Overview

Auckland—Tāmaki Makaurau—is built across volcanic cones and harbours, mixing urban energy, Māori heritage, coastal escapes and island retreats. Whether you’re after city skyline views, indigenous culture, or food and wine adventures, Auckland has it all.

Food & Drink

  • Try Māori cooking methods and fresh Pacific seafood in central restaurants like Ahi, Hello Beasty and Mr Morris.
  • Visit Waiheke Island’s boutique wineries—including Tantalus, Mudbrick and Stonyridge—and enjoy vineyard lunches and cellar door tastings.
  • Vineyard dining in Auckland’s Kumeu region offers scenic meals at Soljans Estate Bistro or The Hunting Lodge Restaurant.
  • Explore vibrant precincts like Otara Markets and local wine bars such as Cave à Vin and Tokki in Grey Lynn.

Adventure & Wilderness

  • Climb or drive up iconic volcanic cones: Sky Tower edge-walk/SkyJump, Mount Eden/Maungawhau and One Tree Hill/Maungakiekie.
  • Kayak to Rangitoto volcanic island or hike through lush Hunua Ranges to waterfalls.
  • Head out into the Hauraki Gulf for whale and dolphin safaris, island wildlife visits to Tiritiri Matangi, and coastal walks.

Highlights for All

From iconic towers to scenic islands and cultural gems, these highlights are perfect for any visitor to Auckland:

  • Panoramic views from Auckland Sky Tower—plus SkyJump and edge-walk thrills
  • Tour the Auckland War Memorial Museum and Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
  • Ferry to Waiheke Island for boutique wineries, beaches and coastal walks
  • Walk through lush gardens and Māori landmarks at Auckland Domain and Cornwall Park
  • Sunset strolls and heritage sites in seaside Devonport and North Head

Shopping

Explore boutiques and vintage finds along Ponsonby, Karangahape Road and Devonport. Pick up local art, Maori crafts and designer fashions from sought‑after precincts.

Photography

Capture the skyline at dusk from Devonport or Northcote Point, with the Sky Tower reflecting in Waitematā Harbour.

Sunrise photos from Mount Eden or Rangitoto offer sweeping views of city, sea and isles.

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring–Summer (Sept–Mar): Best for beach visits, vineyards, gulf cruises and outdoor markets.
  • Autumn (Apr–May): Cooler temps, harvest season in Kumeu and Waiheke—ideal for food & wine experiences.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Fewer tourists, good deals on city stays, museum visits and cultural events, but cooler weather for walks.

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