Please sign in to post.

Auckland, NZ -- must sees

My friend and I are now focusing on the NZ part of our Sep-Oct trip.

Unfortunately, when I copied a personal Google map, I lost some of the descriptions of sightseeing things to do in Auckland.

What are your must-sees in Auckland? I want to see the War Memorial Museum. What else? What are some unknown gems that people often don't think about.
We're not into sailing (which I understand is big in Auckland). We would like to see / learn about local indigenous peoples culture.
We're planning on traveling outside of Auckland but I wanted this post to focus on Auckland only.

I forgot to ask-- how easy is it to go from the airport to the downtown city sites in Auckland.

Would the Auckland Zoo merit a visit? We're planning on visiting the Australia Zoo outside of Brisbane during our three weeks there.
We'll be in NZ after being in Sydney / Canberra / Brisbane / Noosa Heads for a total of 3 weeks.

Thanks!

Posted by
1733 posts

There is a Maori demonstration at the War Memorial https://www.aucklandmuseum.com/visit/whats-on/maori/maori-cultural-experience

Some good ferry destinations from Auckland - bird watching, hiking on extinct volcano, wineries. look at Fuller Ferries

I didn't think much of the Australia Zoo - very commercial, expensive for the experience. I much preferred the Sydney Taronga Zoo. (or Melbourne's zoo) Brisbane's Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary was good - more than just koalas. There is a river cruise that will drop you off there - relaxing and interesting. Hartley's Crocodile Adventures outside Cairns was much better than Australia Zoo crocodile demo and show.

Posted by
450 posts

Another vote for Brisbane’s Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. And Brisbane’s river transport system is awesome. Brisbane is one of our favorite cities in Australia. Enjoy Noosa Heads, fantastic stop.

Posted by
531 posts

NW of Auckland city are some wonderful beaches.
We visited Piha Beach and Muriwai Beach. At Muriwai a short hike will get you to a gannet nesting colony. Beautiful drive through the forests to reach these. Several other beaches and some waterfalls in the area. It might not fit into your tight schedule but worth a mention.