Auckland New Zealand is a special place. You don’t need to love the Lord of the Rings to love New Zealand, but it does make it a little more fun. For those of you on a cruise, you might not make it to Hobbitown when you stop in Auckland, but there’s plenty of things to do.
Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, and it’s an amazing place to visit when you travel there from another country or state. There are plenty of fun things to do in Auckland, and you can enjoy plenty of activities and attractions with your friends and family during your vacation to this great destination! Here are some of the top places to visit in Auckland.
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is an island in Auckland, New Zealand. It is located seven kilometers (four miles) southeast of downtown Auckland, and a 600 m long walkway connects it to Browns Bay. At 163 hectares (400 acres), it is New Zealand’s sixth largest island and highest sea cliff at 194 meters (636 feet). It has protected status as a reserve for nesting seabirds.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Formed over thousands of years, these caves have become a renowned attraction for tourists, who travel from all over New Zealand and further afield. The park is home to more than 1 million glowworms—native Arachnocampa luminosa.
Mission Bay Auckland
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do, Mission Bay is a great choice. Just over an hour’s drive from Auckland, you can spend as much time here as you like, soaking up some New Zealand sun and exploring one of New Zealand’s most stunning bays. The kids will love walking across (or under) Wenderholm Regional Park’s palm tree-lined wooden walkways and playing on playground equipment designed by local children.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral was built during New Zealand’s colonial days, and continues to be a large presence in downtown Auckland. Originally named St. Mary’s, construction of St. Paul’s began after land was reclaimed from marshland along Queen Street.
Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium
Open daily from 9am, Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium is a great place for kids. It’s home to over 350 species of marine animals, including sharks, rays and fish. There’s also a huge interactive playground with touch pools, and you can enjoy views of Rangitoto Island while you eat at Kelly Tarlton’s Cafe. Make sure you’re back before 2pm though – that’s when Waiheke Island ferry leaves!
Auckland Harbour Cruise
A great cruise at Aucklands Waitemata Harbour, learn about the city’s landmarks. The cruise includes a free return ticket to Devonport and a stop at volcanic Rangitoto Island. Views of the Harbour Bridge, city skyline, Devonport’s historical naval base, the lighthouse and panoramic views of Rangitoto Island. 1hr and 30 Minutes.
Harbour Coffee Cruise
Set sail from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour on a cruising yacht. A windproof and waterproof jacket will be provided depending on the weather conditions. The cruise includes a 1.5 hour sightseeing tour. The cruise sets sail for the Waitemata Harbour. You have the option of assisting the crews to sail the vessel Westhaven Marina, Devonport and the city skyline before returning to the Harbour.
Auckland Shore Excursions
While your cruise ship is docked in Auckland you will be able to enjoy a city sightseeing tour. You might also want to enjoy a wine tasting on Waiheke Island. Start your full day shore excursion with pickup at the port then off to Auckland’s city centre where you will see key landmarks. After lunch in the Viaduct Harbour area (own expense) it will be time to taste wines. After a 40 minute cruise your guide will escort you to three wineries. Upon your return to Auckland’s waterfront by Ferry, you will be transferred back to the cruise terminal.
