Choose from 49 Fun Things to Do in Auckland
ShowingFilter 41-49 of 49 listings.
Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb
It doesn't take long when traveling through New Zealand to realize this country is extreme. Everything here, from the scenery to thrills, is just a little more elevated, a bit more intense, and in some ways a little more raw. Take, for example, the Auckland Harbor Bridge, which spans the width of Waitemata Harbor to bridge the Auckland coasts. It isn't enough that this 3,348 ft. span is an iconic part of the skyline, so to take it up another notch, the city has tours where you can literally walk on top of the famous bridge. The view from here, as you might imagine, is inarguably the best in Auckland, as sailboats race beneath your feet and islands dot the coast. Look to the west towards the Waitakere Ranges and the vineyards and suburbs of West Auckland, or east to the hills of Waiheke Island and the Coromandel Peninsula beyond. The view looking north stretches all the way towards Whangarei past the procession of North Shore beaches, and the southern view is a sweeping panorama of Auckland's city skyline. The only place you don't want to look is directly beneath your feet"”where 140 feet of air is all that separates the tips of your toes from the roiling whitecaps below.
Practical Info
The Auckland Harbor Bridge climb lasts 1.5 hours with tours three times a day. Minimum age is seven years old, and the weight requirement is between 77 and 300 lbs. All participants must be at least four feet tall, no cameras or binoculars are allowed, and enclosed footwear is required for the climb.
Address: Westhaven Reserve, Bottom of Curran St, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Hours: Daily Tours 9am, 11:30am, & 2:30pm
Admission: Adult, NZD$125.00, Children (7-14) & Students NZD$85.00
From $ 92
Tiritiri Matangi Island
Tiritiri Matangi Island is an open wildlife sanctuary devoted to the protection of local endangered species. The island is tightly controlled to keep out predators such as cats and mice, which hunt fragile bird species, including the tiny kiwi birds you’ll see running around the island.
With about 80 species of birds, Tiritiri Matangi is a must-see for birdwatchers, and the air is rich with varieties of birdsong rarely heard on the mainland. Guided walks can help you spot and identify the various types of birds, and you can find the trailheads of walking tracks at the visitor center. The Kawaura Track winds through coastal forest and 1,000-year-old pohutukawa trees, while the Wattle Track leads to the oldest working lighthouse in New Zealand. Head to Hobbs Beach, just a short walk from the ferry dock, to take a swim and spy on blue penguins in their nesting boxes.
Practical Info
Tiritiri Matangi Island is accessible by ferry from Auckland and the Gulf Harbour. The ferry departs Auckland at 9 a.m. and Gulf Harbour at 9:50 a.m. It returns from the island at 3:30 p.m. There are no facilities or trash cans on the island, so you must pack up anything you bring.
Address: Tiritiri Matangi Island, Auckland, North Island, New Zealand
Hours: Daily
From $ 53
Town Hall
Grandiose in its Baroque design, Auckland's Town Hall is one of Queen Street's most prominent and notable buildings. Constructed back in 1911, the Town Hall is one of Auckland's best venues for musical performances and shows, as its concert chamber is considered to have some of the best acoustics in the world. In the Great Hall, where over 1,500 people can gather in a theater-style setting, many of the world's top symphonies and orchestras have performed for global dignitaries, and the biggest names in rock and roll have similarly graced the stage.
A permanent fixture is the Town Hall organ, which is not only New Zealand's largest instrument, but having completed a restoration in 2010, is often considered as one the world's most marvelous symphony instruments. Aside from the acoustics, Auckland's Town Hall is visually stunning from the rafters down to the floor, as stained glass windows filter light that falls on kauri wood floors, and chandeliers dangle from a ceiling adorned with exquisite plaster design. It's a building that was purposefully built to impress, and it continues to do so over a century later, right in the heart of downtown.
Practical Info
The Town Hall is often seen on walking tours of Auckland.
Address: 303 Queen Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
From $ 56
Skywalk Auckland
You’ll get 360-degree views and a rush of adrenaline at Auckland Sky Tower, stationed 630 feet (about 192 meters) above the city. Daredevil travelers strap on sturdy harnesses and inch along a narrow walkway during a guided SkyWalk. Another option is to plunge from Auckland’s tallest building as part of the SkyJump Auckland experience.
The Basics
SkyWalk and SkyJump bring the outdoor adventure New Zealand is known for into city limits, at the tallest free-standing building in the Southern Hemisphere. From a 4-foot-wide (1.2-meter) SkyWalk platform that encircles the Sky Tower, guides point out urban highlights and tell brave travelers about the history of this impressive structure. Adventurers will find themselves high above Auckland’s streets overlooking Hauraki Gulf, with the world spread before them down below.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Admission to the Sky Tower observation deck is included with each adventure package.
- Coveralls and a safety harness are provided, as well as complete instructions on procedure and safety.
- Participants are securely fastened to safety lines, allowing them to lean over the ledge or perform tricks.
- Photos and video of the experience are made available to purchase.
