3-Day Auckland, New Zealand Excursion and Highlights
Auckland, New Zealand
3 days
About Auckland, New Zealand
Experience the vibrant city life and stunning natural beauty of Auckland, New Zealand. As the country's largest city, Auckland offers a diverse range of attractions, from the iconic Sky Tower, offering panoramic views, to the bustling Viaduct Harbour, filled with superyachts and lined with bars and cafes. Explore the unique Maori culture at the Auckland Museum, or enjoy a day trip to Waiheke Island, renowned for its vineyards and sandy beaches. Adventure seekers can hike the volcanic cones of Mount Eden and One Tree Hill for breathtaking cityscape views. Auckland's blend of urban sophistication and extraordinary natural beauty offers an unforgettable travel experience.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
History, Culture, and Theatre
Morning
Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about the history and culture of New Zealand.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Auckland Domain, the city's oldest park.
Afternoon
Explore the Wintergardens, with its beautiful display of exotic plants and flowers.
Dinner
Dine at a restaurant offering a fusion of Maori and European cuisines.
Evening
Watch a performance at the Auckland Theatre Company, the city's premier professional theatre company.
Day 3
Wine Tasting and History on Waiheke Island
Morning
Take a ferry to Waiheke Island and enjoy a guided tour of the island's vineyards.
Lunch
Have lunch at a vineyard restaurant, enjoying the stunning views of the vineyards and the sea.
Afternoon
Visit the Stony Batter Historic Reserve, a World War II gun battery and tunnel complex.
Dinner
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a restaurant with views of the sea.
Evening
Return to Auckland and enjoy a relaxing evening at a local pub.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Sky Tower
The tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere offering panoramic views of the city.
2Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
The most extensive collection of national and international art in New Zealand.
3Viaduct Harbour
A vibrant waterfront area packed with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
4Auckland War Memorial Museum
One of New Zealand's most important museums and war memorials. Its collections concentrate on New Zealand history, natural history, and military history.
5Auckland Domain
The city's oldest park, situated on a 62,000 year old volcano.
6Wintergardens
A beautiful complex of greenhouses and courtyards housing exotic plants.
7Waiheke Island
A haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.
8Stony Batter Historic Reserve
A World War II gun battery and tunnel complex, located at the eastern end of Waiheke Island.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Fish and Chips
A classic Kiwi dish, it's made with fresh local fish that's battered and deep-fried, served with a side of crispy chips. It's a popular choice for a beachside meal in Auckland.
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. It's a popular dish in New Zealand and is often served with fresh kiwi, a fruit that's abundant in Auckland.
Lamb Roast
New Zealand is known for its high-quality lamb. In Auckland, a traditional lamb roast is often served with rosemary and garlic, accompanied by roasted vegetables.
Whitebait Fritters
A delicacy in New Zealand, these fritters are made from tiny whitebait fish mixed into a light batter and fried. They're a must-try for seafood lovers visiting Auckland.
Kumara Chips
Kumara is the Maori name for sweet potato. Kumara chips are a healthier alternative to regular potato chips and are a popular snack in Auckland.
Green-Lipped Mussels
These large mussels are native to New Zealand and are a popular dish in Auckland. They're often served steamed with a garlic and white wine sauce.
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
A classic New Zealand ice cream flavor, Hokey Pokey consists of plain vanilla ice cream mixed with small, solid lumps of honeycomb toffee.
Feijoa
Feijoa is a fruit that's widely grown in New Zealand. In Auckland, it's often eaten raw or used in baking and beverages.
L&P
Also known as Lemon & Paeroa, L&P is a sweet soft drink manufactured in New Zealand. It's a popular choice for a refreshing drink in Auckland.
Flat White
A coffee beverage that originated in New Zealand. It's similar to a latte but with less milk, making the coffee taste stronger. It's a popular choice for coffee lovers in Auckland.
Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is a type of honey native to New Zealand. It's known for its rich flavor and health benefits. It's often used as a spread or a sweetener in Auckland.
