Curator’s statement
When you plan your dream trip to New Zealand, chances are Auckland will be your city of both entry and exit. With non-stop flights from New York’s JFK airport on Air New Zealand and Qantas, and multiple carriers from the west coast, Auckland on the North Island serves as a gateway for tourists. My husband and I spent the first two weeks of March, 2026 in New Zealand, itching to get to the South Island’s natural wonders—fjords and the Remarkables and Golden Bay were calling! But rushing away from Auckland would have meant missing out on a vibrant young city, centered on sailing culture and seafood and wine. We saved the last couple of days of our trip to explore the area, and it deserves a spot on your New Zealand itinerary.
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Things to do in Auckland
Auckland's Sky Tower viewed from the harbor
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is a short ferry ride from Auckland (the ferries run throughout the day every 30–40 minutes). Think Martha’s Vineyard vibes with an emphasis on the vineyards. A lovely guide drove us to several wine tastings and farm stands to buy Manuka Honey.
The New Zealand Maritime Museum
The New Zealand Maritime Museum on Viaduct Harbor had my sailing husband transfixed. Everyone in Auckland seems obsessed with boats, and the Americas Cup in particular. Learn about Black Magic, the winning yacht in 1995.
Yacht day
Speaking of America’s Cup, book a harbor cruise on an America’s Cup racing class yacht. Sit back and enjoy or assist—the views are magnificent!
Auckland Sky Tower
See the views from Auckland’s Sky Tower at 192 meters (630 feet) high! If you are feeling especially brave, go outside for a “sky walk”. You will be harnessed 630 feet up and enjoy even more spectacular views. New Zealand is the country that brought us bungee jumping, after all.
Day trips
Auckland is also the perfect distance to take a day trip to some of the North Island’s most notable attractions. The Hobbiton movie set, Waitamo glowworm caves, Rotoruo, known for its hot springs, and Maori village experiences are easily accessed by tour providers from Auckland.
Places to eat & drink in Auckland
The open kitchen at Masu
Masu by Nic Watt: Watch the chefs in the open kitchen prepare the tasting menu (available gluten-free as well), which included a soft-shell crab slider I can’t stop dreaming about. They pair with a fantastic wine selection.
Soul Bar and Bistro: This restaurant on Viaduct Harbor greets you with a splash of color courtesy of a profusion of flowering hanging baskets on the veranda. Save room for dessert—after you’ve enjoyed local oysters and produce.
Baduzzi: Because everyone loves Italian food and sometimes you need a meatball.
Cassia: Because like Italian food, everyone loves Indian food. This is a modern take on classic dishes.
Depot Eatery: This one’s on my list for my next visit. Chef Al Brown has created a space to enjoy with friends, featuring small plates and oysters.
Need to know
Auckland is most likely where you will begin and end your New Zealand adventure. It’s worth spending the time to enjoy the waterside culture and dining, as well as to use as a base for the many day trips conveniently located within easy distance.
Be on the lookout for sailing competitions like the SailGP Auckland (the Grand Prix of sailing). During our March 2026 visit, the Muana Auckland was taking place with a Wooden Boat Festival. It felt like a big harbor-side party, even for those of us who really don't know anything about boats.
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Auckland page.