Auckland Travel & Vacation Guide

Nestled beneath the hilltop Albert Park in central Auckland, the Auckland Art Gallery, or Toi o Tāmaki, is a focal point of art and culture. Established in 1888, it proudly stands as New Zealand’s first permanent art gallery. Housing the country's most extensive collection of national and international art, it frequently hosts internationally travelling exhibitions. The grandeur of the building, characterised by towering Kauri columns and a magnificent canopy, is an experience in itself. Regular tours, family-friendly events, yoga sessions, drawing classes and a hidden theatre showing arthouse films further enrich your visit.

Situated in Auckland's Manurewa suburb, Auckland Botanic Gardens is a 64-hectare oasis housing over 10,000 plants. Wander through the themed gardens, pause at seating spots, or enjoy the local birdlife. Don't miss the aromatic rose garden, a standout among the many unique areas. Free to enter, this peaceful retreat is a must-visit while in Auckland.

Auckland is home to the world’s first harbour bridge bungy jump, operated by the bungy originals — the AJ Hackett Bungy. Jumpers leap over the Waitemata Harbour and are offered the experience of a lifetime! The bridge is 40 metres high and if you really want it to be even more thrilling, opt for a water-touch and enjoy a nice ocean dip!

Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb is a 1½ hour climb under, in, through and over Auckland’s iconic harbour bridge. Accompanied by a climb leader, this activity offers unique 360 degree views of the Hauraki Gulf, Viaduct Harbour and cityscapes. Full commentary covers the history, geology, geography and culture of Auckland, as well as some colourful secrets.

Set in one of the country’s finest heritage buildings, the museum has a wonderful display of over 2000 priceless Maori and Pacific treasures and artefacts, showing its culture and history. There is also a war memorial for the Auckland province, mainly to those who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars. Auckland Museum is the only venue in Auckland where visitors can also experience a Maori cultural performance daily. (3 times a day and last for 30 minutes.)

This beautifully landscaped zoo is home to 138 different species and over 875 animals and it as the largest collection of native and exotic animals in New Zealand. The zoo is conveniently located just minutes from central city and truly has a lot to see including events, animal encounters, behind-the-scenes experiences and more.

This tropical butterfly bastion shows off a variety of 800 free-flying tropical butterflies on luscious grounds with waterfalls, ponds, flourishing foliage, turtles, fish and exotic birds. Ride the miniature Red Admiral Express train through the grounds and stop at the Buttermilk Farm petting zoo.

The park is wrapped around One Tree Hill and its obelisk monument, which was erected in memory of the donor of the park Sir John Logan Campbell. Regular guided tours, workshops and other events are held here, and the park is a beautiful area for a stroll through nature and to enjoy magnificent gardens, a large tree and bird diversity and stunning views.

Brew on Quay was opened by three close friends with the focus on a friendly atmosphere, ambience, fine food and the best brews. The decor in every room is different with influences from around the world, this because they want everyone who visits them to feel at home.

Cassette Nine has multiple personalities, during the day you can come and grab a burger or a hot dog. At night, this is one of the party places in town with both DJ's and local bands playing. Truly, a fun place that attracts a mix of people of all ages both locals and travellers.

Situated in front of Devonport's historic Victoria theatre, Didas Devonport presents a chic and vibrant setting for a memorable dining experience. It boasts a menu full of innovative small plates, perfectly paired with an extensive list of local and imported wines. Built on a site steeped in family history, Didas offers European-style hospitality in a laid-back atmosphere. An ideal location for a pre-movie meal, late afternoon beverage, or a catch-up with friends.

A premier rock bar that attracts business patrons and rockers alike with Rock DJs and weekly live bands. Ding Dong Lounge in Auckland CBD, is a great place with a cool vibe where to enjoy craft beer and snacks while catching up with friends.

Known for its relaxed and friendly environment, where every guest can just have fun and be themselves. Provedor is a popular retro spot where a mix of pub anthems, rock and new hits are played to enhance the atmosphere. Pop in, mingle with the locals and party the night away.

Try your luck at SKYCITY Auckland Casino, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers non-stop fun and excitement for their guests. All the most popular casino games are housed here including great live entertainment. When the hunger and thirst reminds you, there are great food and bar options here.

Big (and small) names in the scene come on stage here. Depending on the event, you can experience up to 10 acts per show — a full pool of different styles of jokes and humour. On weekends, you can usually watch the club's top pro comedians in a 2-hour show. Check out the week's schedule and pick a gig.

The Fox is your typical sports bar, located in the heart of Auckland’s stunning Viaduct Harbour. Claimed to be one of the best places to watch sport, a place where all the major international and New Zealand sports are shown. The atmosphere is always on top and you can come here for lunch or dinner, either way you will not regret your choice.

High Street and the shopping area known as Chancery, are home to many fashion boutiques and designer stores — including Karen Walker, a famous Zealand fashion designer. The area, which also encompasses Vulcan Lane, O’Connell and Lorne Streets, is popular for trend spotting and streetwear shopping.

Nuffield Street in Newmarket, is a boutique-style destination with not only exclusive designer fashion shops, but also restaurants and home decor stores. French Connection, Karen Millen, Mimco and Witchery are just some of the stores located here.

