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Destinations > Oceania > New Zealand > Our Favorite Places Around Auckland

A cosmopolitan city with a population from diverse ethnic backgrounds, Auckland was originally a Māori settlement. Perhaps because of the surrounding fertile fields or its strategic location on the coast, the area around the city has been central to conflict both before European settlers came and during the colonial period. The city is a center of commerce and tourism, and has been named one of the most livable cities in the world, despite the high cost of living and the proximity to an active volcano.

The most iconic feature of the city is the Auckland Sky Tower; in contrast the natural haven of the Waitakere Ranges - including Piha Beach - to the west is arguably the most beautiful area around the city while the Coromandel Peninsula a bit farther to the east is the most picturesque and active area.

If you’re unfamiliar with the customs and culture of New Zealand, you can easily prepare yourself with this short read and multiply your understanding, and love, for this great country while you visit. It’ll certainly connect your experiences to New Zealand in a more profound way!

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Ferns, a stream, and other trees at Kell Park in Albany, New Zealand

Where to Stay in Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is quite large. If you are a city person who is comfortable getting around using public transportation, then we recommend staying somewhere in the city center near the Auckland Domain. However, if you plan to get a car, we highly recommend staying north of the city, possibly near the coastline.

Auckland Domain

One of the oldest and largest parks in the city, Auckland Domain is situated over the crater and tuff ring of the Pukekawa volcano. Established in 1843, the park has seen many changes and developments over the years. In the 1880s the park was set aside as a public reserve and the protected plants there eventually developed into the Auckland’s botanical gardens.

The park offers paths for exercise and nature walks. Nature lovers will also want to check out the Wintergardens and the fernery - a truly beautiful, albeit short stop while at Auckland Domain.

War Memorial Museum & Māori Galleries

The sports fields in the crater of the Domain were camps for troops during World War II and the War Memorial Museum on the rim of the crater honors their contributions the war. While it is a tribute to fallen soldiers, collections also focus on New Zealand history and natural history - including an earthquake simulation room - as well as the expected military history.

Over 1000 Māori treasures (called “taonga”) are displayed in the Māori Court and Māori Natural History Gallery in the War Memorial Museum as well.

“These taonga are the ancestral representations of all the major tribes of Aotearoa. The taonga provide descendants with tangible links to their ancestral landscapes, their history and the people that came before them. They embody spiritual power measured in terms of mana (ancestral authority), tapu (restriction from everyday being) and kōrero (associated narratives), and these taonga continue to be viewed as key symbols of tribal identity by Māori today.” - Auckland Museum

Additionally, you can find a hands-on discovery space for kids!

Ticket prices are tiered and a bit expensive for international visitors, but the incredible exhibits are worth the price of admission.

Auckland night market pakuranga ice cream real fruit — Ice Cream at an Auckland Night Market

Auckland Night Markets

Since the first one in Pakuranga in 2010, Auckland Night Market events have expanded in frequency and location, and become a regular feature of the city’s entertainment scene. The markets themselves are free, but there’s a lot of tempting food and other wares that will threaten your pocketbook. The events are held in covered locations, so you won’t have to worry about the weather to enjoy the tempting treats and live entertainment performances.

Some group tours bring you through these markets and to some of the best places to take photos of the city. Other authentic New Zealand food tours will bring you around the city to try local artisan wines or beers, world class New Zealand ice creams, and other sweet offerings from Auckland's finest food purveyors for the ultimate “taste of New Zealand.”

Albany kell park Gill scenic reserve park North Auckland — Gill’s Scenic Reserve Waterfall, Albany, Auckland, New Zealand

Albany’s Kell Park & Gill’s Scenic Reserve

If you’re looking for some local active outdoor adventures, the Albany area of north Auckland is a great place to check out. In addition to being the start of some excellent scenic bush walks and the Landing Reserve, Kell Park also has playground facilities and public toilets.

