Top city spots in Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland: a place of natural wonders, a cosmopolitan city, and a challenging playground for energetic thrill-seekers. This Polynesian metropolis will have your heart, eyes, and taste buds stimulated from the moment you land.

Known as Tāmaki Makaurau in Māori, the city of Auckland is located on New Zealand’s North Island. The area is the most populated in the country, and its outer region includes vast rural landscapes and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland’s countryside is unique: the city’s hills are replete with rainforests, and a section known as the Auckland Volcanic Field covers a remarkable 53 volcanic centres. The urban centre of Auckland is situated between two harbours: Manukau Harbour which lies to the west, and Waitemata Harbour to the east. This is the heart of Auckland and it’s easy to explore on foot. Here you will discover vibrant districts that offer world-class galleries, fantastic shopping, fun bars, fine wines, and waterside restaurants. Sample the best seafood at Viaduct Harbour, check out the trendy pubs in Kingsland, or head to Ponsonby which has a great choice of everything! Want to learn about the history of New Zealand and the Māori people? A good place to start is at the Auckland War Memorial Museum in Parnell. This is one of the oldest museums in the country and chronicles the story of New Zealand and its people. The venue is home to incredible Māori and Pacific collections, vast heritage libraries, and showcases significant art exhibitions. Inspirational art is also on display at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. This impressive museum houses multiple exhibitions staged across four floors of a landmark award-winning building. Collections encompass modern and contemporary art and work by Māori and Pacific artists. Tourists with a daredevil spirit will be delighted with two popular Auckland activities: climbing the Sky Tower and jumping off Auckland Harbour Bridge. The first offers an exciting ascent and spectacular views of the city and surrounding region. The second provides an opportunity to see Auckland’s famous bridge up close and a heart-stopping bungee jump into the harbour below. However, the best attractions here are the natural wonders that exist in Auckland’s great outdoors. From gorgeous white and black sandy beaches, beautiful islands, and expansive national parks, there is so much to explore. Highly recommended is a trip to Great Barrier Island where you can hike along the Aotea Track, visit nature reserves or simply sunbathe on Medlands Beach. The island has been designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, so stay for the night to experience the wonders of stargazing under New Zealand’s nighttime skies.