Auckland has over 1.45 million folks, and that’s about one-third of New Zealand‘s total inhabitants — with that in thoughts, it’s no marvel that lots of people confuse it for the nation’s capital (when it’s truly Wellington). Add the truth that Auckland’s bustling metropolis is coupled with attractive surrounding terrains, then it absolutely isn’t shocking that an increasing number of vacationers will probably be mystified by this reality. (FREE Issues to Do in Auckland)
…In fact, this isn’t to say that Wellington doesn’t deserve its title — as a result of it does, given the way it has its personal appeal and distinct traits — however… Auckland is really a marvel in itself! And in case you have been to land right here, there are all kinds of issues that may maintain you occupied.
For starters, listed here are the highest FREE issues to do on this ‘Metropolis of Sails’!
» Fast Journey Planning
Free Issues to Do in Auckland
1. Climb a close-by volcano
Photograph by: Chris Gin / CC
Do you know? There are about 50 volcanoes that make up Auckland’s distinctive panorama!
For many who are up for a leisurely hike, it’s positively a should to climb the next easily-accessible volcanic summits as a number of the prime free issues to do in Auckland:
- Rangitoto
Considered one of Auckland’s most iconic pure landmarks in addition to its youngest volcano, Rangitoto has a particular symmetrical cone that may simply be noticed off the coast. It’s solely a 25-minute journey away throughout the harbor from downtown Auckland, and earlier than you allow, be certain that to drop by its neighboring Motutapu Island.
. - Mount Eden (Maungawhau)
That is the very best volcano within the metropolis. Go right here by foot or by bike and also you’ll be rewarded with a shocking view of town and the Waitemata Harbour.
. - One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie)
The best level is topped with a monument devoted to Sir John Logan Campbell (the ‘founding father’ of Auckland Metropolis). What’s extra, it’s even claimed to be the biggest pre-historic earth forth on the earth. (NOTE: Should you come throughout the spring season, you possibly can take pleasure in pink cherry blossoms all all through the park).
. - Mount Victoria (Takarunga)
This volcanic cone is present in Devonport and it gives picturesque sea views. (Going up takes about 10-20 minutes solely).
. - Mangere Mountain
Māori is the indigenous Polynesian folks of New Zealand and it’s in Mangere Mountain the place you possibly can see some stays of former Māori settlements. If you wish to study extra concerning the historical past, drop by the Training Centre discovered on the base of the mountain (open on weekdays).
.
2. Get pleasure from panoramic views from a number of vantage factors
Other than climbing up volcanoes, there actually are different methods to get nice panoramic views of Auckland.
- Devonport
You possibly can mainly discover on this seaside city the volcano known as North Head (Maungauika, simply beside Mount Victoria) and it is likely one of the area’s oldest cones. To get right here, it’s a fast 10-minute ferry journey value NZ$11.50. Other than glimpsing a terrific skyline view with an added alternative to discover its underground tunnels, you can even go to the Navy Museum without spending a dime and have a swim on the close by Cheltenham Seaside.
. - Sky Tower
The view from the highest of this 328-meter iconic landmark is fairly wonderful and the doorway is solely value $20~ (or NZ$29). Should you’ve bought more money, you can even bungee soar from excessive up.- TIP: Should you eat lunch or have some afternoon tea in its Orbit restaurant that’s perched excessive up the tower, you may get a FREE entrance to the remark deck for an hour!
.
- TIP: Should you eat lunch or have some afternoon tea in its Orbit restaurant that’s perched excessive up the tower, you may get a FREE entrance to the remark deck for an hour!
3. See town’s well-known landmarks
Photograph by: Spentrails / CC
What higher approach to see and study extra concerning the metropolis than to tour round with a neighborhood? As an example, in case you go along with Auckland Free Strolling Excursions, you’ll be capable to be a part of a no-cost 3-hour metropolis tour!
Apart from the already talked about spots like Sky Tower and so forth., a number of the landmarks that you have to not miss could be:
- Queen Road
The main industrial hub is called after Queen Victoria, and it’s speckled with well-liked eating places, outlets, and cafes.
. - Auckland Harbour Bridge
The Harbour Bridge is one more Auckland icon and in case you’re up for some exhilarating enjoyable, you are able to do a 40-meter bungee soar from the bridge with the operator AJ Hackett, or simply do a bridge climb to see grand views of town and the harbor.
