Free Things To Do In Auckland

Housing the highest volcano in Auckland, this large park is an icon of the city, offering superb views of the city skyline and a fantastic 50-metre deep crater to explore. Mount Eden Domain is situated just 5km south of the CBD in the suburb of the same name. At its heart is the 196m high Mount Eden volcano, from the summit of which you can get one of the best views in New Zealand, especially a...

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki holds one of the country's largest and most renowned collections of both local and international art.  It is New Zealand’s largest and most inspiring visual arts experience. Housed in one of Auckland's oldest civic buildings, the gallery first opened in 1880s and since then has been refurbished, redesigned, and adapted to give visitors better access to the ...

Spanning over 64 hectares, Auckland Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and tranquil setting that's home to well over 10,000 plants from across the world. Auckland Botanic Gardens provide visitors with a chance to admire the rock garden, award winning roses, the spring blossom valley, and the New Zealand native plant collection, including threatened native plants. The Botanic gardens offer help t...

Take a journey through the memories, perils, loss, triumph and humour of the men and women who served - and continue to serve - this country on the ocean waves.   As an island nation, the sea has been crucial to New Zealand for travel, commerce, and defence. And the navy has taken a key role in this country's security and development.   Take time to enjoy this unique organisation...

August 2023 Update - due to storm damage tracks accessing the Muriwai Gannet colony are temporarily closed. Muriwai Gannet Colony is situated in Muriwai Regional Park, a 40 minute drive west of downtown Auckland. Although Muriwai Regional Park is home to many species of birds, it's the Gannet Colony that attracts the most visitors. Two viewing platforms provide excellent vantage po...

The Waitakere Ranges Regional Park hug the Auckland region's west coast, and offer a wealth of things to do outdoors. Sandy beaches, foaming waterfalls, a plethora of walking tracks plus camping facilities in the forest - it's a nature lover's paradise. Hike through the lush woodland to find the Kitekite Falls, Fairy Falls and Karekare Falls. Go birdspotting for tui, kaka and kereru, or get luc...

North Head Historic Reserve is an enjoyable and scenic 20 minute walk from Devonport Ferry Terminal.  The walk is an opportunity to enjoy views of the Hauraki Gulf and the Auckland skyline. North Head is full of history and gorgeous views of Cheltenham beach, Waitemata Harbour, Auckland city, Mount Victoria Reserve and the Hauraki Gulf. The 20 minute walk to the summit includes a s...

Mount Victoria offers panoramic views of Auckland City, Rangitoto Island, the North Shore and the Hauraki Gulf. Starting at the top of the pretty seaside town of Devonport, the steep walk will take about 20 minutes to the summit. Alternatively, you can drive to the top where there is parking available. Mount Victoria Reserve is a great (and free) way to see postcard views of the Auckland region...

Auckland War Memorial is Auckland's first museum, and now resides in one of New Zealand's finest heritage buildings. This structurally impressive neo-classical building commands a striking presence and houses millions of objects, provides educational services, and attracts over half a million visitors a year. The narrative of war and how it shaped New Zealand's identity makes for a compelling s...

Mount Wellington is volcanic peak situated 12 kilometres, or a short 15 minute drive, from downtown Auckland. Standing at 135 metres, Mount Wellington is the youngest of Auckland's volcanic peaks having last erupted just over 10,000 years ago. The volcanic  landmark is a popular spot with walkers and joggers who follow the Summit Trail to enjoy the 360 panoramic views of the city and surro...