Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Auckland, New Zealand. #Top Attractions

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Do you have Auckland, New Zealand, on your vacation itinerary? For the best things to do in Auckland, New Zealand, and the coolest places to visit in Auckland, New Zealand. Scroll down for our top travel recommendations in Auckland, New Zealand. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter has big plans to shake things up in the field.

Albert Park

Auckland’s finest major parkland.

Albert Park has a beautiful Victorian fountain, several flower beds, and a range of statuary. In this park, there are a lot of things to do here, it is home to numerous quaint and quirky activities that will satisfy cultural vultures, along with offering a calm area amid the inner-city bustle.

The city has a Meteorological Observatory, which is located at the highest point in the park and has been recording the weather in Auckland since 1909.

To mark the entryway from Princess Street, you will see an amazing floral clock that dates back to 1953.

The Old Government House, which is now included on the Auckland University campus, is perhaps the most significant historic structure in the area.

The Government House, which housed the country’s first parliament, was established in a Neoclassical building made of timber in 1856. 

The Old Synagogue, which dates to around 1884 and is now utilized for cultural activities, is located directly across from the Old Government House.

A fantastic illumination-focused event is the Turama festival. It’s an event that is definitely worth adding to your things to do in Auckland- list. In the evening, it is a must-see for anybody visiting Auckland in July.

Make sure you come and visit this tranquil green space now.

Address:  Princes Street, City Center, Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland Art Gallery

A place that showcases the culture and artistry of the country.

The most magnificent cultural institution in the city is the Auckland Art Gallery.

The gallery, which is situated in an outstanding French Renaissance-style building that was established in 1887.

It houses New Zealand’s largest art collection, with over 15,000 items on show.

A massive accumulation of artwork, which includes some 14th-century European paintings and sculptures, is housed in the permanent galleries. 

The main New Zealand exhibit, meanwhile, deserves special attention. A significant number of works showcasing Maori as well as Pacific Islander artists may be seen on the bottom floor.

On the first level, check out the Maori Portraiture Gallery as well as the New Zealand Historic Art Gallery, they both display the artistry of early European dwellers in New Zealand. 

There are guided tours, as well as a café and souvenir store that are found on site.

Come and see beautiful works of art here at the premier Auckland Art Gallery.

Address: Wellesley Street E, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Auckland Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruises

Be awe-struck by amazing marine life when you join this amazing cruise.

If you come to Auckland and you have little time, but want to go on at least one tour, then consider a whale and dolphin viewing cruise.  

These fantastically priced trips leave from the New Zealand Maritime Museum located in the Viaduct Harbor and will almost guarantee sightings (if you don’t see any, you can do it again and for free).

This fascinating half-day tour in a catamaran includes experienced guides who are well-knowledgable in the locality and its various fauna, ensuring that you get as near as possible to animals such as six different kinds of whales, penguins, dolphins, and birds, don’t forget to snap some wonderful shots.

Most of your day will be spent in the stunning Hauraki Gulf Marine Park’s gorgeous waters, which are surrounded by stunning scenery. 

Aside from some binoculars, remember to carry cool clothing as well as waterproof ones and/or a sun hat, depending on the conditions of the day.

What are you waiting for? Book an Auckland Dolphin & Whale Tour now.

Address: Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland Harbor Bridge Adventures

New Zealand’s only bungee jump with a touch of the ocean is the Auckland Bridge Bungy Jump.

The Auckland Harbour Bridge, which connected downtown Auckland to the suburbs in the north and the white sand beaches of the bay’s northern end.

It’s almost a mile long, inaugurated in 1959, and stands at a towering 43 meters.

Moreover, the bridge has a variety of exciting activities to make your excursion around Auckland memorable!

The Auckland Harbour Bridge bungee jumps, including a private bridge leisurely walk.

Furthermore, shortly after dropping 40 meters into the water below the harbor is one of the most popular experiences to try.

There are many more opportunities to explore the city of Auckland, New Zealand, from the summit of Auckland Harbour Bridge than bungee jumping.

This pastime, also known as “safe base jumping,” is the one to check off your list of things to do here in Auckland.