Kiwi Burger
A Kiwi Burger is a hamburger made with a beef patty, cheese, beetroot, lettuce, tomato, onion, cooked egg, and tomato sauce. It's a popular fast food item in Auckland.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Auckland, New Zealand is during the summer months, from December to March. During this period, the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are also great times to visit, with fewer tourists and mild weather.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 2 | Tue | Day after New Year's Day |
January 22 | Mon | Wellington Anniversary Day (regional holiday) |
January 29 | Mon | Northland Anniversary Day (Northland) |
January 29 | Mon | Auckland Anniversary Day (regional holiday) |
January 29 | Mon | Nelson Anniversary Day (regional holiday) |
February 6 | Tue | Waitangi Day |
March 11 | Mon | Taranaki Anniversary Day (Taranaki) |
March 25 | Mon | Otago Anniversary Day (Otago) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
April 2 | Tue | Southland Anniversary Day (Southland) |
April 25 | Thu | ANZAC Day |
June 3 | Mon | King's Birthday |
June 28 | Fri | Matariki |
September 23 | Mon | South Canterbury Anniversary Day (Canterbury) |
October 25 | Fri | Hawke's Bay Anniversary Day (Hawke's Bay) |
October 28 | Mon | Labour Day |
November 4 | Mon | Marlborough Anniversary Day (Marlborough) |
November 15 | Fri | Canterbury Anniversary Day (Canterbury) |
December 2 | Mon | Chatham Islands Anniversary Day (Chatham Islands) |
December 2 | Mon | Westland Anniversary Day (West Coast) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Boxing Day |
How to get around
Public Bus
Auckland's public bus system is extensive, reliable, and can take you almost anywhere in the city. There are several different bus services operating throughout Auckland, including the Link Bus which is a convenient way to get around the central city.
Train
Auckland's train system is a great way to travel to the outer suburbs and key destinations. The trains are comfortable and efficient, with four lines (Eastern, Western, Southern and Onehunga) servicing the city.
Ferry
Ferries are a unique and scenic way to travel in Auckland. The ferry system connects the city center with various islands and coastal areas, including Waiheke Island, Devonport, and Rangitoto Island.
Rideshare
Ridesharing services such as Uber and Ola are widely available in Auckland. These services provide a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Auckland. They can be hailed on the street, booked online, or picked up from designated taxi ranks in the city.
Car Rental
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Auckland at your own pace. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and throughout the city.
Bicycle
Auckland is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycle paths and bike lanes. You can rent a bike from various locations around the city, or use the city's bike share program.
Walk
Auckland's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent option for short trips. There are also numerous walking trails throughout the city's parks and nature reserves.
Airport Shuttle
Airport shuttles provide convenient transportation to and from Auckland Airport. They offer door-to-door service and operate 24/7.
Public Transport Card
The AT HOP card is a reusable prepay smart card for travel on trains, ferries and buses around Auckland. It's easy to use and often cheaper than buying single trip tickets.
Important information
Currency$ NZD
Time zoneUTC+12
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phone111
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Auckland, New Zealand as a first time visitor
1
Auckland is located in the North Island of New Zealand.
2
The official languages are English and Maori, but English is predominantly spoken.
3
The currency used is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always handy to have some cash.
4
New Zealand has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 15%, which is often included in the price of goods and services.
5
Tipping is not customary in New Zealand, but it is appreciated for exceptional service.
6
Auckland operates on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), which is 12 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
7
The climate is temperate with warm summers (December to February) with temperatures around 20-30°C (68-86°F) and mild winters (June to August) with temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F).
8
New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws to protect its agriculture and biodiversity. Be sure to declare any food, plants, and animal products upon arrival.
9
Public transportation is reliable and includes buses, trains, and ferries. Consider getting an AT HOP card for convenience.
10
Driving is on the left side of the road, and an international driving permit is required for most foreign drivers.
11
Auckland is a diverse city with a large Polynesian population. Respect for cultural differences is appreciated.
12
The city is known for its outdoor lifestyle. Pack suitable clothing for hiking, beach visits, and water sports.
13
New Zealand has a 'sun-smart' culture due to high UV levels. Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
14
Tap water is safe to drink in Auckland.
15
Emergency services number is 111 for police, fire, and ambulance.
16
Auckland has a vibrant nightlife. The legal drinking age is 18, and ID is required.
17
Free Wi-Fi is available in many public areas, cafes, and hotels.
