11 best attractions in Auckland – photo with names and descriptions, map of what to see in Auckland
Zealand is a new star on the tourist map of the world, which immediately lit up quite brightly. Tired of the usual destinations, tourists rushed there in order to admire the unusual nature, to touch the cultural, national and architectural traditions. You can learn more about this country by going on a tour and getting acquainted with the sights of Auckland, one of the largest cities. All prices are in US dollars.
Auckland Harbor Bridge
The Oakland Harbor Bridge is one of the main attractions of the city. It was built back in 1959 and is still of no small importance in the life of the metropolis, connecting its central and northern parts. Given this, there is nothing surprising in the fact that the movement here is always intense. The steel structure, standing on stone columns, looks majestic and impressive, as if symbolizing that the power of human thought is able to overcome any difficulties, even “cheat” the water element separating the shores. Tourists are traditionally invited not only to look at the bridge from land, but also to swim under it on a ship during a boat trip.
The crossing looks especially impressive at night, when it is illuminated by thousands of lights. And during the day you can take great photos against the backdrop of the New Zealand flags. The Auckland Bridge connects major areas of the city – St Mary's Bay and Northcote. The street along which it passes is called the Northern Motorway. On the same route you can get to it, on one of the city buses. You can look at the bridge completely free of charge at any time, but, alas, you won't be able to walk along it – there is no pedestrian zone. If only to take the bus. For extreme tourists, an unusual entertainment is offered – a bungee jump from a bridge. Such a flight will cost about 50 dollars.
Area Golden Mile
Among the measured parks and beach areas of Auckland, the Golden Mile area stands out, where life is in full swing around the clock. During the day, important economic and political issues, sometimes world-class, are solved in the offices. And the usual bustle reigns in shopping centers – shopping lovers come here from all over the city. Numerous restaurants, bars, disco clubs open their doors at night, where famous DJs play their tracks.
As a business district, the Golden Mile was developed quite a long time ago, back in 1840. The site was chosen for economic reasons – construction here was cheaper than in any other area. Today, not so much reminds of the distant 19th century: the Auckland Ferry Building, which houses the Ferry Station, the Chief Post Office (it's easy to guess that this is the main post office) and Auckland Town Hall, which remains administrative to this day. The rest were replaced by skyscrapers made of glass and concrete, which are the symbol of New Auckland and attract fans of modern urban landscapes.
The Golden Mile is located at Queen Street. You can get to it by one of the city buses, the nearest stop is Britomart. Visiting, of course, is free at any time of the day or night. But how much you need for “pocket” expenses, shopping, cafes and restaurants – depends solely on your appetites.
Auckland Botanical Garden
The Auckland Botanical Garden is often referred to as a flower garden. Indeed, in terms of the number and variety of these plants, no other in the world can compare with it. A riot of colors, unique shades and shapes, refined elegance created by nature – all this invariably delights visitors. However, this is not all that deserves attention. Of the more than 2,500 thousand plant species growing in the Botanical Garden, 80% are island indemics. There are so many of them because New Zealand has been isolated from the rest of the world for a long time.
The number of exotic fruits, edible herbs and even flowers is amazing. In the local cafe, Miko, you can try dishes prepared from them. And the library staff will be happy to select books for visitors in which there are answers to all their questions. You can get to it by bus departing from the Britomart Transport Centre. The nearest stop is Southmall, from which you have to walk a little along Hill Road. The garden doors are open from 8:00 to 20:00 (in winter, from March to October – until 18:00). The visit is free. Every weekday at 13-00 for everyone, employees organize excursions, also free (group gathering at the Visitor Center).
Mount Eden
Mount Eden is located in central Auckland. Today it is the highest volcano in the city. True, it erupted a very long time ago – about 28 thousand years ago. Tourists are attracted to this place primarily by the fact that beautiful panoramic views open up from the top – it’s hard to even imagine a better observation deck. The slopes of Eden have been used by the locals since ancient times. Once orchards grew here, in the 19th century the plots were “dismantled” for private construction. So this area was decorated with luxurious villas. Over time, some of them were turned into museums, while others remained residential buildings. Today, this quarter is considered a “habitat” for the creative intelligentsia.
