Auckland

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.

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.

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.

Discover two of New Zealand's most visited attractions with this combo tour from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Glowworm Caves. First, walk into the real-world landscape of Middle Earth and see where the "Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films were shot. Peek into Hobbit Holes, frolic in the Shire, and get a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Later, explore Maori myths and history on a boat ride through the famous Waitomo Caves and enjoy a magical light show put on by the millions of glowworms that live there. Finish the tour with a drive through some of the North Island's most majestic scenery.

Dedicated to one of New Zealand’s national obsession, this museum explores 1,000 years of seafaring history. Visit the themed galleries to learn how the first Polynesians got here or learn more about NZ’s most famous maritime pioneer among other things. The New Zealand Maritime Museum is a suitable attraction for both young and old.

The Sky Tower stands 328 meters tall, is an icon of Auckland’s skyline and is an exciting hub of adrenaline activities such as SkyJump or a place where to enjoy superb dining and breathtaking 360-degree views. At the base of the Sky Tower you will find the SKYCITY Auckland entertainment complex with restaurants, casino and a theatre. So when in Auckland, make sure not to miss this amazing attraction.

The Stardome Observatory & Planetarium is a unique and fun learning experience for all ages that allows you to observe the wonders of the universe. It doesn’t come as a surprise, that this is one of the Auckland region’s most popular and best-loved attractions.

New Zealand is famous for its white wines, particularly its Sauvignon Blanc. A visit to a few of Auckland’s most renowned vineyards is a treat for any wine enthusiast. They will also ship any wine that you purchase on your tour for a very reasonable fee. You can also do some wine tasting at one of the Glengarry stores, or take wine tasting tour with Auckland Wine Tours.

The Waitakere Ranges (Auckland's largest regional park), located only 30 kilometres from downtown Auckland, is the perfect place where to enjoy tranquillity and unique flora and fauna. One tour company who takes you to Waitakere Ranges is the multi-award winning tour company Bush and Beach Ltd who also offers other amazing tours, such as Hobbiton movie set tour, wine and food tours as well as city tours.

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.

Stretching from Puhoi to Pakiri, the Matakana Coast is dotted with deserted bays with small islands and recreational reserves and offers some of the finest wines, arts, crafts and visitor attractions in rural New Zealand, all within an hour drive north of Auckland. Matakana also aims to be the first ‘Slow Food’ town in New Zealand.

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.