3-Day Auckland, New Zealand Excursion and Highlights

Auckland, New Zealand

3 days

Whangaparaoa Peninsula
Anchor Bay sunny beach
The Gap lagoon
Piha Beach
Skyline

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 1

Exploring the City Centre and Sky Tower

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sky Tower. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the harbour from the observation deck.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local café offering a variety of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Afternoon

Explore the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Discover New Zealand's most extensive collection of national and international art.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner at a restaurant offering traditional New Zealand cuisine.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the Viaduct Harbour, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and stunning views of the city skyline.

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.

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)

Sky Tower

1
Sky Tower

The tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Landmarks
Entertainment
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

The most extensive collection of national and international art in New Zealand.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Viaduct Harbour

3
Viaduct Harbour

A vibrant waterfront area packed with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Entertainment
Auckland War Memorial Museum

4
Auckland 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.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Auckland Domain

5
Auckland Domain

The city's oldest park, situated on a 62,000 year old volcano.

Parks
Gardens
Wintergardens

6
Wintergardens

A beautiful complex of greenhouses and courtyards housing exotic plants.

Gardens
Attractions
Waiheke Island

7
Waiheke Island

A haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.

Attractions
Beaches
Tours
Stony Batter Historic Reserve

8
Stony Batter Historic Reserve

A World War II gun battery and tunnel complex, located at the eastern end of Waiheke Island.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Fish and Chips

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 shuttles provide convenient transportation to and from Auckland Airport. They offer door-to-door service and operate 24/7.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ NZD

Time zoneUTC+12

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phone111

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type I

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.

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, with over 1.5 million people?

1 of 10

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