.. - Parnell Village
Should you’re moderately into boutique window purchasing, Parnell (which is Auckland’s oldest suburb) is stuffed with appeal and character as a result of its Victorian-villa-designed constructions.
.
4. Recognize historic artwork in one of many metropolis’s finest museums
The Auckland Artwork Gallery has the most in depth assortment of nationwide and worldwide artwork in New Zealand and the easiest way to expertise this world-class gallery is by becoming a member of an intimate guided tour — which is obtainable for FREE. (Entrance to the museum can be FREE!)
The excursions run twice each day at round 11:30AM and 1:30PM, and opening occasions are from 10:00AM to five:00PM.
Oftentimes, the gallery additionally hosts worldwide exhibitions and provides a energetic variety of occasions corresponding to talks, performances, movie screenings, and youngsters’s actions to enhance its exhibition program.
5. Lounge on close by seashores…
Photograph by: Monday’s Socks / CC
There are literally hundreds of seashores all through the better Auckland area: from white seashores to black sand ones, and so forth! Due to this fact, go arm your self with a seashore blanket, a ebook, and/or some picnic paraphernalia and head on to the wide-open seashores.
In any other case, there are many different methods to refill your time whereas on these sandy havens: browsing, kayaking, snorkeling, and even diving!
NOTE: All the time swim between the crimson and yellow patrol flags as they determine the most secure space to swim when an lively lifesaving patrol is on the seashore. By no means swim or surf alone on an unpatrolled seashore.
Given the variety of seashores, beneath are the highest picks that needs to be excessive up in your free issues to do in Auckland itinerary:
- East Coast
This space is primarily recognized for its white and golden-sand seashores corresponding to Pakiri (the place you possibly can journey a horse by the sand) and Tāwharanui. For household and pal outings, seashores corresponding to Mataetai and Omana are finest with ample water actions and playgrounds to do and use respectively.
. - West Coast
You shouldn’t miss a cease at Muriwai Seaside that’s well-known for its clifftop gannet colonies (a kind of seabird)! Should you love browsing or just need the prospect to glimpse a black-sand seashore, come over to Piha Seaside or Karioitahi Seaside.
. - Metropolis space
Should you don’t wish to stray too removed from town heart, there are the golden sands of Mission Bay, Kohimarama, and Saint Heliers by the waterfront. And like I discussed earlier, in case you journey a ferry to Devonport, it has Cheltenham Seaside. If you’d like one thing even nearer, there’s Takapuna Seaside throughout the Harbour Bridge.
.
6. …and in addition hop to close by islands!
There may be additionally a wealth of unimaginable surrounding islands, other than Rangitoto, the opposite notable ones that needs to be in your free issues to do in Auckland record could be:
- Goat Island
Situated an hour away from the metropolis heart, Goat Island Marine Reserve is New Zealand’s first and most accessible marine reserve; that being stated, it might be a terrific exercise in your itinerary to dive and snorkel right here below its sheltered and crystal clear waters.
. - Waiheke Island
Waiheke is only a 35-minute ferry journey from downtown Auckland and it is called the ‘island of wine’ because of the variety of wineries and vineyards which are prevalent right here. Apart from visiting fabulous wineries, you could possibly additionally take pleasure in its white sand seashores known as Oneroa and Onetangi, making it a terrific possibility for a day journey throughout your keep.
. - Tiritiri Matangi Island
Solely a 75-minute ferry journey away from downtown Auckland, Tiritir Matangi is an open wildlife sanctuary that protects native and endangered species; therefore, it’s a nature lover’s paradise! You’ll completely love your wilderness journey right here, and when it’s time to calm down, there’s Hobbs Seaside which is only a 10-minute stroll from the primary wharf.
. - Nice Barrier Island
Should you’ve bought a while to spare, take a 4.5-hour ferry journey to achieve the Nice Barrier Island — one of the crucial tranquil and unspoiled locations you’ll ever discover! There are usually not solely tons of forest trails obtainable that may lead you to secluded scorching springs, waterfalls, and swimming halls, however there are additionally excellent spots for browsing, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
.
7. Do a nature stroll
Should you’re the form of traveler who loves to find a spot’s pure magnificence on foot, Auckland has quick walks and multi-day hikes to give you. Under are just a few choices to get you began:
- Coast to Coast Walkway
[Distance: 16km] This path begins from Waitemata Harbour to the expansive Manukau Harbour, and it’ll take you over a HUGE number of landscapes as you stroll by means of town, the city parks, and ultimately to volcanic cones for excellent views.
