Visiting Auckland for the First Time? Here’s What to See and Do

Wherever you are in the city, you’ll probably be able to spot the majestic spire of the Auckland Sky Tower looming over the city skyline. The 1,076-foot (328-meter) high landmark is New Zealand’s tallest building, offering impressive views over Auckland, Waitemata Harbour, and Waiheke Island.

Pre-book your Sky Tower tickets to avoid waiting, then ride the high-speed elevator up to the observation deck and revolving restaurant for panoramic views that span the entire city. Or, for the ultimate adrenaline kick, brave the Skywalk or Skyjump.

Auckland’s waterfront is buzzing with activity day and night, and it’s easy to explore on foot or via electric bike tour. Start at Queen’s Wharf, home to the unique The Cloud event venue, then stroll west to Viaduct Harbour, where restaurants, cafés, and bars line the waterfront.

Just west of Viaduct Harbour, the redeveloped Wynyard Quarter is home to Auckland Fish Market, Silo Park, and a cluster of shops, cafés, and eateries set around the historic wharf.

Linking the southern Central Business District (CBD) with the North Shore, Auckland Harbour Bridge is one of the city’s most notable landmarks, thanks to its stunning views across Auckland and Waitemata Harbour. Drive over or cruise under the bridge, or see it lit up during a night tour of Auckland.

Walk across the bridge to really savor the views, admiring the volcanic peak of Rangitoto Island in the distance. Adventurous types can also take part in a thrilling climb or bungee jump from the bridge.

Museum visits aren’t just a rainy-day activity in Auckland—the city is home to some of the country’s most renowned museums. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Auckland Art Gallery, home to more than 15,000 works, including ones by Picasso, Renoir, Matisse, and more.

To understand more about New Zealand’s history, Polynesian roots, and Maori heritage, a visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum is essential, while the New Zealand Maritime Museum offers a deep dive into the City of Sails’ rich maritime history.

Related: Must-See Museums in Auckland

Getting out on the water is a must for first-time visitors to Auckland. Set sail on a romantic dinner cruise around Waitemata Harbour and see landmarks such as the Sky Tower and Auckland Harbour Bridge from the water.

Or, opt for a dolphin and whale watching cruise around the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, boat out to the volcanic Rangitoto Island, or ride the ferry to Waiheke Island to sample wine at the island’s famous wineries.

There’s more to Auckland than the Central Business District, so take the time to explore the city’s different neighborhoods. Cruise past the elegant Victorian villas of Ponsonby on an electric bike tour of Auckland’s neighborhoods. Or, opt for a hop-on hop-off tour, where you can jump off to visit Parnell, browse the Saturday market in Newmarket, and stroll along the waterfront at Mission Bay.

Ferries run across Waitemata Harbour to the North Shore, where the coastal village of Devonport is one of Auckland’s oldest neighborhoods, and Takapuna has one of the city’s best beaches.

Auckland’s volcanic topography makes for incredible hiking within the city and along the coast. Tackle the famous coast-to-coast hiking trail, which runs all the way from Waitemata Harbour to Manukau and includes one of the city’s most famous viewpoints, One Tree Hill.

Hikers should climb up to Auckland’s highest viewpoint, Mt. Eden, follow the Auckland Foreshore Heritage Walk along the waterfront, or head out to the West Coast, where popular trails include the Te Henga Walkway and Karekare Falls.

Auckland is a strategic base for exploring some of New Zealand’s most popular attractions, many of which are just a day trip away. If you only have time for one day trip, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set for a behind-the-scenes Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit experience.

For a truly unforgettable day trip, combine it with a visit to Waitomo Caves, caverns known for their glittering glowworms, and Rotorua, famous for its unique volcanic landscapes and geothermal features.

Whether you’re tucking into a traditional roast lamb dinner with all the trimmings, chowing down on a classic Kiwi burger, or sampling some sweet as hokey pokey ice cream, Auckland is ground zero for New Zealand foodies. Whet your appetite by discovering Auckland’s booming craft beer scene, then uncover the city’s culinary secrets on a food-tasting walking tour. Finally, escape to the sloping vineyards of Kumeu Wine Country, where wine lovers can enjoy a 3-course wine-tasting lunch at a family-run vineyard.

Aucklanders have two coasts to choose from, so follow locals to the wild shores of the west coast or hop between the harborside beaches of the North Shore. If you don’t have your own transport, the best way to squeeze in some beach time is on a tour of the west coast. Check out the surf at the black-sand Piha Beach, enjoy walking and birdwatching along the sea cliffs at Muriwai Beach, and take a rain forest hike in the Waitakere Ranges.

This article features additional content written by Zoë Smith.