Auckland is a flourishing cosmopolitan surrounded by beautiful natural wonder. It’s the biggest city in New Zealand and a major transportation hub containing the country’s largest international airport. From lively Queen Street to colorful K’ Road there’s heaps to do around the city. Having lived in Auckland for some time here is my list of the top 10 attractions you must visit during your first trip there.
1. Mount Eden
Mount Eden is the highest volcano in Auckland. At the summit you’ll get a spectacular view of the dramatic dip of the crater along with the city skyline as its backdrop.
The surrounding suburb is lined with cute little cafes and restaurants.
Wander Tip: It’s a wonderful spot for sunset. Afterall it’s not every day that you get to watch the sun go down from the edge of a volcano.
2. Viaduct Harbour
Viaduct Harbour is a vibrant hotspot surrounding Auckland’s waterfront. It’s filled with fabulous restaurants and bars. It’s a nice place to take a stroll, observe the boats, and simply watch the world go by.
3. SkyCity
SkyCity is a buzzing entertainment complex in the heart of the city. It features unique dining experiences, a casino, and the iconic Sky Tower.
Sky Tower is Auckland’s famous landmark and a very popular tourist attraction offering a 360° view of the city.
Wander Tip: Grab a drink in the bar at The Sugar Club and enjoy complimentary access to the tower.
4. One Tree Hill
One Tree Hill is a historic volcanic peak offering panoramic views of entire Auckland. Where there once was a tree now lies an obelisk situated on the very top. Adorable sheep and cattle can be seen grazing the land.
Wander the grounds and admire the enchanting trees in the surrounding Cornwall Park.
5. Auckland Art Gallery
Located in city center the Auckland Art Gallery contains the most extensive collection of art in all of New Zealand.
6. Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island, New Zealand’s “Island of Wine”, makes for the perfect day trip getaway. An easy 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, the island consists of many boutique vineyards, pristine beaches, and amazing hiking trails.
7. Beaches
New Zealand’s North Island is home to countless glorious beaches where you can go to unwind. Here are a few of Auckland’s top beaches:
Piha Beach
Located just west of Auckland, Piha Beach is a surfing paradise. It is renowned for its crashing waves and its lion-shaped rock formation. There are scenic walking tracks, a blow hole, and beachfront restaurants in the area.
It’s my favorite beach in New Zealand!
Wander Tip: Stick around for sunset to witness cotton candy colors illuminate the sky. I also highly recommend swinging by the magnificent Kitekite Falls nearby.
Karekare Beach
If you want to avoid the crowd at Piha head over to lesser known Karekare Beach which is not too far away. It’s a peaceful black sand beach with strong currents. The amount of mist adds a bit of mysteriousness to the setting.
Wander Tip: Karekare Falls is close by and well worth a visit.
Mission Bay Beach
Mission Bay Beach is nestled in the charming waterfront suburb. Take in the relaxing atmosphere as you dine outside one of the many eateries by the beach.
Takapuna Beach
North Shore’s Takapuna Beach is popular among locals and only a short distance from Auckland’s CBD. It’s great for swimming and also provides a stunning vantage point of Rangitoto Island.
8. Auckland Domain
Auckland Domain is a green oasis in the middle of the city. It contains lush trees, the Wintergarden, a duck pond, cool sculptures, and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
It was my go-to spot whenever I needed a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
9. Devonport
Devonport is a quaint bayside suburb just a short 12-minute ferry ride from Auckland central.
The volcanoes, Mount Victoria and North Head, are both major highlights. Mount Victoria offers sweeping views of the city skyline. At North Head you can explore the former underground defense tunnels for a glimpse of New Zealand’s military history.
Wander Tip: Mount Victoria is one of the top places to catch sunset in Auckland.
10. Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island reserve and easily accessible by 25-minute ferry from Auckland. A hike through the forest and rugged lava fields to the summit offers fantastic views of Hauraki Gulf.
Wander Tip: There are no shops on the island so come prepared with packed food and water. Be sure not to miss the remarkable lava caves!
My #1 Pick
My favorite spot from this list is Piha Beach. I loved the overall chill vibe of the place.
So if you’re taking a trip down to New Zealand you’ll definitely want to visit these top 10 attractions in Auckland!
For additional NZ content, check out my list of must-eat foods in New Zealand and read my guide on the New Zealand USA Working Holiday Visa.
What’s your favorite Auckland attraction from this list? Is there some place you would add? Let me know in the comments!
