New Zealand's Coolest Capital: Auckland Travel Guide
We had a pretty short time here. This was 2-week trip that finished with me celebrating my Grandpa's 95th birthday with him, in the Philippines, so our logistics were rather tricky and a good friend recommended that we stay longer in Queenstown than Auckland. However, we still made the absolute MOST of our time in Acukland
Auckland is a bustling metropolis, teeming with culture and character. But what makes it New Zealand's coolest capital? Auckland is home to a diverse range of people and experiences, making it the perfect place to explore New Zealand's unique culture. Auckland is home to a number of iconic landmarks, including the Sky Tower, Rangitoto Island and Auckland Harbour Bridge. These landmarks are just a taste of what Auckland has to offer. The city is also home to a number of museums, galleries and performing arts venues, which are all worth exploring. Whether you're looking to experience New Zealand's culture, explore its natural beauty or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere, Auckland is the perfect destination. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Auckland adventure today.
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Click on a category to jump forward:
Auckland Harbour Bridge || Museum of Transport & Technology || Auckland Beaches Auckland Parks || Hobbiton || Waitomo Glow Worm Caves || The Bay of Islands || Restaurants Google Maps List || Our Queenstown, NZ Travel Guide
Why Choose Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is a truly unique and exciting city. It is located on the North Island of New Zealand and is the country's largest city. It is also one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world, with residents coming from all over the globe. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Auckland. The city is home to many different cultural festivals and events, as well as a bustling nightlife scene. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy during the day, such as exploring the city's many parks and beaches. Auckland is also a great place to shop. The city is home to many different malls and shopping districts, as well as a number of unique boutiques. There is also a large variety of restaurants to choose from, so you can always find something to suit your taste. If you're looking for an exciting and truly unique city to visit, then Auckland is the perfect choice.
Auckland is an action-packed city with plenty to see and do. From adrenaline-pumping activities to scenic walks, there's something to suit everyone. And with its great range of accommodation and dining options, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to planning your stay.
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Four Points Sheraton Auckland
Our choices of stay were pretty small, considering I wanted something using the points that we had, but I could NOT be happier. Overall, we had a very pleasant stay here with the fantastic and comfortable rooms!
We asked for help from the front staff several times and they were always courteous along with the waitstaff at the restaurant. The rooms are updated in a quaint setting. The shower floor was an interesting design, but kept leaking out of the shower onto the bathroom floor, so that was a bit of a mess. The beds were insanely comfortable with plenty of outlets in the room
Unfortunately, we had early morning tours the entire time we were here and the restaurant wasn't open at this time, and nothing nearby was open. However, when you call the concierge we had our breakfast boxes ready by the time we went downstairs and they included a HUGE amount of food: water bottle, pastry, 2 whole fruits, container of yogurt with fruit and a sandwich! Located INSIDE of the hotel was Queen's Head Bar & Eatery: We frequented the restaurant regularly and was perfect as we got back from our tours late, so it was nice to have this as a viable and yummy option to have and relatively well priced, considering what we ordered. I actually hate eating at hotel restaurants because of the prices, but this was decent and convenient. They also have their rooftop bar: The Churchill: get there early for these fantastic views! Seating is very limited and we awkwardly stood and waited for a spot to open up anywhere. The outdoor seating is very limited, so I would suggest getting there early! Drinks were fantastic and I love the decor of the bar and the bartenders attire
The location is a good walk 15-20 minutes to the city center. It is in a more deserted part of town however, so our morning tour pickups were just a bit haunting at times. Not necessarily unsafe, but just a typical city in the early morning with no light
Click on a category to jump forward:
Auckland Harbour Bridge || Museum of Transport & Technology || Auckland Beaches Auckland Parks || Hobbiton || Waitomo Glow Worm Caves || The Bay of Islands || Restaurants Google Maps List || Our Queenstown, NZ Travel Guide
The Best Time to Visit Auckland
There are a few things to consider when deciding when is the best time for you to visit Auckland. The weather is one of the biggest factors to consider when planning your trip.
The summers in Auckland are very mild, with average temperatures ranging from about 18-25 degrees Celsius (64.4-77 degrees F). However, the city does experience a fair amount of rainfall during the summer months. If you don't mind a little rain, summer can be a great time to visit Auckland. The city is beautiful and green, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy.
