Things to do in Auckland

One of the most recognisable Auckland landmarks, the Sky Tower allows visitors to view the city from 220m in the air. Step into its lofty indoor observation deck and you'll be greeted with panoramic 360° views of the whole city and, on a clear day, up to 80km of scenery in every direction.

Located a 45-minute drive from Auckland through the picturesque Auckland Centennial Park, Karekare Beach is a gorgeous example of New Zealand scenery. With craggy bluffs, a sandy inlet and perfect weather for a bathe or a sunbake during summer, Karekare Beach is the perfect reward for those who feel like hiking through the park.

The highest natural point in Auckland, the affluent suburb of Mount Eden lies around a dormant volcano. Yes, a volcano. Called Maungawhau by the Maori, Mount Eden is the perfect landmark to explore if you like a good walk or a low-intensity hike but you don't want to travel too far out of the city.

Climbing aboard one of the many Auckland harbour cruises is a great way to see the city from a whole new perspective. Taking to the water will allow you to get up close with popular landmarks like the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Before or after your cruise, spend some time learning about the city's long and fascinating maritime history at the Auckland Maritime Museum.

This giant body of water lies beyond Auckland Harbour and toward the top of New Zealand's North Island. Hauraki Gulf provides the kind of high-seas adventure that ocean lovers want, yet it never takes you too far from the shore. This is the perfect day trip destination if you'd like to spend time fishing or diving while on holiday in Auckland.

Located in the Auckland Centennial Park and on the way to Karekare Beach, the Waitakere Ranges are the ultimate destination if you're keen to do a bit of Auckland hiking. Its many hill climbs will reward dedicated hikers with views unlike anything you've ever seen before, and you can be back in Auckland by dinner time, ready to do it all again the next day.

A popular day trip destination situated across the Gulf from Auckland Harbour, Waiheke Island is New Zealand life in a perfect microcosm – beautiful scenery, friendly locals, historic architecture, and hearty meals all in one place. This is the perfect spot for a quick and quiet getaway during your Auckland holiday.

A shrine to Auckland's long-standing naval history, the Auckland Maritime Museum traces New Zealand's history on the water back to when the first Polynesian settlers arrived on the shores in their hardy canoes sometime in the 11th century. This museum is a gorgeous time capsule of Auckland life since before the city began.

Also referred to as the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the Auckland Museum is located within the Auckland Domain park in Parnell. A showcase for artefacts from both around the world and from Auckland itself, touring the museum is one of the greatest ways to immerse yourself in New Zealand's rich, textured history.