Best Things to Do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland

When it comes to exploring Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland, the hardest part is deciding where to start. This vibrant city is surrounded by two harbours, dotted with volcanic cones and filled with beaches, islands and cultural treasures. From relaxed seaside strolls to world-class museums, there are endless choices for visitors. No matter your style of travel, the best things to do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland combine the energy of the city with the natural beauty that makes this region so unique.

Locals often escape the city for quieter places, we admit we don’t always love heading into the bustle. But when we do, the excitement quickly takes over. We find ourselves drawn to the food and the chance to reconnect with the city’s landmarks. These experiences remind us that the best things to do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland are not just for tourists — they’re for everyone who wants to feel the spirit of this place.

What makes the best things to do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland truly special is the variety. You can take a ferry to an island paradise, climb a volcano in the middle of the city or enjoy a relaxed day at a beachside café. The mix of natural landscapes, Māori heritage and modern lifestyle makes Auckland unlike anywhere else. And with so many activities close to the CBD, it’s easy to see why the best things to do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland are always talked about by travellers.

So here’s our pick of must-do experiences. They include beaches, museums, day trips and volcanic climbs — each one a reminder of why the best things to do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland will always leave you with unforgettable memories.

Take a Stroll Along Mission Bay

Mission Bay is one of Auckland’s most iconic waterfront destinations, loved by locals and visitors alike. Just a short trip from the CBD, it’s perfect for a leisurely day out, with golden sand, safe swimming, and a buzzing promenade. On a fine day you’ll enjoy views across the harbour to Rangitoto Island and at sunset the whole bay glows with colour. A beachside wander here is without doubt one of the Best Things to Do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland.

• Family-friendly beach with safe swimming
• Bustling promenade with cafés and dining
• Just 15 minutes from the CBD by car or bus
• Great spot for a sunset walk

Day Trip to Waiheke Island

Often called Auckland’s “island paradise,” Waiheke offers a world of beaches, vineyards and laid-back charm just 30–40 minutes by ferry. Spend the day wine-tasting, join a guided tour, or simply relax at a sheltered bay with a picnic. For many travellers, a ferry ride to Waiheke ranks as one of the Best Things to Do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland, because it shows how close paradise really is to the city.

• 30–40 minute ferry ride from downtown
• Famous for wineries, olive groves and art galleries
• Beautiful beaches for swimming and relaxing
• Wine tours and tastings available year-round

Climb a Volcanic Cone – Mt Eden, Mt Wellington & Rangitoto

Few cities in the world let you climb a volcano in the morning and enjoy dinner on the waterfront that same evening. Exploring Auckland’s volcanic cones is both cultural and adventurous, each one with sweeping views. Mount Eden (Maungawhau) is the city’s most famous peak, Mount Wellington (Maungarei) offers quieter slopes and Rangitoto Island is the grand adventure, accessible only by ferry. Climbing these cones is one of the Best Things to Do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland, offering a real sense of its volcanic heart.

• Mount Eden (Maungawhau): central, panoramic views
• Mount Wellington (Maungarei): quieter track, lava fields
• Rangitoto Island: ferry access, lava caves, summit views
• All deliver spectacular scenery and cultural connection

Visit Devonport

Across the harbour from the CBD, Devonport is a seaside village filled with history and charm. Stroll the main street, explore boutique shops or relax at a café with a view of the city skyline. For those who love heritage and a relaxed pace, a trip here is easily one of the Best Things to Do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland, with North Head and Mount Victoria adding history and views to the mix.

• 12-minute ferry ride from downtown
• Cafés, shops, and galleries in a relaxed setting
• Explore historic tunnels and gun emplacements at North Head
• Perfect for a day trip or half-day outing

Explore Auckland Museum

The Auckland War Memorial Museum stands proudly in the Auckland Domain and is one of the city’s most important cultural landmarks. Inside you’ll discover incredible Māori and Pacific artefacts, natural history exhibits and moving wartime displays. Even the views from the museum steps are worth the visit. If you want to connect with the stories of this city, then visiting the museum is one of the Best Things to Do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland.

• Explore rich Māori and Pacific collections
• Stunning views from the museum steps over the Domain
• Regular special exhibitions and cultural performances
• A must-do for anyone wanting to understand Auckland’s history

🌅 Final Thoughts

There are far more activities than we can fit into one list. From exploring the bustling waterfront at Wynyard Quarter, to heading out west for surf at Piha, to browsing the shops in Newmarket or Ponsonby, the options are endless. The Best Things to Do in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland really depend on your time, your energy and your curiosity. This city rewards those who go beyond the obvious and discover the hidden gems — whether it’s a tucked-away café, a coastal trail or a lively festival in the Domain.

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

• ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
• 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
• 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
• 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
• 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
• 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
• 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
• 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
• 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
• 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.

🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.