Top reasons to visit Auckland
- Stunning Beaches: Auckland boasts beautiful beaches and bays, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with the vibrant Māori culture and explore local traditions and customs.
- Auckland Skyline Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the iconic Auckland Skyline and Harbour.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The city offers a range of outdoor adventures and attractions suitable for all ages.
- Diverse Accommodation: Auckland provides a variety of lodging options, catering to every traveller's needs and preferences.
Find great hotels in Auckland
Auckland offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to cosy motels, catering to every type of traveller. Whether you seek a business-friendly environment, a family retreat, or an adventurous getaway, you'll discover a variety of hotels in Auckland that meet your needs. With excellent facilities and convenient locations, you can easily find the perfect hotel or motel for your stay in this vibrant city and its stunning surroundings.
- Grand Millennium Auckland: Emphasising an eco-friendly experience, the 4.5-star Grand Millennium Auckland caters to families and adventurous spirits alike. This property boasts a range of adventure sports nearby, including sailing, windsurfing, and cycling rentals. The hotel is equipped with a variety of child-friendly amenities, such as complimentary cribs and a first aid kit, ensuring a safe environment for younger guests. Located in the heart of Auckland, it provides a great base for exploring the region’s natural beauty and vibrant culture while promoting sustainability.
- The Grand by SkyCity: As a premier 5-star destination, The Grand by SkyCity stands out for its family-oriented services and luxurious accommodations. With a guest rating of 9.2, this hotel offers essential amenities like babysitting services and special children's breakfast rates, making it an excellent choice for families. Situated near Auckland's bustling entertainment and dining scene, it provides guests with the perfect blend of convenience and comfort, ensuring a memorable stay for all ages.
- Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group: Fusing adventure and relaxation, the 5-star Cordis, Auckland is located in the city centre, offering easy access to various recreational activities, including kayaking and boat tours. The property features a full-service spa and outdoor pool, where guests can indulge in body treatments and hot stone massages. With a guest rating of 9.0, it is ideal for those seeking a rejuvenating experience amidst the excitement of the city, perfect for both adventure seekers and spa enthusiasts.
Where to stay in Auckland
Auckland offers a delightful blend of urban vibrancy and natural beauty, perfect for family and outdoor adventures. Explore its bustling shopping districts, enjoy stunning city views, and unwind at the picturesque waterfront. Nearby, Matakana Cinemas provides a charming local experience. With its friendly atmosphere and a range of budget options, Auckland is a welcoming destination for every traveller seeking relaxation and excitement.
- Auckland Central Business District: The heart of Auckland, this vibrant neighbourhood is a bustling hub for both business and leisure. Surrounded by stunning waterfront views and a plethora of attractions, visitors can enjoy a range of activities from shopping at popular malls to attending events at arena entertainment facilities. The area is particularly lively from December to February, making it perfect for family outings or business trips. Local landmarks include iconic sports facilities and beautiful beaches, providing a delightful mix of urban and natural experiences.
- Waiheke Island: A picturesque island located just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors flock here for its stunning beaches and lush vineyards, especially during the warmer months from December to February. The island offers a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for family outings and beach lovers alike. Popular activities include exploring local shopping centres, playing golf, and lounging on pristine beaches, making it a perfect escape from the city.
- Auckland Airport: Serving as the main gateway to New Zealand, Auckland Airport is more than just a transit point. This suburb is well-equipped with shopping centres and entertainment facilities, catering to families and business travellers alike. While it experiences a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, the peak season from December to February brings added energy to the area. Nearby attractions include sports facilities and beautiful beaches, ensuring a pleasant stay whether you’re arriving or departing.
Things to do in Auckland
Shopping
Located in the heart of the city, the Britomart precinct offers trendy boutiques and stylish cafes. For a more vibrant experience, head to the Victoria Park Market, where you can explore artisan stalls and local crafts, perfect for unique gifts and souvenirs to take home.
Recreation
At the Waiheke Island Wellness Retreat, immerse yourself in holistic therapies surrounded by breathtaking vineyards. Alternatively, visit the Auckland Spa at the Pullman, where you can enjoy rejuvenating treatments and a tranquil atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Adventure
Pukekohe Park Raceway offers an exhilarating motor racing experience, where you can feel the thrill of speed and competition in a dynamic environment. For those seeking outdoor adventure, Eco Zip Adventures and Tree Adventures provide thrilling ziplining experiences among the treetops, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Nightlife
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Everybody's on Fort Lane, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere with crafted cocktails. For a unique experience, visit Pocket Bar & Kitchen on Victoria Street, offering a relaxed vibe with delicious food and an impressive selection of local wines.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Auckland
Auckland presents numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like Princes Wharf and Orewa Beach, while utilising affordable public transport options such as buses, trains, and ferries. For cost-effective accommodation, visit between May and July or book approximately a month in advance, with Monday being the cheapest day to stay. Consider Expedia for last-minute deals that highlight budget options and eco-friendly stays. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to further savings, allowing you to experience Auckland without breaking the bank.
- 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: Booking a hotel in Auckland about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from low to high, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Auckland with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Auckland
Auckland is a fantastic destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering beautiful parks, beaches, and bays. Visitors can explore highlights such as the Auckland Skyline and Auckland Harbour for stunning views. The area is ideal for eco-friendly experiences, and there are various hotels conveniently located near the Auckland Museum. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Auckland provides a diverse range of attractions to suit every traveller's preferences.
- Sky Tower: Ascend to the Sky Tower, a striking modern landmark that offers panoramic views of Auckland. At 328 metres high, it provides a unique perspective of the city's vibrant skyline and surrounding landscapes. Enjoy the thrill of a SkyWalk or SkyJump for an exhilarating experience.
- Princes Wharf: Stroll along Princes Wharf, a lively jetty where you can soak in the friendly atmosphere. With waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and stunning views of the harbour, it’s an ideal spot to relax and admire the bustling marine activity.
- Mount Eden: Hike up Mount Eden, a dormant volcanic cone offering breathtaking scenery. The short trek rewards you with sweeping views of Auckland and its lush surroundings, making it a perfect escape for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Best time to go to Auckland
The best time to visit Auckland can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Auckland falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Auckland falls in July, 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 approximately 18km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Cordis.h8072.Hotel-Information >Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group, located 16km from the airport, offering transfers and shuttles. The Grand by SkyCity and Hilton Auckland are also excellent 5-star options within a close proximity. For those considering Hamilton Airport (HLZ), located 124km away, quality accommodations like the 5-star Huntington Stables Retreat and the 4.5-star Novotel Tainui Hamilton are available. Tauranga Airport (TRG) is 156km from Auckland, with options like the 4.5-star Hotel on Devonport and Trinity Wharf Tauranga just a short distance away.