The Best Places To Visit and Things To Do in Auckland
Auckland is the ultimate blend of city buzz and natural beauty. One minute you’re sipping coffee in a waterfront café, the next you’re standing on the edge of a volcanic cone with 360-degree views. Wrapped around two harbours, this unique city is dotted with islands, beaches and hidden pockets of pure magic.
In short, there’s a reason locals love it here, and why visitors usually wish they had a few extra days. Here are the best things to do in Auckland, all within an easy distance from your stay at The Chancellor on Hobson.
Start here: Auckland’s big-hit attractions you can’t miss
Sky Tower
You can’t miss it—literally. The Sky Tower stands tall at 328 metres, making it the most iconic feature of Auckland’s skyline. It’s the perfect place to begin your Auckland adventure, offering sweeping views across the city and both harbours.
If you’re feeling brave, you can try the SkyJump or take a guided SkyWalk around the outside (with plenty of secure harnesses, don’t worry). If you prefer something more grounded but still want to be wowed by the sights, there’s a revolving restaurant and café at the top, ideal for a unique sunset drink or meal with a view.
Viaduct Harbour
Just a short stroll from The Chancellor on Hobson, Viaduct Harbour is one of Auckland’s most vibrant precincts. It’s the heart of waterfront dining, with seafood restaurants, cocktail bars and sleek cafés lining the marina.
Yachts bob in the harbour, live music often spills from open doors, and the whole place hums with energy. It’s also the gateway to harbour cruises and ferry trips.
Some of our top Viaduct restaurant picks include:
- Saint Alice: Breezy and relaxed al-fresco dining with great views, live entertainment and delicious wood-fired pizzas.
- White + Wong’s: Pan-Asian fusions, bespoke cocktails and craft beer.
- Dr Rudi’s Rooftop Brewing Co.: A classic European beer-hall-style venue with elevated pub food like pizza and share plates.
- Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina: A Cali-Mexican fiesta with some of the best tacos, burgers and margaritas in the city.
- The Shucker Brothers: Oyster bar championing fresh, simple seafood and great wine.
Auckland Bridge Climb & Bungy
Image credit: Tourism NZ & AJ Hackett Bungy NZ
Looking for a unique way to see Auckland? Try climbing it—or jumping off it. The landmark Auckland Harbour Bridge is home to two unforgettable things to do in Auckland that combine big views with big thrills.
The Bridge Climb is a guided walk along purpose-built pathways to the top of the bridge, where you’ll score 360-degree views of the city, harbour and beyond. Your guide shares fun facts and local stories along the way, so it’s part sightseeing, part history lesson, all with a side of fresh harbour breeze.
Feeling brave? Go for the Bridge Bungy, New Zealand’s only ocean-touch bungy jump. You’ll leap 40 metres from a platform suspended under the bridge, with the option to dip into the water on your way down. It’s a rush you won’t forget.
All Blacks Experience at SkyCity
For sports fans (or anyone who loves a spectacle), few experiences rival this interactive journey into the world of New Zealand’s beloved national rugby team. Located in the SkyCity complex, the All Blacks Experience offers a powerful insight into the culture and legacy of one of the world’s most successful teams.
Highlights include a virtual haka, high-energy simulations, a guided tour and a deep dive into the team’s history. It’s immersive and inspiring, even if you’re not usually into rugby. A must-visit for anyone interested in Kiwi culture and identity.
Auckland’s best beaches and coastal trails
Mission Bay
Wondering what to do in Auckland during warm weather? Head a little ways out of the city to explore beautiful Mission Bay, Auckland’s go-to beach favourited by locals and visitors alike. The beach itself is calm and golden, perfect for swimming or sunbathing, with views out to volcanic Rangitoto Island.
Along the promenade, you’ll find cafés and casual eateries for a bite after your swim. The vibe is relaxed and family-friendly, and great for people-watching. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, when the light hits the water and the city skyline starts to glow.
Takapuna Beach
Hop over the Harbour Bridge to Auckland’s North Shore and you’ll find Takapuna, a beach town with a cosmopolitan edge. The beach here is long, clean and safe for swimming, with uninterrupted views of Rangitoto.
There’s a lively shopping and dining scene just steps from the sand, so you can grab a coffee, browse boutiques and enjoy a beachfront brunch. On weekends, markets pop up with local crafts and produce. It’s a great mix of laid-back beach life and urban energy.
Piha Beach
If you’re craving wild beauty and dramatic scenery, Piha Beach is worth the 45-minute drive from central Auckland. Famous for its black sand and powerful surf, it’s a favourite with photographers, surfers and hikers.
Lion Rock, a massive natural formation, rises from the beach and offers a short but rewarding climb with panoramic views. The beach feels rugged and untouched, with crashing waves and a sense of isolation that’s hard to find in the city.
Our tip: Wear hiking or running shoes if you plan to explore, as some of the tracks can be steep (but stunning).
Te Henga Walkway
The Te Henga Walkway, also known as the Bethells Beach track, offers some of the most spectacular coastal views near Auckland—and with plenty of them, that’s saying something. The trail winds along sea cliffs and through native bush, with grassy headlands opening up to reveal dramatic ocean vistas.