. - Kitekite Monitor
[Distance: 1.8km] A brief stroll that takes you thru waterfalls, streams, and native bush, one can find this monitor near the seaside neighborhood of Piha. One of many highlights of this exercise would be the likelihood to see the improbable Kitekite falls.
. - Tamaki Drive
[Distance: 10km] Should you’ve bought a automobile, driving by means of this highway is one thing you need to think about; if not, there’s a pathway that you may stroll by means of (shared by cyclists and rollerbladers too) as you witness Auckland’s most prosperous suburbs, breathtaking harbors, and exquisite Jap seashores. Relaxation assured, it’s flat so it’s very appropriate for adults and youngsters alike.
. - Waitakere Ranges
This parkland covers greater than 16,000 hectares of native forest and shoreline. Should you’re recreation for strolling and tramping, Waitakere Ranges has a number of trails so that you can select from, the longest of which might be the 4-day 77km self-guided tramp known as “Hillary Path”. It connects a community of present regional park tracks and primary backpacker campgrounds (the path begins at Arataki Customer Middle).
.
8. Take part in free occasions and festivals
Photograph by: Auckland NZ / CC
The town is buzzing with occasions all all year long. People who you need to look out for in your free issues to do in Auckland record are:
- Tāmaki Herenga Waka Pageant
[Late January] This can be a FREE and distinctive 3-day, a family-friendly celebration showcasing Māori heritage and the tradition of Tāmaki Makarau (Māori identify for Auckland). Right here, you possibly can expertise Māori video games and workshops in addition to watch thrilling tribal waka races.
. - Auckland Lantern Pageant
[Early February] As a part of the Chinese language New Yr celebrations, there will probably be tons of of Chinese language lanterns, music, dance performances, conventional festivities, and extra!
. - Pasifika Pageant
[Early March] Pasifka celebrates genuine Pacific Island villages and every of them will showcase efficiency on stage, in addition to current their items in a market setting. With this vibrant celebration, you’re positive to witness varied cultures from locations like Kiribati, Prepare dinner Island, and Samoa!
. - Silo Cinema
[Summer] Located in Silo Park, you possibly can take pleasure in varied motion pictures each Friday and Saturday at Silo Cinema. On the finish of it, there are additionally a number of evening markets and meals stalls so that you can wander into.
.
For a whole record of upcoming affairs, go right here.
9. Loosen up at one of many metropolis’s inexperienced areas
At this level, you positively would have realized by now that Auckland is full of an array of surrounding pure areas to fill your time with. However that doesn’t cease there as a result of there are some fascinating metropolis parks smacked proper within the heart that you could see:
- Parnell Rose Gardens
Along with its romantic rose backyard, it is house to the oldest manuka (flowering plant) and the biggest pohutukawa (additionally known as as ‘New Zealand Christmas tree’) in Auckland. There’s even an enormous park to take pleasure in and a small seashore!
. - Auckland Area
That is town’s oldest park, and at 75 hectares, certainly one of its largest. Once I wandered off to this place, I notably loved the Wintergardens, what with its glass homes that embrace varied tropical crops! Different issues that you could find are Auckland’s Warfare Memorial Museum, some duck ponds, and a cherry blossom grove.
. - Albert Park
This occupies a lot of the location of Albert Barracks, one of many metropolis’s early European navy fortifications. At one nook of the park, one can find Auckland Artwork Gallery (Toi o Tāmaki) and a few gardens, and on the opposite facet is an authentic parkkeeper’s cottage, which is now a museum of memorabilia.
.
10. Admire the waterfront
Dubbed the ‘Metropolis of Sails’, you clearly shouldn’t depart town with out taking the time to go to the waterfronts as a part of the highest free issues to do in Auckland.
- Wynyard Quarter
Because the metropolis’ most not too long ago developed waterfront precinct, it’s a terrific venue for eating and leisure.
. - Viaduct Harbour
Lined up with eating places and bars, this vibrant waterfront is a superb place to hang around or dine in too. If you wish to stage up your harbor time, you can even be a part of a peaceable cruise with Delight of Auckland for NZ$85. Or, go to the Voyager Maritime Museum to study extra about New Zealand’s wealthy maritime historical past (NZ$20).
