Let your New Zealand adventure begin… in Auckland City! After a long flight, at least for most of us, you will arrive at the International Airport of New Zealand in Auckland. Get some rest, deal with your jetlag and hop on a bus or train to the city center. There is plenty to explore.
Sky Tower
One very distinctive point of interest is the Sky Tower. At 328 meters it is hard to miss and mostly present in pictures from this city since 1994. It is one of the most popular attractions, especially for first time visitors.
You can take a walk on one of the multiple viewing platforms or have a coffee at the Sky Lounge. Adrenaline junkies can get there first taste of adventure here by doing a SkyJump or SkyWalk.
You can get your general admission ticket to the Sky Tower in advance. It will save you some ‘precious’ time waiting in line at the ticket office. Go find the famous landmarks from Auckland like Mt Eden en the Harbour Bridge.
Queen Street
After walking with your head in the clouds on the Sky Tower, a good place to go next is Queen Street. A former canal leading out to sea is nowadays the heart of the central business district. A shoppers paradise and tourist destination.
Queen Street starts at the Britomart which is across the street from the Ferry Building. You will find high end designers like Gucci here. But also some good old souvenir shops. Foodies may want to check out this well-rated Queen Street food tour.
When you reach Fort Street, imagine city life a few hundred years ago. A row of circular despressions along this street markts the former cliff top and coastline. A smaller street running parallel to Queen Street is High Street. This is the place to go for a great cup of coffee.
Aotea Square and Albert Park
The Aotea Square is a large paved area in the city center of Auckland. It is situated next to Queen Street and used for open-air concerts, markets and other gatherings. It is a great place to watch people and just sit, relax and maybe listen to some free summer gigs.
Nearby is one of Auckland’s finest parks, Albert Park. It is centrally located in the heart of the city. With its long history and distinctive character it has earned a special place in the hearts of Aucklanders. You can find the Auckland City Gallery and gardens on one corner of the park. And the original park-keepers cottage with a museum on the other end. It is a perfect place for having lunch on a lovely sunny day.
When you are tired of walking you can chose to explore the city by Hop on Hop off bus.
Auckland Domain
When you are getting tired by the hustle and bustle from the city center try getting some great views and outdoors in the Auckland Domain. This huge park and forested area is amazing for finding some peace and quiet. At least if you don’t mind people running, playing football and cricket. The Auckland Domain is home to several nice walking and running trails, like the Domain Walk, the Centennial Walkway and the Lovers’ Walk. The absolute star of the Domain is, of course, the Auckland Museum. You can buy your admission ticket for the museum here.
Other Tips for visiting Auckland City Center
Just outside of Auckland
Our Favorite Auckland T-Shirts
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REGIONSAuckland City of Sails Shirt
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Auckland City of Sails Shirt
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Auckland City of Sails T-shirt
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Auckland City of Sails T-Shirt
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