Nestled in the cosmopolitan city of Auckland, Naumi Auckland Airport offers an unparalleled gateway to the city’s captivating attractions. Embark on an exciting journey with us and unveil the top attractions in Auckland with our handy guide to the best activities around the area curated by our Naumi local team.
EXPLORE THE CENTRAL
Sky Tower
Ready for some adventure? The iconic 328-metre Sky Tower is a must-visit attraction in Auckland encompassing a mixture of fun, adrenaline-pumping and relaxing activities with something for everyone. For the daredevils, head straight to the Skyjump for the 192-metre bungy jump off New Zealand’s tallest building, or take a heartstopping walk around the edge of the building with only a full-body harness for a thrilling 360-degree view of the city. For something less daunting, try out their Skyslide, where you can experience sliding down a winding glass tube around the Sky Tower through VR. Whichever activity you choose, don’t forget to dine at one of their restaurants, such as the Orbit 360° Dining, a revolving restaurant that rotates once every hour to give you full views of the city skyline.
Operating hours:
Mon – Thur, 9:30 am – 8 pm
Fri – Sun, 9:30 am – 10 pm
Address: Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Directions: 25 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Whale and Dolphin Safari
Not a fan of the typical zoo? Hop on board the Whale and Dolphin Safari, a 4.5-hour cruise taking you to explore wild animals in their natural environment in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Apart from the Bryde whales and dolphins, you may also get a chance to meet pygmy blue whales, New Zealand fur seals, sharks, manta rays, turtles and up to 26 species of seabirds in this tour. Enjoy these wildlife sightings while learning from marine science experts about these animals, their conservation efforts and taking part in their interactive research activities. To top it off, the tour promises a complimentary cruise in the rare case that marine mammals are not sighted, so you are guaranteed a whale of a time! 😉
Operating hours: Please check the website for available tour dates and timing
Address: Berth 9, Eastern Viaduct Marina, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Directions: 25 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Mount Eden
As Auckland’s tallest geographical point, Mount Eden is one of the city’s dormant volcanoes that holds historical significance to the Māori heritage and culture. Standing at 196 metres tall, you can take a short hike up the mountain to the 50-metre deep crater and enjoy the scenic views of the city from above. It is important to note that visitors are not allowed to enter the crater as it is considered to be sacred by the Māori. However, a boardwalk and viewing platform is available for you to walk around and take in the breathtaking views. While you’re there, don’t forget to opt for the Māori Walking Tour or visit the Maungawhau Visitor Experience Centre to learn more about the history of Mount Eden and its role in the Māori culture. Finally, end your trip at Friend and Whau Cafe for some modern Kiwi cuisine.
Operating hours:
Summer, 7 am – 8:30 pm
Winter, 7 am – 7 pm
Address: 250 Mt Eden Rd
Directions: 15 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Link: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=58
Muriwai Beach
Muriwai Beach can be considered one of Auckland’s most extraordinary beaches, with its glittering black sand resulting from surrounding volcanic activity, rugged landscape and remarkable clifftops. During the period from August to March, you can catch the popular gannet colony on the cliffs while looking over the Tasman Sea. Other activities, such as surfing, fishing, kiteboarding and blokarting are popular on the beach as well. If you’re not looking for an outdoor adventure, simply take a stroll along the beach or enjoy the beautiful sunset view from the ocean landscape.
Operating hours: Open 24 hours daily
Address: Muriwai Beach
Directions: 45 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Ponsonby and Karangahape Road
There’s no better place than Ponsonby and Karangahape Road for a good shopping, dining and entertainment fix. While Karangahape Road is known to be home to Auckland’s main LGBTQ+ community, both Ponsonby and Karangahape Road are lined with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants that is perfect for a relaxing day out. Start with Ponsonby Central for a taste of everything, ranging from over 20 eateries, restaurants and brunch options to retail and pop-up stores and head over to the eclectic Karangahape Road for their vibrant street art and vintage shopping options.
Directions: 20 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Ponsonby: https://www.ponsonbycentral.co.nz/
Karangahape Road: https://www.karangahaperoad.com/
EXPLORE THE islands
Waiheke Island
Famously known as “The Island of Wine”, this picturesque island just 40-minutes away from central Auckland is home to over 50 wineries and vineyards, olive groves and beautiful beaches. First timers to the island definitely shouldn’t miss out taking part in an organised wine-tasting tour at one of their renowned wineries and vineyards, trekking Oneroa or Palm Beach and taking a swim in their crystal clear waters. For something a little bit different, tour one of their olive groves at Rangihoua Estate of Woodside Bay and discover how premium, award-winning olive oil is being made from scratch. Be sure to also check out their thriving art scene at Connells Bay Sculpture Park, a 2km-long track showcasing over 30 different sculptures by renowned New Zealand sculptors and artists.
