Explore Auckland's highlights, from coastal walks and island escapes to city dining and neighbourhood stays.
For many years, New Zealand was one of my dream destinations. After my NZ visitor visa was approved, I immediately began planning the itinerary for this trip with a Kiwi friend. I flew in from Singapore with Air New Zealand, and arrived after a flight of almost 10 hours.
Located on the North Island, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and a hub for food, arts, and culture. It is also multicultural, shaped by Māori heritage, Pacific influences, and communities from across Asia, Europe, and beyond. I spent 6 days in the City of Sails, and if you’re planning to visit, here’s my guide to fun things to do, as well as places to stay and eat.
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Auckland Overview
Country: New Zealand
Country Code: +64
Continent: Oceania
Timezone: GMT+12
Currency: New Zealand Dollars (NZD)
Airport: Auckland Airport (AKL)
Language: English, Māori (Te Reo)
5 Fun Things to Do in Auckland
What sets Auckland apart is its balance of city convenience and natural beauty. Visitors can try thrilling activities, explore iconic landmarks, wander through vibrant neighbourhoods, and more. Here are five fun things to do during your trip to this city.
1. Go skydiving for a bucket-list experience
For those brave enough to jump out of a plane, skydiving is one of the most thrilling activities in NZ. Altitudes range from 13,000 to 18,000 feet, making it the highest skydive in the country. It’s a tandem jump, so you’ll be strapped to a professional instructor for added reassurance. Watch the video above for a preview, or read my full review of this unforgettable experience.
Location: 73 Green Road, Parakai, Auckland 0874
Levels: 13,000 ft. / 16,000 ft. / 18,000 ft.
Cost: From NZD 345
2. Try SkyJump or SkyWalk at Auckland Sky Tower
The Auckland Sky Tower is 1,076 feet tall. Photography: Lord Acuña
Sky Tower, the tallest building in Auckland, offers slightly less extreme but still exciting activities. First is SkyJump, a guaranteed 11 seconds of pure adrenaline as you plunge 53 floors at speeds of up to 85 kph. And SkyWalk, where you’ll walk around the top of the tower with no handrails. Along the way, adrenaline-fuelled challenges are designed to get your heart racing while you take in panoramic views of Auckland.
If you’re not quite ready for either activity, you can still visit the tower to enjoy the city skyline from above. You may purchase a ticket that includes access to all three public viewing levels, including the highest, SkyDeck.
Location: Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Opening hours: 09:30 – 21:30 (Closing time varies by season.)
Cost: From NZD 47
Book Sky Tower Only Book Activities
3. Auckland Art Gallery
A day at Auckland Art Gallery. Photo: Lord Acuña
Get cultured at the largest art gallery in New Zealand, Auckland Art Gallery, home to around 18,000 artworks. The building itself is a work of art, combining a restored 19th-century heritage structure with a striking modern extension. A kauri-inspired canopy reflects its connection to neighbouring Albert Park and welcomes visitors at the Kitchener Street entrance. The gallery’s collection spans historic, modern, and contemporary art, including major works by Māori, Pacific, New Zealand, and international artists.
Location: 1 Kitchener Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Opening hours: 10:00 – 17:00
Cost: Free, except for special exhibitions.
4. Spend a day on Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is totally worth a visit! Photo: Lord Acuña
For a more relaxed activity, take a day trip to Waiheke Island, known for its vineyards, wineries, and coastal scenery. It’s about a 30 to 45-minute ferry ride from Auckland’s Downtown Terminal. To make the most of your visit, it’s best to head over early in the morning. Read this comprehensive guide to learn how to get around and where to eat and drink on this beautiful island.
Depart from: Downtown Terminal
Arrive at: Matiatia Ferry Terminal
Cost: From NZD 31 (one-way)
Get Ferry Tickets Waiheke Guide
5. Visit Devonport Village
Had brunch with a friend at this cute café in Devonport. Photo: Lord Acuña
Devonport Village is one of Auckland’s oldest seaside suburbs, sitting across the Waitematā Harbour from the city centre. The area combines Victorian-era charm with a relaxed coastal feel, where heritage wooden houses sit alongside cafés, bookshops, galleries, and boutique shops. Arriving by ferry is the most scenic option, although you can also drive there in about 20 minutes.
Depart from: Downtown Terminal
Arrive at: Devonport Ferry Terminal
Cost: From NZD 7.80 (one-way)
Where to Eat & Drink in Auckland
Auckland’s diverse food scene offers everything from premium New Zealand steaks to authentic international flavours. Whether you’re after a waterfront restaurant or a casual neighbourhood eatery, you’ll find plenty of excellent places to eat across the city.
Ready to dig in? Check out these five restaurants in Auckland for great food, drinks, and memorable dining experiences.
1. Gemmayze Street
One of the best dinners I had in Auckland! Photo: Lord Acuña
Tucked at the back of historic St. Kevins Arcade, Gemmayze Street celebrates the flavours of Lebanon through the family heritage of the chef and owner. Their hummus, thick and creamy with a rich layer of paprika-infused oil, is a crowd favourite. Handmade in small batches over three days using a family recipe, it’s become so popular that it’s now sold outside the restaurant.
