Top 49 things to do and attractions in Auckland

Sky Tower (part of the SkyCity Auckland complex)  • Height: 328 metres from ground level to the top of the mast.  • Location: Corner of Victoria Street West & Federal Street, Auckland CBD.  • Opened: 1997.  ⸻ What You Can Do / See • Observation Decks: There are multiple levels you can go up to for views. You can see up to ~ 80 km in good weather, including volcanoes, harbour, city skyline etc.  • Orbit 360° Dining Restaurant: A revolving restaurant located near the top — dining with panoramic views as the restaurant rotates.  • SkyBar: A bar high up in the tower with expansive views.  • SkyWalk & SkyJump: • SkyWalk — walk around the exterior of the tower at height, harnessed.  • SkyJump — a controlled “jump”/plunge off the tower from a height (for the thrill-seekers).  • Gift shop, cafes, and casual dining, including Sky Cafe.  ⸻ Structure & Design • Built with high-performance reinforced concrete shaft (about 12m diameter) with support from piles, and with a steel mast at top.  • It’s designed for safety: wind resistance (can sway in strong winds), seismic design to withstand significant earthquakes, fire safety features, etc.  ⸻ Hours & Tickets • Opening hours: The Sky Tower is open daily, from morning (around 9:30 am) until evening/night (hours depend on the day & season).  • Last entry times vary with season.  • Admission fees: There is an entry fee for the observation decks. The cost depends on which deck, whether you want to add things like SkyWalk or SkyJump.  • Booking: Better to buy tickets in advance online to secure times and sometimes get discounts.  ⸻ Why It’s Worth Visiting • It’s an iconic Auckland landmark — visible from many parts of the city, a symbol of Auckland.  • Unmatched 360-degree views of the city, harbour, islands, volcano cones etc.  • Combination of experiences: you can just enjoy the view, or add excitement with SkyJump / SkyWalk, or dining high up. Gives options depending on how adventurous or relaxed you’re feeling. • Great at sunset or at night for city lights.

In cities that have a big tower like this it's almost always worthwhile to go up and check out the view. This tower has two levels of observation and one level for dining and bungee jumping. There may be other levels but there were some renovations happening at the time of writing. I'm sure this could be made into a much bigger activity by dining here during the sunset or jumping off (a desire I'll never understand) but just as a casual place to spend some time between outings in Auckland it's pretty great.

So worth the money to visit the lookout! A bit scary at first but well worth the beautiful view. We really love that there’s also a sit down option where you can enjoy the view and some good kai. There’s also ice cream and coffee at one of the lookouts.

A good view of the city and probably one of the only things to do in Auckland that is actually in Auckland and doesn’t require a day trip. Price felt a bit expensive for what it was as there wasn’t actually that much to do at the top bar the views. But if you’ve got a spare hour or two in Auckland and aren’t strapped for cash then I’d do it.

If you come to Auckland, DO NOT MISS THE SKY TOWER!!! Yep, both my wife and I enjoyed our time looking at the majestic views and taking photos. Seeing Auckland from this vantage point was a great way to see the city. Plan your visit for a clear day to maximize your viewing pleasure.

Had a great time up here. Price was a little steep for what it is but we had a good time nonetheless the less. Some fantastic views across the city and had the weather been nicer I can imagine some of the views would have been majestic. Elevator takes you up to the 51st floor and then another elevator takes you up a further 9 floors. All in all, worth a visit for an hour.

Sky Tower is definitely one of those must-do experiences in Auckland! I’d give it a strong 9/10. The views are absolutely stunning—you get a full panoramic look over the harbour, city, and even out to the islands. The photos you take up there will be some of the best from your trip. The glass floors add a thrill, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the SkyJump or SkyWalk turn it into more than just sightseeing. The only minor downside is that tickets can feel a bit pricey, but honestly, for a once-in-a-lifetime view, it’s worth it. It’s the kind of spot that really makes you feel like you’ve “arrived” in Auckland.

This trail is beginner friendly and it’s easy to hike up the summit. Don’t miss exploring the Lava Cave - just bring a torch as it’s pitch black inside! Overall the hike took us 4hrs and about 20k steps. Make sure to bring your own food and drink as they don’t have commercial cafes/restaurants in the area. The ferry going to Rangitoto has a mini cafe that makes good coffee too.

A fantastic hike through beautiful native forest — truly felt immersed in nature. The trail was enjoyable from start to finish, offering peaceful surroundings and scenic views. A must-do experience in Auckland!

Memorable and beautiful experience. Pricey boat ride, but so worth it. My almost five year old did the whole hike to the top and back.

We walked through old lava flows, explored some caves, and saw beautiful views of the ocean, green plants, and black rocks. It was an awesome place!

Great hiking routes, some dangerous for the elderly. The black lava terrain against lush deep green makes for a beautiful contrast. Hiking can get long so use a map or google maps. Drop pins as you go at landmarks. Can be covered in 4 hrs but then there is a joint island so choose your departure time according to your plan. Bring water, coffee in a flask, dry snacks and wet wipes. No stores there, toilets are scarce, and no litter law, so be respectful of the rules and environment.

Very beginner friendly walks, no hiking experience needed. View from the top was nice, and there’s a few other little detours that you can take (lava caves were a good one).

Worth doing if you like walking. The walk up to the summit is a nice track and is in good condition. It is not too difficult We arrived on the 10am ferry and left on the 3:30pm, and that was a perfect amount of time to go to the top, visit the caves and also to visit the beach.

Iconic Museum in Auckland and an absolute must see ! My highlight was the Vulcano simulator 🌋 You can easily spend 3-4 hours here and all floors host tranquil exhibitions. The team is excellent and will help you with all your questions. The cafeteria is nice and there is also a very popular cafeteria ☕️ I can highly recommend to go there !

I would say this museum offers some of the best exhibitions in New Zealand. It features a wonderful collection showcasing Māori art, culture, and New Zealand history- from artefacts, paintings, and carvings to impressive life-sized pieces like the Māori waka (traditional canoe). The museum has also hosted incredible showcases such as the Guo Pei exhibition and, more recently, the DIVA exhibition in collaboration with the V&A in the UK. I travelled all the way from Wellington just to see DIVA! Tickets are reasonably priced (around $25) and include headsets, which is a great touch. The building itself is beautifully designed with sweeping ceilings and a bright, welcoming foyer that houses a café, restaurant, ticket counter, and access to toilets, a drinking fountain, and exhibition spaces. The layout is accessible and easy to navigate, and the facilities (including the toilets) are clean and well maintained. There’s also two floors of undercover parking located downstairs, accessible via lift. Parking payment is made at kiosks by card.

I highly recommend the Māori experience! It’s not a show but a sharing of culture. So don’t expect a long form of entertainment. I really enjoyed being part of it and being able to ask questions afterwards. The museum itself had a lot of items from many different wars and countries! It was interesting to see whole fighter planes up close! I’m only a bit disappointed that the main Māori exhibit is closed at the moment but it was definitely an informative time!

They discounted my ticket because so many exhibits were closed but I was still disappointed. I really went out of my way to get here from the cbd and there were only a couple of interesting exhibits. Further, I went here on a weekend and experienced a lot of small children screaming and running around. I believe because admission is free for locals and parents were looking for a way to occupy their children. I enjoyed the war memorial exhibition, but was disappointed parents didn’t explain to their children that the exhibit deserved a little respect. I would recommend avoiding this museum when children are not in school.

A well planned out museum for both young and old. The history of New Zealand's people both first nation and the rest are presented to us both visually and physically in items of historic value. Parking is limited especially during school holidays, weekends and public holidays. Excellent 👍 👌

What an outstanding museum! The style of the building is gorgeous. Inside you are presented with a variety of areas related to New Zealand culture and history. At the time of my visit in late August 2025 , plenty of areas were closed off hopefully by my next visit, they will be open. The highlight for me was the World War level and everything related to our past. Would recommend to anyone who can appreciate NZ history! Also note the statue of Zealandia 🤍 If visiting, you should consider a donation. Entry is free for residents of NZ with proof of identity.

I had a good experience at the war memorial museum, though it was somewhat dampened by the museum being approximately half-shuttered due to long-term repairs being made to the building and galleries. The ticket cost was reduced by 50% to compensate, which seems about right. Highlights included the Auckland exhibit, which was very colourful, progressive, and optimistic while also reflecting on more difficult parts of the past. I also really enjoyed the gallery about New Zealand’s flora and fauna. It was especially cool seeing reconstructions of giant flightless birds. WWII scholars will love the reconstructed Zero. When I went on a weekday, it was quite busy with many children, so just be aware!

A great place to visit. This time round went to the 'A Century of Modern Art'. This was exhibition did cost. Other areas are free for you to wonder. Highly recommend. The gift shop has great gifts. There is also a cafe available. Pictures of the exhibition and other parts of the gallery.

Went to go see the “A century of modern art” and it was amazing. Everything was set up well with each paintings given a description that fits perfectly. Though the layout was a little strange with the room connecting to both left and right rooms, giving it not much of a clear direction to go to next. Other part of the art gallery was great with the huge room being the best, especially the cats (tigers). Definitely should visit at least once especially with different exhibitions on all the time.

Recent visit was for the 'A Century of Modern Art' show, it is much more relaxing and enjoyable to visit on a weekday. The gallery isn't too big meaning you can see everything in one visit. There's a small gallery store with a great selection of goods and a nice cafe on the 2nd floor. It does get confusing to navigate and locate the old/heritage site of the building which contains the gallery's owed pieces. Yearly memberships available, prices have gone up a lot for them. I bought a membership with guest pass, it cost over $150 I believe. In the past I recall it was $120 and it was cheaper before that too. But you have unlimited access to paid shows and membership gives you 10% off at gallery store and cafe.