If you're looking for better weather, you might want to visit Auckland during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These months have the least amount of rainfall and the temperatures are still pleasant, averaging between 13-20 degrees Celsius (55.4-68 degrees F). In the Spring (September to November) the weather is warm and sunny, and the days are long, making it the perfect time to explore everything that the city has to offer. Plus, there are plenty of events and activities happening during this time, so you'll never find yourself bored. In the Autumn (March to May), this is the driest time of the year, making it ideal for exploring Auckland's many outdoor attractions. In fact, autumn is the perfect time to enjoy some of Auckland's best food and wine. The city's restaurants and cafes begin to make the most of seasonal produce, and the annual Auckland Food and Wine Festival takes place in May. Spring and autumn are also ideal times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
Winter, from June to August, can be hit or miss in Auckland. Sometimes the city is blanketed in snow and the air is crisp and clear, while other times it's rainy and dreary. If you're thinking of visiting Auckland during winter, you'll need to be prepared for both possibilities. If you're lucky enough to experience a winter wonderland in Auckland, you'll be able to enjoy all the city has to offer, from snow-capped mountains to frozen lakes. There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. You can also cosy up with a cup of hot chocolate and take in the winter scenery. However, if the weather is less than ideal, there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy. Auckland has a great selection of museums and art galleries, as well as a thriving café culture. You can also escape the cold by taking a dip in one of the city's many hot springs.
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Our Auckland, New Zealand Itinerary
Last week in February 2020
Day 1 - Arrive from Queenstown, New Zealand and head to our hotel, Four Points by Sheraton. After checking in and grabbing a quick bite at Queens Head Bar & Eatery, we walked to the Sky Tower to make it to our Sky Jump for some thrills!! We finished off the night with fun gin cocktails at The Churchill - A Rooftop bar at the Four Points by Sheraton Auckland!
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
HOT TIP: Download the New Zealand Super Shuttle app BEFORE you get there! This was definitely the most affordable option to get from our hotel to/from the airport: https://www.supershuttle.co.nz/ or pre-book a discounted trip with our link here
Day 2 - ALL DAY Tour with pick-up from our Hotel thanks to Auckland Scenic Tours: Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Day 3 - Another ALL DAY Tour through Great Sights with pickup from our hotel to the Bay of Islands, Dolphin Cruise with Hole in the Rock
Day 4 - Early flight leave to Bali! (don't worry that travel guide will be up soon!)
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Click on a category to jump forward:
Auckland Harbour Bridge || Museum of Transport & Technology || Auckland Beaches Auckland Parks || Hobbiton || Waitomo Glow Worm Caves || The Bay of Islands || Restaurants Google Maps List || Our Queenstown, NZ Travel Guide
What to Do in Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand's largest city and there is plenty to keep you busy. Thanks to its mild climate, Auckland is a year-round destination with an array of outdoor activities to enjoy. Keep scrolling for fun things to do in Auckland
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Sky Tower
Auckland is home to the magnificent Sky Tower, standing 1076 feet (327 meters) tall. It is the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere and offers stunning views of the cityscape and beyond. There are three observation decks to choose from, as well as a sky deck where you can walk around the perimeter of the tower. If you're feeling brave, you can even do the SkyJump, a bungee-like jump/vertical zipline off the tower! (see our videos below) The Sky Tower is located in the central city, so it's easy to get to whether you're walking, taking the bus, or driving - this was an easy walk from Four Points Sheraton Auckland. Once you're there, you can enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the restaurants or bars, or take a look around the gift shop. The Sky Tower is an iconic Auckland landmark and definitely worth a visit!
Visit the Auckland Art Gallery
Auckland Art Gallery is one of New Zealand's most visited art museums. Located in the heart of the city, it houses a collection of over 15,000 works spanning many different cultures and periods. With a focus on Pacific Rim and Maori art, the Auckland Art Gallery is a must-see for any art lover visiting Auckland. There are a number of ways to experience the gallery, from taking a guided tour to simply exploring on your own. The gallery offers a range of interactive programs and activities, making it a great place to spend a few hours, whether you're a budding artist or just looking to appreciate some great art. Some of the highlights of the collection include works by leading New Zealand artists like George permannent and Colin McCahon, as well as a number of international artists such as Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso and Rembrandt. There's also a significant collection of Maori art, including a number of historic carvings and contemporary works. Whether you're interested in art history, want to see some of the world's finest artworks or just want to spend a couple of hours in a beautiful space, the Auckland Art Gallery is a great option.