In addition to luxurious mansions, on the slopes of a long-extinct volcano, there is a castle-like prison and one of the largest and most modern sports stadiums in the country. So the climb to Eden will not be boring – you can see a lot of interesting things along the way. Although, it should be noted, getting to the top is not so easy. There are many public transport stops in the vicinity, but the ascent to a height of 196 meters along the slopes will have to be overcome on foot. You can accomplish a tourist feat completely free of charge, at any time of the day or night.
New Zealand Maritime Museum Voyager
The Voyager Museum is one of the most interesting in Auckland. Its visitors immediately, right from the doorstep, fall into the mysterious marine world: ships, discoverers, travelers. You can start your acquaintance by watching a short film that tells about the history of New Zealand, whose whole life is inextricably linked with the ocean. It is shown quite often and lasts about 15 minutes. Then you can go to thematic exhibitions. There are 4 of them in total – each of a different focus and interesting in its own way. “Closer to the Shores” tells how the Europeans managed to swim to New Zealand and about the trade that was carried out between them and the locals.
There is also a very realistic model of a 19th century merchant ship. “The Beginning of Beginnings” is dedicated to the life of the first emigrants, who, more than 100 years ago, set off to seek their fortune off distant shores. “Black Magic of the High Seas” is a tribute to the famous New Zealand yachtsman Peter Blake, who was killed while participating in an environmental action on the shores of the Amazon. And, finally, the last exhibition is devoted to art – here you can see paintings by local marine painters.
The New Zealand Maritime Museum is located on the corner of Quay and Hobson Streets, Viaduct Harbour. You can get to it by public transport without any problems – just a couple of minutes walk – Britomart Transport Center. The expositions are open daily, from 9-00 to 17-00. The cost of visiting is $15.
Oceanarium “Underwater World of Kelly Tarlton”
Kelly Tarlton is a New Zealand scuba diver who came up with a brilliant idea to create a real underwater world on land. Soon it was implemented, so the first transparent tunnel appeared. The idea very quickly “scattered” around the world. The Auckland Aquarium is not too big, but it always attracts tourists. Its main feature is that the system of tunnels is designed in such a way that fish and other inhabitants of the underwater world passing by seem to be much larger than their size.
In addition, there is a unique hut in which beautiful arctic penguins live. Underwater World of Kelly Tarleton is located at 23 Tamaki Dr, Orakei. You can get to it on a special free “shark shuttle”, which runs in the central part of the city. If for some reason you did not meet him, you can use the regular bus departing from the Britomart Transport Center or bus stop D13 – Tyler Street. The ticket price is about $25, but there are many discounts, including coupons that can be found in tourist brochures. Working hours – from 9-30 to 17-00, seven days a week.
milford sound
Milfor Sound is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. Indeed, this place, “written” by nature itself over thousands of years, simply cannot fail to impress even seasoned travelers. Among the rugged rocky coasts and impenetrable forests, crystal-clear water sparkles – this is the world-famous Milford Sound fjord, 19 kilometers long. It was formed quite a long time ago, about 20 thousand years ago (on the scale of nature, this is not so much). People settled here too long before Europeans discovered New Zealand.
True, this place was called differently in the language of the local Maori tribes – Piopiotahi, which means “lonely piopio”. For unenlightened tourists, the last word is not very clear, but New Zealanders know that this is a species of thrush, unfortunately, long extinct. A very beautiful legend is associated with the name of Piopiotachi. The ancient and great hero of folklore, Maui, all his life tried to discover the secret of immortality for people. When he died, his friend the thrush flew over the fjord for a very long time, mourning his comrade.
You can get to Milford Sound from Auckland by private car or by boat, departing from the central city pier. A round-trip trip will cost about $50. It is better to check the schedule on the spot, before the trip. It often changes depending on the season.
north island
New Zealand is a state spread over islands. The largest of them are the South and North. The latter is especially attractive for tourists, since it is here that not only unique natural sites are located, but also large cities, including Auckland. From this city it is especially convenient to make sightseeing trips and discover New Zealand from different angles. Almost all volcanic zones of the country, including active ones, are located here. Ruapehu Volcano, which is also the highest point of the island, is considered the most active today. In general, the local mountains are somewhat reminiscent of the Alps, although, of course, with their own flavor.