A lovely visit. The art gallery was vibrant with a family event, Suzi Cato singing, musicians and wonderful art. The Cezanne is magic but there are so many wonderful displays. Lovely cafe as well.

Wonderful museum full of cultural paintings, photographs, and sculptures. Rooms are elegantly designed for maximum appreciation of wonderful artworks. The most memorable for me was the Renaissance room; paintings spanning several metres across hung up high on the walls, it made me appreciate the art so much more. Oh and the coffee was good too, good prices!

Located 2 blocks from Queen Street—one of Auckland’s busiest areas packed with restaurants and shops—the Auckland Art Gallery is an easy and worthwhile stop. The first thing that caught my attention was the building itself. The interior has a really unique, modern look with a wooden ceiling that stands out immediately. When I walked in, I learned that several of the gallery spaces are completely free to visit. The first two floors, in particular, feature excellent collections, including powerful works by Māori artists and pieces highlighting Māori culture, history, and everyday life. The art was genuinely engaging and thoughtfully displayed. The main floor also has a comfortable lounge area with seating, plus free Wi-Fi, which is a nice bonus if you need a short break while exploring the city. I arrived a bit late in the afternoon and didn’t realize they close at 5 p.m., so I didn’t get to see the entire museum. But what I did see was absolutely worth the visit. Between the quality of the art and the fact that much of it is free, I highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area.

We visited this art gallery close to our accommodation.. it’s free but you have to check in your backpack.. it has a ground floor which has the foyer+ gift shop .. the Mezzanine includes an art land for children ( where they can build cities with a special play dough) , a Tread of time with special portraits.. Level 1 has a section with abstract + surrealism paintings , the Robertson gift paintings, abstract that uses geometry, a section has Mãori treasured portraits, a section with some Pablo Picasso paintings then also a new section “ Pop to Present “ will open Nov 8 ..,Level 2 has Louise Bourgeois ( private view of her art + sculptures) , Nakuru “three scenes “ and the members lounge. We spent over 2 hours visiting.. Keep yourself open to different kinds of art!

Such a fun place to go as a family. The dinosaur area is so cool! Ice cream and coffee isn't stupidly overpriced. Would definitely recommend! We went on a Friday which was a lot nicer as there weren't big crowds.

I really enjoy this zoo. It sets an entirely new standard and I feel like I could spend forever there. The new do up is gorgeous, especially for the Tigers, Gharial and NZ Bird Aviaries. I love that the enclosures are all so spacious and that the animals are able to have space away from visitors if they want it. Sea krait is awesome too, hopefully in time it will also get a nice enclosure upgrade.

Mum of under 3, we go almost every week ! We love Auckland zoo 🫶🏻. We have the annual pass and go through the zoo slowly though my toddler has other ideas (aka running !) it's such a great open space for them to run around to burn the energy. Recommend going in the weekday, although there can be lots of school kids during these times. Weekdays do get pretty busy and I would have to park in the outer parking lot. Weekdays are easier to get tickets but it's a lot easier if you buy tickets online so you can just go into the zoo. Don't forget to take a picture with the elephant !

Incredibly impressed by how happy and content almost every animal was. I am used to seeing stressed animals pacing back and forth, but most of the animals were happily resting or interacting with their environment. There is a lot of renovations currently happening to improve the zoo so we did not get to see everything, but it was a wonderful place to go. I only wish I could know more about the individual animals, lots of staff around but it is a large sprawling area so hard to always find someone who knows about the animals

I hadn't been to the zoo for about 10 years, but I was very impressed with the changes that have happened over that time. It has wonderful enclosures for the animals, showing off animals from around the world and here in Aotearoa, and if utilizes it's space very well. A great place to take the family. The only hassle was car parking which, unless you get there early, will see you parking on the streets surrounding it.

Such a cool place for both adults and kids. Lots of animals to see and they seem well looked after. The playground areas are also fun for the kids! It seems lots of schools visit on a Friday but didn't cause any delays and it was fast to by a extra ticket. The annual pass gives a decent discount on all purchases.

Been twice in the last decade. Animals look well and happy. Large variety of animals. Beautifully looked after grounds. Facilities good. Currently getting upgraded in time for summer.

We had my daughters birthday party here and hired the room which worked out to be more affordable and we were able to invite more guests. We were allowed to do our own catering which made it even better and the tour guide was amazing. Even though we were late staff were great and polite and friendly. We felt right at home. the kids loved it! The parents loved it too! So worth it.

SEA LIFE is a wonderful place to explore and learn about marine life. The aquarium is beautifully designed, clean, and very well maintained. From colourful fish to giant stingrays, penguins, and sharks swimming right above you — every moment feels magical! It’s a great place for both kids and adults, with lots of interesting displays and educational information. The penguin encounter and underwater tunnel are definitely the highlights. Staff are friendly and helpful, making the visit even more enjoyable. A must-visit attraction in Auckland for anyone who loves sea creatures and ocean adventures! 🌊🐧🐠

The aquarium overall was a pretty good experience. Great place if you love seeing penguins, turtles, sharks, jelly fish and other sea life creatures. Compared to other Sea Life we’ve been, it is smaller but it’s still a fun activity.

Best aquarium to be in! Clean out space lots of species found in aquatic animals. Best is to watch jelly fishes, nemo, dory fish, turtles, sharks underwater tunnel. Would highly recommend to visit this aquarium. Clean, hygienic, safe, food availability, washrooms facility available, lovely watching had good time been here. Totally worth it loved it ! Only if they could keep good clean space for penguins that would be great!

We enjoyed our time at the aquarium. It does get busy but we went early so it was not that busy. The "moving bridge" was awesome and the Penguins stole the show. The Jellyfish was beautiful and the underwater experience was amazing. My daughter enjoyed the VR experience as well.

Interesting place with a good variety of sea life. Enjoyed the Scott's Antarctic displays as well. It was a wet day so good to be out of the rain. Did the VR experience which was fun. Spent 8 minutes "swimming" with sharks. Another person in our group did the humpback whale experience. Manta rays was also available but no one chose it so can't comment. We all enjoyed the ones we saw. The only issue on the day was the car park is very small which was full when we got there and so had to drive out again and find limited street parking available. Ended up about 300m or so away. Not too bad but was pouring down when we got out. ☔️😠

I had been wanting to take my kids to this place and we never regretted it. I, myself was amazed by all the animals in there. We enjoyed looking at and taking pictures of each of them. It is highly recommended for all families out there in NZ.

What a fabulous way to spend the day, wet or fine, the volunteers are super friendly knowledgeable and helpful. Now the displays physical and graphic are absolutely first class as are the theatre’s short films, Peter Blake especially good! All the exhibits are neat, and clean as are facilities, souvenir shop has some interesting items at reasonable prices. Of very special interest, ETHEL after a lot of hard toil by dedicated yaghtsmen Kevin & John to restore her from her depths of despair as a site seeing black fake PIRATE SHIP prior to total refit and refurbishment by the team! I would absolutely recommend not missing this well orchestrated easy to manage super interesting attraction to all discerning visitors and residents of Auckland city New Zealand! Arthur C. CHARLTON west AUCKLAND N.Z.

A fantastic way to spend a day! This museum tells the story of New Zealand's rich history and relationship with the sea, from Maori canoes to yachties to the merchant navy and their successful challenges to the America's Cup! I'd recommend a sailing around the harbour if you can, the volunteers who run the ships are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, really adding to the experience.

This is a remarkable museum focused on the maritime history of New Zealand, including sections on the long-distance migrations among the South Pacific Islands, European journeys to the region, coastal shipping during 19th century industrialization, the ocean as a resource for the Maori, and innovations that arise from NZ's participation in the America's Cup. It's a rich set of collections in a quay-side location with attractive views of the harbor

We booked the Ted Ashby sailing boat to try the experience and then walked around the museum afterward. The lady at reception was very kind and welcoming to both me and my daughter. She was friendly and made my daughter feel happy and special as a young visitor. However, during the boat trip, we felt like strangers—possibly because we were Arab international visitors. While we understand that we were new faces, we had hoped for a warmer and more inclusive atmosphere. Unfortunately, the uncomfortable feeling made me wish the trip would end before the scheduled time. I recommend that anyone planning to try the sailing boat bring some tea or coffee, a few snacks, and small games or activities for the kids, as the ride can get a bit boring—especially for younger children. The museum itself was informative, well-organized, and peaceful. The coffee shop was also nice, and the lovely lady working there was truly the highlight of the entire visit.

We have been to Maritime museums almost everywhere we go and truly this was one of the best! It not only showed the boats of the Maori but the history of the people as well. We found it to be very interesting. We took the free tour which was incredibly informative. I highly recommend visiting this museum when you are in Auckland.

Nice museum with lots of NZ sailing history. We also took a ride on the sailboat they offer. It was a calm and pleasant adventure.

As a huge America's Cup fan. There is only one thing I go to the Maritime Museum for. And that is my favorite America's Cup yacht and my hero. Sir Peter Blake. The Blue Water Black Magic exhibition is my go to. I have an obsession with the America's Cup and the campaign off San Diego in 1995 is the reason I fell in love with yacht racing. The presentation of what I think is New Zealand's greatest sporting achievement is second to none. I love how there is an interactive section with wheel, grinders and winches. The America's Cup replica placed up the top with models of the legendary America's Cup vessels is an awesome touch.

