Think you know the place? Well here's a bunch of Auckland adventures that just might surprise you. See, there's not just one Auckland. There's a million of 'em.
Make your own Auckland
For those of us who live in or near Auckland, there's a dangerous temptation to think we know it all. Dangerous, because it's easy to take it for granted, or maybe just stick to what we know. And that's a shame, because Auckland is bursting with opportunities for adventure. Yes, adventure: real, raw, unexpected and exciting.
Been to the top of the Sky Tower? Well, if you haven't, there's something new you can do right there. If you have, or you can picture it, think of the view from the top. That's Auckland. Everything you can see on the clearest of days, from Great Barrier Island in the east to where the Waitakere Ranges meet the surf beaches out west. North, you'll just make out Matakana's wine country. South lies bustling Manukau, with its own ruggedly spectacular harbor, then the Hunua Ranges and the golden beaches of the Clevedon Coast.
The height of adventure
Head into the heart of the city and visit one of Auckland's icons. SkyWalk around the outside ring of the Sky Tower with nothing but a harness between you and the city streets. Or SkyJump off it - a 192m descent that will surely test your mind. For a more water-borne experience; sail an America's Cup yacht, charter one of the Pride of Auckland boats and spot a whale or dolphin in the Waitemata Harbour with Explore NZ. For more extreme adventures click here.City slicking
If your idea of adventure is a bit of bar-hopping around some character joints or eating out in the finest style, start at the newly restored Britomart precinct. Head to A&M Bar in Roukai Lane for a drink and some tasty tapas. For waterside ambience with five-star cuisine, try Euro on Princes Wharf or Soul in the Viaduct. Sophisticates will love The Grove or dine by Peter Gordon in the luxurious SKYCITY Grand Hotel. For more shopping and entertainment adventures click here.A walk on the wild side
Auckland's natural wonders include bushwalking in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park or Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, where you can abseil down canyons in the bush or take a walk along the deserted beaches with black volcanic sand. One easily-accessible wildlife experience a stone's throw from the CBD is Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World, home to the largest colony of penguins in the Southern Hemisphere. Admire the rich variety of species on a moving walkway or get an awe-inspiring look at giant rays in Stingray Bay. For more nature and outdoor adventures click here.Undiscovered corners
There are some parts of Auckland that are real secrets, like the Awhitu Peninsula. Lying Southwest of the city, it bounds Auckland's 'other' harbour - the Manukau. Awhitu's western side is pounded by the surf of the Tasman Sea while the eastern side faces into the harbour and is lined with golden coves and pohutukawa trees. At its tip is the historic Manukau Heads lighthouse. Awhitu offers horse trekking on the beach, country markets, fantastic kayaking and one of the best regional parks in Auckland. For more hidden gems click here.La Dolce Vino
Head west to Kumeu and take a wine tour around one of New Zealand's earliest wine-growing regions. Matakana to the north produces some more unusual varietals including Italian classics like Docetto. If you can, plan your trip to visit the Saturday farmers’ market and drop by Morris and James pottery. The country village of Clevedon also boasts some beautiful vineyards as well as an excellent farmers' market on Sundays, and don't forget Waiheke Island and its outstanding wineries. For more food and wine adventures click here.Island life
The Gulf's islands range from the tiny and uninhabited to the vast and expansive. Great Barrier is a place of dramatic coastlines, beaches and bays that make for some of the best kayaking, surfing and fishing. There's also incredible mountain biking, bushwalks, hot springs and abundant bird life. Waiheke is one of the most popular islands, served by passenger and vehicle ferries, and hosting vineyards, olive groves, excellent cafes and art galleries. SeaLink Holidays offer packages to both islands. For more water and island adventures click here.Visit a volcano
If you fancy something a little more challenging, then you might like to kayak out to Rangitoto Island. Leaving from Okahu Bay, just east of the city centre, small groups follow a guide across to the shores of Auckland's iconic dormant volcano. The island itself boasts the world's largest pohutukawa forest sprouting directly from black volcanic rock, which becomes a sea of red flowers in summer. For more nature and outdoor adventures click here.
Clevedon Farmers' Market
On a sunny Sunday, Clevedon Farmers' Market will steal your heart.Tawharanui
Auckland's Regional Parks are all breathtaking, but Tawharanui in the north is truly incredible.Te Arai
There's no shortage of beautiful beaches around Auckland but Te Arai, north of the city, is something special.Goldies Bush
Goldies Bush is a great walking track in West Auckland.Awhitu Peninsula
Awhitu Peninsula is one of Auckland's best-kept secrets.Port Waikato
About an hour south of the CBD, Port Waikato feels a million miles away. This is where the country's longest river meets the sea.Nikau Cave
One kilometre long, it contains a stream, glowworms stalagmites and stalactites. Get a warming drink or bite to eat at the café.Seabird Coast
The Seabird Coast around Miranda is of world significance for migratory birdlife. It's a 'Twitcher's' dream.
