Taking a tour of Auckland and its surrounds can be a great way to explore this fascinating city. On offer is an enticing mix of sparkling harbour waters, once-active volcanoes and a vibrant, cosmopolitan ambience. Day tours and multi-day adventures can take you out of the city to experience magical areas nearby such as the hobbit village of Hobbiton, traditional Maori villages and the Waitomo Caves illuminated by glow worms. Back in the city, Auckland's harbour provides an ideal backdrop for dinner cruises and city tours.
Don't miss these Auckland attractions
- Dolphin and whale watching cruises
- Maori tours and cultural shows
- Food and wine tours of the region
- Harbour Bridge climbing
- City walking, bus and motorbike tours
Harbourside delights
The harbour is arguably Auckland’s pride and joy, so take to the waters onboard a relaxing sailboat and enjoy the terrific views from one of the best vantage points in the city. Particularly energetic visitors can sign up for a kayaking tour to Rangitoto Island – the largest of Auckland’s once bubbling volcanoes. Hike across its unique lava-created wilderness and take in some of the local wildlife, including a sizeable population of once-endangered Saddlebacks.
For a different point of view entirely, why not scale the heights and enjoy a white-knuckle trip to the top of the 328-metre-tall Sky Tower. The glass-fronted lift to the top may be exciting enough for some, but plenty of thrill-seekers opt for a Sky Walk around a pergola that sports a sheer drop of 192 metres, or an even more adrenaline-inducing base-jump by wire off the same pergola!
Modern metropolis
Familiarise yourself with Auckland on a city sights tour and explore popular landmarks such as the Botanic Gardens and the ever-popular Auckland Zoo. The impressive Auckland Harbour Bridge, Auckland’s oldest suburb Parnell and a leisurely trip down scenic Tamaki Drive are also well worth considering.
Waiheke Island is another favourite tour destination, especially for wine lovers. Board a helicopter for a decadent getaway from the city, floating high over the Hauraki Gulf to the renowned Mudbrick Vineyard. Here you can indulge in some of New Zealand’s finest wines and enjoy a luxurious three-course meal before taking an evening harbour cruise back to the mainland.