How to Get There
The Auckland Sky Tower is located at the meeting point of Victoria Street West and Federal Street in Central Auckland. The closest bus station is Victoria Street station, but it’s also easy to walk from nearby attractions, such as Queen Street, Viaduct Harbour, or Albert Park. Several parking lots are located nearby.
When to Get There
The SkyWalk and SkyJump are open daily from 10am until 5:15pm, except in high winds. SkyWalks take place every 20 minutes, and a maximum of six travelers can participate on each trip. The Sky Tower is open year-round, but it can get crowded in peak season, so it’s best to book your adventure early.
Where to Find the Best Photo Ops
Several restaurants and cafés provide panoramic city views along with your meal. Diners who would rather not jump into the adrenaline-fueled action can watch participants from the Sky Tower's rotating restaurant. Those who do choose to harness up should save the camera snaps for the bird’s-eye view from Sky Tower’s main observation deck.
Address: 86 Federal Street, Auckland, New Zealand
Admission: Varies
From $ 106
Fullers Ferries
Even though Auckland is the "City of Sails", not every traveler has their own personal sailboat to ply the waters of the Hauraki Gulf. Luckily, the boats run by Fullers ferries make it remarkably easy to explore around Auckland. The main ferry terminal is in the downtown city center, from where Auckland travelers can embark on a day trip to various spots around the city.
For a short cruise, you can cross the waters of Waitemata Harbor to the northern suburb of Devonport. While en route, be sure to snap a photo of the Auckland Harbor Bridge which famously punctuates the city skyline. For those who are looking for a bit of hiking, Fullers offers boats to Rangitoto Island where you can trek to the top of a dormant volcano. In December and January, Fullers ferries make the 2.5-hour journey to Great Barrier Island, where you can trek to hot springs, bake on the beach, or kayak your way through empty coves. Or, if you're just looking for a leisurely cruise, Fullers has narrated tours of the harbor which point out the sights as the boat cruises across the water.
Finally, for those who want to spend the day wine tasting at Auckland's trendiest vineyards, Fullers has ferries which make the crossing to the grape-covered shores of Waiheke Island. In addition to the ferry, Fullers offers guided tours of the island, and help out with transportation from bicycles to car hire.
For Auckland travelers and vacationing locals, Fullers ferries are not only a means of efficient public transit, but a convenient conduit connecting the city with many of its surrounding adventures.
For a short cruise, you can cross the waters of Waitemata Harbor to the northern suburb of Devonport. While en route, be sure to snap a photo of the Auckland Harbor Bridge which famously punctuates the city skyline. For those who are looking for a bit of hiking, Fullers offers boats to Rangitoto Island where you can trek to the top of a dormant volcano. In December and January, Fullers ferries make the 2.5-hour journey to Great Barrier Island, where you can trek to hot springs, bake on the beach, or kayak your way through empty coves. Or, if you're just looking for a leisurely cruise, Fullers has narrated tours of the harbor which point out the sights as the boat cruises across the water.
Finally, for those who want to spend the day wine tasting at Auckland's trendiest vineyards, Fullers has ferries which make the crossing to the grape-covered shores of Waiheke Island. In addition to the ferry, Fullers offers guided tours of the island, and help out with transportation from bicycles to car hire.
For Auckland travelers and vacationing locals, Fullers ferries are not only a means of efficient public transit, but a convenient conduit connecting the city with many of its surrounding adventures.
Address: Ferry Building, Quay St, Auckland, New Zealand
Admission: Prices vary per ferry trip
From $ 52
Silo Park
This free public space located in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter gets its name from the abandoned silos that tower around the park’s grassy field. During summer months, locals gather here to enjoy evening outdoor cinema, as well as live performances that include dance, music and theater.
Silo Park is also known for its eclectic markets, which include the Friday Night Market, which kicks off at 5 p.m. during the summer months and the Saturday and Sunday Markets that open at noon. Travelers will find a unique collection of food stalls, artists, street performers, musicians and plenty of fun at these popular gathering spots that are perfect for picking up souvenirs.
Practical Info
Silo Park is located in the Wynyard Quarter of Auckland on the corner of Jellicoe and Beaumont Streets. It is west of Viaduct Harbor and north of Victoria Park. Live performances typically take place on Sundays at 3 p.m. and are free to the public.
Address: Beaumont Street and Jellicoe Street, Auckland, New Zealand
From $ 48
SkyJump
The Sky Tower, at 1076 feet (327 meters), is the tallest building in New Zealand, and a distinctive part of Auckland’s skyline. As well as enjoying city views from the observation decks, visitors can jump 629 feet (192 meters) from the outside of the building, reaching speeds of 55 miles (88 kilometers) per hour.
The Basics
The SkyJump is consistently rated one of the best things to do in Auckland. You’re in a face-forward flying position, meaning you can enjoy the sweeping views of Auckland all the more. Some travelers like to combine a SkyJump with other Sky Tower activities. Packages that combine a SkyJump and a SkyWalk are available—the latter allowing panoramic, barrierless views from the tower without having to jump.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Student and backpacker discounts are available.
- The SkyJump is cancelled when the wind is too high (43 miles/70 kilometers per hour) or in other extreme weather.
