Aucklanders do like to complain about Auckland (I suppose lots of people like to complain about whatever city they’re from…). But aside from the bad traffic, unreliable public transport, skyrocketing petrol prices and even larger house prices…. I reckon Auckland is a pretty good place to be!
In my humble (biased 😉 ) opinion, it has everything you need – whether it’s to do with entertainment, outdoor activities, food and wine, education, work, lifestyle, or otherwise.
Wherever you are, you’re probably no more than 25 minutes to a beach. #winning
And if you’re ever sick of Auckland, you can just go on a quick 1-hour roady and be somewhere stunning up north eating ice cream, or just 2 and a half hours will get you to the Coromandel Peninsula (my fave kiwi holiday destination) – great for a long weekend away.
But enough about what’s outside of Auckland, what about what’s inside of it?? What are some cool things to do over summer?
Here are 5 of my favourite things to do in the city of Auckland…..
1. Waiheke wineries
Probably my favourite thing to do over summer… WINE drinking/tasting/appreciating! But not just any wine. Taking a 40-minute ferry from Auckland CBD to beautiful Waiheke Island is the BEST decision you’ll probably ever make in your life. Do a wine tour there, where you’ll be transported around to a few different wineries on the island to taste some of the best vino in New Zealand… and take in the stunning scenery and views. You really can’t beat this on a sunny summer’s day. #bliss
2. West Coast beaches
Whether for swimming, hiking, exploring or all three, New Zealand is known for its beaches and some of the best ones are the “black sand” beaches on the West Coast. See the gannet colony at Muriwai beach, go surfing at Piha (at your own risk – these beaches are also known for having fairly dangerous tides, too) or go for a walk around the beach, lake and waterfall at Bethells.
3. Festivals galore
Festivals of music, food, or wine (or all three at once) – staples of an Auckland summer. The most popular summer music festival probably being St Jeromes Laneway festival that takes place in January. If you’re more of a foodie, keep any eye on Silo Park and other Central hotspots for weekend food festivals, food trucks and events. And don’t forget to check out your local weekend and night markets!
4. Extreme Activities + Outdoorsy Things
I like a good thrilling activity to blow the cob webs out once in a while. In Auckland you can choose to do some jet boating (super fun), sky diving and bungy jumping off the Skytower and/or Harbour Bridge (haven’t done these two yet – nearly went Skydiving in Queenstown a few months ago but got cancelled twice ☹). For something a little bit more low-key (but still a good workout), kayaking across to Rangitoto Island is a popular activity (I’m yet to do this – taking applications for kayaking buddies now, plz)
5. Parks… with more food and wine
Maybe you’re into more of a chill afternoon, lazing about on a picnic rug soaking up the rays. Western Springs near the Zoo, Cornwall Park by One Tree Hill, Coyle Park in Point Chevalier, or Auckland Domain by the museum are some nice places to head to on a Sunday arvo.
So there you have it, some of my favourite places to go and things to do in Auckland. Have you got any faves, my fellow JAFFA’s?