Went to the winter garden through Lover’s track. Best to see when it’s summer so that you can find more vibrant flowers. You could visit the museum too, it costs $32 for intl visitor

Hill top locations cannot be beaten for an early morning visit with the world still asleep. What an amazing park for young and old and sights to explore here in Auckland. Play cricket, kick a ball, picnic with friends and family and enjoy the views. Or get a taste of culture inside the museum and stop for a moment of reflection and remember what this place is meant to keep us aware of. Abd yes, it’s not the Louvre, but the views and the available parking to enjoy the Domain are definitely in favour of this place. Though don’t come by car in the high season, parking can get tricky then.

One of the best views in Auckland. Majestic building. As well as our Museum it holds exhibitions like the Diva one on presently. A great place to visit.

Went to the winter garden. It is spring now and it looks like everything was in bloom. Very beautiful!

We enjoyed our visit but there were several areas/exhibits closed which was disappointing. The place was like a rabbit warren and we had trouble working out where we were. We wandered through an open door trying to find the toilets. As we were leaving a staff member questioned if we had a ticket for the paid performance. She was polite but it put us off - the door had been wide open and there was no staff member on the door. Apparently it was in an area for a paid performance. ??

Peaceful spot to unwind and relax. Especially the green house is a must see 🌸

Wonderful park , with bush walks, open spaces and sports grounds , home to many different events , music concerts , polo and many more . Beautiful wintergardens with two great glasshouses and ever changing flower displays. The amazing building that is the Auckland War Memorial Museum , duckponds and a cafe and function facility.

Cornwall Park • Cornwall Park is a large park (about 172 hectares / 425 acres) in Epsom, Auckland.  • It’s open to the public and managed by the Cornwall Park Trust.  • The park surrounds Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill, which has a volcanic cone and is historically and culturally significant.  • It was gifted to New Zealand by Sir John Logan Campbell in 1901, with the vision that it be free and accessible for everyone.  ⸻ Main Attractions & Things to See Here are some highlights you might enjoy: • One Tree Hill / Maungakiekie — climb up for views overlooking Auckland. The obelisk at the summit marks Sir John Logan Campbell’s burial site.  • Working Farm — you’ll find sheep and cattle grazing. There are more animals during lambing/calving season.  • Heritage Buildings — Acacia Cottage (from 1841), Huia Lodge Discovery Hub, etc., which give a sense of history and architecture.  • Trails & Tree Walks — many paths and drives, including “Tree Trail” where you can discover a variety of trees, gardens, and shaded walkways.  • Gardens & Views — flower beds, specimen trees, landscaped gardens, and great views especially looking over the park and out towards city/harbour.  • Picnics & BBQs — spots available for gatherings; free BBQs (gas and wood) with guidelines.  ⸻ Facilities & Visitor Info • Opening hours: Gates are open from 7:00 AM to dusk daily.  • Visitor & Information Centre: Huia Lodge Discovery Hub is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (except some holidays).  • Food / Cafés: There are three eateries on-site: Cornwall Park Bistro, Cornwall Park Cafe, and The Creamery.  • Access & Entrances: • Main entrances include Green Lane West, Kenneth Myers Gate off Manukau Road, plus other pedestrian entrances.  • Vehicle access: some roads allow cars but there are restrictions (one-way, etc.) to protect tranquility.  • Rules & Etiquette: • Dogs must be leashed at all times. During lambing/calving season, certain areas are off-limits to dogs.  • The park is heritage land; certain activities such as commercial tours or events may need permission.  ⸻ How to Get There • Location: Epsom / One Tree Hill area, not far from central Auckland.  • By car: Using Green Lane West is common; Kenneth Myers Gate is another vehicle access point.  • Public transport: There are several local buses that service nearby roads. Walking into the park from entrances works nicely. 

It is a big and beautiful place to walk, relax, and enjoy nature. There are lots of trees, open fields, and animals like sheep. You can walk up to One Tree Hill for a great view of Auckland. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic or a nice day out.

Here’s a more personal and natural version of your Cornwall Park review: ⸻ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Had a wonderful time at Cornwall Park! It’s such a peaceful and beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature. The walking paths are lovely, and there’s plenty of open space for kids to play and families to picnic. The view from One Tree Hill is amazing too. The park is very clean and well-kept — definitely one of my favourite spots in Auckland!

Cornwall Park looks absolutely stunning during cherry blossom season! The trees are full of delicate pink blooms, and it’s such a peaceful, scenic place to walk around or take photos. However, it can get very crowded on weekends with lots of people doing photoshoots. I’d suggest visiting on a weekday or early morning if you want a quieter experience and better photos. Definitely worth the visit!

Auckland’s unique working farm city park open to all and gifted to the people by a true visionary. Thank you Sir John Logan Campbell! Gifting 230 acres in 1901 was no small thing and today we get to enjoy it. A park estate like somewhere in England, amazing trees, Kauri mini forest, stainless steel BBQ areas with bins and toilets close to parking. Amazing cottage and bistro buildings plus walkways everywhere. Go and treat yourself and come for the soo pop ring blossom if you can.

A sanctuary in the middle of Auckland, I live close by and able to take daily walks, via a side entrance. A beautiful place with Cherry blossoms in spring, plenty of walks, BBQ and lots of picnic spots. Lots of space so even when's its busy, it never feels crowded The Visionary and founder of Cornwall Park - Sir John Campbell gifted to NZ in 1901 along with lands to fund the upkeep. Monuments can be found around the park and are a beautiful testament, with lots of information on a man that respected the land and the History of the indigenous people of the area

We spent several hours walking around the park, taking pictures of the roaming sheep and even had the pleasure of watching a working dog help to herd some of them from one field to another. Plenty of shaded places to walk and benches along the way to take a rest.

Dry beautiful garden • Location: 102 Hill Road, Manurewa, Auckland.  • Size: ~ 64 hectares, including about 10 hectares of native forest.  • When established: The gardens were opened in 1982; land for them was purchased back in 1968.  ⸻ What’s There / Highlights • Plant collections: A wide diversity including native New Zealand plants, exotics, edibles, African plants, magnolias, camellias, roses, etc.  • Native Forest Trail: A bush/forest remnant walk that’s quite scenic.  • Threatened Native Plant Collection: For seeing rare and vulnerable local species.  • Gondwana Arboretum: Trees that reflect ancient lineage or plant families with long evolutionary histories.  • Potter Children’s Garden: A child-friendly themed garden to explore.  • Seasonal displays & gardens: Rose garden, Camellia, Magnolia, Edible Garden, African Garden etc.  • Visitor Centre (Huakaiwaka): Includes café (Café Miko), display/exhibition spaces, map & garden information.  • Outdoor sculpture: Large scale artworks are scattered throughout.  ⸻ Hours & Entry • Entry: Free entry for the gardens.  • Opening hours (Gardens): • Summer (October–March): ~ 6:30 am to 8:00 pm  • Winter (April–September): ~ 6:30 am to 6:00 pm  • Visitor Centre & Café have more limited hours; closed Christmas Day, café may close earlier.  ⸻ How to Get There • By car: Take the Southern Motorway (State Highway 1). If coming from the city heading south, exit at Manurewa / Hill Road (Exit 451), then left onto Hill Road; the gardens are the first driveway on the left.  From the south, exit at Takanini (exit 453), then follow a combination of roads (Great South Road → Alfriston Road → Claude Road → Hill Road) to reach the gardens. • By public transport: There’s a bus route (366) between Manurewa bus interchange and the Gardens. Also possible combination with train + bus + walking from Manurewa train station. Approximately 2 km ride or walk from the station. • By bike: You can take a bike on the train for free, then cycle a short distance from the station. There are bike parking facilities at the visitor centre.

Auckland Botanic Gardens is peaceful, beautiful, diverse garden experience that suits many interests, from families and casual visitors to plant lovers. If you visit, allow a few hours (or more!) so you can wander without rushing, stop to sit and take in the views, and perhaps have a picnic. Highly recommended.

Beautiful place to have a walk with your dogs and take pictures. Here’s a pro tip: the I cream van line is always very long so just go to the cafe and buy an ice cream tub or a popsicle. Overall, place is full of amazing flowers and trees and my dog had an absolute blast here. Just make sure the weather is nice before coming here!

Had a lovely time at Auckland Botanic Gardens! The gardens are so beautiful and peaceful, with lots of space to walk around and enjoy the flowers and greenery. My family really enjoyed exploring different sections, and the kids loved the playground. A perfect place to relax, take photos, and spend a quiet day surrounded by nature.

A Day Well Spent at the Auckland Botanic Gardens 🌳 My recent visit to the Auckland Botanic Gardens was an absolute delight and a perfect escape into nature. The images showcase the incredible variety and beauty of the gardens, making it clear why this is a must-visit spot. Overall, the Auckland Botanic Gardens are a spectacular place—a beautifully cultivated space that offers both horticultural interest and a peaceful retreat from the city. I highly recommend spending a few hours exploring its paths and diverse collections.

Great place for a walk , went in spring it was delightful. several walking paths from the main entrance that are an easy walk without many challenging uphills available . Just wished there were more signs for the main exit from the paths.

Great way to start Sunday morning. Strolling in the Ak Botanic Gardens is a great way to meet other people, their dog, their cat or just take in the wonderful variety of vegetation👍

Very good place for the family to spend the day. Plenty of parking and some great activities including the tram ride between the MOTAT locations. The aircraft in the hangers are wonderful as well as the steam pumping stations. There is even some old cars and a R100 rotary Mazda engined car for the lads.

It was pretty good, it opens all year long except on Christmas Day. On that day there were ambulances there for people to explore the insides of the ambulances 🚑, also to experience CPR on plastics figures. We then explored the Science and Technology Centre, it was very nice and fun 🤩. We also rode the train to the Aviation Hall where there were lots of fun games to play. It was Fabulous day!!!

