Top reasons to visit Auckland
- Stunning Beaches: Auckland boasts beautiful beaches and bays, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
- Rich Māori Culture: Experience the unique Māori heritage through local attractions and cultural events.
- Vibrant City Life: Enjoy premier shopping, dining, and entertainment options in the bustling metropolis.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Explore various parks and attractions that cater to all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.
- Charming Matakana Region: Just a short drive away, Matakana offers local markets and cosy cinemas for a leisurely day out.
Find great hotels in Auckland
Discover a range of accommodation options in Auckland, catering to every traveller's needs, from business trips to family adventures. Whether you prefer a hotel or a motel, Auckland's diverse lodging choices offer comfort and convenience, ensuring a memorable stay in this vibrant city. Explore our selection of hotels in Auckland and find the perfect base for your New Zealand getaway.
- Grand Millennium Auckland: A welcoming 4.5-star hotel that excels in providing a family-friendly atmosphere and a thrilling urban adventure. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this property thrives on its diverse offerings, including various adventure sports such as sailing, parasailing, and windsurfing, all within easy reach. Families will appreciate the amenities tailored for children, including a complimentary crib and breakfast options. Nestled in the heart of Auckland, Grand Millennium Auckland is an ideal base for those seeking both cultural immersion and outdoor activities.
- The Grand by SkyCity: This 5-star establishment, boasting a commendable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, is synonymous with family comfort and luxurious hospitality. The Grand by SkyCity provides a myriad of child-friendly services, including in-room babysitting and tailored breakfast options for younger guests. Its vibrant location allows easy access to Auckland's attractions, making it an excellent choice for families wishing to explore the city together. The combination of opulence and a welcoming environment ensures a delightful stay for guests of all ages.
- Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group: A luxurious 5-star hotel with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Cordis is a haven for those seeking adventure and relaxation. The property offers a range of nearby recreational activities such as kayaking and scooter rentals, catering to the adventurous spirit. Additionally, the full-service spa and pool area provide an oasis of tranquillity, featuring various treatments including massages and reflexology. Located centrally, Cordis combines the excitement of city life with the serenity of a relaxing retreat, perfect for rejuvenating after a day of exploration.
Where to stay in Auckland
Auckland, a vibrant metropolis, offers a delightful blend of experiences for every traveller. From stunning city views and a bustling waterfront to family-friendly attractions and premier shopping, the region is a haven for relaxation and adventure alike. Just a short drive away, the charming Matakana region invites you to unwind at its cinemas and explore local markets. With its warm atmosphere and friendly locals, Auckland and its surroundings promise an unforgettable vacation for all.
- Auckland Central Business District: The bustling heart of Auckland, the Central Business District (CBD) is surrounded by stunning waterfront views and vibrant city life. This area is a hub for families, business travellers, and city enthusiasts alike, with a range of activities to suit all. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you explore shopping centres, dine at exquisite restaurants, or catch a show at a local arena. Iconic landmarks such as the Sky Tower and Aotea Square are within easy reach, making the CBD a perfect base for your adventures.
- Waiheke Island: A short ferry ride from the mainland, Waiheke Island is a picturesque getaway known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes. Ideal for outdoor lovers and those seeking scenic beauty, this island offers a plethora of activities, including beach walks, wine tasting at world-renowned vineyards, and golfing on picturesque courses. With charming shopping areas and peaceful bays, Waiheke is perfect for families looking to unwind and enjoy nature’s splendour.
- Auckland Airport: Serving as New Zealand's primary international gateway, Auckland Airport is not just about travel; it offers a unique suburban experience. Families and business travellers will find convenient access to shopping centres and entertainment facilities nearby. With sports venues and sandy beaches just a short drive away, this suburb is an excellent choice for those wishing to explore the wider Auckland region while still being close to the airport's amenities.
Things to do in Auckland
Shopping
Located in the heart of Auckland, Westfield Auckland offers a diverse range of international brands and local boutiques. For a more vibrant atmosphere, visit the Auckland Fish Market, where you can find unique gifts and fresh produce, perfect for souvenirs and culinary delights.
Recreation
At the Auckland Wellness Centre, immerse yourself in rejuvenating therapies, yoga classes, and holistic treatments. Nearby, the Waiheke Island Spa offers stunning views alongside luxurious spa experiences, including massages and facials, all set within a tranquil vineyard landscape, providing a perfect escape from the city bustle.
Adventure
Pukekohe Park Raceway offers exhilarating motor racing experiences, where adrenaline seekers can immerse themselves in the thrill of the track. For a unique adventure, visit Eco Zip Adventures and soar through the treetops on ziplines, or challenge yourself at Tree Adventures with its exciting aerial courses amidst lush surroundings.
Nightlife
Auckland's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. The SkyCity Casino offers gaming and entertainment, while the lively Britomart precinct features trendy bars and eateries. For live music, check out the Powerstation, and if you're in the mood for dancing, the Basement is a popular spot to enjoy the rhythm.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Auckland
To save money during your visit to Auckland, take advantage of free attractions such as Princes Wharf, Queens Wharf, and Orewa Beach. For transport, use the affordable bus, train, or ferry services. Consider travelling between May and July for lower accommodation rates, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals. Mondays generally offer the cheapest rates, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find and combine discounts on hotels, flights, and activities for further savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Auckland are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Auckland is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Auckland is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Auckland is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most economical prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Auckland with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Auckland
Auckland is ideal for family and outdoor beach vacations, offering a variety of parks, beaches, and bays to explore. Visitors can enjoy eco-friendly experiences while discovering local attractions like Auckland Harbour and the Auckland Museum. For accommodation, there are numerous hotels near the museum, ensuring a convenient stay. Whether seeking adventure or cultural enrichment, Auckland has something for everyone.
- Sky Tower: Ascend this iconic structure to enjoy panoramic views of Auckland and its surrounding landscapes. At 328 metres high, the Sky Tower offers a thrilling experience with its observation decks, where you can witness the city’s vibrant life from above and even try the SkyWalk or SkyJump for an adrenaline rush.
- Orewa Beach: Relax on the golden sands of Orewa Beach, renowned for its stunning sunsets and gentle waves. This family-friendly beach invites visitors to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastline, making it a serene escape from the city.
- Matakana Country Park: Discover the charm of Matakana Country Park, where family-friendly activities abound. Enjoy outdoor adventures amidst nature, including walking trails and exploring local artisan shops, all within an eco-friendly setting that celebrates New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Best time to go to Auckland
The best time to visit Auckland is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Auckland
Flying into Auckland is convenient with Auckland Airport (AKL), situated 18km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Cordis.h8072.Hotel-Information >Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group, located 16km away, offering transfers and shuttles to the airport. The Grand by SkyCity and Hilton Auckland, both rated 5 stars, are also within 19km. Alternatively, Hamilton Airport (HLZ) is 124km away, with hotels like the 5-star Huntington Stables Retreat and 4.5-star Novotel Tainui Hamilton nearby. For those considering Tauranga Airport (TRG), located 156km from Auckland, options include the 4.5-star Hotel on Devonport and Trinity Wharf Tauranga, both just 1.6km away from the airport.