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12 things to do in Auckland in 2020

Wondering what to do during your Auckland getaway? We've got you covered with ideas to suit every traveller.

Courtney Edwards
Courtney Edwards

&

Stephanie Yip
Stephanie Yip

Updated . What changed?

Fact checked
New Zealand, North Island, Auckland, Wellesley Street East with Auckland University of Technology and University of Auckland, dominated by the 328 metre Sky Tower, the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere (New Zealand, North Isla

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Auckland has activities that cater to any kind of trip. Whether you'd prefer to relax by the water, see the city by foot, from the sky or on the harbour, we're sharing with you the best things to do in the City of Sails that will spark your curiosity and satisfy your thrill-seeking side.

What's in this guide?

  1. Top things to do in Auckland
  2. Things to do in Auckland with kids
  3. Things to do in Auckland at night
  4. Top day trips you can take from Auckland
  5. Free things to do in Auckland
  6. See the latest Auckland activity deals

Top things to do in Auckland

1. Bungy jump from the Auckland Harbour Bridge

What is a trip to New Zealand without a thrill-seeking adventure? Choose from a range of jump styles including ankle tie or harness jump to sail through the air before briefly skimming the ocean water when you reach the bottom.

Don't forget to keep your eyes open so you can enjoy the views of Waitemata Harbour.

Our top pick:

2. Explore Auckland city

There are plenty of ways to see Auckland. Whether you've just arrived and want to get your bearings, you want to know where the best local spots are or you want to soak up as much history as possible, a city tour is a great way to spend a sunny day in Auckland. If you want to make a day of it, book a tour that includes a cruise along the Waitemata Harbour.

Pocket-friendly option:

Ultimate experience:

3. Climb the Auckland Harbour Bridge

Take in incredible views of the City of Sails with a guided tour from atop the Auckland Harbour Bridge. As it's the only bridge you can climb in New Zealand to see impeccable views, you don't want to miss this experience that mixes adventure and history when you're visiting Auckland. If you're not a fan of heights but you're curious about the history, opt for a day tour that will make a stop by the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Pocket-friendly option:

Ultimate experience:

Things to do in Auckland with kids

4. See marine life with a dolphin and whale watching experience

Set your sights on pods of dolphins and whales on a cruise the whole family will enjoy. There is expert commentary on board, so you and your little ones can learn all about marine life in Auckland. If you're lucky, you may even spot more than just dolphins and whales on your cruise.

Pocket-friendly option:

Ultimate experience:

5. Go museum hopping

Auckland is home to a diverse range of museums. You're likely to stumble across museums like Auckland War Memorial Museum, New Zealand Maritime Museum and the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOMAT) during your time in the city. Prepare ahead and book to get a glimpse of New Zealand's history.

Pocket-friendly option:

Ultimate experience:

Things to do in Auckland at night

6. Soar to great heights for dinner at Orbit 360° Dining

After a day of exploring Auckland's best sites, make your way to Orbit 360° for a dinner with a view. Located at the top of Auckland's Sky Tower, the dining room rotates once every hour so you can appreciate views overlooking the city and Hauraki Gulf.

Our top pick:

7. Cruise along Auckland Harbour

While you enjoy a three-course dinner along Auckland Harbour, take in the views of the city's illuminated skyline. It's the perfect way to wind down from a day of sightseeing in the City of Sails.

Top pick:

Top day trips you can take from Auckland

8. Relive The Lord of the Rings movies in Hobbiton

If you're a The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit fan, you won't want to miss out on a trip to the famous film set of Hobbiton. While this can be seen on your own, the best way to do it is by booking yourself a spot in a set tour.

During these tours, your guide will share stories from behind the scenes and facts about the creation of the sets.

Pocket-friendly option:

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9. Get a taste of local wine on Waiheke Island

Board the ferry at Auckland Ferry Terminal and admire the views as you make your way to Waiheke Island. When you arrive, you'll be greeted by a guide who will take you around to different vineyards to try local wines and produce. Want to add some adventure into the mix? Book a tour that will take you to the EcoZip Adventures site to enjoy an adrenaline-filled zip-lining experience in the forest before making your way to multiple vineyards on the island.

Pocket-friendly option:

Ultimate experience:

10. Discover the natural beauty of Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is one of the North Island's most iconic locations and is only a short ferry ride from Auckland. Booking a day trip will ensure you experience the must-see spots including hiking to the mountain summit, exploring picturesque beaches and exploring the lava fields.

Our top pick:

Free things to do in Auckland

botanic

11. Stroll through Auckland Botanic Gardens

There are 64 hectares of gardens to explore at Auckland Botanic Gardens. With a wide variety of flowers, plants and trees to admire and its close proximity to both the city centre and airport, it's well worth a visit.

Mauka Falls, New Zealand

12. Chase waterfalls

There are plenty of waterfalls around Auckland for you to explore. Turn your waterfall adventure into a day trip by exploring nearby hiking spots along the way. We recommend visiting Mauku Waterfall and Oakley Creek Falls.

See the latest Auckland activity deals

Klook Klook

Up to 10% off Auckland activities

Available on select dates from May - November 2020. Activities include skydiving, cruises, tours and more. T&Cs apply.

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Viator Viator

Things to do in New Zealand from $9.46

Available on select dates in 2020 and 2021 in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, Wellington and more. Activities include day tours, flight experiences, transfers, bike hires, attraction passes and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
Contiki Contiki

Up to 20% off New Zealand trips

Available on selected trips departing from 14 November 2020 - 6 March 2021 to Christchurch, Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Deal ends

TourRadar TourRadar

Up to 50% off advance purchase

Available on select dates in 2020 and 2021 when you book 90 days in advance. Destinations include Maldives, Lisbon, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and more.

Last verified

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AAT Kings AAT Kings

Up to 10% off + $99 deposit on early bookings

Available on select tours from 1 April 2021 - 31 March 2022. Destinations include Uluru, Perth, Darwin, Hobart, Auckland and more. Plus $99 deposit valid on tours fro 1 April - 31 October 2021. T&Cs apply.

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Deal ends

Destination International Destination International

14-day New Zealand getaway from $4,799 with flights

Available on select dates from February - November 2021. Package includes return flights, accommodation, Queenstown Skyline Gondola with dinner, transfers and more. T&Cs apply.

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Deal ends

Destination International Destination International

8-day New Zealand getaway with flights from $2,299

Available for travel on select dates from 1 February - 30 November 2021. Package includes return economy flights, accommodation, transfers, tours, car rental and more. T&Cs apply.

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Deal ends

G Adventures G Adventures

Up to 15% off Australia and New Zealand tours

Available on select dates in 2020 and 2021. Destinations include Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne, Cairns, Wellington, Auckland, Queenstown and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Deal ends

Trafalgar Tours Trafalgar Tours

Up to 5% off family tours

Available on select travel dates in 2020 and 2021 when you book for 5 people or more. Destinations include Australia, New Zealand, Europe, South Africa and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

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