Things to Do in Auckland

Discover Things to Do in Auckland

Our experiences are categorised to help you quickly find the perfect adventure. Whether you’re seeking a V8 fuelled adrenaline rush or a relaxing, serene getaway, our experiences highlight the very best of New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland.

Helicopter Flights

Auckland’s geography is defined by 55 volcanic cones and two sparkling harbours. The most spectacular way to appreciate this landscape is from the air. Our helicopter tours provide a bird’s eye view of the Sky Tower, the Harbour Bridge, and the lush emerald islands of the gulf.

– Auckland City and Volcanoes Helicopter Flight: A 20 minute flight that circles the CBD and the iconic crater of Rangitoto Island. It is an essential experience for photographers and first time visitors wanting to see the city’s volcanic heart.

– Auckland West Coast Scenic Helicopter Flight: This 36 minute journey takes you over the rugged Waitākere Ranges and the famous black sand surf beaches like Bethells. It showcases the dramatic contrast between the city and the wild Tasman Sea.

Skydiving

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, skydiving offers an unmatched perspective of the North Island. On a clear day, you can see from the east coast to the west coast simultaneously while experiencing the thrill of a lifetime.

– Tandem Skydive in Auckland – 16,000ft: This is the highest skydive in Auckland, featuring 75 seconds of freefall at 200kph. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and even the Coromandel Peninsula.

– Tandem Skydive in Auckland – 13,000ft: Experience 45 seconds of exhilarating freefall followed by a serene parachute ride over the rolling green landscapes of the Auckland region.

Scenic Flights

Combine luxury travel with world class destinations. Our scenic flights are designed for those who value both the journey and the destination, offering everything from vineyard lunches to remote wilderness fishing.

– Auckland to Stonyridge Vineyard Scenic Helicopter Transfer: Elevate your lunch plans with a private helicopter transfer to Waiheke Island. Arrive directly at the prestigious Stonyridge Vineyard for a gourmet dining experience.

– Heli Fishing Trip to Great Barrier Island or Coromandel: The ultimate gift for anglers. Fly to a remote, untouched fishing spot where the fish are plentiful, including all equipment and expert guidance.

Scenic Cruises

Auckland’s maritime history is best explored on the water. From relaxing evening cruises to full day explorations of the Far North, our cruises offer a tranquil way to see the region’s best coastal sights.

– Scenic Harbour Nightlights Cruise, Canapes & Drink: Watch the city light up during this 2 hour evening voyage. It’s a sophisticated way to enjoy the Auckland skyline with a drink and fresh canapes in hand.

– Bay of Islands Cruise and Tour from Auckland: A comprehensive full day tour that takes you to the historic Bay of Islands, featuring a cruise through the Hole in the Rock and a visit to island sanctuaries.

Major Auckland Attractions

Tick off the most famous things to do and see in Auckland. These world renowned attractions represent the must see highlights of New Zealand’s culture, cinema history, and natural wonders.

– Hobbiton Movie Set Signature Tour Departing Auckland: Step into the magic of Middle-earth. This guided tour of the 12 acre set includes Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

– Waitomo Glowworm Caves Day Tour with Boat Ride: Experience the magic of thousands of tiny glowworms lighting up the limestone caves like a subterranean galaxy during a silent boat ride.

Sailing

Take part in Auckland’s favourite pastime. Whether you want to be a passenger on a luxury yacht or help the crew trim the sails, our sailing experiences immerse you in the authentic City of Sails lifestyle.

– Auckland Harbour Sailing Yacht Cruise: Enjoy a 1.5 hour afternoon sail on the Waitemata Harbour. It’s a relaxing way to see the Harbour Bridge and city while enjoying coffee and sweet treats.

– Sailing Yacht Cruise on Auckland Harbour with Dinner: A romantic 2.5 hour sunset sail. Enjoy a three course meal served on the deck as the sun dips below the horizon and the city begins to glow.

Driving Experiences

Get behind the wheel of a high performance machine. From the precision of a European supercar to the raw power of a rally car on gravel, these experiences are designed for true petrol heads.

– Drive an Aston Martin V8 Vantage Supercar: Experience the elegance and power of an Aston Martin at Hampton Downs. This package also includes a professional hot lap in a Mitsubishi Evo X.