Treat yourself to an exhilarating adrenaline rush and forget about the shops and cafes in Auckland’s central district.

Feel the thrills of this experience now and visit Auckland.

Address: Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland War Memorial Museum

This museum gives respect to those who fought for the country in WWI.

The War Memorial Museum of Auckland is housed in a massive building in the Neoclassical style. It’s been up and standing since 1929.

In fact, it was made as a remembrance devoted to soldiers of the country who served in the 1st World War.

Presently, it showcases an outstanding collection of relics that recounts New Zealand’s history from its first Pacific islander settlers to the current day and emphasizes New Zealand’s heritage.

A definite thing to check out is their Main Maori Gallery.

They house a variety of artwork, including a beautiful Maori gateway spanning from the 12th to 14th centuries.

In addition, there is a 25-meter-long boat used by Maori tribesmen to get to the Manukau Harbor.

Meanwhile, its history exhibit is housed on the first level, which includes a replica of New Zealand’s now extinct yet famed enormous Moa bird species.

Overall, the museum’s upper floor is devoted to war memorials that tell the tales of the country’s role in global battles during its past.

If you want a guided tour, they have it! As well as frequent workshops and lectures for all visitors.

Address: Auckland Domain, Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland Zoo

This is a fantastic must-visit for families visiting Auckland.

Auckland Zoo, which is in the suburb of Western Springs, spans 40 acres. It provides lots of entertainment for families coming to visit. 

The Auckland Zoo, which opened in 1922, now has a fantastic section titled Te Wao Nui, which emphasizes the region’s animal life and plants.

There are around 1,400 kinds of wildlife representing 135 species, including meerkats, wallabies, giraffes, and a range of monkeys, which are housed in different themed areas displaying animals from Australia, Africa, and South America.

There are several entertaining activities offered, such as an after-dark safari, junior zookeeper activities that take the little ones behind the scenes, and photography workshops too.

Head to Rainbow’s End if there’s still enough time throughout your trip for the youngsters to run off some of their energy. This entertaining-themed park has a site devoted to younger children.

Come to the Auckland zoo now to see a great variety of animals.

Address: Motions Road, Auckland, New Zealand

Cornwall Park

It’s your urban retreat, full of history, wildlife, farm life, and interesting places to visit. 

Cornwall Park is a 172-hectares or 425-acres living historical site that weaves all of New Zealand’s ecology, wildlife, agriculture, mauri, heritage, and community within its beautiful landscape.

Cornwall Park was given to the country by Sir John Logan Campbell in 1901. His aim was that the area would always be free for all New Zealanders to enjoy. 

The park is a free public space where both visitors and the locals can experience and enjoy nature in the core of the country’s largest city.

Visitors wanting a real Kiwi experience are also welcome to visit their beautiful shores.

Sitting amid the park is One Tree Hill’s volcanic cone, also known as “Maungakiekie,” which is a highlight for Auckland residents.

The 182-meter-tall hill is surrounded by walking routes and boasts a variety of mature trees and flower beds.

Come visit this unique location now.

Address: Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland, New Zealand

Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Islands

A lovely slice of nature literally just on the borders of Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Islands. 

The Great Barrier Island is a must-see for nature enthusiasts, thanks to its natural beauty and the abundance of nearby hiking, camping, water activities, and mountain biking activities.

The world’s largest forest of pohutukawa trees is called Rangitoto Island and It’s an inactive volcano.

Moreover, you have to try hiking towards the top of the island which offers a spectacular view of the Hauraki Gulf.

In fact, some of New Zealand’s rarest and most vulnerable bird species may indeed be spotted in the island’s core, which has several trails.

Experienced bird observers could be able to catch a glimpse of Blue penguins, Takahe, Kwi, and Brown Teal.

Taking out from Princes Wharf in the heart of downtown, the boat would go to the island.

In addition to tourist-friendly sightseeing trips, fishing excursions and other water activities like sailing are easily available to tourists.

See amazing land and aquatic wildlife now at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Islands.