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Auckland Waterfront
Auckland's waterfront is one of the most beautiful in the world. Stretching for over 3 miles, it offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Hauraki Gulf. There are plenty of things to see and do along the way. Here are just a few of the best:
Take a stroll along the promenade. This is the perfect place to people watch and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
Stop for a coffee or bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants. There's something for everyone, from fine dining to casual cafes.
Visit the Viaduct Basin. This is a hub of activity, with plenty of bars, restaurants and shops to explore. There's also a fish market, where you can buy fresh seafood to take home.
Take a ride on the ferry. This is a great way to see the city from the water. You can hop on and off at various stops along the way, including the CBD and North Shore.
Go for a swim. If you're feeling brave, take a dip in the harbor. There are also a few beaches along the waterfront, such as Mission Bay and St. Heliers.
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. This is a great way to explore the harbor and get some exercise at the same time. There are several companies that offer rental equipment.
Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum. This is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits relating to New Zealand's history and culture.
Wander through the Domain. This is a large park in the center of the city, and a great place to escape the hustle and bustle. There are plenty of walking and cycling tracks to explore, as well as a number of gardens.
Check out the Art Gallery.
Take a ride on the Sky Tower.
These are just a few of the many things to do along Auckland's waterfront. So get out there and explore!
Click on a category to jump forward:
Auckland Harbour Bridge || Museum of Transport & Technology || Auckland Beaches Auckland Parks || Hobbiton || Waitomo Glow Worm Caves || The Bay of Islands || Restaurants Google Maps List || Our Queenstown, NZ Travel Guide
Auckland Harbour Bridge
The Auckland Harbour Bridge is New Zealand's first and largest steel arch bridge, crossing the Auckland Harbour from St Mary's Bay in the Auckland CBD to Northcote on the North Shore. The bridge is one of the few large-scale steel arch bridges in the world, and it's also one of Auckland's most recognisable landmarks. The bridge was originally built in 1959, and it was designed to carry both road and rail traffic. These days, the bridge is used exclusively by road vehicles, with a dedicated cycleway and pedestrian walkway running alongside the traffic lanes. If you're looking for a unique way to experience Auckland, then a trip on the Auckland Harbour Bridge is definitely worth considering. Here are a few things you can do on your trip:
Take a walk or ride a bike across the bridge. The pedestrian walkway is located on the northern side of the bridge, and it's a great way to get some fresh air and exercise while taking in the stunning views.
Drive across the bridge. If you're visiting Auckland by car, then driving across the harbour bridge is a must. Just be sure to take your time and enjoy the views!
Take a ferry ride under the bridge. Auckland's ferry system is a great way to get around the city, and taking a ferry ride under the harbour bridge is a great way to experience it. You can catch a ferry from the Ferry Building in the CBD, or from any of the other ferry terminals around the city.
Go bungee jumping off the bridge. If you're feeling adventurous, then bungee jumping off the Auckland Harbour Bridge is definitely something to consider. There are several companies that offer bungee jumps, and they all have different packages to choose from.
Climb to the top of the bridge. If you're feeling really adventurous, then you can even climb to the top of the Auckland Harbour Bridge! There are a few different companies that offer bridge climbs, and they all have different packages to choose from.
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Auckland's Museum of Transport and Technology is a great way to learn about the city's rich history. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including a working replica of an early 20th century tram car. Visitors can also take a tour of the Auckland waterfront, which is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. The Museum of Transport and Technology is a great way to learn about Auckland's rich history. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including a working replica of an early 20th century tram car. Visitors can also take a tour of the Auckland waterfront, which is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. The Museum of Transport and Technology is a great place to learn about Auckland's history. You can find out about the city's past through a variety of exhibits, including a working replica of an early 20th century tram car. You can also take a tour of the Auckland waterfront, which is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
Visit One of Auckland's Many Beautiful Beaches
Visiting the beach is one of the best things to do in Auckland. With so many beautiful beaches to choose from, you'll definitely find one that's perfect for you. One of the most popular beaches in Auckland is Piha Beach. This gorgeous beach is known for its black sand and big waves, making it a great place for surfing. Even if you don't surf, you can still enjoy the stunning views and take a swim in the clear water. If you're looking for a more relaxed beach experience, then you should head to Karekare Beach. This secluded beach is surrounded by native forest, making it a great place to go for a walk or have a picnic. Karekare Beach is also popular for its dramatic cliffs, which are perfect for photography lovers. Another must-visit beach in Auckland is Manukau Heads. This beach is perfect for those who love hiking, as there are plenty of trails to explore. From Manukau Heads, you'll also get stunning views of the nearby islands. No matter what kind of beach experience you're looking for, you'll be able to find it in Auckland. So, make sure to add a visit to one of Auckland's many beautiful beaches to your list of things to do.