Have not been to MOTAT for many years, was just so much to see and interact with in the different sheds and halls. Can't believe how much it has changed. Nice just walk around taking our time to enjoy the past on display.

The aviation section is fantastic, the aircraft are in great shape and Preston an excellent environment with knowledgeable staff. The other section on cars, communication, etc is a bit more basic and more tailored to kids and school groups.

After not having been there for over 40 years I was very disappointed. The Automotive side of things was all but nonexistent. The old buses and machines all gone except for one trolley bus . The science centre was interesting but it wasn’t if you know what I mean. The only up side was the aviation centre. 10 out of 10 for that.

We had a brilliant time at MOTAT with our toddler — it’s one of the few spots in Auckland that truly caters for curious little explorers and keeps adults interested too. There’s a lot more than just old trains and planes here (though those are great too). The exhibitions rotate regularly — during our visit there was an interactive light and sound room, a science corner with bubbles and levers, and a hands-on play space that had our little one zooming around for ages. The aviation hall (MOTAT 2) has life-size aircrafts you can walk beneath — very cool, and surprisingly calming inside. TIP: Don’t miss the heritage tram ride! It runs between the two main MOTAT sites and was an unexpected hit with our toddler. You can hop on and off with your entry ticket. Also, check the website to see if it’s a live steam train day — it’s a huge drawcard and adds a whole extra layer of fun (and noise!) to the day. Parking was easy and free, and there’s a decent café with high chairs and lots of space for prams. Would I recommend it? Absolutely. MOTAT is one of the best toddler-friendly attractions in Auckland, and there’s always something new to see. Perfect for a few hours or a full day out.

Excellent museum we particularly liked the aviation section. Our visit to the technology part was spoiled by unruly school children running around with little supervision by their teachers.

So beautiful park to walk, spend the afternoon, read, or take a look of the city. It has several historical monuments along the path. A nice fountain and it’s always clean. Its amazing gardens are full of flowers and green grass. In the background, you can see the Auckland buildings or the university on the other side. Wherever you sit, you’ll have a beautiful and different view. The bandstand is another highlight, and also the old trees. So many birds also. Highly recommended to walk around and enjoy its peace and freshness.

It's a lovely park with plenty of space to walk and take a break from the busy surrounding streets. There are many trees and flowers that make for a relaxing atmosphere and make the cityscape more beautiful. It's worth noting that the entrances to this park from Queens Street are very steep. Overall, it's a lovely location.

This is the first public place I’ve visited named after the love of Queen Victoria of England. I visited when it was perfect weather. The garden is well cared for. All sorts of people were enjoying their company, or solitude. It was peaceful and colourful. There was even a mother and very young girl beautifully dressed, waving her wand with bubbles floating in the sun across the flower beds. Magic!

Absolutely beautiful park. No matter how many times I go to Alberta Park Auckland I want to see more. Amazing photo opportunities. Below scores are out of 5 ⭐️s 👌 Atmosphere   5 ⭐️ 🙂 Presentation   5 ⭐️ 🙂 Products   5 ⭐️ 📍 Location 5 ⭐️ 🅿️ Parking:    Lots of paid parking available Overall   5 ⭐️

An oasis on peace and quietness. Went there on a full on day tip to Auckland and since i had a book i stopped to read for a while. Ended up seeing so many cute couples and people just chilling, reading and relaxing and ended up doing some friends with travellers that were around.

A beautiful and spacious park in Auckland. A lovely place to relax. The park is located opposite the University of Auckland. I love the presence of ancient trees.

Best for hanging out between class schedule, many statues and a fountain in the centre. You can also see sky tower clearly from some spots.

We have been to Rainbows End a couple of times and have loved our time. An iconic place that was easy to go into no waiting we went straight in. The rides especially for the kids were amazing. Absolutely enjoyed the experience. Food and drink was great. Unfortunately the weather started to pack in but there was also undercover options as well. Great place to go to.

I had an amazing time at Rainbow’s End in Auckland truly one of the most fun, beautiful, and adventurous places in New Zealand. If you’re ever visiting Auckland, this is a must-visit attraction. Make sure to arrive as early as possible, because if you go late, you might not have enough time to enjoy all the rides and activities. There are several ticket options available, and I recommend checking online and buying in advance. The most popular option is the Day Pass, which costs around $75 per adult, and gives you access to all available rides within the park. The Log Flume was my favourite a beautiful, fairytale-like experience that no one should miss. For thrill seekers, Stratosfear is the most intense ride, spinning 30 meters up and rotating 360 degrees for an extreme adrenaline rush. There are also restaurants and cafés inside the park, plus fun claw machines and arcade-style games where you can win prizes for an extra fee. I had a lot of fun visiting with my partner, and it was definitely worth the money I spent. Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Super cool, loved the themed rides like "Gold Rush", as well as the fear fall, my personal favorite was the "Invader". While I didn't get the opportunity to ride the Stratosfear I've been told its incredibly fun, however the lines are long as you'd expect.

Nice day out for families, really expensive for tickets and food. Staff were pretty good and mostly polite. Didnt have to wait long for rides

Great day out, first time for the kids. They loved the Invader and everything bumper car/boat. Glad I could still do the stratosfear on last ride - enough recovery time in the traffic jam on the way home

Awesome rides, food and entertainment for the whole family. Great way to spend time with the kids and have some fun for yourself as well. Plenty of food courts and water stations to top up your water bottles. Highly recommend the 2 main rides at the entrance and the corkscrew roller-coaster.

Great time with the family. We had a great time and was able to all but one of the rides (due to maintenance being performed on the ride, we were informed of this before entering park) Food was expensive but expected. Was able to enjoy a full day there with the family.

Nice park with lots to do for kids and lots to see for adults. Was a bit windy and cool when we went, but it was still a great time out by all.

Amazing area in CBD has alot of public toilets, walks down the pier Silo Marina to the Heritage boats, climb up the 3 storey metal walkway. Great views of Sky tower, Harbour Bridge and Rangitoto. Kids park and green spaces fountains. Nice outdoor space.

Where industry’s skeleton grows art’s living flesh, we found Auckland’s softest edges—where sunshine meets the sea. Playground, markets, sunset, City of Sails... Something here will call you.

Silo Park is one of my go-to parks and playgrounds as a mom with a toddler 😁 This playground has sand, which is great for sensory play and a little adventure for your toddler 🪣⛱️🐚 (no slide 🛝)

Love this park! Usually a night market on the weekends and plenty of space for kids, playgrounds, basketball courts, and even flat ground skatepark with some mini ramps. They also host events here like Matariki!

A great Place where you can get a good sweat for free. Definitely a great park for all those who love to play Ball. Bring your own ball and wait for a court. If not jump in for a good sweat with other ballers.

Nice open space, especially nice in the afternoon / evening. Great for walks too with decent views of the city and the sea.

This is the highest volcanic origin peak in Auckland region. The location is very central and one can easily forget that it is in the middle of the city, when one starts climbing the summit. Vehicle access is allowed only until the parking, which is quite limited too. The nearby streets do have on street parking, where one can park and walk up the summit. There are many engaging features installed here now a days namely a boardwalk, well landscaped seating area to showcase the 360 degree views of the city, and some indigenous artefacts too. The Auckland city skyline can be seen in the background, which is one of the most popular photo spots on the summit. The crater on the top is well maintained and cordoned off. Public toilets are available near the parking lot. Child prams can be taken to the summit, with only a few stairs in the way. Highly recommended for a couple of hours excursion, with family and kids.

This is a must to do if you are physically fit.. the views of the city are 360 degrees splendidly. A volcano peak , crater, and boardwalk with bench .. the bus hop on , hop off takes you there at the bottom as well .. we took the city bus which took us pretty close as well . It’s free …

The views here are gorgeous from inside the crater to the view fully around the outside of it. This place is very well maintenance and parking wasnt too bad. One of the must sees while in Auckland.

Amazing views and a peaceful escape right in the city!** Mt Eden (Maungawhau) is one of the best spots in Auckland to get a full 360° view of the city, harbour, and surrounding areas. The walk to the summit is short but scenic, with well-maintained paths and plenty of photo opportunities. The volcanic crater at the top is massive and impressive—it really makes you appreciate Auckland’s volcanic history. There are also informative signs about the site's cultural significance to Māori, which adds a meaningful layer to the experience. Things to know:** * Vehicle access is restricted at the summit, so expect a walk from the base * There are no fences around the crater, so caution is needed near the edge. * Best to go on a **clear day** for maximum visibility. Highly recommend to both locals and tourists. A must-do in Auckland!

Maungawahu is a very beautiful spot, hill with a dormant volcano and a crater covered in greenery. From the parking it is about 10 minutes walk up the hill (overall about 20-30 minutes walk up and down with photo stops). The mount provides a birds eye view of Auckland and the surrounding landscape. Must visit place when you are in Auckland.

Some of the great views of Auckland can be found at the top of Maungawhau/Mt Eden. The skywalk is a game changer for scenic views and photos. A great tourist attraction and nice short steep hike. Plenty of parking and toilets available on site.

A must visit place if you are in Auckland. The walk to the summit is so beautiful and easy to do for most people. The views of the volcanic crater at the top are breathtaking. The photos won't do justice, it's something you have to see with your own eyes. The total roundtrip walk took less than an hour.

Admission is $5 for people over 3 years old. We went on a rainy day. It was fun but very small. Without engagement a small child can speed through in under 10 minutes. I think you need to go in the evening and or for a planned movie feature to get the full effect of the planetarium. There is a small gift shop at the entrance.