Address: Hauraki Gulf, Auckland, New Zealand

Hobbiton Movie Set 

The famed and magical film set of the Lord of the Rings Hobbiton in the Core of Middle-Earth.

You will be fetched from your hotels in a bus and transported on a completely guided journey to Hobbiton into the gorgeous Waikato countryside (the largest agricultural region in New Zealand). 

Going down south, you’ll view the spectacular countryside, have some fantastic photo opportunities, and see beautiful mountains and many different farm animals.

Once you get there, while they collect your film set tickets, you can relax with a cup of joe or ice cream.

Following that, we take an enormous green Hobbiton bus for a 2-hour guided tour around this spectacular movie set, that’s 12 acres.

Moreover, you may have a professional Hobbiton tour guide to make the most of your visit. 

You’ll walk along with the Shire’s beautiful fields, visit hobbit holes (there are 44 of them), see stunning gardens, and discover backstage secrets and anecdotes.

Overall, you can end your day with a cold drink at Hobbiton’s legendary tavern, the Green Dragon Inn.

Travel to Middle-Earth now when you come to Auckland.

Address: Auckland, New Zealand

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Kaipara Coast Plant Center & Sculpture Gardens

See amazing art and beautiful sculptures at this location.

The Kaipara Coast Plant Centre and their Sculpture Gardens are a nice place to relax and unwind.

You also can visit the countryside in the northern part of Auckland.

This well-kept garden path in a peaceful valley setting is home to a diverse collection of natural species as well as New Zealand artists’ sculptural art. 

At any given time, more than around 50 pieces are on exhibit lined along the 1-kilometer route, creating garden halls that showcase the amazingness of contemporary art from around the country.

The gardens boast a broad representation of the country’s many diverse environments, including areas designated as the native bush, pine forest, and typical cropland.

Another preservation trail loops throughout the native forest, crossing flowing streams and passing by waterfalls.

Spanning 64 hectares is the Auckland Botanic Gardens, which is definitely worth a visit. A remarkable variety of 10,000 flora, including several rose bushes, is one of the highlights.

Visit the Kaipara Coast Plant Center & Sculpture Gardens now. 

Address: 1481 Kaipara Coast Highway, Kaukapakapa 0843, New Zealand

Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium

A place brimming with aquatic life.

The Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium is one of the city’s most popular family destinations, allowing visitors to get to see up close the diverse marine life. 

From the underground walkways, a number of massive aquariums filled with marine life can be seen, including tropical fish, sharks, and stingray aquariums.

An Antarctic Encounter gallery will also be found at Kelly Tarlton’s, equipped with a snow-filled penguin habitat, showing New Zealand’s strong links to the international scientific community in Antarctica.

Shark Cage Snorkel and Shark Dive activities at the aquarium appeal to adrenaline seekers, with online bookings offering discounts.

Kelly Tarlton was an undersea explorer who also established a flourishing tourism business.

He turned his enthusiasm for scuba diving into a career. He was enthusiastic and creative and successful in becoming a shipwreck explorer and maritime engineer. 

Visit the Kelly Tarlton Museum now when in Auckland.

Address: 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand

Mount Eden

Trek up this beautiful mountain that is yours to explore.

Both harbors and the entire isthmus are visible on top of Auckland’s highest volcanic cone, which stands at 196 meters. 

Te Ipu Kai, a Mataaho also called “The Food Bowl of Mataaho,” who is the god of hidden objects underground, has a symmetric crater that is 50 meters deep that is regarded as “tapu” or sacred. 

You may not access it, but the rest of the mountain is yours to explore. The ruins of food storage holes and pā terraces may be seen clearly.

6 different walkways can lead you up to the mountain, and depending on your fitness level, the trek only takes about 15 minutes. 

During mid-2020, a system of boardwalks was created to assist and maintain the site’s cultural and historical significance. It is recommended that you take bus #27 from Britomart until stop 1870 at Tahaki Reserve.

Put your hiking shoes on and head on to Mount Eden’s walking trails now.

Address: Mount Eden, Auckland, New Zealand

Rangitoto Island

A trek up this dormant volcano rewards you with the best views.

