by 111 Emergency (cropped) / [CC BY-SA 2.0
A Dynamic and Cosmopolitan City with Stunning Nature Right on the City's Doorstep
Table of Contents
A. About Auckland
Nickname: City of SailsDynamic and cosmopolitan Auckland is New Zealand’s most populated major city with fine beaches and stunning nature right on the city's doorstep.
The city is home to over a quarter of the population of New Zealand and is the vibrant economic heart of the country.
Known as the "City of Sails," Auckland is home to a rich maritime culture, with thousands of yachts and sailing opportunities on the Hauraki Gulf.The North Shore is a popular destination for its golden beaches, ideal for swimming, surfing, and scenic coastal walks just a short drive from the city center.
➕ The Good
Auckland enjoys, first of all, a scenic harbor-side location, and its inhabitants are exceptionally friendly and helpful.
Furthermore, the city is very safe and clean.
Finally, the nightlife is vibrant, and the weather is mostly fine.
➖ Negative Aspects
Auckland is an expensive city.
In addition, there are only a few pedestrian zones and not as many impressive sights as in most other cities in our top one hundred.
B. Best Things to Do in Auckland in 2025 (Detailed List with Photos and Information)
In total, we count more than twenty sights in Auckland. The following sights contribute to a low score of 5.5/10 in this most important category:
# Sky Tower 6
At the top of this 328 m high iconic tower, you can take in 360-degree views of Auckland and the surrounding land and ocean.
Observation Tower Total Height: 328 m / 1,076.1 ft | Observation Deck: 222 m / 728.3 ft | Completed: 1997
by Chris275 / CC BY-SA 3.0
# Viaduct Harbour 5
The scenic city's waterfront at Viaduct Harbour is the city's main entertainment and dining area.
by JosephWatkins / CC BY-SA 3.0
# One Tree Hill and Cornwall Park 5
This 182-meter (597-foot) volcano and its obelisk is the symbol of the city and provides a wonderful panorama of the city.
by Techno246 / CC BY-SA 3.0
# Mt Eden 5
The top of Mount Eden’s volcanic cone offers postcard-like views.
by Christian Mairoll / CC BY-SA 3.0
# Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki 4
This interesting museum is home to artworks and collections from New Zealand, the Pacific and abroad.
by Amyaag / CC BY-SA 3.0
# Auckland War Memorial Museum 4
This large museum focuses on various aspects of New Zealand's history.
by wehunts / CC BY-SA 2.0
# Devonport 4
The scenic seaside village is situated just a 12-minute ferry ride from the city.
by Follash / Public domain
# New Zealand Maritime Museum 4
In this well-curated museum, you can discover New Zealand and its exciting seafaring history.
C. Other Notable Sights and Attractions in Auckland
#11 | Michael Joseph Savage Memorial 4
The Michael Joseph Savage Memorial in Auckland commemorates New Zealand's first Labour Prime Minister with an obelisk and gardens, providing scenic views and a historical tribute.
by Bjoertvedt / CC BY-SA 3.0
D. Best Day Trips and Excursions from Auckland
Great Barrier Island 6
Great Barrier Island, New Zealand's sixth-largest island, is celebrated for its pristine natural landscapes, rich cultural history, sustainable living practices, and vibrant eco-tourism industry.
Island Distance from Auckland: 115 km
by Hasse A / CC BY-SA 4.0
E. Top 10 List of the Best Things to Do in Auckland 2025 (including close-by excursions)
To sum things up, these are the ten best sights we recommend to you when visiting Auckland for at least two entire days.