Amazing Experience at the Stardome! I recently visited the Stardome and had an absolutely amazing experience. The lecturer was not only knowledgeable but also had a great sense of humor, which made the session both educational and entertaining. The supporting video presentation was well-made and pleasant to watch, perfectly complementing the lecture. One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to view real stars and the moon through telescopes set up by enthusiastic volunteers. It was a fantastic bonus that made the night even more memorable. A big thank you to the team and volunteers at the Stardome - highly recommended for anyone curious about space or just looking for a unique and inspiring night out!

I love this place, its themed installations are amazing and the best part is that kids can participate in the hands on experience. This place never disappoints. The visual sessions are engaging and entertaining! The only downside is the lack of enough car parking for the people attending the Stardome.

Really enjoyed our visit here. The show and guide was really good.

It's a very interesting and welcoming place. The children enjoyed the visit. However, we opted for the TReX Experience and were disappointed; the children were bored. We'll try the constellations more next time.

For all of history, humans have gazed up into the sky and felt a connection to the countless stars glimmering overhead. These distant suns have inspired our imagination, mythology, science and technology for millennia. Stars have fuelled exploration across the planet and guided journeys into space. As humanity reaches for the stars into the future, we continue an ancient relationship with the cosmos. Many years ago people believed that the earth was flat. But through careful observation a Greek mathematician named Eratosthenes calculated the circumference of the planet with remarkable accuracy around 240BC. He is credited as "the Greek who proved the earth was round." Mysteries surrounding the origin of the universe have captivated our minds for ages, sparking contemplation and curiosity. In the 1920s Edwin Hubbles groundbreaking discovery of an expanding universe laid the groundwork for the "Big Bang Theory," when an infinitely dense fireball, known as a "singularity," exploded 13.8 million years ago and marks the beginning of space, time and matter. As space expanded and cooled down over time galaxies, stars and planets formed. In the 1980s Alan Guth proposed the "Cosmic Inflation Theory" Guth's theory is consistent with observable scientific evidence. It resolves several enduring cosmological mysteries, including the horizon problem and flatness problem. The most surprising thing is the scale of the universe which is impossible to comprehend or imagine. The most distant objects in the universe are 47 billion light years away, therefore the size of the observable universe is 94 billion light years in diameter. This is the distance light has travelled since the "Big Bang" about 13.8 billion years ago. There are 2 trillion galaxies in the universe that we can see and each galaxy has around 400 billion stars. In our own Milky Way Galaxy, it would take 100,000 light years to cross from one side to the other. We can only see 5% of universe which is ordinary matter. The other 95% is invisible. 27% is dark matter and 68% is dark energy. It is generally agreed that the cornerstone of the laws of physics are Isaac Newtons, laws of motion and gravitation 1687, and Albert Einsteins, special theory of relativity 1905 and general theory of relativity 1915. Albert Einstein was working on a unified field theory when he died in 1955. He was trying to tie together his theory of general relativity and quantum mechanics..This theory was an attempt to explain all of physics forces as a single principle. One solution to this was the "String Theory" first proposed by Gabriele Veneziano in 1968, which combines the two theories by assuming that there are multiple universes and dimensions beyond the ones we know. "Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life's coming attractions."-Albert Einstein

Overall a cool experience, the dome was big and gave an interesting effect, a little trippy. It was a little difficult to enjoy the experience because children were crying which was distracting. They have a cool solar system display which was intriguing!

One of the best boating harbours in the world and gateway to the Hauraki gulf. Recently held the World Series and Xmas Cup Americas Cup

Nice place to be. Much to see and great views in all directions. Many good food and drinks.....

One of Auckland main attractions, very accessible for the public, many cafes or restaurants are right on the water, can be crossed by harbor bridge or ferry, large Port including a container terminal.

Our beautiful harbour, so much to see & explore, Rangitoto Island & Motuihe Island take food & drinks with you, on Waiheke Island there's choices of cafes and food outlets here., Catch the Fullers Ferry from the Ferry Terminal at the bottom of town and of you go.

Auckland harbour is beautiful - day and night.

Check this place out day or night and its a stunner. If your boating you can't help but love it.

A very impressive port, especially the bridge cranes for the containers. Always something to see and experience in a port.

This the west end of the foreshore heritage walk, a 5km pleasant trail. I started from the middle of the trail, point 13 to the east, then back to the west. It took me 3-4 hours in total. It’s an amazing way to learn Auckland

The Dove Myer Robinson Rose Garden is a true hidden gem in the heart of Auckland. It’s peaceful, beautifully maintained, and full of vibrant roses that bloom almost year-round. The scent in spring and summer is incredible — perfect for a quiet stroll, photography, or just sitting under the trees to relax. The view over Judges Bay and the harbour adds a special touch, especially at sunset. There’s plenty of open space for picnics, and it’s only a short walk from Parnell Village and the Parnell Baths. A great spot for nature lovers, couples, and anyone looking for a little calm in the city.

An absolutely beautiful and amazing place in Auckland CBD, the "Parnell Rose Gardens" are a wonderful place to go to beauty, relaxation, nature, peace, serenity and a break away from the fas paced world around you.

A nice small garden to walk around. The roses were in full bloom when I visited in October. It’s very quiet.

Fantastic garden and picnic area but with limited parking. Check ahead for events and enjoy on sunny days. Walking distance from several bus stops. Overlooking Judges Bay. Consider footware, and several steep slopes down to sea level (Judges Bay). 16 November 2025- Roses in full bloom. Worth a visit. Restrooms on site.

Nice place to visit! Most varieties of roses can be seen here. On November 9th, they celebrate the Parnell Rose Festival in this park. Various kinds of roses are in full bloom, and the place becomes very crowded and full of joyful activities that day.

It's beautiful. So many rose varieties at a single location. It is simply amazing. A must go place during the rose blooming time.

A peaceful spot with beautifully kept gardens and a stunning view over the harbour and Rangitoto. The memorial itself is well-designed and the whole area feels calm and respectful. Great place for a walk, some quiet reflection, or scenic photos.

A peaceful park just a 5-minute walk from Mission Bay beach, offering one of the best panoramic views of Auckland and the harbour. The memorial honours Michael Joseph Savage, New Zealand’s first Labour Prime Minister and one of the country’s most beloved leaders, remembered for shaping the modern welfare state. Beautifully landscaped gardens and the tranquil setting make it both a place of reflection and a highlight for visitors.

Beautiful place.. from here the views of mornings sunrise and evening sun set are the best .. beautiful gardens... Great place for pre wedding/ after wedding photo shoot ..

Absolutely amazing when we saw the Groom proposed to the bride here . We had a privilege to capture their proposal’s images

You get a great view of the Auckland Waitemata harbour and Rangitoto island. The memorial garden is filled with poppies and seasonal flowers and are well maintained.

Watching sunrise is always our favourite thing to do on our days off on Fridays. We enjoyed the beautiful sunrise at Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park early at around 6:30am on 2/2/2024. The views there were so spectacular and breathtaking that we enjoyed so much. There were quite a number of people doing their leisure walking, running and strolling there. We highly recommend you to watch sunrise there if you can wake up early and get there before 6:30am in summer time.

Nice view of skyline and sunset point

I had the pleasure of meeting Dylan and Annie and they were incredible! I was the only climber / jumper for my time slot and they took great care of me. Dylan even had me try some New Zealand chocolate and snacks. Truly above and beyond service and friendliness from the entire crew! Thank you!

Best Birthday Surprise ever! I am absolutely TERRIFIED of heights, but my partner surprised me with this for my birthday and it turned out to be the best thing I’ve ever done. I was so anxious leading up to it, but the entire crew were incredible: funny, supportive, and reassuring every step of the way. From check-in, to gearing up, to the walk over, and finally the jump itself, they made me feel safe and gave me the peace of mind I needed to enjoy the experience. The walk to the jump site was beautiful, with incredible views over the city that made the experience even more special. Overall, It was thrilling, safe, and unforgettable experience. I highly recommend this to anyone — ESPECIALLY those with a fear of heights 🥳

A terrific experience from start to finish. The entire activity was well organised, and the staff were friendly, professional, and reassuring throughout. The pickup from the city centre was convenient, and the walk through the bridge structure to reach the jump site took around ten minutes. It felt very safe, and the setup was impressive. Once at the top, all instructions were clearly explained, and safety was maintained at the highest level. The team were relaxed and upbeat, offering different jump styles so we could choose what felt most comfortable while still getting the most fun out of the experience. While it is not the highest bungy in New Zealand, the views from the platform are beautiful, and the experience itself is fantastic. We would highly recommend this to anyone visiting Auckland who wants a memorable and safe adrenaline activity.

What an awesome bucket list activity, done with my adult children. Would recommend everyone give it a go. Excellent and knowledgeable staff keep you calm and at ease. The whole team from beginning to end made this a memorable activity. Keep up the good work.

Really sweet, friendly and fun staff who took care of us from start to finish. Had an amazing time and love the photos and shirts we got! Will definitely recommend.

Had a great time with the crew, did the bridge tour and the bungy jump Always felt safe and well entertained (people working there are super nice and funny!! Also very considerate and patient in case you‘re suddenly very scared before jumping (like me)), helped calming me down so I could actually do it You can tell, they just know what they‘re doing Thanks for the experience!! Definitely worth a visit, climbing a bridge isn‘t something you get to to everywhere, nice views and a unique experience, climb as well as the jump

I had a great time doing the bridge climb. Everybody was nice and chill. Luckily the weather was good so we had a beautiful view on top and saw the beauty of Auckland. Since they pay a lot of attention to safety measures I felt safe and secure all of the time, although I am a bit scared of heights. Kaleb (our guide) was super cool, made the tour fun and knew a lot of facts, so he was able to answer all questions.