18
Auckland is a safe city, but like any major city, it's advisable to take standard precautions against petty crime.
19
Auckland is surrounded by water, and many locals own boats. It's often referred to as the 'City of Sails'.
20
New Zealand uses Type I power sockets. You may need a travel adapter if your devices use a different type.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or jacket
Pajamas
Swimwear
Rain jacket or umbrella
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Headphones
Camera and charger
Travel adapter for New Zealand
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Books or e-books
Travel guide for Auckland
Reusable water bottle
Ziplock bags for toiletries
Weather Conditions
When planning your visit to Auckland, New Zealand, it's important to consider the city's temperate maritime climate. Auckland experiences warm, humid summers and mild, damp winters. During the summer months, from December to February, temperatures typically range from 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, beach visits, and exploring the city's many parks. However, summer is also Auckland's rainiest season, so be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Autumn, from March to May, sees slightly cooler temperatures, usually between 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit). This is a wonderful time to visit for those who prefer milder weather. Rainfall is less frequent than in the summer, but still possible, so it's a good idea to pack for potential showers. Winter in Auckland, from June to August, is quite mild compared to many other destinations. Temperatures usually hover between 8-15 degrees Celsius (46-59 degrees Fahrenheit). While snow is extremely rare in Auckland, rain is more common during the winter months. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing and waterproof shoes. Spring, from September to November, sees temperatures ranging from 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit). This is a beautiful time to visit as the city comes alive with blooming flowers. Rain can still occur, so packing a light raincoat is advised. Regardless of when you visit, Auckland's weather can be quite changeable, so it's always a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for a variety of conditions. Also, don't forget to pack sun protection, as New Zealand's sun can be surprisingly strong, even on cooler or cloudier days.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 25° / 15° | January is the warmest month in Auckland, with plenty of sunshine and occasional rain showers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beaches. |
February | 25° / 15° | February continues the warm trend with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. It's a perfect time to visit the islands in the Hauraki Gulf. |
March | 23° / 14° | March sees the start of autumn with slightly cooler temperatures. However, it's still warm enough for outdoor activities and the changing colours of the leaves are beautiful. |
April | 20° / 11° | April is a pleasant month with mild temperatures and less rainfall. It's a good time to explore the city's parks and gardens. |
May | 18° / 9° | May brings the onset of winter with cooler temperatures and more rainfall. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions. |
June | 15° / 8° | June is the coldest month in Auckland with more rainfall. Indoor activities are recommended, but the winter scenery can be quite beautiful. |
July | 15° / 7° | July continues the winter trend with cold temperatures and more rainfall. It's a good time for indoor activities and enjoying the city's cafes and restaurants. |
August | 15° / 8° | August is still cold but with less rainfall. It's a good time to explore the city's architecture and historical sites. |
September | 17° / 9° | September marks the start of spring with slightly warmer temperatures. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and gardens. |
October | 19° / 11° | October is a pleasant month with mild temperatures and less rainfall. It's a good time to explore the city's outdoor attractions. |
November | 22° / 13° | November sees the start of summer with warm temperatures and less rainfall. It's a great time for beach activities and exploring the city's coastline. |
December | 24° / 14° | December is a warm month with plenty of sunshine. It's a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and celebrate the festive season in Auckland. |
Did you know?
Places near by Auckland, New Zealand
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
A world famous attraction, known for its population of glowworms that light up the caves.
Hobbiton Movie Set
The original Hobbiton movie set from the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.
Coromandel Peninsula
Known for its white and golden sand beaches, misty rainforests and rugged mountain terrain.
Rotorua
Famous for geothermal activity, Maori culture, and outdoor adventures.
Hamilton Gardens
A public garden park in the south of Hamilton owned and managed by Hamilton City Council.
Tauranga
A harbourside city in the Bay of Plenty region. It's known for its beautiful beaches and the active volcano on White Island.
Bay of Islands
A New Zealand enclave encompassing more than 140 subtropical islands next to the country's North Island.
Waiheke Island
Known for its vibrant vineyards, olive groves, and beaches.
Raglan
A small beachside town known for its surf, arts, and music scene.
Whangarei
The northernmost city in New Zealand and the regional capital of Northland Region.
