Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau in Māori), the largest city in Aotearoa New Zealand, is packed with things to see and do whether you like to enjoy the city or explore the wild outdoors. It can offer the best of both worlds. As such, it appeals to all kinds of travellers – young or old, adventurous or romantic. Whether you’re in transit, or have a long weekend there, I have the perfect Auckland itinerary for you.
DAY ONE
If you only have one day to spend in Auckland, you can use this itinerary to make the most of the city within this time frame. If this is your first time, you can check off some must-do items on your list.
Free Walking Tour
Going on a free walking tour of the city is one of the best experiences you will have of Auckland. You can go for guided ones or explore on your own. You can even sign up for one in your hotel. Queen Street is one of the best spots to explore during your walking tour. It is the main commercial centre of Auckland with plenty of boutique stores and artisan shops. Therefore, it is your go-to destination if you want to go on a shopping spree, as well as check out cool bars and cafes.
If you don’t fancy a walking tour, you can book a ticket for a „hop-on and hop-off” bus so you can save time and catch as many sights as possible!
For the nature seekers: Day Trip to Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is an iconic destination in Auckland. It is also one of the closest islands from Auckland, which is a short 25-minute ferry ride away. Definitely a great place to head to if you want a quick escape from the city. It is also the ideal destination for a one-day Auckland itinerary. The trip should take you between 3 and 4 hours altogether, including the ferry back to the city.
Once on the island, you have plenty of things to see and do. Explore the lava caves and fields, go for a hike, or go on a guided 4-wheel drive tour. This island is also a great viewing spot for the city of Taamaki Makaurau!
Tickets and ferry timetable HERE
For a bit of adventure: Climb the Sky Tower
No trip to Auckland would be complete without going up its most iconic structure – the Sky Tower. Dominating the city skyline, this is also one of the best viewpoints in the city. The admission is $32 and it includes one drink in the upstairs bar. There are couple of restaurants in the building, so you can check them out for a unique dining experience; it is, too, the perfect place to cap off the night if you go for some drinks.
If you are adventurous enough, you can also bungee jump off it!
For the museum lovers: Stop by the Art Gallery
If you are looking for a cultural destination in your Auckland itinerary, the Art Gallery is it! This is the city’s main public gallery with the most extensive art collection in the country. You can view exhibits featuring works of Māori and Pacific artists, as well as international pieces. To check out special temporary exhibits, you might have to buy a ticket, but all the permanent exhibitions are FREE.
Day two
For a bit of adventure: The Auckland Harbour Bridge
If you have one more day to spend in Auckland, there are plenty more things and attractions to add to your list. The first stop is the Auckland Harbour Bridge – another icon in the city. It is most popular among adventure-seekers for bungee jumping. This exhilarating jump will have you falling down 40 metres off the bridge! If you’re not seeking an adrenaline rush, you can always go for the bridge climb so you can enjoy the magnificent city views.
For the museum lovers: Sea Life Kelly Tarlton Aquarium
If you are looking for a different kind of adventure, you can visit Auckland’s most popular conservation aquarium. This is home to a variety of aquatic exhibits. There is even the chance to swim with sharks – if you are up for it – with the Shark Cage Adventure. While there, be sure to check out the Scott’s Hut, which is a replica of Capt. Robert Falcon Scott’s Antarctic Hut that was used for his exploration in the 1900s.
For the nature seekers: Relax at the park
One Tree Hill, a famous local park in Auckland is a great place to spend your second day in the city if you seek a change of pace. Not only it is green and peaceful, it also holds historical importance because of its link to Māori culture and history.
As the second highest peak in Auckland, it is home to an iconic obelisk that was put up to honor the Māori. In fact, you can also find a bronze statue of a Māori warrior. There is also a garden and restaurants to explore when visiting this park.
If you want to visit a different park for a more unique experience, head to Cornwall Park. It is an oasis in the middle of the city with its lush greenery and off-road trails – a great destination for families and home to over 30 bird species and flora gallore.
And more nature: Swim or stroll down a West Coast Beach
No matter the season – if you’ve never seen a black sand beach, visiting one in Auckland is a must. Why are they called so, you ask? The sand’s really that colour, because of its volcanic origin!
During warmer days, take a dip in the ocean; when it’s colder, grab a windstopper and enjoy the views. There’s plenty of easy hikes and walks around each of the most popular beaches, like Piha or Muriwai.
To choose which one to go to with the limited time, check out my ultimate guide to Auckland’s West Coast beaches HERE.
A little bit of everything: Explore the Viaduct Harbour
Head to the modern harbour-side complex at the end of the Auckland CBD – Viaduct Harbour. You can check out one of the 30+ cafes and restaurants near the harbour so you can soak in the marina views. Due to the location of these restaurants, this is the best spot to enjoy delicious seafood fares.
You can also go here to end your second day in Auckland as it has an assortment of rooftop venues, as well as destinations for ten-pin bowling, cocktail bars, and a mini golf-course.
Day three
Spending one more day in this city? This Auckland itinerary has more things for you to check out and do during your third day.
For the museum lovers: Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum
The Auckland War Memorial Museum is the best place to go if you want to learn about the history of New Zealand’s involvement in World War I and II. The museum was founded in 1929 and is a place to commemorate those who served and lost their lives fighting for New Zealand. Aside from war-related exhibits, there are also those additional exhibits to learn about the natural history and Māori culture in New Zealand.
For the nature seekers: Escape to Waiheke Island
This is the second largest island in New Zealand – next to the Great Barrier Island. It is only 40 minutes away from Auckland, which makes for an ideal day trip destination. There are plenty of things to see and do on the island.
First off, you can visit the Oneroa Beach or leisure swimming, kayaking, boating, and sunbathing. You can also go for a forest walk or ziplining with EcoZip Adventures.
If you love wines, don’t miss out on the chance to visit some of the island’s best wineries. Get the chance to sample the island’s best wine produce and also take home a few bottles with you!
Tickets and ferry timetable HERE
For a bit of adventure: Hike to Mount Eden
If you are seeking the best hikes in Auckland, here’s a short and scenic one: Mount Eden. This dormant volcano serves as the second highest natural point in the city so it is a great viewpoint, too. While there, be sure to check out the Mount Eden Village so you can check out the best eateries and galleries there.
Fancy a longer hike? Check out my guide to Auckland day hikes HERE
A little bit of everything: Check Out The Promenade at Mission Bay
The Promenade at the Mission Bay is one of the best hangout spots in Auckland. There is no better way to end your 3-day trip to Auckland than right here. This waterfront promenade offers a vast selection of restaurants, bars, and shops with a beach right next to it, if you fancy a swim.
Choose from any of the dining spots here and you will be treated to a stunning view of Rangitoto Island. You can enjoy a wide array of dining experiences from authentic Italian to casual fish and chips. While here, make sure to check out the newly restored Trevor Davis Memorial Fountain.
Which of these activities are you looking forward to do on your trip to Auckland? Whether you are spending 1 day or 3 days, this Auckland itinerary guide has everything you need to plan the perfect trip.
Caught in a rain? Check out my guide for Auckland Rainy Day Activities HERE.