The Auckland Harbour Bridge is a true icon of the city and a must-see when visiting Auckland! Driving across it offers stunning views of the Waitematā Harbour and the city skyline, especially during sunrise or sunset. The structure itself is impressive, with a rich history dating back to 1959, and it plays a crucial role in connecting the city to the North Shore. One of the highlights for adventure lovers is the Auckland Bridge Climb. I had the chance to do it, and the experience was unforgettable! Walking along the arch of the bridge, safely harnessed, with 360-degree views all around, gave a whole new appreciation for Auckland’s beauty. The guides were professional, knowledgeable, and made the climb fun and safe.

Iconic bridge in Auckland. Gets lit up during the night time. Also very good views of the Auckland cityscape while you drive through the bridge. There is a binging jumping facility as well under the bridge. Overall for tourists a good spot to drive by ..

Great views of Central city.if you're lucky enough to get a quick look.can be very busy especially during peak traffic times.it offers a bridge walk tour and a bungy jump from under the roadway..

It's a bridge. What a bridge. Good views of the city skyline from the carpark area underneath, tourist activities such as bungy jumping and tour walk over the top with 360-degree views, and enough lanes to have a fun decision which one you want to crawl in during your rush-hour commute over daily - like I do.

Awesome place to go for a wee walk for the kiddies. Beautiful view of the city and west Auckland from under the bridge.

Incredible place to see sunrise!

I would give this bridge zero stars if I could. I came here to have a peaceful, scenic crossing… instead, I got bullied by the WEATHER, the TRAFFIC, and possibly the BRIDGE ITSELF. First of all, the wind. I’m convinced this bridge has its own personal hurricane. I opened my car door and nearly got launched into the ocean like a discount superhero. My hair will never emotionally recover. Second, the traffic. I aged 7 years sitting in the exact same spot. I saw the same lamppost so many times I started naming it. We bonded. I miss it. Then there’s the view everyone keeps bragging about. “Ohhhh, the water is so pretty!” Yeah? I wouldn’t know. I was too busy trying not to get blinded by the sun reflecting off every surface like nature’s personal flashlight. At one point a seagull flew by and gave me a look like even HE regretted being there. That bird understood my struggle. And why — WHY — are people jumping off the bridge on purpose? I watched someone bungee jump with a smile on their face while I was fighting for my life against a seatbelt that wouldn’t unclick. Insane behavior. Overall: absolutely not. Never again. This bridge is dramatic, windy, and personally attacked me for no reason. One star. Would not recommend unless you enjoy chaos, anxiety, and unexpected seagull judgment.

Like everyone has said, INCREDIBLE view. Well worth a visit. We went whilst my grandmother was at an appointment and it was a lovely little fund. Don’t have to be there that long to enjoy it. Not only was the view good but the tunnels and big gun were fun and interesting aswell

North Head / Maungauika – A Day Trip Worth Every Step If you're staying in Auckland, a day trip to North Head in Devonport is a must. Just a quick and scenic 20-minute ferry ride (around $20 round trip) from the city, Devonport feels like a world away—and North Head is its crown jewel. This ancient volcanic cone offers a rich blend of natural beauty and layered history. Once a Māori pā site and later a strategic military outpost, North Head is now a peaceful historic reserve where you can explore hidden tunnels, old gun emplacements, and some of the only remaining disappearing guns in the world. Take your time wandering the walking tracks that loop around the headland, each turn revealing sweeping views of Rangitoto Island, the Hauraki Gulf, and Auckland’s skyline. It’s the kind of place where history meets nature in the most breathtaking way. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual hiker, or just after a perfect picnic spot with an unbeatable view, North Head delivers. Combine it with a relaxed day exploring Devonport’s cafes and beaches, and you’ve got one of the best low-key adventures you can have near Auckland

Great view of the city, good walk. Some areas of the fort and tunnels need more lighting, otherwise very nice.

A fun place to explore in the tunnels. Great that there is free access to everything. A number of helpful information boards around. Lovely scenic views. A number of car parks - lower and further up. Well worth the visit. Great for a free thing to do in Auckland.

Fun place to visit. The views are breathtaking. Kids have a lot of fun. Bunkers are great fun to see and kids love to explore such places. Only thing is that one needs to be a bit careful as it can get slightly dangerous. Perfect for a day out or a picnic.

A cool area to explore, family friendly. Heaps of history and awesome views - do remember to take a raincoat (I see lots of tourists get stuck!)

Fantastic views of Auckland city & one of the last hilltops you are actually able to easily access by car. Just beware that they do lock the park gates at a certain time & if your vehicle is trapped inside, you need to call a security firm to release you. Uncertain if they charge their victims, but it can be a bit of a wait. I've seen people trapped every time, so watch out.

It’s beautiful!! Nothing more wonderful than seeing animals in the wild 💗 *I’m shocked by the lack of culture from some people. There are clean, well-maintained public bathrooms in the parking areas, yet we still saw a pair of friends urinating right in the middle of the trail… unacceptable. Dogs are NOT allowed because they are potential predators of birds and because they leave their scent wherever they go, which can disrupt the ecosystem. If you can’t control your bladder, you should wear diapers and above all, if you can’t respect the rules of a national park, stay home.

The gannet colony is incredible to see up close. Thousands of gannet birds nest right on the cliffs, with stunning ocean views all around. Perfect place for a peaceful walk, photography, or just soaking in nature’s magic.

This place is simply extraordinary… the birds are amazing.. anyone would fall in love with the Nature.. Must Visit spot in New Zealand

We're sooo happy that we were able to see the Gannet Colony in full swing! These are beautiful and amazing birds. We could have watched them for hours.

Muriwai's gannet colony is a one hour drive from the centre of Auckland. Next to the car park, a short walking track leads to a viewing platform. The gannet colony at the south end of Muriwai is well worth a visit between October and February. The Muriwai Gannet Colony is one of only 3 places in NZ where they nest on the mainland (normally they are nesting on islands)

Great walks, lots of bays to explore, and the Gannets were relaxed even though we were close!! Wow!

Fantastic views... The beach, Gannets and set up is a must see.

A good selection of different cuisines and a friendly vibrant atmosphere. It’s a food court which I very much enjoyed 🥰❤️

Very nicely done inside and with plenty of food options anyone will enjoy their time there. Whether it’s a small group and lunch or dinner meeting, there’s plenty to choose from and a place to be found. Even at busiest times you’ll find a spot to sit in one of the many restaurants. Great atmosphere with outside dining areas too.

Very nice FOOD COURT, Good food.

Great place to eat. There are many restaurants to choose from, each with its unique style. Worth a visit. I can suggest the El Sizzling Chorizo for a legit Argentinian bbq, Grown-up Donuts for a good bite, Miann for coffee and fancy deserts and Ponsonby Crepes for authentic French crepe. Tip: if you are going for a takeaway, the garage via Brown Street is 30 minutes free. You can always try to find a spot.

First time and we went to 5 different places all but one were outstanding a particular mention goes to Tokyo Club which was so so good. A great place to go if you love good food and all in one spot. We will definitely be back!

This place is very cool. Plenty of choice for eats and drinks. Now has a retail aspect too. Go in early around 4pm and you're guaranteed a seat.

My friends and I went to My Fried Chicken in Ponsonby Central, then had dessert at Miann. It was overall very fun with yummy food. The prices were on the higher end, and the table was a bit cramped with limited seating for each food stall? Restaurant? It seems to be a very fancy food court. I thoroughly enjoyed the food there, and I would love to try everything else in there. Parking was a bit tight as usual in Ponsonby, even on a Monday night there were heaps of cars around. I opted to park a bit further away and walked up to our destination. I would go back again, but definitely not during the weekend as I believe it would be jam packed with people which I personally would like to avoid.

This Fish Market is a nice place if you like seafood. You can eat many things like fish and chips, prawns, oysters, and sushi. The food is fresh and tasty. The place is clean and not too busy. You can sit inside or outside. It’s a good spot to relax, eat, and talk with friends or family. The workers are friendly and helpful. There is also a shop where you can buy fresh fish to cook at home. The prices are okay – not too cheap, but the food is good. Parking can be a little hard, but the visit is still worth it. If you like seafood, you should try this place…….

Awesome fish market. Well set out. Grat that you can buy fresh fillets from Sanford and sons fishmongers and get them grilled for you at the fish market grill. They have something for everyone really. Great atmosphere. Lunch on a Thursday wasn't overly busy. Great service. I think it's better than Sydney fish markets.

The Auckland Fish Market is just a 15-minute walk from the harbor area, and my hotel concierge recommended visiting. It’s down a street that’s behind the main waterfront restaurants and bars. The market itself was much smaller than I expected. There’s only one vendor selling raw fish, while the others offered items like oysters and mussels, bagels, and sushi rolls (no fresh sashimi). There’s a small dining area with tables and chairs. My partner and I shared a bucket of mussels in tomato sauce ($15 NZD). The sauce was flavorful, but the mussels were a bit rubbery. On the plus side, the market has free Wi-Fi and public restrooms. There’s also a wholesale fish auction in the mornings for bulk buyers. Overall, compared to other waterfront fish markets I’ve visited in Europe or Asia, this one is small and underwhelming. I wouldn’t recommend visiting unless you’re already in the harbor area.

Delicious! I recommend the Lobster roll is a good taste. Grilled fish also nice! Here is more and more restaurants and takeaway food, wine and beer, coffee or sofe drinks.

The place has been renovated since we last visited years and years ago. It definitely looks more clean and modern now. A few different vendors and there is also another food stall market area on the waterside just 1-2 mins away. A great place to come and grab lunch and have a stroll afterwards.

