Adventures don’t just come in small quaint villages. Sometimes a large city can offer just as authentic experiences as small destinations; Auckland, New Zealand. It is a prime example of that. New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, offers a ton of unique things to experience on your trip to this coastal megacity. Based around three gorgeous harbors, it’s known as the City of Sails for the large amount of yachts and sailboats anchoring offshore…. Making for quite the beautiful backdrop to a sunset.
What’s so unique about Auckland is its seamless mix of big city and natural beauty, something that is rare to find together. Yes, it has its large buildings and mainstream brand stores, but it’s also surrounded by incredible beauty and nature. Thanks to a very pro-pedestrian and pro-bike community, the area is easy and accessible to enjoy! If you’re planning a trip to this fun coastal city, make sure you check out some of these unique and memorable experiences:
Get the best views of the city from Mount Eden
Whether you’re feeling athletic and want to walk to the top of Mt Eden, or take the quicker route of driving, don’t miss Mount Eden for the amazing views of the city. You can walk to Mount Eden from downtown Auckland through the suburbs of Auckland City which brings you through quaint neighborhoods full of local restaurants, cafes and coffee houses….which makes the walk a bit easier!
Mount Eden view
Learn about the history of New Zealand
To learn about the history and culture of somewhere is a great way to start your connection with a location. Visit the Auckland Museum to learn about the history of New Zealand and its original settlers, the Maori culture.
Take a free walking tour of the city
The city of Auckland offers free, yup you read that right, free walking tours of the streets of downtown to learn about the history, art, culture and food of Auckland. The walks leave daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. from the Queens Wharf Village and last approximately 2 – 2.5 hours. You don’t even have to book ahead, you can just show up and experience a local guide through this awesome city.
Sip and see at Waiheke Island
Just a short 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland will give all wine-lovers a reason to rejoice. It has everything you’d want for a little getaway: beaches, wine and nature! Whether you want to experience some fabulous vineyards, sit on the beach, or go on a humbling eco-tour, Waiheke Island is a perfect adventure.
Get high in the sky at the Sky Tower
Go explore the highest building in the Southern Hemisphere at 220 m high. It provides incredible views from the observation deck of the city where you can enjoy the views or head to the café for a meal in the clouds. Or if you’re a more adventurous type, there are a few other options that may suit you. Walk around a narrow pathway around the tower on the Skywalk or take a jump or leap into an extreme zip-lining course from the Sky Jump; either way you experience the Sky Tower it’s definitely worth visiting.
Auckland is more than just a big city, it’s a cultural melting pot of flavors and unique experiences. Whether you’re interested in city exploration, museums, cultural experiences, wine, or nature adventures, Auckland has something to satisfy all wanderlust souls!
Thank you for reading.