Gill's Scenic Reserve sits across the road from Kell Park and has beginner-friendly paths that take walkers through groves of coastal broadleaf trees and past a waterfall in Lucas Creek that divides the fresh water from the estuary.

Both of these areas are local parks around Albany and thus aren’t very large. Alternatively, you can check out the natural haven of Waitakere Ranges National Park or Piha Beach to the west for something a bit more epic and away from the city.

Waitakere Ranges

Just west of Auckland proper, only about a 45-minute drive from downtown, are the Waitakere Ranges. This regional park is home to lush rainforest, black sand beaches, and incredible waterfalls. The park is laced with over 250 kilometers of walking trails for visitors to enjoy the scenery up close. The trails vary in difficulty, so regardless of whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging trek, there’s a path for you. One of the popular and shorter walks is along the Kitekite trail, which will take you past streams, pools, and waterfalls.

Piha Beach

Near the Kitekite falls, Piha Beach is popular with locals and tourists alike. The black sand beach is bracketed on either end by rugged cliffs, adding to its drama. Despite somewhat dangerous currents, it’s a popular swimming and surfing site, with lifesaver patrols in the summer and clearly marked swimming areas. You can challenge yourself and the waves with a surf lesson or relax on the beach with a picnic – both are great ways to appreciate the epic natural beauty of the spot.

A Kiwi Bird, War Memorial Museum & Māori Galleries

Must See Places in Auckland

With the selection here, we’ve just gotten started on the wonders of New Zealand. The unique landscapes and wildlife truly make it like no place else on Earth. The natural beauty and rich cultural history will leave you wanting more of this magical country.

However, if you only have a short amount of time in Auckland, we would highly recommend having these highlights on your trip:

In Auckland, visit the Auckland Domain and explore the Māori Galleries at the War Memorial Museum.
Then, check out the natural haven of Waitakere Ranges National Park and Piha Beach for something a bit more epic and away from the city.

We know that if you can fit those places in, you’ll have really loved your time around Auckland and that it will be a trip that you’ll remember forever!

Continue onward with your adventure across New Zealand:

Waikato and the Bay of Plenty: Hobbiton, Glowworm Caves, and Rotorua

Please feel free to share this article with friends that will be joining you or others who you know would love to go!

FAQ’s

What are the transportation options available for traveling between Auckland and Rotorua?

Travelers can choose from several transportation options. The most common are renting a car, which offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic routes, or taking intercity buses, which are a cost-effective and convenient alternative. Domestic flights between Auckland and Rotorua are also available for those looking to save time.

Can visitors experience Maori culture in Rotorua, and if so, how?

Rotorua is renowned for its rich Maori cultural experiences. Visitors can engage with Maori culture at places like Te Puia, where they can witness traditional carving and weaving schools, enjoy cultural performances, and explore the Whakarewarewa geothermal valley.

What are some of the geothermal attractions in Rotorua that tourists should not miss?

Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland. Key attractions include the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, known for its colorful hot springs and the Lady Knox Geyser, and the Hell's Gate Geothermal Park, offering mud baths and a unique spa experience. The Pohutu Geyser at Te Puia is also a must-see, as it erupts several times a day.

(1) Our Favorite Places Around Auckland - North Island of New Zealand. https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/highlights-of-auckland-rotorua-new-zealand.

(2) Waikato and the Bay of Plenty: Hobbiton, Glowworm Caves, and Rotorua .... https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/waikato-and-the-bay-of-plenty-hobbiton-glowworm-caves-and-rotorua-new-zealand.

(3) New Zealand on Less than $44 per day - REmotiFIRE by EatWanderExplore. https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/living-in-new-zealand-on-less-than-44-per-day-tips-and-tricks.

(4) 20 Amazing Things to Do in Rotorua, New Zealand. https://www.earthtrekkers.com/things-to-do-in-rotorua/.

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Carols in the Park, Albany Lakes Civic Park, Westfield Albany Mall, Auckland, New Zealand

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