.
• • •
» High New Zealand Excursions «
• • •
Auckland Journey Information
IMPORTANT: New Zealand has VERY strict quarantine legal guidelines for undeclared meals and different biohazards. Which means you shouldn’t usher in any form of recent meals corresponding to bananas, apples, honey, and so forth. Just remember to eliminate them earlier than going by means of the luggage declare space. Processed or packaged meals might be accepted however you’re purported to declare them in your arrival card. Should you’re ever unsure, ask for clarification — in any other case, you’ll be charged with a hefty positive.
Should you’ve bought outside tools like diving gear, climbing boots, and so forth. you have to clear them earlier than you journey to New Zealand to ensure that the inspection course of to go extra rapidly for you. Be suggested that New Zealand is agency about this given how they’ve sniffer canine and bio-sensitive X-ray machines to detect any undesirable gadgets.
– – –
» Getting Into Auckland
By aircraft. Auckland Worldwide Airport (AKL) is New Zealand’s largest airport and there are a whole lot of airways that undergo town. One of many airways that I completely advocate could be Singapore Airways. However in case you’re questioning the place to search for the very best flight offers throughout all airways, my go-to platform is Skyscanner.
In the meantime, you possibly can attain town from the airport by Airbus Specific (NZ$16), shuttle vans, or taxi (might be NZ$50 to NZ$100). Uber has a flat price of NZ$70, whereas Zoomy prices between NZ$39 to NZ$66.
By prepare. Should you’re coming from Wellington, the Overlander prepare goes to Auckland at NZ$119 with a stopover alternative at Tongariro Nationwide Park.
By bus. There are a number of suppliers that you may select from InterCity, GreatSights New Zealand, Northliner, ManaBus, and NakedBus.
By boat. Auckland is a serious cruise ship port of name with its predominant cruise terminal positioned on Queens Wharf.
– – –
» The place to Keep (Auckland Lodging)
Your finest selections could be…
When on the lookout for different low cost locations to remain, I at all times search by means of AirBnB and Reserving as a result of they not solely usually have the very best costs however they’re the very best reserving websites when touring!
– – –
» Getting Round Auckland
By foot & by bike. Renting a motorcycle is straightforward and the fee can begin at round NZ$35 for a day.
By prepare, bus, or ferry. All public transportation in Auckland has a standardized ticketing system known as ‘AT HOP’ and the cardboard is a reusable prepay sensible card. They price NZ$10 and might be topped up with a minimal of NZ$5 — a day cross prices $18 although, so it’s finest to get one. (Sadly, I can’t discover different varieties of day passes; the following longer cross you possibly can have is for a month).
By taxi. Taxis in Auckland are very costly. However in case you should, you possibly can select from both Uber or Zoomy. I personally would advocate Uber since they’ve significantly cheaper fares (normally lower than 1/2 the price of an everyday taxi).
– – –
» Useful Māori phrases
English is the dominant language spoken by most Kiwis (New Zealanders) however the nation’s de jure official languages are Māori and New Zealand Signal Language (NZSL). Relaxation assured, Māori persons are bilingual and might communicate English too, however they’ll be pleased to listen to you try to communicate their language.
If you wish to study just a few useful Māori phrases, just be sure you pronounce them correctly!
Hi there (to 1 particular person, formal): Tēnā koe (Te-na koy)
Hi there (to 1 particular person, casual): Kia ora (Key-oar-rah)
Thanks: Kia ora (Key-oar-rah) ~ pronounced with a rising intonation
Sure: Āe (I)
No: Kāore (Kao-re)
Goodbye (stated by particular person leaving): E noho rā (E-noho ra)
Goodbye (stated by particular person staying): Haere rā (Hayre ra)
I’m sorry: Aroha mai (Ar-ro-ha-mai)
Assist!: Āwhina! (Af-fin-nuh!)
Cheers!: Kia ora! (Key-oar-rah!)
• • •
Total
As the primary metropolis that I visited in New Zealand, Auckland served as an incredible prelude to the remainder of the nation’s splendor!
In spite of everything, you possibly can see how its magnificence goes past that of its charming city setting — only a stroll or drive away and you’ll simply escape the bustle of the metropolis as you spend your time away in its pure delights.
Simply be at liberty to make use of this free issues to do in Auckland information!
Have you ever seen my newest vlog?