Directions: 1 hr from Naumi Auckland Airport
Rangitoto Island
Fancy a hike up a volcano? This island is the country’s youngest dormant volcano emerging just 600 years ago. It is now perceived as the most iconic island in Auckland with its distinctive symmetrical cone rising above Auckland’s scenic skyline. Just a 25-minute ferry ride from the city, an hour-long hike up to the summit is the most iconic activity to do here, along with a short 15-minute detour to the twisting black lava caves on your journey up. For the adventurous souls, try kayaking to or from the island instead of the usual ferry, and don’t forget to explore one of their walking tracks, such as the Lighthouse Walk, while taking in the panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Directions: 40 min from Naumi Auckland Airport
Great Barrier island
If you’re a lover of stars, be sure to visit Great Barrier Island, New Zealand’s sixth largest island and the first island in the world to be designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary. As a self-sufficient island lying completely off-grid, the island is home to a small population of 1000 relying solely on renewable solar energy and freshwater collection, and access to the island is either through a 4.5 hr ferry or a 30-min flight. While you’re here, be sure to hike the Aotea Track, the only multi-day wilderness walk in the Auckland region taking you through the diverse habitats of the island over 3 days, or the Kaitoa Hot Springs Track for a shorter 45-minute walk discovering the natural hot springs in the forest. Once night falls, get cozy in a tent and marvel at the starry sky and Milky Way above you in this relaxing retreat.
Directions: 4.5 hr by ferry or 30 min by flight from Naumi Auckland Airport
Goat Island Marine Reserve
Curious about the underwater world? Deep dive into aquatic paradise at New Zealand’s first marine reserve. Established in the 1970s to combat overfishing, the Goat Island Marine Reserve now houses a wide range of habitats teeming with marine wildlife. Choose from a range of water activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving for the best way to discover the marine life underneath the emerald-clear waters. Alternatively, hop on a translucent kayak or a 49-seat glass-bottomed boat to get a glimpse of dolphins, orcas, whales and even eagle rays. Not looking for underwater activities? Visit the Goat Island Marine Discovery Centre and discover the stories behind the reserve and its wildlife, or take a relaxing walk along the Goat Island Walkway while admiring the natural landscape around you.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours daily
Address: Leigh 0985
Directions: 1.5 hr drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
eat & drink
Auckland Night Markets
A true paradise for the foodies, embark on a culinary adventure at Auckland night markets and choose from a diverse range of food stalls selling global cuisines from Asia, Europe, Middle East and more. While you indulge in the Asian dumplings or satay skewers, don’t forget to check out their live cultural performances and mix of stalls, showcasing unique handmade crafts, jewelry, fashion and homeware. The markets are open in 8 different locations on different days of the week. To top it off, all markets are located in undercover venues that operate rain or shine, so you can enjoy unimpeded access to the markets regardless of the weather 😊
Opening hours: 5 pm – 11 pm (Day varies depending on venue)
Address: Located in 8 different locations
– Kelston Mall: under Countdown
– Mt Wellington under Countdown
– Botany Town Centre under Hoyts
– Henderson under Kmart
– Papatoetoe under Kmart
– Pakuranga under The Warehouse
– Silo Park Waterfront
– Silverdale Centre (under the warehouse)
Parnell Farmers’ Market
Located at the car park of Jubilee Building, Parnell Farmers’ Market is a lively, bustling community of farmers and vendors selling locally sourced produce. From fresh coffee, fruit and vegetables, meat and deliciously-baked goods to flowers and deli produce, you can find just about everything for your weekly spree at this market. As most of the stall owners are farmers themselves, feel free to hit up a conversation with them about their products and they would be delighted to answer you. Coupled with live music and a family-friendly atmosphere, the Farmers’ Market is the perfect location for a weekend family outing.
Operating hours: Sat, 8 am – 1 pm
Address: 545 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052
Directions: 30 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Restaurant Lunar and Bar
Before your flight back, indulge in a culinary adventure at Restaurant Lunar and Bar, a modern Asian restaurant at the heart of Naumi Auckland Airport serving a blend of hearty Asian food, after-work drinks and a restful space to wind down. Restaurant Lunar and Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal or celebrate a special occasion. Whether you’re traveling through Auckland or looking for a culinary adventure, Lunar is the destination for those seeking a taste of Asia’s finest flavours.
Operating hours: 6 am – 12 am daily
Address: 53 Kirkbride Road, Māngere, Auckland 2022
Directions: Located within Naumi Auckland Airport
Link: https://www.restaurantlunar.nz/
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