Auckland-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

  • Morning: Arrive at Auckland Airport and take a taxi or bus (around $15-$20) to your hotel. Check-in at Hotel DeBrett in the heart of the city.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the iconic Sky Tower, which offers stunning views of the city and harbor (around $32-$52 per person).
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at The Fish Shack in the Viaduct Harbour, known for its fresh seafood.
  • 2:00 PM: Take a stroll along the waterfront and visit the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, which features an impressive collection of New Zealand art (free admission).
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The French Cafe in Parnell, a cozy restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Tips:
    • Be sure to try some Kiwi cuisine, such as fish and chips or a traditional hangi (Maori BBQ).
    • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and layers for the unpredictable Auckland weather.

Day 2: Waiheke Island

  • 9:00 AM: Take a ferry from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island (around $50-$60 per person return).
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the Mudbrick Vineyard, which offers wine tastings and tours (around $20-$30 per person).
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at The Oyster Box in Surfdale, known for its fresh seafood.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the island’s scenic coastline and beaches, or visit one of the many art galleries and studios (free admission).
  • 6:00 PM: Return to Auckland by ferry and enjoy dinner at The Grill in Parnell, a steakhouse with a focus on local produce.
  • Things to Know:
    • Be sure to book your ferry tickets and wine tastings in advance to avoid availability issues.
    • Waiheke Island has a relaxed atmosphere, so be prepared for some laid-back Kiwi culture.

Day 3: Auckland’s Beaches and Parks

  • 9:00 AM: Visit Mission Bay, one of Auckland’s most popular beaches (free admission).
  • 11:00 AM: Take a stroll through the beautiful Parnell Rose Gardens (free admission).
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at The Red Room in Parnell, a cozy cafe with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Auckland Museum and Institute of Natural Sciences, which features a range of exhibits on New Zealand’s natural history (free admission).
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Boat House in the Viaduct Harbour, known for its fresh seafood.
  • Transportation:
    • You can take public transport or a taxi to get around Auckland. There is also a bike-sharing scheme available (around $3-$4 per hour).

Day 4: Rangitoto Island

  • 9:00 AM: Take a ferry from downtown Auckland to Rangitoto Island (around $50-$60 per person return).
  • 10:30 AM: Hike up the summit of Rangitoto, which offers stunning views of the city and harbor (free admission).
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at The Beach Cafe on the island, known for its fresh seafood.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the island’s volcanic landscape and take a guided tour (around $20-$30 per person).
  • 5:00 PM: Return to Auckland by ferry and enjoy a farewell dinner at The Sugar Club in Parnell, a restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Tips:
    • Be sure to bring water and snacks for your hike up Rangitoto Island.
    • Don’t forget to take some amazing photos of the stunning views from the summit!