Known as "the City of Sails", Auckland lies on an isthmus, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Tasman Sea on the other. The city has a very pleasant, temperate climate with no extreme weather conditions in either summer or winter. This makes it an extremely popular tourist destination with lots to see and experience in and around the Auckland region.
Things to do in and around Auckland
- Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb. Enjoy the sights of Auckland City on this 90 minute tour, as you cross the walkways above the motorway, lead by a local guide. Suitable for all fitness levels, this unique experience will highlight spectacular 360 degree views of the city, the North Shore and the harbour with its many yachts.
- Auckland Sky Tower. At 328 metres, the Sky Tower is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand and offers breathtaking views of all parts of Auckland and its surroundings, up to 80 kilometres away on a good day. Visit one of the three spectacular viewing platforms after riding up in the glass fronted lifts. You can also dine at Auckland's only 360 degree revolving restaurant, SkyWalk round the pergola at 192 metres up or SkyJump off the Tower.
- Auckland Explorer Bus. This is a "Hop-on Hop-off" sightseeing tour with a full audio commentary which visits top attractions of Auckland including the waterfront, Kelly Tarlton's Underwater and Antarctic world, Parnell Village, the Museum, Mount Eden, the Zoo, Sky Tower, and others. Valid as a one or two days option, this tour can take a few hours or all day. It is totally up to you where you go or where you get off.
- Auckland Harbour Lunch Cruise. Sail around the Waitemata Harbour, aboard a 50 foot yacht for a 1.5 hour cruise, enjoying Auckland's skyline and sights, while enjoying a freshly made picnic box lunch. Listen to an interesting commentary on the history of the area, the Americas Cup bases and all the sights of Auckland.
- Auckland Harbour Bridge Bungy Jump. Enjoy the experience of a 40 metre bungy jump off Auckland's famous landmark. This involves a bridge walk to the "Bungy Pod" before jumping from the purpose-built jump pod, suspended over the Waitemata Harbour. There's a variety of Bungy options available with the optional 'water touch' being the favorite.
- Auckland War Memorial Museum. This is one of New Zealand's most outstanding historical buildings, located in the Domain, a central city park. You will see exhibitions of the cultures of the peoples of the Pacific, the monumental carvings, buildings, canoes and treasures of the Maori.The Museum is a star attraction for adults and children alike.
- Auckland Zoo. Located 10-15 minutes from the central city, this attraction has New Zealand's largest collection of animals, and is a winner of national and international environmental-related awards. From Pridelands to the Rainforest, from the Hippo River to the Tiger Territory, it has everything to keep the whole family entertained.
Auckland offers a great variety of attractions to visit before touring the rest of the country by car, bus or train. Travel to Wellington, the nation's capital, before heading down to the South Island with its unique main cities, and beautiful mountains and lakes.
Anne Dubois - Anne is a mother of one son, living in Auckland, New Zealand. She has worked in the natural health industry for nearly 10 years and has ...