Rangitoto Island, a volcanic island, is one of Auckland’s most famous landmarks. Rangitoto’s very distinct symmetric cone stands 260 meters above the Hauraki Gulf, majestically off the shore.

Visitors can climb to the top for unrivaled views.

Rangitoto’s island emerged from the sea in a sequence of powerful explosions about 600 years ago. 

Two occurrences are supposed to have occurred 10-50 years apart and lasted many years each.

Rangitoto is the newest island in the Hauraki Gulf, as well as the latest and biggest volcano to emerge from the Auckland volcanic zone. 

Touring Rangitoto is a must activity for both locals and visitors alike.

In about an hour, an easy hike over lava fields will get you to the summit. 

Allow additional time to wander around the lava caves as you head back, or you have the option to see the Bach community close to the wharf.

Wander around this beautiful and lush island now.

Address: Hauraki Gulf, Auckland, New Zealand

Skytower Auckland

At 328 meters tall, the iconic Sky Tower is the highest tower built in the Southern Hemisphere. 

It’s the highest structure in the Southern Hemisphere, and it’ll be the first thing you notice when you arrive in the city.

If you don’t mind heights, the tower’s edge is possible to walk on or even base jump off from it. 

It should also be the first place you should visit first. The Sky Tower, at around 1,000 ft., dominates the Auckland skyline and is the city’s most famous structure.

There is a platform to walk on or jump from for the thrill-seekers, and you will need to wear a safety harness before they let you go. 

After, enjoy a drink with gorgeous views of the city at their restaurant that revolves or have some lunch at The Sugar Club if the 40-sec. The elevator journey isn’t thrilling enough.

The scenery from the balconies is breathtaking, and they’re a terrific way to take in your surroundings.

The entire Sky City complex should be on your list of to-sees, with a variety of restaurants, stylish bars, a Sky Walk, Sky Bungee Jump, and also a Casino.

Visit this amazing complex now, there are lots to do for everyone.

Address: Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Stardome Observatory & Planetarium

Reach for the stars at this awesome observatory and planetarium.

There are numerous reasons to include the Stardome Observatory & Planetarium on anyone’s Auckland vacation agenda, regardless of not you are visiting with children.

The Auckland Observatory opened to the public in the year 1967 and has grown into an amazing astronomical research observatory.

Also, it is a significant city attraction that offers a great lot of enjoyment and also some knowledge for people of different ages.

Moreover, the observatory has two telescopes, which are located in the One Tree Hill region.

It is open to tourists together with its captivating program wherein all attendees would be given an experience looking up at the vast and captivating night sky. 

This also includes planetarium shows to give some context and also the opportunity to check out the attraction’s exhibitions.

Overall, don’t forget to stop by their charming souvenir store on the Observatory’s site.

This is a definite must-see if you’re coming to New Zealand, check it out now.

Address: 670 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1345, New Zealand

Viaduct Harbor

A gorgeous harbor overlooking the sea.

This Auckland neighborhood has been compared to Sydney’s Darling Harbour and has around 30 bars and restaurants, as well as a marina, several hotels, and the New Zealand Maritime Museum.

 It’s recommended to visit Auckland’s seafront Viaduct Harbour, to experience some of Auckland’s greatest watering holes.

Viaduct Harbour is best visited on a bright, clear day when some fog or rain doesn’t block the harbor sights. 

New Zealand’s Herald In-Port Race happens yearly for the Volvo Ocean Race, which occurs once a year, every February.

It uses the Viaduct Harbor for special activities and some amenities, before the race, it is a must-see for boating fans.

Viaduct Harbour could be found in the heart of the city.

It is open to the public, so those who come may drive, walk, or take an InnerLink bus and get down at the Queen Street stops to get to the location.

On the streets surrounding the waterfront, there is also paid parking, but it is limited.

Come and stroll through the Viaduct Harbor now and see all it offers.

Address: Quay Street, Central City, Auckland, New Zealand

Waiheke Island

Visit this spectacular and famous island now.

The island of Waiheke is the most famed of all of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf islands for visitors.

