5 Best Things to do in Auckland

Book Cruises from Auckland

Auckland is a popular cruise port for most New Zealand and French Polynesia cruise itineraries. If you are planning a New Zealand cruise then you would want to know about things to do in Auckland before your cruise begins.

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, and it is also the central hub where most international flights land. Therefore, there is a high chance that most travelers will have to spend a night or two in Auckland before boarding their cruise ship.

Best Things to do in Auckland Pre-Cruise

Auckland has many natural assets, making this city a dream destination. This city is located on the narrowest part of the North Island, and it stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the Tasman Sea.

Here are some of the best things to do in Auckland pre-cruise.

1. Visit the Auckland Harbour Bridge

This bridge is an iconic landmark in Auckland and a must-see attraction for all first-time visitors. Auckland Harbour Bridge is the second-longest road bridge in the country as it stretches over 1 km. additionally, it provides a 360-degree view of the city and has eight lanes.

Feeling adventurous? The bridge provides bungee jumping and bridge climbing facilities.

2. Day-Trip to Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is equally iconic as the Auckland Harbour Bridge. It provides a spectacular bird's-eye view of the city. Moreover, the Sky Tower is the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere.

Visitors can go up to the observation deck and admire the exquisite views of the city and its famous attractions, including Hauraki Gulf (Tikapa Moana) and the Great Barrier Island.

3. Exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves

If individuals have a day or two to spare before their cruise begins, they must visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Very few places in the world have glowworm caves, so one should not miss this opportunity.

This cave is located 192 km southeast of Auckland. Visitors can book guided tours to explore the stunning thousand-year-old caves illuminated by glowworms.

4. Stop-over at Maori Cultural Center – Te Hana

New Zealand was originally a place of the Maori people. If you are interested in learning about the history and culture of New Zealand, then Te Hana Te Ao Marama Maori Cultural Centre is a place that you should visit.

One has to drive 1 hour and 15 minutes to the north of Auckland to reach the cultural center. It exhibits various fascinating things like Maori arts and culture. Tourists can walk through a 17th-century Maori village replication, witness their ceremonies, and listen to their songs.

5. Shopping at Queen Street

Shopping is one of the most fun things to do in Auckland before cruising. Queen Street is considered heaven on earth by all shopaholics. The street is scattered with designer outlets, trendy boutiques, and local stalls. If you work up an appetite while shopping, many popular local cafes and pubs serve delectable food and beverages here.

Want More?

Besides these 5 spots, one can also visit the Auckland Art Gallery, War Memorial Museum, Voyager New Zealand Maritime Museum, Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium, One Tree Hill, and Albert Park. Be sure to check the hours of operation before planning your visits. Auckland has a rich culture, and its natural beauty cannot be compared with any other place. This city has so many unique places to explore. However, if individuals only have one or two days to spare before their cruise there is plenty of activities to choose from. The above-mentioned list is a recommendation of things to do in Auckland before your cruise departs.