Auckland Attractions

Take to the waters

From central Auckland you can be on the water in a matter of minutes.

• Enjoy a cruise on a classic yacht or launch. Charter your own yacht if you have sailing skills.
• Meet the local marine mammals. Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari conducts daily marine mammal eco-safaris, finding common and bottlenose dolphins, Brydes whales and orca in Auckland's magnificent Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
• Kayak to Rangitoto Island at sunset with Auckland Sea Kayaks. 
• Experience the thrill of sailing on a genuine America's Cup racing yacht - you can participate as much or as little as you desire.
• Take the ferry across to Devonport and enjoy a café lunch and a spot of shopping or explore the WWII tunnels and gun emplacements in North Head.

Explore the islands of the Hauraki Gulf

The Hauraki Gulf, on the doorstep of Auckland city, is home to a multitude of remarkable islands. Don't miss out on these activities:

• Walk to the summit of Rangitoto, the black lava volcanic island in the middle of the inner Hauraki Gulf. Hire a kayak and join an evening paddle to the island.
• Enjoy wine tasting and beachcombing on Waiheke Island, a half hour ferry ride from the city centre.
• Sunbathe and swim at Motuihe Island.
• Discover the historic Mansion House on Kawau Island - once the home of Governor George Grey.
• Visit the wildlife sanctuary on Tiritiri Matangi. The island is home to many endangered birds, including the extremely rare Takahe.
• Experience a wilderness adventure on Great Barrier Island - tracks lead to secluded natural hot springs and historic kauri dams.

Family fun in Auckland

Here's a few activities for the family you can try out next time you're in Auckland:

• Visit the Sky Tower and travel 328 metres up in glass fronted lifts to the spectacular viewing platforms. Family members who are 10 years or over might like to do a Sky walk(opens in new window) or Sky jump(opens in new window)!
• Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World gets you up close and personal with sharks and penguins
• Daily Maori cultural performances at the Auckland Museum include a welcome dance, poi dance, stick game, weaponry display and haka
• EcoZip Adventures offers state-of-the-art flying fox ziplines and an eco-immersive forest walk on breathtaking Waiheke Island, for nature lovers of all ages.
• Auckland Zoo is always fun - home to 117 species, and over 700 animals. There's always lots to see and do all year, including events and Zoom (behind the scenes) tours. Daily Zoo encounters, presented by zoo keepers, give you the opportunity to come eye to eye with some amazing creatures.
• Have a thrilling day at Rainbows End Adventure Park in Manukau City. Plummet on the Fear Fall, spiral on the roller coaster and zoom down the log flume.
• SheepWorld promises a close encounter with farm animals.

Take a walk

• From Devonport, walk to the summits of Mount Victoria or North Head for 360° views. Ferries to and from Devonport depart every half hour. 
• Mount Eden, Mount Hobson and Mount St John are dormant volcanic cones offering commanding views of the city - pack a picnic and walk up.
• Do the Coast to Coast Walkway - a unique walk joining the east and west coasts of Auckland and taking in many of the city’s scenic icons. Enquire at the Visitor Information Centre in the city for a brochure on the walkway.
• Explore the beautifully scenic Waitakere Ranges to west, or the Hunua Ranges to the south of the city.