaches, restaurants, and other activities on the island.
Explore the Rugged Beaches in West Auckland
You're never too far from the sea in Auckland. In less than an hour's drive from the city centre, you can find yourself on wild rugged beaches, where the Tasman Sea meets long, vast stretches of black sand. Visit Muriwai Beach to see the impressive clifftops and gannet colonies or head to Piha, a popular surf beach, and Karekare, made famous as the backdrop for the film The Piano.
Relax with Glamping Getaways
Looking for a relaxing weekend escape or a family-fun staycation? Castaways Resort, set on the cliffs at Karioitahi Beach on the Āwhitu Peninsula makes for a perfect escape to go glamping under the stars. With epic sea views, gourmet meals, luxury spa, and beauty treatments, it is complete with activities like archery, blokarting, clay bird shooting, and more. You could also explore luxury lodges and tents around Waiheke and the West Auckland beaches.