For sea lovers, the North Island is a real paradise. Due to the indented lines of the bays and bays, amazing beauty is formed here. Traditionally found in the Northern Shelter and extreme sportsmen. Bungee jumping, water sports and so on are presented here in such a variety that tourists traveling to other countries cannot even dream of. Getting to the North Island of New Zealand is easy – there are several airports from which international and domestic flights are regularly made. The ticket price will depend on the route.
Hobbiton
Hobbiton is one of New Zealand's most famous attractions. This is where the movie The Lord of the Rings was filmed. Director Peter Jackson spent a long time choosing a suitable location for filming, until he finally drew attention to a farm owned by the Alexander family. The owners were infected with the idea and agreed to remake their property into a fabulous village. The idea of cardboard decoration was immediately dismissed – everything had to be natural and real. Soldiers from the New Zealand Army were recruited for the construction. Soon, 40 unusual houses appeared on the site of pastures. Filming ended, but the village remained and turned into a tourist site, a real pilgrimage for Tolkien fans. Unfortunately, you can only look at the houses from the outside – no one is allowed inside.
But to go to the famous Green Dragon cafe and drink a glass of beer is quite real. Up to 300 people visit Hobbiton every day. True, this can be done only from 9-00 to 17-00 and accompanied by a guide – as part of an organized group or by purchasing an individual tour. Tours, which cost about 60 dollars (75 New Zealand dollars), are offered by almost all travel agencies in Auckland. The exact address of the magical village for those who decide to travel on their own by car: 501 Buckland Road, Matamata, Hinuera 3400, New Zealand.
Franz Josef Glacier
New Zealand's Franz Josef Glacier can rightfully be called the fastest in the world. Blocks of ice move along the slopes at a speed of 2 meters per hour, while the spectacle is simply impossible to describe in words – how beautiful and impressive it is. The glacier is located on the territory of the Westland National Park, protected not only by the state, but also by the local Maori tribes. For them, this area is still considered sacred to this day. By the way, in the local language, the attraction is called differently – Tears of Hinehukatere. This name is associated with a beautiful and romantic legend about the beautiful girl Hinehukatere and the young man Tava, who loved each other and the mountains. During the next walk, they fell under a landslide and the guy died. The surviving friend cried so hard that her tears gave rise to a glacier.
Romantic stories, incredibly beautiful landscapes, the colorful village of Franz Josef with cozy cafes and family hotels – all this attracts thousands of tourists. You can see the glacier in different ways – from a bird's eye view, going on a helicopter tour, “from the inside”, going for a walk through the grottoes and tunnels, making a multi-day hike. In any case, you need to do this accompanied by a professional. You can buy any tour in Auckland agencies. The cost of the trip will depend on the chosen program.
Wai-o-Tapu
Another New Zealand miracle worthy of attention is the Wai-o-Tapu thermal complex, the realm of geysers, mineral springs and water. The area of the complex is not too large, only 3 square kilometers, but there are enough objects that deserve attention here. For the convenience of tourists, three routes have been laid through the territory. The Champagne Pool is the most popular among guests. Of course, it is not filled with this drink, but because of the seething bubbles of carbon dioxide, there is a visual resemblance. By the way, the water temperature on the surface reaches + 76 degrees, and in the depths it even reaches +260!
In the Lady Knox geyser, a small show is organized for tourists every day. Exactly at 10-15 a soapy solution is poured there and an impromptu “eruption” lasts for an hour. The height of the water column at the same time is very impressive – up to 20 meters. It is quite difficult to get from Auckland to Wai-o-Tapu on your own. First of all, you need to get to the city of Roturua on a regular bus, and from there on a tourist bus to the end point. The path is not close – about 200 kilometers. The complex is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. In summer, from November to March, until 18-00. Entrance costs about $25 (32.5 NZD).