It’s part of the larger Hillary Trail and can be tackled in sections if you prefer a shorter stroll, or if you’re travelling with kids. You’ll likely spot seabirds and, if you’re lucky, dolphins or orcas off the coast. Pack water and snacks, and wear sturdy shoes—it’s well worth the effort.
Coast to Coast Walkway
For those wanting to explore more of Auckland on foot but without the intensity of some of the hikes, the Coast to Coast Walkway is a fantastic (and free) sightseeing experience.
Stretching 16km from the Waitematā Harbour in the north to the Manukau Harbour in the south, this urban trail takes you through city streets, lush parks, and even over volcanic cones.
You’ll see everything from stately homes and university campuses to Māori pā sites and panoramic views atop Mount Eden. It’s a brilliant way to understand the geography and history of the city in a single day, and discover little gems as you walk.
Mount Eden (Maungawhau)
One of Auckland’s many volcanic cones, Mount Eden offers more than just a scenic view. At the summit, you’ll find a large crater formed thousands of years ago, which is now covered in grass and surrounded by walking tracks.
It’s a spiritual site for Māori and provides a 360-degree panorama of the city and both harbours. The walk up is short but steep, and well worth it. Come at sunrise or sunset for extra magic.
Cultural thrills: What to do in Auckland’s galleries and museums
Image credit: Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
Auckland War Memorial Museum
Set within the Auckland Domain parklands, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is one of New Zealand’s most important cultural institutions. The building itself is striking, with neoclassical columns and views over the harbour. This architecture alone is enough to warrant a visit.
Inside, you’ll find powerful exhibitions on Māori and Pacific Island culture, natural history, and the country’s involvement in global conflicts.
Don’t miss the moving daily Māori cultural performance. It’s an enriching stop for any visitor wanting to connect more deeply with Aotearoa’s heritage.
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
Art lovers will be drawn to Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, one of the city’s most elegant and culturally rich venues that’s usually a must-visit on travel itineraries. It’s the largest art institution in New Zealand with a collection of over 15,000 works spanning local and international artists.
Exhibitions range from contemporary installations to classic paintings and sculptures. It’s centrally located, so easy to pop in for an hour or two.
Our tip: Admission is free for the main exhibits, making it a perfect cultural detour on a city stroll. Be sure to check out upcoming exhibitions during your stay, tickets for which can be purchased on the gallery’s website or, usually, on-site when you arrive.
Wētā Workshop Unleashed
This is one of the most unique things to do in Auckland right now. Located at SkyCity, Wētā Workshop Unleashed is part film set, part fantasy world, and part behind-the-scenes magic. Movie buffs, curious minds and especially kids will love this interactive experience from the special effects geniuses behind The Lord of the Rings, Avatar, and more.
Immersive walk-throughs showcase innovative (and seemingly alive!) robotic creatures and art pieces that you might recognise from famous films, giving you a rare glimpse into how creatures, props and movie magic come to life.
It’s a wonderfully imaginative stop that’s perfect for families or anyone who loves storytelling and design. The workshop is popular for good reason, so book ahead via their website.
Hungry yet? Tuck into these top Auckland restaurants
Depot Eatery
An eight-minute stroll from The Chancellor on Hobson, Depot Eatery is a relaxed, always-buzzing spot known for its moreishly good small plates and fresh New Zealand seafood. The menu is seasonal and regularly changes, but always features local produce and bold flavours.
The oysters are a must-try, as is the braised lamb shoulder. Depot really caters to all diners at all times, with breakfast options (the beignets are to die for), a raw bar, small share plates, big plates, sides and even a dedicated charcuterie menu.
Sit at the bar for a front-row seat to the open kitchen while you sip a Pinot Gris and share a plate of wood-fired NZ green-lip mussels. No reservations here—arrive early or be prepared to wait (but we promise it’s worth it).
Amano
Amano is as beautiful as it is delicious. This Britomart staple focuses on seasonal, Italian-inspired dishes served in an industrial-chic setting.
House-made pasta is a highlight, as is the warm sourdough with whipped butter. Other menu musts include:
- Stracciatella with feijoa, elderflower and mint
- Pan-roasted blue moki with chickpea, tomato and chipotle
- Auckland Islands scampi chitarra pasta
- Chargrilled lamb with courgette, yoghurt and currants
The bakery next door is also perfect for coffee and pastries on the go. It’s a favourite for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and the service is consistently excellent.
Cassia
If you’re craving something a little different, Cassia offers modern Indian cuisine with a refined twist. Located inside SkyCity (less than a ten-minute walk from our hotel), the interior is moody and elegant, and the menu is creative without being fussy.
Chef Sid Sahrawat marries traditional Indian dishes from his childhood with fresh, local New Zealand ingredients. Think tandoori fish with spring onion, mustard and yoghurt, and spiced duck leg with mappas sauce and star anise.
This multi-award-winning restaurant is a great choice for a special night out or a romantic dinner. The wine list also features standout local and international options.