Fresh tasting food, we'll cooked and presented. Great range of food from the ocean. Seagulls inside were a little annoying while trying to enjoy my awesome lunch though

The outside service counter has a pretty straightforward menu and you order at the counter, sit at a table with a number and they bring the food. It's not fancy, but the fish is absolutely delicious and if you have a chance and at least one other person, I highly recommend the whole grilled red snapper. It is amazing. They cooked it to perfection. Just enough so that it was cooked through, but still tender, flaky, and juicy through and the seasonings were perfect. Topped with a few fresh aromatics, it was amazing to just eat through. The flesh on the bones is always more succulent, and the skin was crisp. Excellent with a side of fries and a salad and we had more than enough for dinner for two. Loved this so much and it was so fresh.

One of the best spots to take photos of the city. Came at night to enjoy the views prob my favourite view of the whole city.

Great place for an inner city run or walk with the dog. If you use the outside footpath it is 1.33km per lap.

Just an average Park. It does have a big playground, a cricket pitching and hitting cage, and a skateboard area, but mostly just lots of open grass area. Nice shady trees around the perimeter with walkways.

Gorgeous park in the city and one of my fav spots. Good for small walks or or just sitting around. Good seating options and has a good sized green space for throwing a ball, cricket or soccer. Also has children's and adult playground.

Victoria Park is a beautiful green space right in the heart of the city. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk, picnics, or just enjoying nature. The views from the top are amazing, and the park is well-maintained and peaceful. Great spot to unwind and escape the busy city vibe!

Nice view of the city. And perfect spot for outdoor adventures and relaxation. There is children playground right next to the park.

This a good park for a stable walk around it. Quite noise due the motorway going over it and busy roads around. Good fields for sports. There are many competitions during summer season. It has a skate park and basketball court by Beaumont Street and a playground by Victoria Street.

Staff are all friendly. Great for a family short day of fun. Small play easy slope for beginners. Rentals are quite old the snowboard binding is rusty and had to change it. Pre book it on book me and got a good discount

My family and I come here once or twice a year since the mountain lacks snow and we always have lots of fun but we find that it’s bit pricey. Since we came on a Saturday school holidays it was a lot more busy than usual, which was expected. The restaurant sells nice food 😊 We love coming here, we have good fun. We didn’t have to wait to get our cards only had to wait 5 mins to get our gear.

Staff had great vibes and the polar plunge night pass is great value - can’t wait for you guys to bring this deal back! Will be back.

We did the Winter Wonderland. A bit disappointing especially for the price unfortunately. The snow was brown and unable to compact or do snow angels like shown on the website. So for kids who aren't up for the tubing/fast pace activities, there was only two little slides and small igloo and a hut. 2 stars because of false advertising. Staff were nice. 2 Adult hot chocolate and 2 kid hot chocolate was $23. Simple but nice 😊

This place is amazing! and I love how easily accessible it is. The snow is amazing. I am a beginner and it’s easy enough for me, but also enough of a challenge as well. Great company, loyal to the customers. Heaps of fun.

Snowplanet was always the spot my parents would bring us to when relatives with kids from back home visited us in New Zealand. It is a great place to have some fun with snow. More recently, it’s been a spot I visit when I want to remember how to snowboard and I can say it’s as good as ever.

We were running late because of traffic and rang ahead spoke to a Lucy who was so lovely and easy to deal with, she changed our booking so that we could still get 2hrs. Such a cool experience, harder than I thought it would be but the tubing was so much fun!

Beautifully constructed station in the heart of the city. Official name: Waitematā Railway Station. It was officially renamed from “Britomart Station” in September 2025.  • It’s located in the Auckland CBD (central business district), down by the waterfront, on reclaimed land near Waitematā Harbour.  • The station is integrated with a bus interchange and is close to the ferry terminal — making it a major transport hub.  ⸻ Structure & Facilities • The station is partly underground; platforms are beneath. The historic Chief Post Office (CPO) building is used as the main entrance.  • There are multiple entrances: the main via the CPO, plus an eastern entrance via Takutai Square (Britomart Place).  • Access via escalators/stairs/lifts, gates (ticket gates), ticket machines, customer service centre.  ⸻ Services & What’s Changing • It currently serves most of Auckland’s suburban train lines (Eastern, Southern, Western lines).  • City Rail Link (CRL) project is underway. This will convert Waitematā from a dead-end terminus into a through station with tunnels under Albert Street. That will enable more frequent trains and through services. The CRL is expected to open in 2026.  • As part of these works, platform layout is being changed (from 5 to 4 platforms), and the two outer ones will connect to the new tunnels.  ⸻ Name & Meaning • The name Waitematā is a gifted name from mana whenua (local Māori authorities).  • The name refers to the nearby Waitematā Harbour. It can be interpreted as meaning flat, glassy waters (likened to obsidian “matā”) or to a Māori ancestor who placed a talisman in the harbour.

The Britomart shopping area and Waitemata train station are great places to spend a ton of time right in downtown Auckland. The station is huge, clean, and has clear signage for planning out a trip and figuring out which platform to stand on. At street level are lots of places to grab a bite, shop, or just sit and relax. If you get the opportunity to go during the Saturday market then you should! There are lots of shops, plenty of food (much of which I was unable to find elsewhere), and an overwhelmingly friendly atmosphere. Certainly a great place to stay near while visiting Auckland.

First time to Auckland Railway Station as I'm an out of towner. It was pretty cool as railway stations go and leans toward that 'old station vibe' but with a touch of modern. Very clean and tidy and no shortage of helpful happy staff. The train itself was comfortable, clean, and well presented. However, it is not a match in any way to the beautiful old Auckland Railway Station.

Wonderful place to visit. Perhaps, one of the most beautiful train station I have ever visited.

I was so so confused with Auckland public transport lol but just ask around and they'll help you out. The train was super enjoyable to ride on. An staff here helped me with my confusion. I still have no idea how much it cost me to catch that train though 😂

Slattery and sons is the new brew on quay. Check out all the whiskey selections and the new refurb. Great outside seating area. Fancy new lighting.

Very modern station easy to navigate is even a great coffee cart flowers and it’s beautiful historic building.

This scenic forest trail winds through dense woodland. Mostly covered with small gravel, the path is shaded and relatively gentle in slope. A leisurely round trip takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an excellent hiking spot for nature lovers.

This visitor centre is an absolute must do if travelling out West. The views are simply amazing over the Waitakere Ranges and it gives you a good opportunity to see local flora and fauna. The staff are super helpful in providing advice on local tramps. Best of all it's free, what's not to like!!!

Gorgeous views outside and informative and insightful details well presented within the centre. Lots of parking spaces, but could get busy in the weekend. There's a gift shop inside the centre.

Really impressed. I visited with my son and his young family. The views from the visitor Centre fantastic. The video documentaries were great for all ages and the staff very helpful and informative. The walk itself is accessible to all levels of fitness with really good unspoiled native bush. The walk to the “Kauri Cathedral is well worth the extra effort of a lot of easy steps. Well done to the team who set it up and maintain it. And it’s so accessible to Auckland it deserves to get good patronage.

Complete visitor center with amazing view. Hopefully, they could provide "selfie wooden pole" in front of the iconic giant frame as Shakespear Regional Park which will be helpful, especially for solo tourist like me. Great job!

Good place to drop by. The landscape at viewing point is quite nice. It is quite funny to see the wooden totem inside with super big peanut.

Went for a short visit. Lookouts was awesome. The staff and guide were extremely helpful. Driving to this place was fun, the roads were quite narrow, might want to avoid taking big busses to this place. Drive to this place was short. Parking was easy to find. Looking forward to trying out the trails soon.

Bastion Point (Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park) is one of Auckland’s best viewpoints, combining history with stunning scenery. The central obelisk and sunken gardens give the place a dignified, classical feel, honoring New Zealand’s first Labour Prime Minister. From the grassy slopes, you get panoramic views of Waitematā Harbour, the Auckland skyline with Sky Tower, and Rangitoto Island lying across the water. One of the highlights is a blue bench under a large tree on the eastern slope, made famous in the film Only Cloud Knows. Sitting there with the sea breeze and endless horizon feels poetic and timeless. The park itself is peaceful, spacious, and never too crowded—perfect for a short walk, photos, or simply enjoying the fresh air. A must-visit if you want to experience both Auckland’s history and its most beautiful coastal views.

Great location this is where Groom proposed to bride for the first time. Absolutely amazing when we saw this great decoration with lovely environment.

Peaceful and historic spot with incredible views across the Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto Island. Great place to walk, relax, or reflect. The open grassy space and well-kept gardens make it perfect for a quiet break just minutes from the city.

Definitely go here if you're in Auckland. Great views of the city & harbour. Close to Mission Bay beach & restaurants. Visit the Savage memorial for a former NZ Prime Minister (we seem to have lost his body though...) Good parking at the top, but be aware of the gate times.

Beautiful view, with colourful gardens. Lovely place to walk amongst the grounds rich in history. To spend time with friends and family.

Beautiful place for a perfect photo shoot and sunset view

Lovely location with beautiful views. Fortunately saved from mass development by the Maori's. Unfortunately, we didn't stay long enough to fully appreciate it's beauty.

Had the most amazing once in a lifetime experience on this safari. We were booked on a weekend cruise but due to weather it was cancelled but it was super easy to rebook onto another day which went ahead and it was AMAZING!!! We were extremely lucky that day to see hundreds of dolphins in a feeding frenzy where many whales came to feed ( we saw about 10/11 whales that day!) they did say this wasn’t what they see all the time and we were very fortunate. The staff were just as excited as us and they were excellent along with the informative commentary, would 1000% go again and recommend to everyone as they also do it for conservation! This will be a trip I’ll never forget!