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Click on a category to jump forward:
Auckland Harbour Bridge || Museum of Transport & Technology || Auckland Beaches Auckland Parks || Hobbiton || Waitomo Glow Worm Caves || The Bay of Islands || Restaurants Google Maps List || Our Queenstown, NZ Travel Guide
Go for a Walk or Bike Ride At One of Auckland's Parks
Auckland has a lot of parks! Here are some of the best ones to walk or bike through:
The Domain - This park is right in the heart of Auckland City and is a great place to take a stroll or go for a run. There are also plenty of sculptures and monuments to check out.
Western Springs Park - This park is home to a large lake, which is perfect for a refreshing walk or jog on a hot day. There are also plenty of ducks and other birds to spot.
Point Chevalier Beach Park - This is a great place to take a walk or ride your bike along the water's edge. There are also some excellent views of the city skyline.
One Tree Hill Domain - This park is home to one of Auckland's most iconic landmarks, One Tree Hill. It's a great place to get some exercise, with plenty of walking and hiking trails to explore.
Auckland Botanic Gardens - These gardens are simply beautiful, and are the perfect place to relax and take in some fresh air. They're also great for a spot of birdwatching.
Cornwall Park - This is one of Auckland's largest parks, and is a popular place for picnics, BBQs and walks. It's also home to the Auckland Zoo.
Auckland Harbour Bridge Pathway - This is a great place to walk or cycle, with stunning views of the harbour and the city skyline. It's also a popular place for fishing.
Hobbiton - The Shire of New Zealand
There's a land in New Zealand where hobbits live. It's not just any land, it's Hobbiton: The Shire of New Zealand. This magical place was created for the Lord of the Rings movies and has become a popular tourist destination.
Hobbiton is a must-see for any Lord of the Rings fan or non-fan. It's a beautiful place with lush green fields, quaint hobbit houses, and a bubbling stream. It's also home to the highly-anticipated Hobbiton Movie Set Experience. The Hobbiton Movie Set Experience is a guided tour that takes you through the movie set and behind the scenes of the Lord of the Rings movies. You'll get to see the Hobbiton set as it was used in the movies and learn about the movie-making process.
This is located in Matamata, but MANY tours will pick you up from hotels in Auckland and I rate it as a TOP thing to do whether or not you are a Lord of the Rings fan! There are so many tours that you can book anywhere from a whole-day or half-day tour - the tour in Hobbiton would be half day, but you can add on a full day and check out another place (this is what we did paired with the glow worm caves - book the tour we did here).
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
The Waitomo Glow Worm Caves are a must-see in New Zealand. The Glow Worm Grotto is the most popular cave and is illuminated by thousands of glow worms. The Aranui Cave is the largest of the caves and has the biggest variety of limestone formations. The caves are all part of the Waitomo Caves system and are located in the Waikato region of New Zealand. Videos and photos are not allowed in the cave, so, we unfortunately don't have our own to share! The Glow Worm Caves were first discovered by Maori Chief Tane Tinorau in 1887 and were quickly become a popular tourist destination. The Caves are made up of a series of underground caverns and chambers, some of which are accessible only by boat. The Glow Worm Grotto is the largest and most popular chamber in the Caves, and is home to thousands of glow worms. Visitors to the Caves can take guided tours through the Glow Worm Grotto and other chambers, which last for around 45 minutes. The tours are conducted in complete darkness, so that the glow worms can be seen in their natural habitat. The experience of seeing the glow worms in the Caves is truly magical and is not to be missed.
