With the lush greenery making way for bursts of red, orange and gold, there’s no doubt autumn is one of the most picturesque times to visit Auckland. From a relaxing walk down Auckland’s most picturesque autumnal photo spots to participating in an eco activity, here are the best activities to do in Auckland this autumn recommended by our local team.
EVENTS
1. Auckland Writers Festival
As the largest literary festival in the southern hemisphere, the Auckland Writers Festival is a dream come true for bookworms. From book signing and book clubs to best recommendations for your next read, be prepared to get whisked away into a world of exploration and discovery.
This year, you can look forward to over 200 events, 40 international writers and 180 New Zealand authors at the festival ranging from captivating discussions to thought-provoking talks. Some authors to look forward to include the multi-award-winning author Ann Patchet, Bonnie Garmus, Peter Frankopan and Tusiata.
Date: 14 – 19 May 2024
Address: Aotea Centre, Auckland CBD
Directions: 40 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel
2. NZ international comedy festival
Laugh your night away at the NZ International Comedy Fest, Auckland. This annual comedy extravaganza is a comedic highlight, featuring the best of local and international talent. With over 120 shows and more than 750 performances, the festival boasts a lineup of around 200 comedians.
Spread across various venues in Auckland, the festival offers a diverse range of high-quality live comedy, reflecting New Zealand’s diversity and multiculturalism. In Auckland, you can catch renowned comedians like Guy Montgomery—winner of the Fred Award in 2023, the Best Foods Comedy Gala 2024 hosted by Topp Prize winner Chris Parker, and the TikTok sensation Tom Cashman with his new show, ‘Everything’.
Date: 3 – 26 May 2024
Address: Multiple venues
Link: https://www.comedyfestival.co.nz/
3. royal new zealand swan lake
Performing in Auckland once again for the first time in 10 years, the Swan Lake by the Royal New Zealand Ballet team is a spectacle that all classical ballet lovers should not miss! From its distinctive tune and swan-like costumes to its intricate dance moves, the Swan Lake is a production that brings Tchaikovsky’s music to life. Performing in Auckland for just 4 shows, don’t miss the chance to catch this spectacle.
Date: 9 – 12 May 2024
Address: Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Auckland
Directions: 40 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel
4. ecoFest 2024
Get ready to immerse yourself in a month-long celebration of sustainable living and environmental conservation with EcoFest 2024! Held across various locations in Auckland, this vibrant festival offers a plethora of interactive workshops and activities that are suitable for all ages. From movie nights under the stars and composting workshops to gardening sessions and silent disco cleanups, get ready to participate in an array of fun activities while forging close connections with your friends and family.
Date: 15 Mar – 14 Apr 2024
Address: Various venues
Link: https://ecofest.org.nz/
5. World of Flavours International Food Festival
Get a taste of the diverse flavours around the globe at The World of Flavours International Food Festival! Held for just one day in Auckland, be prepared to explore a world of flavours with diverse cuisines from Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and more. From artisanal desserts to the most unique flavours, indulge in the range of mouthwatering international delicacies as you immerse yourself in the captivating cultural performances featuring music and dance from around the world.
Date: 13 April 2024, 10 am – 4 pm
Address: Auckland Showgrounds, Epsom, Hall 6
Directions: 30 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel
activities
6. View The Autumnal Leaves At Cornwall Park
It goes without saying—taking a nice stroll at a nearby park to catch the beautiful autumnal foliage makes it to the top of the list for the best things to do in autumn! Located just a stone’s throw away from the bustling inner-city suburbs, Cornwall Park is one of our top picks to view the autumnal leaves at this time of the year.
With its huge, lush lawns and vibrant orange foliage, the park provides the perfect backdrop for an autumn ootd. A range of recreational facilities such as tennis courts and children’s playgrounds are also easily available if you prefer a little more action, as well as a cozy cafe and bistro if you’d like to recharge with a cup of coffee or tea.
Operating hours: Every Sat, 8 am – 1 pm
Address: 2 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana 0985, New Zealand
Directions: 1.5 hour drive from Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel
7. auckland zoo
Nestled in the heart of Auckland, the Auckland Zoo is New Zealand’s largest, spanning an impressive 40 acres and home to over 135 diverse native and exotic animal species. But it’s more than just animal watching—imagine indulging in a High Tea at the historic Old Elephant House, or immersing yourself in the world of wildlife through engaging Zoo Experiences that offer insight into animal care and their conservation efforts.
Embark on a Te Wao Nui Tour to discover the wonders of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna, from the iconic kiwi to the elusive tuatara. Don’t miss the South East Asia Jungle Track, where you can encounter majestic tigers, playful otters, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitats.
Address: Motions Rd, Western Springs, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
Directions: 20 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel
8. 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
9. auckland botanic gardens
Spanning more than 64 hectares, the Auckland Botanic Gardens enchant visitors with their diverse array of over 9,000 plant species sourced from around the world. Wander into the Camellia Garden to witness the enchanting spectacle of camellias blossoming in the autumn months, or explore the acclaimed Potter Children’s Garden, where the native Kereru (wood pigeon) thrives amidst a tapestry of native plants.
Be sure not to miss the expanding collection of large-scale outdoor sculptures crafted by local artists during your visit. For those eager to delve deeper into New Zealand’s abundant flora and fauna, the extensive library and Huakaiwaka Visitor Centre are sure to feed your curiosity.
Address: 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105, New Zealand
Directions: 20 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel
10. matakana village farmers market
One of the best things to do during fall is to check out the fresh produce and artisan delights at a farmers market. Located just an hour’s drive away from central Auckland, Matakana Village Farmers Market is a haven for food enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Here, you’ll discover a delightful array of seasonal artisanal products, fresh produce, and gourmet delights crafted by passionate growers from the Matakana region.
From award-winning coffee to organic chocolate and fine wines, there’s something to tempt every palate. While you enjoy the live music and picturesque views of the riverbank, don’t forget that this market is zero waste—so make sure to have your baskets ready with you!
Operating hours: Every Sat, 8 am – 1 pm
Address: 2 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana 0985, New Zealand
Directions: 1.5 hour drive from Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel
Link: https://www.matakanavillage.co.nz/market
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