There are approximately 8,000 inhabitants on the island yearly, with a lively café culture and some fantastic art galleries in the villages, as well as sandy white beaches along the coast.

A number of pathways wrap along the shoreline and into the island’s interior for adventurous hikers and walkers. 

Also, there is the Church Bay Circuit to check out, it is a three-hour walk that exhibits the island’s beauty and offers spectacular scenery and a challenging hike too.

The Stony Batter Historic Reserve has a unique underground tunnel network dug out during the Second World War in case Auckland was invaded. It is a must-see for history buffs.

Furthermore, the Waiheke Island ferry departs regularly from Princes Wharf in Auckland’s center and takes around 35-45 minutes.

There are a great number of places for accommodation choices available for people who want to stay longer, from bed & breakfasts to coastal villa rentals.

Spend a day or two or even more at Waiheke Island now.

Address: Hauraki Gulf, Auckland, New Zealand

Waitakere Ranges National Park

Get the best of both worlds, woodland, and the beach, at this national park.

The Waitakere Ranges Regional Park is 40,000 acres of woodland and beach on the west coast of North Island, just around 17 miles from the center of the city.

Biking, bird-watching, hiking, and walking through the park’s black sand beaches are among the available activities.

The beaches of Whatipu and Piha, as well as the Fairy Falls cascade, are must-see panoramas in this expansive area.

According to some recent visitors, the Waitakere Ranges are not to be overlooked.

Though some visitors have claimed that the sights alone are worth the trip, hikers will appreciate the park’s hiking paths.

However, because of a Kauri dieback epidemic that has affected portions of the park’s Kauri trees, many forested areas inside the park, including their walkways, remain temporarily closed.

Driving is the most convenient way to get to Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. There really is no admission cost, and parking is free in certain sections.

Overall, the majority of people stay for half a day or spend a full day at the park, although visitors can also spend the night in their on-site campgrounds.

Check out this amazing park now when you visit Auckland.

Address: Waitakere Rangers National Park, Auckland, New Zealand

Waitemata Harbor

See stunning ocean views from this location.

Waitemata Harbour, which divides Auckland into two, is indeed Auckland’s most visible natural sight. New Zealand’s capital became Auckland in the year 1840 as a result of this easily accessible waterway.

Since then, they’ve moved the country’s capital to Wellington, however, Auckland remained the country’s economic hub.

Visiting Quay Street, which runs across from the harbor in the center district and provides a way into the Princes Wharf as well as the ferry terminals to get to the Hauraki Gulf islands, is another nice thing to do around here.

The Auckland Harbour Bridge also offers different entertaining and interesting activities.

Another highlight is participating the America’s Cup sailing experience on the harbor aboard a genuine racing vessel. Take the reins and join the expert team to experience the thrill of sailing, or simply sit back and enjoy the harbor view. Experience in sailing is not required.

Go on a sail, or walk around here at the Waitemata Harbor.

Address: Quay Street, City Center, Auckland, New Zealand

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

See these unique glowing creatures native to New Zealand.

A boat journey into the Glowworm Grotto, where you will see hundreds and hundreds of glow worms illuminating the dark cave ceiling.

Also, it features the globally known natural wonder located about 120 miles to the south of the city.

Only in New Zealand is where you will find these colorful, small creatures.

Even though some previous visitors warned that the caves could be crowded during high season, plenty of others claimed the sight is fascinating and surely worth seeing. 

While the tunnels are fascinating to wander through, the glowworms are the main attraction here.

However, filming and photography are prohibited in all areas of these caves, so leave your cameras at home.

During the boat ride part of the tour, guests are also urged to remain silent.

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves have a cafe, gift shop, restaurant, as well as a free area for parking.

As the day develops, parking places become few, so it is suggested for drivers to consider booking a morning trip and coming there early.

Be amazed by the Waitomo Glowworm Caves now.

Still wondering if you should visit Auckland, New Zealand? Hop over to reasons to visit Auckland, New Zealand, at least once in your lifetime here

Address: 39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo Caves 3977, New Zealand

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