Your Ultimate Guide to Auckland
I’m not going to lie to you… in comparison to the rest of New Zealand and the cities we saw in Australia, Auckland is kind of…
Walking down Quay Street in Auckland; January 2019
… lackluster.
It’s more sterile than it is charming. However, like all cities, if you look hard enough – it does have its moments.
The view from our balcony at the Hilton Waterfront in Auckland; January 2019
For instance, we met up with friends at a mezze bar that was off of Queen start that was filled with character.
So, wondering where to find those moments when in Auckland?
Here are some things my dad and I did while we were there:
1. Silo Park
It’s a walk alongside the waterfront, but there isn’t much there besides restaurants with nice views… but I saw how that could’ve easily been a moment in of itself.
Walking Silo Park in Auckland; January 2019
2. Waiheke Island
While you’re in Auckland, you should absolutely visit some of the nearby islands.
On a boat to Waiheke Island from Auckland; January 2019
We chose Waiheke, but there are many others, like Rangitoto.
I felt like I was in Italy at many moments while we were here.
There are plenty of hipster, plant-based places all over Auckland.
… I suppose the grass doesseem greener on the other side.
3. Little Bird Organics
As my dad put it,
“This is the definition of a hole in the wall place.”
A free-spirited, floral & woodsy atmosphere with the most to die for selection of baked goods.
I could’ve tried every single one of these…
… no joke.
4. Mission Bay
This seemed to be the Epcot of Auckland. Whatever cultural cuisine you wanted… it was here.
The aquarium is nearby, but my dad and I just took a peek inside.
While this one was also a bust for us, the walk back to the city center gave us a nice skyline.
Auckland’s skyline walking back from Mission Bay; January 2019
5. Ponsonby
This is the neighborhood where Little Bird Organics was.
Inside Little Bird is when my dad and I realized we were in the free-spitted part of Auckland.
It wasn’t as picturesque as I expected, but it is the place to go if you’re looking for the gluten-free or vegan goodies.
6. Sky Tower
Approaching the Sky Tower in Auckland; January 2019
Very similar to the Sydney Eye Tower – and I would say this is worth it… but remember, don’t pay for the observation deck – go to one of the bars at the top and buy a drink, instead!
Views from the Sky Tower in Auckland; January 2019
Or… you can be me, and buy a mock tail to get your complimentary view.
Yes, I was legally allowed to order a drink while I was down under… but what can I say? I prefer to spare my extra calories in the form of pure sugar and fruit juice.
If you want, you can go bungee jumping here, too… my dad and I watched them take their leaps of faith to fly off the edge.
However, in all honesty – I think not only bungee jumping, but that everything in New Zealand is better on the South Island.
Auckland, based off of the other places we went, seemed to be their most industrial city – it was more about business than being romantic.
I hope this gave you a couple of ideas on what to do in Auckland. If you’re looking for other things to do in New Zealand, click here.