Festivals and events in Auckland to fill your calendar
Image credit: BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival
Lantern Festival
Annual festival, usually held during February
Celebrating Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival lights up Auckland with hundreds of glowing lanterns—but not your average lanterns. This renowned festival goes a hundred steps further with great artistic creations, like giant illuminated goldfish and metres-long glittering dragons.
Over 500 of these gorgeous handmade lanterns are displayed across four days. The festival commissions a special lantern to commemorate each year’s Chinese animal; 2025 was the Year of the Snake, and the featured lantern was slitheringly striking.
You’ll also enjoy food stalls with authentic Chinese cuisine (dumplings galore) and dazzling cultural performances—there are even calligraphy booths to try your hand at. Traditionally held in the Domain, it’s a vibrant, family-friendly event with something for everyone.
Auckland Arts Festival
Annual festival, usually held during March
The Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival has dubbed itself ‘THE festival’ of Auckland, and it’s an accurate title. This passionate and deeply cultural event brings together a diverse range of performances for three weeks of joyful arts celebration, making it one of the best things to do in Auckland for every traveller.
Catch immersive theatre and live music alongside stunning dance shows and multimedia installations. There’s also plenty for kids to fall in love with, like the 2025 giant bubble immersion and face painting session. It’s a chance to see both local and international talent in venues across the city.
The program often includes free public events and ticketed shows, making it accessible to all. The atmosphere is electric, and creative energy fills the city. If you’re visiting in early autumn, don’t miss this ultimate arts festival.
Pasifika Festival
Annual festival, usually held during March
This joyful celebration of Pacific Island cultures brings together communities from across the region. Held in March, the beloved Pasifika Festival features a diverse line-up of exciting activities and events.
Past festivals have featured:
- Inspiring Cook Islands dance, music and drumming performances by the Anuanua Performing Arts Troupe (APAT).
- Performances by Vaniah Toloa, a celebrated Pacific pop and gospel singer-songwriter.
- Live mural painting and wood carving with celebrated artists.
- Interactive author workshops.
There are also over 100 stalls dotted around the festival featuring delicious, authentic food and boutique craft stalls. Each island nation has its own village setup, offering an immersive cultural experience. It’s a celebration of diversity, identity, and connection. Pasifika is perfect for all ages and backgrounds.
Festival of Live Art (F.O.L.A.)
Annual festival, usually held during June
If you’re in Auckland this June and craving something a little different, check out the Festival of Live Art (F.O.L.A.), this year running from June 11–14. This isn’t your typical arts festival—it’s a bold celebration of the weird, the wonderful, and the totally unexpected.
You’ll find everything from immersive installations to avant-garde performances popping up around the city, with many events happening at local favourite Basement Theatre. It’s experimentally edgy and a whole lot of fun, perfect for those who like their culture with a twist.
Off the beaten track: Auckland’s little-known attractions
Image credit: Auckland Council
Tawharanui Regional Park
Just over an hour north of Auckland, Tawharanui is a breathtaking blend of beach and bush. It’s a predator-free sanctuary, so native species thrive here, including the elusive kiwi.
The coastal tracks and secluded bays make it a fantastic day trip for those wondering what to do in Auckland away from the crowds. Pack a picnic and stay for the sunset for a truly magical experience. Plus, it’s much quieter than the better-known regional parks.
Matakana Village Farmers’ Market
Held every Saturday morning, Matakana Village Farmers’ Market is a gem for foodies and craft lovers. Located about an hour from the CBD, it’s worth the drive for its artisan breads, organic produce, excellent coffee, handmade soaps and gifts, live music...we could go on.
The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and there are plenty of options for breakfast or brunch on-site. Afterwards, explore the nearby vineyards and beaches. It’s the perfect Saturday escape.
Silo Park
A creative redevelopment of former industrial space, Silo Park is now a cultural hub on Auckland’s waterfront. Expect art installations, outdoor movies, food truck nights and pop-up events throughout the year.
It’s popular with locals and has a laid-back community vibe that perfectly encapsulates Auckland. Sit by the water with fish and chips and stick around to catch a live DJ set as the sun goes down.
Kitekite Falls
Just inland from Piha Beach, Kitekite Falls is an easy bush walk leading to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall. The track winds through lush rainforest and is suitable for most fitness levels.
At the base of the falls, there’s a clear swimming hole that's perfect for summertime dips. It’s a peaceful, scenic outing that feels miles away from city life. Don’t forget your camera.
Tiritiri Matangi Island
Accessible by ferry from downtown Auckland, Tiritiri Matangi is a haven for native birds and plant life. The island is a conservation success story, carefully restored by volunteers and home to endangered species like the takahe and stitchbird.
Walking tracks loop through the forest and along the coastline, with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the view. It’s quiet, pristine and full of life, a great way to connect with New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Your perfect Auckland stay starts here
With so many unforgettable things to do in Auckland, having a central, comfortable base makes exploring easy. The Chancellor on Hobson puts you right in the heart of the city, just moments from the Sky Tower, Viaduct Harbour, shopping, dining and cultural highlights.
After a day of adventure, come home to spacious suites with kitchen facilities, a heated pool and spa, and warm, welcoming service. And if you’re ever stuck on what to do in Auckland during your stay, just ask our friendly concierge team. Discover our special offers and book your stay today.