Auckland

Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is a hub of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Nestled between two stunning harbours, the city is also referred to as ‘The City of Sails’. From swimming and surfing to cruises and kayaking, it’s the place to be for fun on the water. But there are plenty of great things to do in Auckland for land lovers too, with fantastic hikes and bush walks, beautiful gardens, and plenty of shopping and sightseeing.

At the heart of Auckland’s appeal is its unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Take a stroll through the picturesque Viaduct Harbour, visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views, or immerse yourself in the rich Māori heritage at the Auckland Museum. Auckland combines city excitement with stunning natural landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveller. So, get ready to explore, discover, and create lasting memories in this remarkable city.

With your Apollo campervan, you can easily extend your city explorations and head out on one of the many Auckland day trips to discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and scenic vineyards. Drive to the black sand beaches of Piha, surround yourself in birdsong and native bush in the Waitākere Ranges, or take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of wine tasting and relaxation.

Why explore Auckland by campervan?

Exploring Auckland by campervan is a fantastic way to see the best of the region at your own pace. With an Apollo campervan, you have everything you need for the journey right there with you. No more unpacking and repacking at every stop – just hop in and go! You can start your day with a coffee by the beach, then head off for a spot of shopping or explore more Auckland attractions. The next day, you may like to discover the stunning black sand beaches of the west coast, hike the trails in the Waitākere Ranges, or enjoy a leisurely picnic in a quiet park. With a campervan, you can simply wake up and decide which awesome Auckland attractions you’ll tick off your list today!

Apollo’s campervans are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, so you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need for a smooth journey. Motorhome travel also means you can fully embrace the spontaneity and adventure of an Auckland campervan holiday. Whether you’re exploring the city shops or heading out on a day trip, a campervan gives you the flexibility to make the most of your trip.

Things to do in Auckland

Auckland offers loads of fun activities and attractions, making it an excellent destination for campervan travellers. Start your journey at the iconic Sky Tower, where you can take in the panoramic views of the city and beyond. For a cultural experience, visit the Auckland Museum to learn more about New Zealand’s history and Māori heritage. Explore the hot spots in the city, such as the stylish cafes and boutiques in Ponsonby or Britomart. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Mission Bay, where you can walk along the beach and dine at waterfront restaurants. For family-friendly Auckland tourist attractions, the Auckland Zoo and SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium are must-visits.

Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of things to do in Auckland. Explore the rugged beauty of the Hunua Ranges with its scenic hiking trails and waterfalls, or head to the east coast beaches like Tāwharanui for a day of swimming and sunbathing. For a unique experience, take a ferry to Rangitoto Island and hike to the summit of this iconic volcanic cone for stunning views of the city and beyond. The island's unique lava fields and native forest provide a fascinating landscape for exploration.

Alyssa Tresider / Tuesday, 1 August 2023

/ Categories: NZ blog

15 family friendly things to do in Auckland

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Go wild at Auckland Zoo

When planning your travel itinerary, a visit to Auckland Zoo is a must. Located in Western Springs, the zoo is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Families can enjoy a range of incredible experiences such as feeding giraffes, meeting a Galápagos tortoise, or getting up close to a cute red panda. The zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts, combining fun with invaluable learning about the precious wildlife we share our planet with.

After a day of fun at the zoo, pop next door to Western Springs Park for a relaxing stroll around the lake or to let the kids loose on the fantastic playground.

See the sharks at Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium

Dive into a captivating underwater world at Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium. This awesome Auckland attraction is located just a few minutes from the city centre in Orakei. Walk through the underwater tunnel as sharks, stingrays, and colourful fish swim overhead. Discover a frozen wonderland that is home to a colony of sub-Antarctic penguins and learn about their behaviour and habitat.

For littlies, the aquarium’s interactive displays offer both entertainment and education. The rock pool experience lets them gently touch sea stars and sea cucumbers, providing a tangible connection to marine life.

Take a swing at Holey Moley Golf Club

Tee off on a fun-filled family day out at Holey Moley Golf Club. Tucked away on Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbour, this isn’t your typical mini-golf course. Expect vibrant themes, quirky twists, and challenging shots that demand creativity. You'll find everything from scary sharks to Simpson-themed holes. Continue the fun afterwards with some karaoke followed by pizza or burgers.

Tackle the All Blacks Experience

Attention rugby fans… this one’s for you! Located at SkyCity in the heart of Auckland is the All Blacks Experience. Here, rugby's rich history comes to life, embodying the spirit of New Zealand's most revered sports team. This state-of-the-art interactive experience explores the All Blacks' heritage, culture, and of course, their many victories. Learn more about the esteemed players who've worn the famous black jersey, and what it takes to be an All Black.

Even if you're not a rugby aficionado, the All Blacks Experience serves as a fantastic insight into New Zealand's culture.

Embrace nature with a stroll along Piha Beach

On Auckland's rugged west coast, about an hour's drive from the city centre, you'll find Piha Beach. Surrounded by the Waitakere Regional Park, Piha Beach is renowned for its stunning black iron-sand coastline and surf-worthy waves. The beach is also home to Lion Rock, a local landmark steeped in Māori history.

Piha Beach is perfect for families seeking a tranquil retreat from the city. Spend the day exploring the surrounding walking tracks, building sandcastles, or just taking in the dramatic landscape.

Step back in time at Auckland Museum

If you’re looking for things to do in Auckland when it’s raining, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is hard to beat. Situated in the Auckland Domain – the city's oldest park – the museum houses a vast collection of Māori and Pacific Island artefacts. On your visit, you'll see fascinating exhibits that tell the story of New Zealand's unique history, from the first Polynesian explorers to modern-day Auckland. And with many of the exhibits included in the general admission, it's also a budget-friendly day out.

