Beautiful Places to See in Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland may be New Zealand’s largest city, but natural beauty surrounds it. Bring your luggage, get in a car or rent your own mobile home and head out into the bustling metropolitan center in search of a collection of picturesque landscape and coastlines. To immerse yourself in Auckland’s natural wonders, see the following must-visit Places to See in Auckland, New Zealand.
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Great Barrier Island
Untapped in its most refined beauty, and just a short ferry ride away, the Great Barrier Island is delightfully off-grid. This island feels like a slice of paradise – a still untouched part of the modern world. The liberal lifestyle here is part of the appeal: budget accommodations, idyllic beaches and use of technology are discouraged.
Rotoroa Island
An underrated yet stunning heritage, Rotoroa Island is a must-visit for all travelers passing by. Once a drug and alcohol detox run by the Salvation Army, the island was later turned into a conservation park that acts as a haven for native flora and fauna. Currently owned by the city of Auckland, the island is easily accessible by ferry.
Parks and nature reserves
The area has no shortage of well-preserved parks and protected areas. Whether you want to explore native plant life or want to spend the day exploring Auckland’s best hiking trails, all these natural wonders are worth a visit. You can stay overnight if you manage to find accommodation – or pick the perfect location and sleep on your own rental RV.
Auckland Domain
This outstanding inner-city park has plenty of picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions. The Auckland Museum is located at one end and has a number of other natural attractions within its limits, including the cherry trees that bloom in spring. Just a short walk from Auckland city center, so you can immerse yourself in this lush green wonderland in no time.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
Discover a variety of beautiful plants and flowers from New Zealand and abroad at this 64-hectare (158-acre) botanical garden. Found in Manurewa in South Auckland, this colorful, green space is home to more than 10,000 species of plants spread across themed areas. Wander the palm gardens, admire the dazzling flowers of the African Botanic Gardens, or stroll through the shady native forest in this quiet city retreat.
Wenderholm Regional Park
The blend of beaches and forested plains makes Wenderholm Regional Park a charming sight. Tidal estuaries weave through a series of densely planted outcrops, giving this place a feeling of another world. Just a 45-minute drive from Auckland city center, it’s the perfect day trip whether you’re in the mood for a day on the beach or a nice stroll.
Waitakere Ranges
With 16,000 hectares (40,000 acres) of bushland and indigenous coastline, it’s no wonder that the Waitakere Ranges are considered a local treasure. Popular with avid hikers, they are home to awe-inspiring waterfalls and lakes, and the top-down views are breathtaking. Plus, the Conservation Department cabins are scattered around making overnight hiking a breeze.
Hunua Ranges
Waterfalls, hiking trails and breathtaking scenery attract everyone to this idyllic destination. The Wairoa River flows through the center of the range, famous for its waterfalls of the same name and the area is home to several large reservoirs for Auckland. This is the largest forest in the Auckland region, with countless options for adventure.
Mount Eden
Along with panoramic views of Auckland, Mount Eden’s crater is sure to leave you in awe of its greatness. Found in the heart of Auckland in the suburbs of the same name, this volcano offers both a great hike and great views. Conquer it in the morning and then treat yourself to breakfast at one of the best cafes in the neighborhood – we present Whau, a cafe that fuses traditional Maori products on the menu of the restaurant.
Rangitoto Island
Head to the top of the island of the same name, hike to the top and reward yourself with a collection of remarkable views. Arguably the most iconic image in Auckland, Rangitoto is visible from almost every coastal vantage point, commemorated in countless images and videos of the city. It would be flawed not to rise to its densely packed heights, even just ticking it off your list, and you won’t be disappointed from the top view, providing a view of the city that You won’t find it elsewhere.
