Explore Auckland -travel, tourism and activities

Explore Auckland in one place. A guide to Auckland's must-dos, popular attractions, places to eat and upcoming events. Come to Auckland today!

North Shore

The North Shore is a favorite among sunbathers, surfers, hikers and families for its soft white sands and cool seaside vibe. Cross the Harbour Bridge and you'll instantly experience the laid-back "coast" lifestyle.

The North Shore has more than 10 beaches, from the famous Cheltenham Beach to the popular Long Bay Regional Park, with bays and beaches dotting the coastline. Cozy up with a book under the shade of a pohutukawa tree or enjoy the lively atmosphere of a waterfront restaurant. The North Shore's dining scene is equally impressive, with most of its beach suburbs offering trendy cafes, upscale restaurants and buzzing bars - Takapuna is undoubtedly the most iconic.

Explore the seaside village of Devonport, take the kids to visit Chelsea Sugar Factory in Birkenhead, or revisit naval history at the Torpedo Bay Naval Museum. Further north, enjoy a year-round holiday atmosphere on the Hibiscus Coast, home to the picturesque Whangaparoa Peninsula.

Downtown Auckland

The inner suburbs surrounding New Zealand's metropolis are vibrant and scenic. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the big city on the waterfront, dine at sunset in Wynyard Quarter, catch a ferry to the islands or watch the world go by from the rooftop bar of Viaduct.

Just a stone's throw away is the Central Business District (CBD), a vibrant city centre with shopping, a variety of dining options and great entertainment. Enjoy shopping along Queen Street or explore world-class galleries and iconic venues such as The Civic.

From posh Ponsonby to beachy Mission Bay, discover what each inner city suburb has to offer. Stumble across boutiques in the laneways of Newmarket, enjoy 360-degree views atop majestic Maungawhau (Mt Eden), or enjoy dinner in Kingsland before heading to the country’s largest sports stadium.

Step back in time at the Auckland War Memorial Museum in Parnell, then wander through stunning hilltop parks formed by volcanic activity. That’s what makes Auckland Central so special – volcanic and coastal landscapes are everywhere.

Hauraki Gulf and Islands

More than 50 emerald green islands dot the sparkling blue waters of the Hauraki Gulf, and each is a unique experience accessible by ferry.

Climb aboard iconic Rangitoto Island for 360-degree views of the harbour, or sample vineyard wines on the ‘Wine Island’ of Waiheke Island. Travel back to the heyday of remote getaways in Aotea or listen to birdsong at the incredible open-air reserve of Tiritiri Matangi.

The Hauraki Gulf is New Zealand’s largest marine reserve, protecting more than 1.2 million hectares of wildlife. Take a boat ride to spot whales and dolphins, or wade in the clear waters around Motuihei and Rotorua – both great for swimming and snorkelling.

Many of these islands are pest-free, so make sure to check, clean and shut down your gear to prevent unwanted people from joining your adventure. For a full list, visit the Department of Conservation website.

West Auckland

West Auckland stretches from Henderson to Kaipara and is the gateway to the wild West Coast and Waitakere Ranges. West Aucklanders are proud to have it all: the cultural pleasures of the city, the quiet countryside and the pristine beauty of the west.

Sample craft beers at a former hangar-turned-brewery on the harbourside at Hobsonville Point, or peruse art at the historic brewery estate in Henderson. For a more remote experience, drive to Kumeū for a cellar door tasting at a winery, or ride a mountain bike or harness through the woods in Woodhill Forest.

Take a day trip to Waitakere National Park for a swim in waterfalls, a scenic drive to Piha, or an adventure on steep bush trails. This stunning rainforest overlooks a rugged coastline, famous for its sunsets and surf beaches, such as Piha and Muriwai.

East Auckland

East Auckland is a vast area, stretching from the Tamaki River to the majestic Hunua Ranges at the doorstep of the Waikato. An hour's drive will take you to both urban and rural scenery - from popular beaches and shopping centres to pristine bushland and farmers' markets.

Explore the early 19th century settlement of Howick, or head to Botany for ultra-modern shopping at one of the country’s largest shopping malls. Cycle along the picturesque Pōhutukawa Coast and be sure to visit the charming village of Clifton, home to one of the region’s best weekend markets.

East Auckland is a land of natural beauty, with Bucklands Beach and Cockle Bay Reserve near Howick, and the largest mainland forest in the Auckland region. You might only need a few (or three or four) visits to see the many beauties of the region.

South Auckland

Welcome to Auckland’s multicultural heart, home to the world’s largest Pacific Island community. From the shopping metropolis of Manukau to the rolling pastures of Pukekohe, South Auckland is incredibly diverse in its communities, activities and scenery.

Spend the day riding thrilling rides at Rainbow’s End, or taking a leisurely stroll through the 64-hectare Auckland Botanic Gardens. Get a taste of the Pacific at the iconic Ōtara Markets and learn how the earliest Maori settlers lived atop Māngere Hill - the views are breathtaking too.

Take a day trip to the beautiful Āwhitu Peninsula for clifftop views, sandy swimming bays and a historic lighthouse. Foodies will find hidden gems between the high-rises and hills - wine and dine by the olive groves of Bombay or buy farm-fresh produce at the markets at Pukekohe.

Great North Auckland

Every weekend, thousands of people flock to Auckland's northern fringe for a day out, a staycation or... a little longer. And it's no wonder. The Matakana Coast has become a wine region, a beach lover's paradise and one of the best snorkelling spots in the North Island.

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the big cities, small towns like Matakana and Warkworth move at a slower pace. Say goodbye to the city skyline and spread out your towel on the Tāwharanui Peninsula, or snorkel with schools of fish at Te Hāwere-a-Maki (Goat Island). Soak up the holiday vibe at Snells Beach and Ōmaha, then sample artisanal produce in the quaint village of Matakana – the Saturday markets are a must-see.