Cuisine: Lebanese
Location: 183 Karangahape Road, Poynton Terrace, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Opening hours:
Tue to Thu – 18:00 – 21:30
Fri to Sat – 18:00 – 22:00
Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
2. Hello Beasty
Located in the Viaduct waterfront precinct, Hello Beasty serves modern Asian cuisine combining Japanese, Korean, and Chinese flavours, all interpreted through a Kiwi lens. The menu is designed around sharing plates, making it ideal for groups of up to 14 people. The venue can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book a table in advance.
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Location: 95-97 Customs Street West, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Operating hours:
Tue to Sun – 12:00 until late
Closed on Mondays.
3. The Blue Breeze Inn
Photo: The Blue Breeze Inn Facebook
The Blue Breeze Inn is a modern Chinese restaurant on Ponsonby Road, blending regional Chinese flavours with Pacific influences. The space has a relaxed Pacific-island atmosphere, with a range of seating options suited to solo dining, intimate date nights, or larger group gatherings. Also check out The Rum Jungle, the adjoining cocktail bar known for its extensive rum collection and creative tropical drinks.
Cuisine: Chinese
Location: 146 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Central, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Operating hours:
Tue to Sun – 12:00 until late
Closed on Mondays.
4. Angus Steak House
About to dig in to my steak! Photo: Tracy Diciano
Can you really leave New Zealand without trying a classic steak? Angus Steak House, one of the city’s longest-running institutions, serves beef and lamb sourced from small, family-run, grass-fed farms across the country. The old-school steakhouse atmosphere and generous portions here make it the perfect place to enjoy a traditional, hearty meal.
Cuisine: Steakhouse
Location: 8 Fort Lane, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Operating hours:
Mon to Fri – 11:45 – 14:00 (Lunch)
Mon to Sun – 17:00 until late (Dinner)
5. Saint Alice
Photo: Saint Alice Facebook
Overlooking Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, Saint Alice is a spacious bar and eatery offering harbour views, live entertainment, and a locally inspired menu. Dishes are designed for sharing, with a focus on seasonal produce, fresh kaimoana (seafood), and wood-fired pizzas. The drinks list includes signature cocktails, tap beers, and a selection of local and international wines. It’s a popular spot from lunch through the evening for food and drinks in a waterfront setting.
Cuisine: International
Location: 204 Quay Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Operating hours: 11:00 until late
Where to Stay in Auckland
From hotels with spectacular views over the harbour to comfortable and affordable city stays, Auckland has accommodation for every budget. Many are within walking distance of the city’s best restaurants, shopping, and attractions, making them an ideal base for exploring. Here are five excellent hotels in Auckland to consider.
1. voco Auckland City Centre
My comfortable Super King Bed. Photo: Lord Acuña
For my trip to Auckland, I stayed at voco Auckland City Centre, a 4-star hotel in the heart of Auckland CBD. This modern upscale hotel offers comfort, style, and easy access to the city’s main attractions. My room featured a plush king-sized bed and a large window with a stunning city vista, dominated by the Sky Tower.
On the ground floor, Mozzarella & Co. serves Italian dishes, including wood-fired pizza and pasta, throughout the day. The hotel also has a fully equipped gym for guests who want to maintain their fitness during their stay. And on the 38th floor sits Bar Albert, New Zealand’s highest rooftop bar, with moody interiors, an open-air terrace, and skyline views best enjoyed with signature cocktails.
Location: 13 Wyndham Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Cost: From NZD 200+ per night
2. Horizon By SkyCity
Horizon By SkyCity is a 5-star luxury hotel in Auckland’s CBD and one of the city’s newer high-end stays. It features 303 rooms and 10 suites with a sleek, contemporary design focused on urban comfort. The hotel is connected via skybridge to the SkyCity precinct, giving guests easy indoor access to dining, entertainment, and attractions. Its signature restaurant, The Grill Auckland, offers a spacious courtyard and serves premium New Zealand steak and seafood.
Location: 85 Hobson Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Cost: From NZD 280+ per night
3. Cordis Auckland
Chairman Suite on the Pinnacle Tower’s highest level. Photo: Cordis Auckland
Cordis Auckland is a modern landmark hotel in the city centre. Its spacious rooms, dining options, and Club Lounge with skyline views create a comfortable, upscale experience. Many rooms have been recently refurbished, particularly in the newer Pinnacle Tower. Some areas retain a more classic style that reflects the hotel’s long-standing heritage and enduring presence in Auckland.
Location: 83 Symonds Street, Grafton, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Cost: From NZD 170+ per night
4. Copthorne Hotel Auckland City
For more budget-friendly accommodation, consider a stay at Copthorne Hotel Auckland City. This 4-star hotel has 102 guest rooms and 4 suites, all fitted with soundproof windows for a quiet, restful experience. The interiors are modest and functional, focusing mainly on comfort and good value. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Auckland’s main attractions and transport connections.
Location: 150 Anzac Avenue, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Cost: From NZD 130+ per night
5. The Hotel Britomart Auckland
Photo: The Hotel Britomart Auckland
The Hotel Britomart Auckland is a contemporary boutique hotel in Auckland’s waterfront district. It is known for its strong sustainability focus and refined minimalist aesthetic using materials such as timber, stone, and linen. Situated within the lively Britomart precinct, one of the city’s most walkable areas for dining, shopping, and nightlife, a stay at this design-led hotel places you right in the heart of the action.
Location: 29 Galway Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Cost: From NZD 370+ per night
With this travel guide, you’re all set to begin exploring Auckland. From peaceful neighbourhoods to thrilling activities, the City of Sails offers plenty to fill your itinerary. Bookmark this page to keep it handy during your trip!
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