Click on a category to jump forward:
Auckland Harbour Bridge || Museum of Transport & Technology || Auckland Beaches Auckland Parks || Hobbiton || Waitomo Glow Worm Caves || The Bay of Islands || Restaurants Google Maps List || Our Queenstown, NZ Travel Guide
Bay of Islands
New Zealand's Bay of Islands is truly a hidden paradise, located just a short drive north of Auckland. This beautiful region is known for its clear turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and lush green landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sailing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The Bay of Islands is made up of 144 islands, and is a popular destination for both Kiwis and international visitors alike. It is renowned for its excellent fishing, with many charter companies offering trips out to catch snapper, kingfish, and mahimahi. The Bay of Islands is also home to the picturesque town of Paihia, which is the perfect place to relax and soak up the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle. If you're looking for a taste of true Kiwi culture, then a visit to the Bay of Islands is a must. This is a place where you can really relax and enjoy the natural beauty of New Zealand. We booked our tour through Great Sights, but there are several tours to choose from!
Restaurants
We had SUCH a short time here that we only ate at 1-2 places in Auckland, itself as we were on the road most of the time!
Queen's Head Bar & Eatery
We were very lucky to have this included in the Four Points Sheraton in Auckland as they always head quick bites available! And filling quick bites. Note that our visit was in 2020, so it looks as though their menu has changed since we were last there
Sid at The French Cafe
One of the best places for a special occasion is Sid at The French Café. This restaurant has been serving up French cuisine with a New Zealand twist for over 20 years, and has won multiple awards for its food and service. This restaurant offers French cuisine that is prepared with the freshest of ingredients. The dishes are always cooked to perfection, and the service is impeccable. This is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic meal or a night out with friends. The warm and inviting atmosphere is perfect for a romantic night out, and the menu features classic dishes like escargot and Tournedos Rossini.
Kazuya
This Japanese restaurant serves up traditional dishes like sushi and tempura, as well as more modern fusion cuisine. The menus change seasonally, so there's always something new to try, and the knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help you choose the perfect dish.
The Grill
This restaurant offers an extensive menu of mouth-watering grill items, as well as a wide selection of wines. The Grill is the perfect place to go for a night out with family or friends.
Hell Pizza
For a casual dining option, check out Hell Pizza. Whether you're a fan of their famous Devilish Delight pizza or prefer something a little more traditional, Hell Pizza has something for everyone. Their pizza bases are made fresh daily and their toppings are always delicious, so you're guaranteed a great meal every time.
BurgerFuel
If you're in the mood for a delicious burger, BurgerFuel is the place to go. With a wide range of burgers on offer, as well as fries, salads and shakes, BurgerFuel has something for everyone.
Charlotte's Kitchen They are actually located in Paihia, so we stumbled upon here while waiting for our Bay of Islands tour and we LOVED it! The staff was friendly and the food and drink was absolutely delicious with a GORGEOUS view. It is definitely worth a stop if you are in town!
NOTE: Most links on our website are affiliate links, which means that The Bouj Crew collects a little bit of money or points when you click on certain links (this is at no extra cost to you). This is to help us with the upkeep and fees associated with running a website, offering products, etc!
Click on a category to jump forward:
Auckland Harbour Bridge || Museum of Transport & Technology || Auckland Beaches Auckland Parks || Hobbiton || Waitomo Glow Worm Caves || The Bay of Islands || Restaurants Google Maps List || Our Queenstown, NZ Travel Guide
Save Money on This Trip
When planning for trips I always use SEVERAL resources. #1 is using perks from credit cards - our fave and most used are all listed on our discounts page.
HOTELS: We used Marriott points to score our entire Auckland stayfor FREE. However, we most frequently use our Chase, Marriott and Hilton cards to help us get hotel stays for free
FLIGHTS: I use Scott's Cheap Flights and other Airline Credit Card programs to monitor sales on flights along with Chase Ultimate Rewards
ACTIVITIES: I use Chase Ultimate Rewards, Viator (Tripadvisor) and Get Your Guide to search
A MAP OF PLACES
I love using maps when planning my trips in order to see which places would be within walking distance, etc. See our map of places we went here (always easiest to view the map on the desktop)
More Recommendations
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Like and Comment Below
Let us know if we've missed an INCREDIBLE place in Auckland that absolutely needs to be added! Or do you see us list something that wasn't so great? Let us know in the comments!