- Jumpers receive a complimentary ticket to take another trip up to the Sky Tower’s observation deck on the same day.
- Weight restrictions do apply for the SkyJump: the minimum is 77 pounds (35 kilograms) and maximum 269 pounds (122 kilograms).
- Travelers must be at least 10 years old to jump.
How to Get There
The Sky Tower is in the center of Auckland, and is unmissable. If staying in central Auckland, it’s easy to walk there. Otherwise, taxis and buses that travel to the Central Business District are easy to find. Once at the Sky Tower, the SkyJump entrance is at the base of the tower; take the escalators down from the street-level entrance.
When to Get There
SkyJump is open every day of the year except December 25, from 10am until 5:15pm. Jumps are cancelled in extreme weather, and conditions tend to be drier and sunnier in the summer months (December–February) than the winter (June–August).
Where to Be a Spectator
It’s fun to watch others plummeting to the ground from the safety and comfort of a bench inside the Sky Tower. Special viewing areas with countdown clocks have been set up on the inside observation decks, the Sky Deck and Main Observation Level. Sit back and wait to see the terrified or excited looks on other jumpers’ faces—but don’t blink for too long or you might miss them.
Address: Sky Tower, Auckland, New Zealand
Admission: Varies
From $ 159
Museum of Transport and Technology
Auckland's Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) is the biggest museum of its type in New Zealand, dedicated to the nation's transport, technology, and social history. MOTAT houses many attractions, including working steam trains and tramways, perfectly preserved WWII planes, and a Victorian-era village full of historical artifacts.
The Basics
MOTAT's biggest draw is its remarkable collection of old vehicles, including military vehicles, old Auckland buses, a variety of 19th- and 20th-century fire engines, and more from the last 100-plus years of New Zealand's transport history. From the museum's Great North Road site, you can take one a well-preserved tram to the MOTAT Aviation Hall on Meola Road, where a wide variety of commercial, recreational, and military aircraft are on display. In the Historic Village, step back in time to Victorian-era New Zealand while you explore a wide range of buildings and artifacts from the country's past; on Sundays the village comes alive, with a working forge, operating printing presses, handcraft-making sessions for kids, and more. MOTAT also hosts temporary science and technology exhibitions from all over the world.
Many travelers visit the museum independently, and it's also a stop on the Auckland hop-on hop-off bus. Regular visitors can pick up an annual pass that gives unlimited entry to the museum and discounts to nearby attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- MOTAT is tailor-made for technology, science, and transport nuts of all ages.
- MOTAT runs children's programs every school holiday, making it a great place to take the kids during those two weeks.
- Expect to spend about four hours exploring both sites.
- Automobile enthusiasts can see the museum's old vehicles get restored every Wednesday and Sunday at the Road Transport Workshop.
- Refuel at the on-site Araroa Tearooms and Oriel's Ice Cream Partner.
- If you're going to the Auckland Zoo next, MOTAT's tram can drop you off right at the zoo entrance.
- Most of MOTAT is accessible to wheelchair users; contact the museum if you're uncertain of any areas.
How to Get There
Located just a few minutes out of central Auckland, MOTAT's main site is located on Great North Road in Western Springs. If driving, follow the North Western Motorway from central Auckland and take the Western Springs turnoff (St Lukes Road exit 6). You can also take the bus 18 to Stop 8122, right outside MOTAT Great North Road, and then take a MOTAT tram up to the Meola Road site.
When to Get There
MOTAT is open from 10am to 5pm every day except for Christmas and one weekend in March (check the website). The museum buzzes with activities and events every Sunday, but especially so on the third Sunday of each month, when the museum holds its MOTAT Live Days. On these days, the museum rolls out some of their old vehicles for rides (including an operating steam train), holds games and activities for kids, and has live demonstrations of technologies from the Victorian era and earlier.
Ride in an Historic Vehicle
MOTAT's tramways are operational every day of the week, and a number of their preserved vehicles are operational on MOTAT Live Days. On these special days, you can take a ride on a horse and carriage, on their adorable Little Flick fire engine, or on one of the museum's steam trains.
Address: 805 Great North Rd, Western Springs, New Zealand
Admission: Varies
From $ 32
Albert Park
With a prime location at the heart of central Auckland, Albert Park is the ultimate urban garden, with its pretty flower beds and towering palm trees set against a backdrop of looming skyscrapers and the landmark Auckland Sky Tower. With the Central Business District and Auckland Art Gallery to the west, and the University of Auckland to the east, Albert Park is among the city's most popular green spaces, and its shady benches and grassy lawns provide ample space for picnickers.
A former military barracks, Albert Park was laid out in the late 19th-century and features a series of flower gardens and walkways around a central Victorian fountain. Notable features include the historic band rotunda; the Albert Park House, now a museum; a series of oak trees planted in honor of the United States Navy's Great White Fleet; and a number of statues and memorials.
Practical Info
Albert Park is located in central Auckland, a short walk from Aotea Square.
Address: Princes St, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Hours: Open 24 hours
From $ 25