The ultimate guide to Auckland, New Zealand

Your guide to Auckland's best places to visit

Auckland’s vibrant neighbourhoods

Auckland feels more like a collection of diverse neighbourhoods than a built-up city, leaving ample choice for exploration. The city is also located on New Zealand's narrowest neck of land. If you're keen, there's the 16km Coast to Coast walk between the Waitematā and Manukau harbours, which takes you through suburbs, parks and up extinct volcanos for superb views of the city. You'll need the app, otherwise you might get lost.

For gorgeous boutiques, trendy cafés, and lively bars, Ponsonby - close to the city centre - delivers. If you prefer a more sophisticated vibe, you’ll love exploring Parnell’s main strip of shops and eateries. For a darling café culture at a seaside destination, Takapuna and Devonport on the North Shore will appeal. The latter has spectacular Auckland skyline views, too. For nature lovers, stop in Titirangi before exploring West Auckland.

While the distinct personalities and attractions of many Auckland suburbs appeal, most visitors base themselves in the CBD, near the scenic waterfront area. Staying central gives you easy train and bus access to most of the sprawling city. Plus, trendy Britomart - where exceptional culinary fare is the norm, not the exception – is right on your doorstep.

If you’re looking to enjoy a self-drive adventure, parking can be both challenging to find (and costly) in the city centre. Choose a hotel with parking included or stay in a surrounding neighbourhood.

Best cultural activities and things to do in Auckland

Uncovering New Zealand’s rich history is an ideal way to start your stay in the City of Sails. The Auckland War Memorial Museum allows a deep dive into Aotearoa's natural and military history and Māori heritage. Cultural performances are on twice daily. The museum is in the lush 75ha Auckland Domain, formed around the cone of an extinct volcano. Pack a picnic and include a visit to the historic Wintergarden.

In the heart of the city, the Auckland Arts Gallery (Toi o Tāmaki) connects you to New Zealand’s artistic heritage. It’s the country’s largest gallery, housing a 15,000-piece collection of national and international works.

For theatre lovers, the Civic Theatre is a beautifully restored 1920s building. Performances across the year include opera, musicals, comedy, and ballet. 

A lesser-visited gem, the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s transport history and technological advancements via interactive displays. MOTAT is close to the award-winning Auckland Zoo and picturesque Western Springs Park. Combine all three for a fun-filled family day out.

Best nature activities in Auckland

With volcanic islands, lush national parks, and both east and west coast beaches within easy reach, nature enthusiasts have much to rave about during their Auckland stay. 

For an enriching day out, head 40 minutes to the Waitakere Ranges and West Coast beaches. Pristine rainforests, gushing waterfalls, and a coastline renowned for its wild surf, the Waitakere Ranges immerse you in Auckland’s best natural wonders. 

Choose to take one of the park’s well-organised trails like the Mercer Bay Loop trail, Anawhata and Whites Beach Loop or the Kitekite Track, which leads to a stunning multi-tiered waterfall.

After a hike, visit one of the west coast’s wild beaches, where long stretches of black volcanic sand and the exhilarating thrashing waves (always swim between the flags here) feel far removed from central Auckland. Piha Beach is the most famous, however, Karekare and Bethells are as appealing. Bethells has vast black-sand dunes nearby.

A short ferry ride from Auckland’s waterfront, Rangitoto Island is a dormant volcano offering panoramic views over Auckland city and the Hauraki Gulf. Alternatively, Tiritiri Matangi Island is an ideal spot for those interested in wildlife conservation. Take a guided tour to learn about the island’s rare and endangered bird species. 

For a spot of nature while in the city, explore 64ha of beautiful gardens and native forest at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in Manurewa.

Auckland’s best food & wine experiences

Dining in Auckland can be as sophisticated or relaxed as you choose. The Viaduct Harbour and Britomart offer top-notch dining experiences, including Oyster & Chop, Soul Bar & Bistro, and Parasol & Swing. For a fabulous caffeine kickstart, Britomart’s Shaky Isles hits the spot. 

For exceptional meals with a view, book a table at Peter Gordon’s Sugar Club, on the 53rd floor of the iconic Sky Tower. For casual CBD eats, Mexico, Satya, and the award-winning Albert Street Food Court will make your tastebuds sing.

Ponsonby is famous for its eateries, with contemporary flavours and innovative menus the norm. Wander Ponsonby Road to find a restaurant that suits your vibe or choose from the tasty vendors at trendy Ponsonby Central. You’ll want to book ahead for Ponsonby favourites like Sidart, Thirty-One, and Prego, an Italian institution in Ponsonby for more than 30 years.

Best day trips from Auckland

Auckland’s prime location on the North Island means there is much to discover with a picturesque drive that's one to two hours' drive from the city centre.

An hour north of Auckland, the sleepy village of Matakana charms with its Saturday farmers’ market, artisanal food producers, and boutique wineries. The sculptures, six art galleries, restaurant, and vineyard across Sculptureum are highly recommended. 

If you’re a Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fan, you’ll love a day trip to Matamata to visit Hobbiton. It’s enthralling to wander the Shire, see the Hobbit Holes, and snap a photo in front of Bilbo’s house.

Waiheke Island is worthy of its hype as an island paradise. Only 35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland, Waiheke feels distinctly more tropical (in summer) and laidback than its big city neighbour across the Hauraki Gulf. Known as the ‘Island of Wine’, the 30 boutique vineyards across Waiheke appeal to many day trippers. Stop by the well-known Mudbrick and Stonyridge Vineyards, or for high tea with a twist visit Batch Winery.

Other Waiheke Island activities include hiking, watersports, ziplining, and relaxing on the gorgeous beaches. Waiheke Island is also an idyllic spot for wellness experiences.

^{The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS.}