Itineraries for Your Trip to Auckland
3 Days in Auckland for First Timers
When I arrived in New Zealand on my 1-year working holiday visa, Auckland was my first port of call. My NZ itinerary was all about outdoor adventures and back-to-nature experiences, like working on a horse farm in the Northland and driving around the North and South islands. Auckland—New Zealand’s largest city—was only meant as a pitstop.
Yet, I found myself coming back, won over by the city’s urban pleasures and natural wonders. How many cities have beaches, islands, volcano hikes, and two coastlines, as well as shops, museums, and an epic foodie scene? If it’s your first time in Auckland, get ready to be impressed. This 3-day itinerary covers all the best bits and can help plan your perfect trip.
You’ll need sunscreen and an umbrella in Auckland—the city’s weather is notoriously changeable.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a stroll around Viaduct Harbour.
Start your morning with views of Auckland at the famous Auckland Harbour Bridge. Take a scenic drive along the Mission Bay waterfront, gazing over the city skyline and Rangitoto Island; then climb to the top of One Tree Hill to savor the views and learn its Maori legacy. Finally, walk to Auckland’s highest natural point, the dormant Mount Eden volcano.
In the evening, take a cruise around Waitemata Harbour and enjoy a 3-course dinner as you watch the sunset over the City of Sails and admire the glittering illuminations of landmarks such as the Ferry Building and the Sky Tower.
Escape the city for a day trip to Waiheke Island. Admire views across the Hauraki Gulf on the 40-minute ferry and look out for dolphins. The island is famous for its vineyards and foodie scene, so head to one of the cellar doors for a wine tasting, soar over the vineyards on a zipline, and lunch at a winery restaurant.
Back in Auckland, visit the Sky Tower at sunset to enjoy magical views; then walk to Viaduct Harbour. The atmospheric waterfront precinct offers a large selection of bars and restaurants. Cocktail lovers: Head to the Rooftop at QT.
Spend your final day discovering Auckland’s atmospheric neighborhoods, award-winning museums, and green spaces. Buses and taxis take you around the city, but the most scenic way to travel is by bike. Kick off the day at Auckland Fish Market in the lively Wynward Quarter, browse the boutiques and cafés in the upmarket Ponsonby district, and tuck into tasty street food at Ponsonby Central Market.
Stroll Parnell Village, one of Auckland’s most picturesque neighborhoods, to see elegant Victorian villas, art galleries, and designer boutiques. Don’t miss the Parnell Rose Garden and Auckland Domain, a park with Auckland War Memorial Museum.