Look to the heavens at Stardome Observatory and Planetarium

Taking pride of place at One Tree Hill Domain in Greenlane is the Stardome Observatory and Planetarium. This celestial haven offers awe-inspiring experiences, perfect for family nights out during your Auckland campervan holiday. Gaze upon glittering stars, discover distant galaxies, and learn about our vast universe. Stardome also hosts fascinating live planetarium shows (day and night) and is home to powerful telescopes that offer a closer look at the stars above.

See the sheep at One Tree Hill and Cornwall Park

Before or after your visit to Stardome, expand your adventure in Auckland by exploring One Tree Hill and Cornwall Park. This urban oasis is a picturesque setting, where city life meets nature.

Take in stunning panoramic views of Auckland from atop One Tree Hill. Families can enjoy a relaxed picnic, take leisurely strolls through tree-lined paths, or cycle through the park's trails. Children will delight in seeing the park's resident farm animals including sheep, cows, and even peacocks. If you’re visiting during July – September, you’re likely to see lambs frolicking in the park. The onsite Cornwall Park Café offers tasty refreshments and great coffee, too.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Stop and smell the roses at Auckland Botanic Gardens

Spanning over 64 hectares, the Auckland Botanic Gardens is a haven of horticultural splendour with over 10,000 plants from around the world. Located in Manurewa, around 30 minutes’ drive from the city centre, the garden displays offer year-round colour and inspiration.

Visitors can wander through diverse landscapes, from native bush to formal gardens. Kids can explore the enchanting Potter Children's Garden and get stuck in with interactive experiences. And when tummies start to rumble, the onsite café provides a spot for a quick bite or leisurely lunch.

Go full throttle at Rainbow’s End

Rainbow's End is the ultimate destination for fun-seeking families. With over 20 rides and attractions, there's something for everyone in the family. Experience the exhilaration of the Stratosfear, test your courage on the Fearfall, or take a ride on New Zealand’s only corkscrew coaster. For the younger members, Kidz Kingdom offers a safe space to enjoy the fun. Whether you're drawn to the fast-paced rides or the colourful Fairy Tale castle, it's a day out you won't forget.

Enjoy the exhibits at Auckland Art Gallery

Located in the central city, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki offers a blend of culture, creativity, and fun. The gallery is home to a vast collection of over 17,000 artworks, including pieces from prominent New Zealand and international artists. But it's not just a viewing experience; interactive exhibits bring art to life for younger audiences. Whether you're an art aficionado or a curious novice, it's an inspiring spot on your motorhome exploration of Auckland.

Meet creatures large and small at Butterfly Creek

Just a stone's throw from Auckland Airport and Apollo’s Auckland branch, Butterfly Creek makes the ideal first or last stop on your Auckland campervan adventure. This delightful destination promises a colourful display of exotic butterflies, housed in a tropical butterfly house.

Kids will be thrilled by the Dinosaur Kingdom and the chance to come face-to-face with life-sized dinosaurs. Don't miss the Crocodile Encounter, home to New Zealand's only giant saltwater crocodiles. And if the kids prefer something a little less scary, they can wander through the park and find unicorns, magical mermaids, fairies, and other amazing creatures.

Take a seaside escape in Devonport

Located across the harbour from downtown Auckland, Devonport is a charming, seaside suburb well worth a visit on your campervan travels.

Among its attractions is the Navy Museum, where the family can explore the history of New Zealand’s Navy. From there, enjoy a walk along the beach to the children's playground. And if you’re in town on a Sunday, don’t miss the market at the Devonport wharf from 9 am – 2 pm. Another must-do is a stop at Devonport Chocolates – a local favourite with delicious, sweet treats on offer. Top off your visit with a trip up Mount Victoria or North Head to take in the panoramic city and harbour views.

Meet marine life on an Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

Enjoy a family day out on the water with Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari, based at the Viaduct Harbour. This four-and-a-half-hour excursion takes you out into the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, a haven for diverse marine life including the critically endangered Bryde’s whale. You’ll be hosted by a marine expert who’ll share their research and knowledge with you as you enjoy your tour.

Go to great heights with Tree Adventures

Located in the Woodhill Forest, Tree Adventures outdoor activity park is a must-do for thrill-seekers. It offers 10 different courses, ranging from easy to challenging, all set high up in the trees.

Children and adults alike will enjoy the variety of challenges, including swinging bridges, balancing ropes, and exciting flying foxes. Don’t worry, the park has expert guides to ensure everyone's safety and comfort.

Ready to explore Auckland?

As you can see, Auckland offers an abundance of family-friendly attractions to suit all ages and interests. Head out on the water or up a high tree. Meet sharks, dinosaurs, and mermaids! There's no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Exploring in an Apollo campervan allows you to discover all these awesome Auckland attractions at your own pace, creating a travel itinerary tailored to your family's fun levels.

So why wait? Make your Auckland adventure a reality. Book your Apollo campervan online now.

The guide to your first family campervan trip

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Popular Auckland day trips & itineraries

The City of Sails is the perfect starting point for some unforgettable Auckland day trips. With an Apollo campervan, you have the freedom to explore whenever the mood strikes. How about a visit to the charming town of Matakana with its boutique vineyards and local markets? Or, head south to the iconic Hobbiton for a magical experience in the heart of Middle-earth. For an adventure underground, the Waitomo Caves offer stunning glowworm displays and limestone formations. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer journey, our itineraries will help you make the most of your campervan holiday in New Zealand. Check out our suggested routes and start planning your journey today!