For the active tourist who wants to get out and do things rather than sit in a tourist bus, Auckland, New Zealand’s most populated city, has much to offer.
Most of the following suggestions are either free or low-budget which is great for students or backpackers.
Climb an Auckland Volcano
With approximately 50 extinct volcanoes in the Auckland Volcanic Field, it’s a good idea to find one to climb and check out the view from the top.
Try Mt. Eden or One Tree Hill (which used to have a tree on it but no longer does). Provided seasickness isn’t an issue, it’s also possible to take a day trip on the ferry across to Rangitoto, a volcano near the entrance to the Waitemata Harbour.
Head up the Sky Tower to View the City
If it seems like too much effort to scale volcanoes, there’s another option to see Auckland from above.
Standing 328m tall, the Sky Tower is the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere. With fantastic 360 degree views of the city, a casino, restaurants and bars, it’s a great entertainment spot to visit.
Adrenaline seekers can even jump off the tower. See the websites for Sky Tower, Sky Walk and Sky Jump admission prices.
Visit a Kiwi Beach
Located on an isthmus, Auckland has beaches aplenty. On the North Shore, Takapuna and Devonport beaches are popular swimming spots in the summer time, as is Mission Bay located close to the CBD.
For the more challenging ocean-goers, Piha and Muriwai out west are surf beaches not to be missed. New Zealand surf can be quite rough, so only strong swimmers should plan on heading into deeper water.
Go for a Tramping Adventure in the Waitakere Ranges
West Auckland’s Waitakere Ranges have bushwalks that range from less than 15 minutes to over an hour. See the majestic native forest up close at one of Auckland’s regional parks.
If a slightly different outdoor experience sounds more appealing, take the ferry to Tiritiri Matangi Island, an open bird sanctuary where 12 of New Zealand’s endangered bird species have been re-introduced.
Cheer at a New Zealand Rugby Game
Kiwis are internationally renowned for their country’s rugby union team, the All Blacks. To live like a New Zealander for a day, buy a ticket and sit in the stands to watch the country’s national sport.
While All Blacks games are not so frequent, there are plenty of provincial games that occur during rugby season. Just be sure to wear plenty of layers to the match as the sport is played in winter time. For more information on purchasing game tickets, visit the All Blacks’ website.
Other Places to See in Auckland
Queen Street and Karangahape Road (‘K’ Road)
Located in the CBD, this is where to go for shopping. From large department stores to small boutiques, there will be something for everyone.
Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World and Antarctic Encounter
A large aquarium that’s fun for the whole family. Get a closer look at stingrays, penguins, sharks and many other ocean inhabitants. See website for admission prices.
The Auckland Zoo
While zoos around the world are often fairly similar, the Auckland Zoo has a few inhabitants that are unlikely to be seen elsewhere. Get a glimpse of the native Kiwi bird and a small living dinosaur, the Tuatara.
References and Further Reading
- Aucklandnz.com. “Make Your Own Auckland Adventure” (accessed June 23, 2010).
- AAtravel.co.nz. "What to See & Do in New Zealand" (accessed June 23, 2010).
Ange Norton - I'm a 26-year-old qualified journalist, figure skating coach and Les Mills personal trainer based in Auckland, New Zealand. In my past ...
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