Otara Market contains a mix of all of Auckland's cultures. An endless market selling everything from clothes, crafts, exotic food to jewellery in a lively, energetic, head-spinning atmosphere. Come over here and find some great souvenirs to bring back home.

Parnell Village is a historic shopping area five minutes east of the city with charming boutiques and cafes. Here you can explore designer stores, fine art and quirky shops offering everything from clothes, home decor to diamonds. Along Parnell Road, you will find art galleries that house local New Zealand artwork.

Ponsonby Road is a shopping destination for fashion aficionados and offers an array of clothing, furniture and designer lifestyle shops. Ponsonby is a five minute drive west of the central city with a combination of contemporary shopping and cafe dining. This is a late 19th-century neighbourhood full of wooden villas!

Ideally located in the heart of Auckland, Sylvia Park Auckland boasts a mix of retail shops, offering everything from fashion, accessories, footwear to beauty and home decor. There are more than 200 stores here, including dining and a cinema complex. A premiere retail and fashion destination, where you will definitely find what you are looking for.

Built in 1901, this former city rubbish incinerator had its own electricity-generating steam boilers, heated by the rubbish-burning furnace, and stables for horses which pulled the garbage carts. Since its 1972 restoration, Victoria Park Market is now known for its maze-like collection of stalls, barrows and shops where you can find plenty of arts, crafts, clothes and ethnic specialities. There are more than 85 shops, cafes and restaurants housed here.

Citizens of Australia and the UK, as well as visa waiver countries, do not need to apply for a visa for short visitor stays, but may need to produce documented proof of onward travel. Visa waiver countries include the USA and multiple countries across Europe and Asia, Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, and Vatican City. Since 2019, travellers that are visa waiver must request a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) prior to travel. It is mandatory for all sea and air arrivals, including transit. The issued authorisation is valid for two years. Citizens of other countries will need to apply for a visa in advance, which can be done online for solo travellers and in paper format for those travelling with a partner or as a group. The applicant’s passport validity in this case will need to last 3 months after the planned departure date.

Auckland International Airport (AKL) services all of Auckland. Located 21 km south of the City Centre and it is easily accessible by bus, shuttle or taxi. Skybus is Auckland’s airport transfer service that runs between Auckland City Centre and Auckland Airport. They operate 24 hours a day and the bus transfer takes about 40-60 min. Tickets can be bought at the Airport Ticket Kiosks (situated by the SkyBus bus stops at the airport) or from the bus driver (cash only). You can also buy your ticket online and at some hotels. The AirportLink bus carries passengers between Auckland Airport, Puhinui Station and Manukau Bus Station. The 38 bus operates between Auckland Airport and Onehunga via Mangere Town Centre. You will need an AT HOP card to use the AirportLink and 38 bus services There are only licensed taxi and shuttle companies at the designated taxi ranks at the terminal buildings, all to make sure that you will get a high standard of service. The taxi rank is outside the arrivals area at the international terminal as well as the domestic terminal. You can pre-book or just turn up at the terminal rank.

Public transport in Auckland — New Zealand's largest metropolitan area — comes in three flavours: bus, train and ferry. Services are all neatly coordinated by Auckland Transport under the AT Metro brand, with the bustling Waitematā railway station serving as the main transport hub. Buses are the workhorse of Auckland's public transport, accounting for about 70% of all journeys. They generally operate from the wee hours of 6 am until the stroke of midnight. To get around, simply look out for the red, green, or amber buses. With services so frequent, there's little need to keep an eagle eye on the timetable. Just rock up to the relevant bus stop and your chariot will soon arrive. Hop on the red bus (CityLink) for inner-city jaunts, the green (InnerLink) to traverse Auckland's inner city, and the amber (OuterLink) for a tour of Auckland's cosy inner suburbs. Tickets can be bought directly from the bus driver (cash only), or you can get your hands on the AT HOP smart card online or at a ticket office, such as the Britomart customer service centre.

Numerous taxi companies operate throughout Auckland. Rideshare apps like Uber are a convenient way to find a ride, too. Taxi ranks are found around the city centre. Try Lower Hobson Street, Ferry Building, Britomart and Kitchener Street. Call Auckland Co-op Taxis to order a car by phone.

New Zealand operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in Australia, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Pharmacies, often referred to as 'chemists' in New Zealand, are typically open during standard retail hours, generally 9 am to 5:30 pm on weekdays. However, hours can extend to late evenings and weekends in larger cities and shopping centres. New Zealand's largest pharmacy chains are Unichem and Life Pharmacy, with stores spread nationwide. These pharmacies stock a wide range of over-the-counter medicines, healthcare products, and often provide additional services like flu vaccinations. Medicines to Midnight is an after-hours pharmacy, open all day until midnight. A fully stocked pharmacy, specialising in medicines, prescriptions and advice.

Post offices in Auckland are run by NZ Post, providing several services throughout the city. The offices have a red sign on the outside, with New Zealand Post written on. A centrally located one is Wellesley Street NZ Post & Kiwibank, located on Wellesley Street, close to Aotea Square.

Country Code: +64 Area Code: (0)9