Auckland, New Zealand-7-day-itinerary

Auckland, New Zealand - 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

Places to Go:

  • Arrive at Auckland Airport
  • Take a shuttle or taxi to your accommodation (see below for options)
  • Visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city
  • Walk around the nearby Viaduct Harbour, a popular spot for food, drink, and shopping

What to Do:

  • Explore the Sky City complex, which includes the tower, casino, and restaurants
  • Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the street performers and live music

Where to Eat:

  • The Fish Cafe: Fresh seafood and great views of the harbor
  • Dante’s Pizzeria: Delicious Italian food in a cozy atmosphere

Accommodation:

  • Hotel DeBrett: Upscale hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent service (approx. NZ$250 per night)
  • Haka Lodge Auckland: Budget-friendly hostel with a fun social vibe (approx. NZ$30-40 per night)

Transportation:

  • Catch the SkyBus from the airport to your destination
  • Use the public bus system or walk/bike around the city

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for variable weather, with rain and wind possible at any time
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat for sunny days

Day 2: Islands and Beaches

Places to Go:

  • Take a ferry to Waiheke Island (approx. NZ$50 return)
  • Visit Oneroa Beach on the island for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing
  • Explore the island’s wineries and art galleries

What to Do:

  • Enjoy wine tastings at some of Waiheke’s renowned vineyards
  • Take a scenic drive around the island or rent a bike to explore

Where to Eat:

  • The Oyster Box: Fresh seafood and great views on the island
  • Casa Miro: Delicious Mediterranean food with a focus on local ingredients

Transportation:

  • Catch the ferry from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island
  • Use public buses or rent a car to get around the island

Day 3: Cultural Experiences

Places to Go:

  • Visit the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki (free admission)
  • Explore the nearby Albert Park, which features a beautiful garden and lake
  • Take a guided tour of the Auckland Museum (approx. NZ$20)

What to Do:

  • Attend a performance or event at the museum or art gallery
  • Visit the Sky City complex for shopping and dining options

Where to Eat:

  • The Tasting Room: Fine dining with a focus on local ingredients
  • Little & Friday: Quirky cafe serving great coffee and food

Day 4: Adventure Activities

Places to Go:

  • Take a harbor cruise (approx. NZ$70)
  • Visit the nearby Stardome Observatory for stargazing (free admission)

What to Do:

  • Rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the harbor
  • Take a ferry ride to Rangitoto Island (approx. NZ$40 return) for hiking and scenic views

Where to Eat:

  • The Fisherman’s Wharf: Seafood and fish and chips by the water
  • The Crab Shack: Casual dining with great seafood options

Day 5: Nature Reserves

Places to Go:

  • Visit the Auckland Botanic Gardens (free admission)
  • Explore the nearby Albert Park, which features a beautiful garden and lake

What to Do:

  • Take a walk or bike ride through the gardens
  • Attend a guided tour of the botanic gardens (approx. NZ$10)

Where to Eat:

  • The Garden Cafe: Delightful cafe serving great coffee and snacks
  • The Tasting Room: Fine dining with a focus on local ingredients

Day 6: Markets and Food

Places to Go:

  • Visit the Auckland Fish Market (free admission)
  • Explore the nearby Sunday morning market at Otara (free admission)

What to Do:

  • Browse the stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts
  • Take a food tour of the city (approx. NZ$100)

Where to Eat:

  • The Tasting Room: Fine dining with a focus on local ingredients
  • Little & Friday: Quirky cafe serving great coffee and food

Day 7: Departure

Places to Go:

  • Visit the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki (free admission)
  • Explore the nearby Albert Park, which features a beautiful garden and lake

What to Do:

  • Attend a performance or event at the museum or art gallery
  • Take a farewell stroll along the waterfront and reflect on your time in Auckland

Tips and Recommendations:

  • Be prepared for variable weather, with rain and wind possible at any time
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat for sunny days
  • Use public transportation or walk/bike around the city to save money
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of Auckland’s famous seafood!
  • Consider purchasing an AT HOP card for convenient travel on buses and trains

Budget Breakdown:

  • Accommodation: approx. NZ$250-300 per night (avg.)
  • Food: approx. NZ$20-30 per meal
  • Transportation: approx. NZ$50-100 return (avg.) for ferries and bus rides
  • Activities: approx. NZ$10-70 per person (avg.)

Language:

  • English is the primary language spoken in Auckland, but you may also hear Maori and other languages spoken by locals.

Currency:

  • New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is the local currency.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an amazing trip to Auckland!