I had the most amazing experience sailing with Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari. From the very beginning, the crew impressed me, they are not only friendly and welcoming but also highly professional, clearly passionate about what they do. As we departed from the dock, we were treated to stunning views of Auckland’s skyline, with its iconic buildings standing proudly in the distance. The coastal scenery and nearby islands along the way made the journey even more breathtaking. Out at sea, the experience became truly magical. We encountered an abundant number of dolphins, playful and not shy at all, making the moment unforgettable. Above us, plenty of seabirds circled gracefully, a clear sign of life teeming beneath the waters. With patience, there was also the chance to spot whales. As our guide explained, sightings can be unpredictable, sometimes you’re lucky enough to see them up close or even breach, sometimes they stay hidden. But that unpredictability is part of the beauty of observing wildlife in its natural environment. Overall, this safari was extraordinary. The combination of spectacular sailing views, the abundance of marine life, and a crew dedicated to making the journey enjoyable and informative made it an experience I’ll never forget. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Auckland.

A well-run experience with stellar communication From the moment I booked, the communication was outstanding—clear updates via email and genuine care throughout. Today was an absolutely beautiful day for the safari, and while we didn’t have any sightings this time, the team handled it thoughtfully. Everyone was personally spoken to and offered a voucher for another trip, which I really appreciated. I’m looking forward to going again! Unfortunately, a few fellow guests weren't as considerate—some seemed disengaged and let their young ones run wild, which affected the overall atmosphere. That’s not the company’s fault, and they did well to remain composed and professional. Overall, a well-organized and generous experience that I’d recommend—and fingers crossed for some wildlife next time!

Absolutely BRILLIANT. The crew were fantastic, the boat had a lot of viewing areas and we managed to see a pod of Bottlenose dolphins on the way out, then saw around 11 whales (including a mother and calf), a Common Dolphin feeding frenzy with multiple whale breaches through the fish that the dolphins gathered. The crew were as exited as us when we saw the whales and dolphins and the commentary throughout highlighted the work that they are doing to further provide data and monitoring was great. It is a crew and company that does the tours for the conservation and education rather than just money making. Would do the same tour with them in a heartbeat next time in Auckland !! The crew labelled the day that we sailed with them as "The best day ever !!" and we couldn't agree more. LOVED every minute of it, and sitting on the front of the boat admiring the scenery just added to it. 11/10 and 6 * Michael & Kerry

Attended the safari and it was absolutely worth it. Since they have a conservation collaboration with the university of Auckland, the tour is very scientific based with parts of practical and theoretical research, which I loved. Very polite and friendly staff and a respectful way with the animals. Also great for solo travellers.

It was an amazing experienece; even though my daugther and I felt sea sick due to the sea condition; but it was still fun to see wild dolphins and whale. Great family moments. I love how the crew actually very helpful and friendly, easy to approach. Also the way they sharibg the behind th scenes info was very informative. Definitely will recommend this experience.

An incredible whale and dolphin watching experience. The Hauraki Gulf appeared to be teeming with life and we got see as many as four whales and more dolphins than we could count! Great value for money ans very friendly and informative guides.

Had a great time today at Lilliputt. Arrived about 12.30pm. No wait time at all, played both courses stopping for lunch in between. The food was fabulous and came out quickly. The courses are really well done and look forward to coming back again soon!

First time we've been back here since it's been redeveloped and just love what they've done with the place. Gone are the dinosaurs and there are drink holders at every hole. There's even a decent kids play area and it's a wonderful place for drinks overlooking the sea. We played the easier course and that was challenging enough but a lot of fun. Tried to book it for our company end of year social event but was fully booked, and now I know why. 😊

My visitors from Perth and Melbourne were in Auckland to celebrate my upcoming birthday! After our site seeing and lunch at the bay on our return, decided to try Lilliput mini golf! Absolutely great experience we all had fun but the golf expert and score keeper let the completed score card blow away in the freezing gale wind. My Grandaughter and partner from MELBOURNE were suitably attired unlike the Perth people and old local me! I would recommend this venue to all the fun lovers and once stage 2 is completed it will be super fabulous! Arthur C. Charlton west Auckland NZ

Heaps of car parks. Clean and tidy. Recommend going when it is not windy as it is not sheltered from it. Reasonable price. It has 2 courses. Lots of fun to spend time with loved ones and friends

I was really disappointed with Lilliputt Mini Golf Parnell. Even though it’s been recently renovated, it felt extremely boring and poorly designed. There was no creativity or excitement in the layout!! Just bland holes with no real challenge or fun factor. The atmosphere was flat, making the whole experience feel daft and forgettable. Definitely not worth the time or money.

I once went here to play and it was amazing with foliage and cool themes and interesting features. We even played tag and it was so fun going down the different pathways and bridge etc. Now it is quite a bland looking golf course with nothing interesting about it. At least some thought could go into it looking more fun.

What an awesome evening of fun. Greta food, awesome game of mini golf and such a great location

I traveled from the USA and actually love the experience, the crew is amazing and overall great. My only complaint is that I wish they would instruct the jumpers to look straight ahead after jumping so at least one of the pictures they take you’re facing the camera and not the floor. I hated that when I went to look at the pictures all my photos and video are of me looking down. The whole point of them taking the pictures and video is that as you look at it you remember the experience, and I was disappointed that I couldn’t have one picture of myself looking at the camera to show it to my friends and family. Please add instructions on where to look in the future 🙏🏼

I did the sky walk and bungy with some work colleagues. I hate heights but did it anyway. Chris and his female colleague were amazing. Both great personalities and fantastic at their job. Encouraging but not pushy. They check and double check everything to make sure we were safe. Can’t speak highly enough of them. The walk has the most amazing views. The bungy was awesome. I wasn’t too sure i would be able to do it but glad i did. It was such a rush! I recommend it to anyone. Thanks for an awesome day guys. You’re amazing. And have nerves if steel. Keep up the good work!!

I recently tried the SkyJump from Auckland’s SkyTower, and it was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. Standing at the edge, looking down into the void, I felt a wave of fear and hesitation, but the crew were incredibly professional, patient, and friendly. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to take the leap, and once I jumped, I realized it was much easier than I imagined. The adrenaline rush was unforgettable, and I’m so glad I pushed through my fear. It’s definitely worth it, not just for the thrill, but also for the sense of achievement afterwards.

Such a fun, exhilarating, terrifying experience but so worth it. The ladies Mel and Danielle were so professional and encouraging when I tried to back out of doing anything lol. Not once did they make me feel like I was annoying nor did they get upset when I got scared and dramatic. I love that they were patient and took care of me. I highly recommend doing it!!

I just did the Skywalk and it was absolutely incredible. I was so nervous heading up but the team is so good at reassuring us, I couldn't have been in better hands. My guide was Annie and she's just so charming. So easy to talk to. She definitely took my experience from a 10/10 to an 11. I can't lie she did have me nervous with how calmly and effortlessly she moved on the walk. Leaning out like a badass. I definitely got a confidence boost just from her presence. I'm the biggest wuss I know and I had the best time ever. I recommend that uhhh everyone in the world tries this.

My bungee jump experience at Auckland’s iconic SkyTower was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the team’s professionalism, friendliness, and attention to safety were evident. They walked me through every step, ensuring I felt confident and comfortable before the jump. Leaping from 192 meters above the city was an incredible mix of adrenaline and awe 🫢 the panoramic views of Auckland were absolutely breathtaking. The entire experience was seamless, well-organized, and truly unforgettable. I would highly recommend SkyTower Bungy to anyone looking for a thrilling yet safe adventure in the heart of the city. It’s an experience that perfectly combines world-class safety standards with pure excitement and unbeatable views.

The instructor Annie was amazing. She was extremely professional and helpful and at the same time quite funny and relaxed so we were very confortable trying to do the challanges! The view is wonderful and since was a sunny day we could see everything. Annie explained to us the main spots and all about the vulcanos.

This is genuinely my favourite beach in Auckland, well this and Huia. This is also the best West Coast beach in the region as it is untouched compared to the rest. The beach has a 10 minute walk before you arrive from the carpark. It is absolutely worth it though as the beach essentially corners the Manukau Harbour and Tasman Sea entrances. There are lots of walks to be explored as well, such as the Omanwanui Track, Whatipu Caves and Gibbons Track (though I believe the latter is still closed). The only downside is the drive getting there, as after you have passed Huia, you join a relatively narrow gravel road for 15-20 minutes and the drivers are definitely not considerate. Just be vigilant if you are heading there, especially on a weekend or if you are going against the traffic. Otherwise, highly recommend. This beach really has it all!

Probably one of my favourites places in the west, great beach, plenty to explore around the area with caves, mini light house & look-outs

Another unique beach of Auckland west coast. One of the most beautiful one. You find amazing landscape with mountains as the background, long black sand beaches, rocks, fishers, birds. We generally starts with a ½ day hike in the regional park before we come to this beach end of the day with outstanding lights.

Amazing experience when we visit Whatipu Beach when we arriving in car park we walked around 20 minutes to reach a Beach side, we amazed because we saw the people fishing, walking, swimming And unexpected we mate some of my friends fishing catching big Snapper in Ninepin Rock.

A beautiful black sand beach on western side of Auckland. It is very pleasant and secluded beach. The road to this beach is unsealed and will take a bit of time to reach there.

Such a beautiful beach. There is black soft sand, it is clean and not that busy on the beach. The parking lot got very busy (after 12/1 pm). It got very windy especially on the left side between the 2 mountains on the beach. Caves are unfortunately closed.

Beautiful beach, isolated from your normally easy to access spots. The road to the carpark is rough, narrow and can be dangerous if your not constantly watching for in coming traffic. Its worth it when you reach the end, plenty of carparking available here. Its only a 15 min walk to the beach or 20 min walk to the walks. We did both on our trip here which is fairly easy to complete.