Auckland Recommendations

Our recommendations on what to do in Auckland

Auckland is a city built on a volcanic field between two sparkling harbours. We love exploring our coastal backyard and finding new ways to enjoy the mix of urban culture and rugged nature. We’ve put together these local, unpaid, and unbiased recommendations to help you get the most out of your stay and discover why we love calling this place home.

We try to keep this as up-to-date as humanly possible, but things change, and they may not be 100% accurate, so please do a quick google check, I’d hate for you to waste your time on something fun that is no longer there!

Must Sees

  1. Mt Eden (Maungawhau) Summit Walk (1-2 hours) – Skip the Sky Tower for a bit and walk up Auckland’s highest natural point. It’s a dormant volcano with a massive, sacred grassy crater. The 360° views of the city and both harbours are unbeatable. TIP: It’s car-free at the top, so it’s a peaceful walk.

     

  2. Waiheke Island Ferry (Full day) – The “Martha’s Vineyard” of NZ. A 40-minute ferry from downtown ($46–$62 NZD round trip). It’s packed with world-class wineries and stunning beaches like Oneroa. TIP: Catch the “Explorer” Hop-on Hop-off bus to hit the best vineyards (Mudbrick or Cable Bay are iconic for sunset views).

     

  3. Viaduct Harbour to Mission Bay Walk (2-3 hours) – Flat, beautiful coastal walk along Tamaki Drive. You’ll see the Rangitoto volcano across the water the whole time. Stop at Mission Bay for Movenpick ice cream and fish and chips on the grass.

  4. Auckland War Memorial Museum & Domain (Half day) – Located in a massive park (The Domain). The museum holds an incredible collection of Māori and Pacific artifacts. TIP: Don’t miss the Māori Cultural Performance ($35 NZD) which includes a world-class Haka.

     

  5. Rangitoto Island Hike (most of day) – Take the ferry to this perfectly symmetrical volcanic island. It’s a 1-hour hike to the summit through lava fields. Ferries leave ~9:30am and return ~3pm. Check Fullers360 for the latest timetable. TIP: There is no water or food on the island, so pack a picnic!

Off the beaten path

  • Karangahape Road (K’ Road) – Auckland’s version of Newtown. It’s gritty, colorful, and full of vintage shops, drag bars, and the city’s best “cheap” eats. TIP: Explore St. Kevin’s Arcade for the best view of the park and great coffee.

     

  • North Head (Maungauika) Tunnels – Catch the ferry to Devonport (12 mins) and walk to North Head. It’s full of old military tunnels and “disappearing guns” from WWII. Great for kids and history buffs.

  • Hobsonville Point Coastal Walkway – A newer local favorite. Take the ferry from downtown to “Hobby Pt” on the weekend. There’s a great farmers market, a brewery (Little Creatures), and a stunning 5km flat loop track.

Day Trips

  • Piha & The West Coast (Full day) – About 45-60 mins drive from the city. Rugged black sand beaches, massive surf, and the iconic Lion Rock. It feels like another world. TIP: Stop at the Arataki Visitor Centre on the way for the best views of the Waitākere Ranges.

     

  • Hobbiton Movie Set – About 2 hours south. If you’re a fan, it’s a must. It’s pricey (~$120+ NZD), but the detail is insane. Generally requires a car or a guided tour from Auckland.

     

  • Matakana – 1 hour north. Go on a Saturday for the famous Farmers Market. Great for local cheeses, wines, and the nearby Sculptureum (an amazing art and garden trail).

Beaches

  • Cheltenham Beach – In Devonport. Very “Sydney Northern Beaches” vibes but with a view of Rangitoto. Calm water, perfect for a swim.

  • Anchor Bay (Tāwharanui) – A bit of a drive (80 mins) but it’s a regional park and a “mainland island” (pest-free). You might see a Takahe or a Kiwi if you stay late!

  • Muriwai Beach – Famous for its massive Gannet Colony (thousands of birds nesting on the cliffs). It’s spectacular and free.

Where to eat

Make sure to try a Mince and Cheese Pie from a local bakery—it is a quintessential New Zealand staple.

LOW – MEDIUM COST ($15 – 35NZD)

Also see pubs for food. These are all great for vegetarians.

  • Commercial Bay (Harbour Eats) – Downtown. A high-end food hall with great variety. TIP: Try Burger Burger or the South American BBQ at El探.

  • Tanuki’s Cave – A hidden underground yakitori and kushiyaki bar. Dark, moody, and perfect for sharing plates.

  • Lucky 8 (Ponsonby) – A high-energy loft bar where almost everything on the menu is $8.88. Great for groups and trying many different dishes.

  • Eden Noodles (Dominion Road) – Legendary, tiny, and affordable. Try the “Dan Dan Noodles” or dumplings in chili soup.

 

FANCY ($40NZD+)

 

  • Amano (Britomart) – Incredible Italian dining in a beautiful historic warehouse. Their handmade pasta is widely considered the best in the city.

  • Soul Bar & Bistro – Located right on the water in the Viaduct. Excellent for seafood and people-watching.

  • Depot (Federal St) – Chef Al Brown’s iconic spot. It’s casual but high-end. No bookings, so show up early for fresh oysters and turbot sliders.

 

Bars/Pubs

  • Caregiver (Shortland St) – A hidden 1920s-style speakeasy. There is no menu; you describe your tastes to the “caregiver,” and they craft a bespoke cocktail for you.

  • The Churchill – A specialized gin bar located on the 20th floor of a hotel, offering the best elevated views of the city skyline.

  • Galbraith’s Alehouse – For the craft beer purists. It’s an old library converted into a classic English-style pub with excellent local real ales.

  • The Bluestone Room – Tucked away in a historic 1861 heritage building down a cobblestone lane. Great for a moody, old-world pint.

Live Music & Dance

  • The Powerstation – The best mid-sized venue in the city for international and local acts. Check their schedule in advance.

  • Whammy! Bar (St Kevin’s Arcade) – The heart of the underground music scene. Great for indie, punk, and alternative local bands.

  • Cassette Nine – Famous for its “teapot cocktails” and late-night DJ sets.

 

Hopefully these tips help you get started in Auckland, but if you want to learn more make sure to join us on a Free Auckland walking tour. We’ll see you soon.