Wondering about all the best things to do in Auckland? Take a look at my ultimate hit-list of the most iconic Auckland points of interest that will have you falling in love with this vibrant city in no time!

As a local, I understand visitors frequently want to jet off to Queenstown or Rotorua at the first chance they get – but there is a reason why a third of the country lives here! Often derided by visitors who barely explore beyond their central city hotel, Auckland has relaxed cafes, beautiful beaches, upscale nightlife, rainforests, diverse neighborhoods, and a welcoming atmosphere.

A fusion of different food, art, culture, nature, and people makes Auckland an exceptional destination to explore.  And one that deserves at least a few days of any self-respecting travelers itinerary. Auckland might not be the capital of Aotearoa / New Zealand, but it is definitely the country’s cultural and economic center.

Things can be tough without a car, but the Auckland city center is finally coming of age, making it the perfect base for exploring. Plus the public transport system has gotten a severe overhaul over the last couple of years and is surprisingly usable now!

Hiring a car in Auckland is the only way to see all these 50 things to do in Auckland, but I have tried to highlight those close to — or in the central business district (CBD). Or at least those you can easily reach by bus or ferry!

As one of the world’s most liveable cities, you’d think Auckland has to be plenty of hidden gems here to unearth. And you’d be right! You can climb a volcano, dive into Māori history, explore wild black sand beaches, unwind at gorgeous vineyards, or sip gin from a chic rooftop bar… often all on the same day!

So, let me — a passionate Aucklander born and breed here —show off my impressive city to you…

50 Things To Do In Auckland, New Zealand: Nature, Culture, Food & More! 🇳🇿

Ambury Regional Park

Ambury Farm Regional Park is a fun spot along the coast of the Manukau Harbour in the suburb of Mangere Bridge. A working farm with sheep, cows, pigs, chickens, goats, peacocks, and more — Ambury Farm is perfect for exploring on a summer day with plenty of picnic spots, wide-open spaces, and marked trails covering the history of the area.

One intriguing point of interest is the significant basalt lava flows visible here that resulted from the eruption of the nearby Mangere Volcano (one of the largest volcanic cones in the Auckland volcanic field) around 18,000 years ago.

Māori originally had a large pā (fortified settlements with palisades and defensive terraces) on Mangere Mountain and used what is now Ambury Regional Park for horticulture due to the exceptionally fertile volcanic soil. Look out for the remnants of Māori stone mounds, once used for gardening, or string together a hike with the nearby Otuataua Stonefield gardens archaeological site, New Zealand’s original gardens.

The unusual combination of settlements and gardening located within the volcanic landscape is why Ambury Farm (along with many other sites) is part of a tentative UNESCO World Heritage listing in New Zealand, the ‘Auckland Volcanic Fields.’

Volcanos, cute farm animals, harbor views, and insight into traditional farming methods? Ambury really does have something for everyone.

Auckland Museum

A 25-minute walk from the CBD brings you to the Auckland Museum, where you can unearth the stories of the New Zealand people, flora, fauna, and landforms. Housed in a purpose built, bold neo-classical building, surrounded by the Auckland domain and with sweeping views across the Harbour, the Auckland Museum is an absolute must-see stop.

One of New Zealand’s most important museums and war memorials with exhibits concentrating on New Zealand history (and especially the history of the Auckland Region), natural history, and military history you can learn here.

If you want to see the taxidermy collection of New Zealand’s many weird birds, understand Māori history in Auckland before European arrival, or witness the devastation another eruption in Auckland would have on life today, you can see it all here. Entrance is free for Auckland residents but well worth the admission fee for international visitors. There is also a range of temporary exhibitions — some of which are free.

Oh, and the Museum is also nestled on the tuff ring/ explosion crater Pukekawa volcano, which I think is incredible. The beautiful, and free, Domain Wintergardens are only a few steps away and worthy of a visit in their own right!