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Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand with a population of one million people. Auckland is an exciting city with fine seafood, local wines, beaches, and breathtaking scenery. The city is situated between the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours.
Things To Do In Auckland
Fifty small islands inhabit the waters surrounding Auckland and there are more watercraft here per person than anywhere else in the world. The climate of New Zealand is warm and humid much of the year. Auckland hosts the Auckland Regatta every year, the biggest event of its type in the world. If you are planning a visit to Auckland, here are ten great things to do while you are there.
Waiheke Island
If you visit Waiheke island there are many great things to do. You can go horseback riding, visit Sculpture Park, go kayaking, or tour an artist studio. You can also visit a winery, walk through beautiful gardens, play paintball, or go shopping. There are a number of tours and restaurants located here and great scenery is all around.
Auckland’s Dolphin Explorer
This attraction operates out of Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in Auckland. This company offers “Eco-Safaris” and they run almost every day of the year. On your tour, you may spot dolphins, whales, and other sea life from the region. They also offer a chance to swim with the dolphins. There are restrictions on this event, so please call ahead for details and requirements.
Harbour Bridge Experience
If you are seven years of age or older, you can climb the Auckland Harbour Bridge. This adventure takes about an hour and a half to complete. The bridge climb is safety-oriented and you should be in good general health to climb. You can also bungee jump from the bridge. Jumpers aged seven through fifteen years must have parental permission.
Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World and Antarctic Centre
While here you can walk through a life-sized version of Captain Scott’s Antarctic hut. They have a snowcat ride and an authentic snow and ice habitat for their live penguins. They have an underwater viewing tunnel where you can come face to face with all varieties of ocean life from the Pacific Ocean. You can also watch the employees feed penguins, fish, dolphins, and stingrays.
Auckland Zoo
Here you can leisurely view the animals in their natural habitats. Some of the featured habitats here are Pridelands, Hippo River, and the NZ Native Aviary. Also featured are African Elephants, a rainforest, a primate area, and penguins. Each day the zookeepers offer “Zoo Encounters”. This is a program that allows you to get close to the animals and learn about their care. Group bookings and a picnic area are available.
Sky Tower
The Sky Tower is the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere. It rises 328 meters into the air and offers a breath-taking view for 80 kilometres in any direction. The elevators that take you to the top of the tower have glass floors. They offer a guided tour up through the mast of the tower to the observation decks. Skyjump is also available. You will fall from the tower connected to safety gear that allows a smooth and safe jump. The sky tower also has many great restaurants, casinos, and a theatre.
Rainbow’s End Theme Park
Some of the featured rides at this park include Power Surge, Dodgems, Corkscrew Roller coaster, and Gold Rush. They have water rides, live shows, bumper boats, and a free-fall ride. Cadbury Land Castle is just for the kids. They also have a variety of food booths, miniature golf, and games. The park is open every day with the exception of Christmas.
Auckland Domain
This is Auckland’s oldest park. The park is built around the cone of an extinct volcano. This is a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh air. Gardens and trees grow throughout the park. You can take a leisurely walk along with one of its many footpaths and enjoy the tranquillity of the reflecting pools and ducks ponds. Many come here to picnic or take part in a cricket, rugby, or soccer match.
New Zealand Surf Tours
This company offers surfing lessons and surf camps for beginner or experienced surfers. New Zealand has great waters for surfing and this company will take you to the best spots. They also offer body boarding, swimming, and beach games. During the winter months, they offer ski and snowboarding tours as well.
Balloon Expeditions Auckland
This company offers scenic hot air balloon rides over New Zealand. They can accommodate up to sixteen people per ride. Flights are generally one hour in length, depending on wind speed and direction. Visitors are encouraged to help with the preparation of the balloon for flight and are offered a free breakfast of wine, cheese, and fruit.