– 4WD Turbo Evo Rally Drive Experience: Learn to slide through corners on a real forest rally stage. This experience offers 1 on 1 coaching to help you master the art of rally driving.

Getaways

Escape the hustle of the city with a curated stay. Our getaways range from secluded rainforest cabins to high end luxury lodges, providing the perfect setting for rest and rejuvenation.

– Auckland Rainforest Retreat with Massage and Wine: Immerse yourself in the native bush of the Waitākere Ranges. This one night stay includes a massage and breakfast, perfect for nature loving couples.

– 2 Night Luxury Waiheke Island Escape with Breakfast: Stay at the multi-award winning Delamore Lodge. Featuring an infinity pool and breathtaking views, this is the ultimate island luxury experience.

Spa Packages

Indulge in some much needed self-care. These wellness experiences are excellent indoor activities in Auckland, offering modern therapies designed to reduce stress and improve health.

– 60 Minute Float Therapy Session For 2: Achieve deep relaxation in a gravity free environment. Floating in warm salt water helps soothe muscles and quiet the mind.

– Salt Cave Halotherapy Treatment – 45 Minutes: Breathe in pure, dry salt air in a Himalayan salt cave. This natural therapy is fantastic for skin health and respiratory wellness.

Wine Tasting and Tours

Waiheke Island, known as the Island of Wine, is a world class destination for oenophiles. Our tours take you to the most iconic vineyards, where you can sample award winning vintages against a backdrop of rolling hills and blue sea.

– Man O’ War Vineyard & Ferry Package from Auckland: This unique ferry service takes you directly to the beachfront tasting room at Man O’ War, where you can enjoy fine wine right on the water’s edge.

– Waiheke Island Luxurious Double Decker Wine Tour: Tour the island in style. This sommelier led experience visits top tier wineries and includes premium tastings and artisan food boards.

Aquariums and Zoos

Explore the wonders of the southern oceans. These attractions offer educational and interactive encounters with marine life, making them some of the most popular things to do in Auckland with kids.

– Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE Aquarium Entry: Walk through the world’s first curved aquarium tunnel and see sharks, rays, and New Zealand’s only colony of sub-Antarctic penguins.

– Penguin Discovery at Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE Aquarium: A rare opportunity to go out onto the ice and interact with majestic King and Gentoo penguins in their habitat.

Auckland FAQ: Local Guide & Expert Tips

What are the best things to do in Auckland?

The city offers a vast range of Auckland experiences. For breathtaking views, an Auckland city helicopter flight is top rated. For fans of cinema, a Hobbiton tour is a must do. Families consistently rate Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE aquarium as one of the best activities in Auckland.

What are the best things to do in Auckland with kids?

Auckland is very family friendly. Beyond the aquarium, kids love the interactive penguin discovery. For a unique family outing, a pasta making class is both educational and fun.

What are the best romantic things to do in Auckland?

Couples often choose a sailing yacht cruise with dinner for a romantic sunset date. For an anniversary, a luxury Waiheke escape or a private helicopter flight to Stonyridge Vineyard provides an unforgettable experience.

What are some cheap things to do in Auckland?

For high value experiences that don’t break the bank, the Auckland harbour sailing yacht cruise is an excellent way to see the city from the water. A salt cave halotherapy treatment also offers great value for a relaxing hour in the city.

What are some indoor things to do in Auckland?

Auckland has plenty of options for rainy days. Explore the underwater world at Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE aquarium, relax with float therapy, or stay dry while learning to cook.

What are the best volcanic walks and ferry trips?

Climbing Mt Eden is a classic Auckland volcanic walk, but for a more coastal experience, take the Man O’ War Vineyard ferry to discover the more secluded eastern side of Waiheke Island.

What are the best day trips from Auckland?

Some of the best day trips from Auckland are to the west coast, take a scenic helicopter flight to explore the amazing aerial views of the forest and coast. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a weekend away, explore Auckland’s very own rainforest, the Waitākere Ranges on a serene rainforest retreat.

Explore More of New Zealand

Discover world class experiences in other beautiful regions across the North and South Islands:

– Bay of Islands & Waiheke Island.

– Coromandel & Bay of Plenty.

– Rotorua & Taupo.

– Hamilton & Waikato.

– Wellington & Wairarapa.

– Christchurch, Queenstown & Dunedin.